Raptor ID please

Ann McRae

We went out looking for snowy owls again yesterday. Came across 3 individuals but no shots as good as last week. Along the way we found 4 of these guys, and a photographer that I chatted with in a different location reported he had seen 3 more. The only raptors that 'might' be here at this time of year are gyrfalcons and northern goshawks, and I don't think that is what there guys are. I don't have great shots, but the underwing is super unique so a real birder should be able to tell what they are! They are big - I'd say much bigger than a Swainsons.









And Snowy on a stick:



Later, on a bit of a hike in the woods, we found this owl:



I love that the chickadee shared the branch with him. I'm wishing it were a long eared owl but I think it's a great horned. :dunno

Overall it was a fabulous winter day here in Alberta!

Bud1880

Ann,

I believe it's a juvenile rough legged hawk.

Bud

Ann McRae

Bud1880 wrote: »

Ann,

I believe it's a juvenile rough legged hawk.

Bud

Thanks Bud, it does indeed look like a rough legged hawk. They are NOT a common sight here. Since there was a small group of them, I'm wondering if they have started a northward migration super early? Interesting!!

ann

novicesnapper

Very nice, I have a hard time getting good bird shots. You might have some chromal aboration on the last owl image, I see slight pink halos on the smaller limbs. mainly above him.

deb22

Rough legged for sure, I hope they are coming up my way soon. That's great to get a chickadee with the GHO. "snowy on a stick" That cracked me up!!!

Ann McRae

Hey Deb, you may be interested in the info here

I'd completely overlooked rough legged hawk, due to the status as rare in southern Alberta according to the Birds of Alberta book that I use. It's so cool to have seen them!!

Good luck birding!

ann

deb22

Thanks Ann, I check out that site about once a month. I believe you are right, the rough legged is not a "common' hawk as I only see a few a year as opposed to the thousands of other species. I have been taking shots of a hawk owl these past few weeks and this is my 1st time photographing this species. Take care, spring is almost here Yaaaaaa!!!!!