The Presidio – Habitat

Presidio Habitats.

This installation, A Habitat of Flight,  is by Surface Design. Their explanation is that this is representative of the Red-Tail Hawks exploration.  going through many different habitats, i.e. open spaces interspersed with trees or built structures.

The Red-tailed Hawk is one of the most commonly observed birds of prey in the Presidio as well as in North America. Generally monogamous, this species initiates courtship and maintains the pair bond with spectacular aerial maneuvers. The acrobatics are often accompanied by shrill cries by one or both mates. The Red-tailed Hawk can be seen hunting from the air as well as taking a sit-and-wait approach on elevated perch sites, most commonly, I have found, atop phone and electric poles.   I guess that is what the artists were trying to show.

I must say that I really liked this piece, the subtlety of its meaning was sort of lost on me, but the sculpture itself is stunning.  It is flat piece of steel, and juxtaposed to the very green landscape it is very striking.  This is set in a very odd location, chain link fence and some very ugly buildings behind it, making capturing it in the best light somewhat difficult.  It is also off on a very secluded pathway, so walking there be aware of your surroundings.