Birds of prey from Northern/Central Portugal confirmation/ID (1 Viewer)

[thomasclark1985]

Hi,

Here's a selection of the birds of prey I managed to photograph whilst in Portugal last week. I'm not experienced enough yet to ID birds of prey without photo's, mainly due to only ever seeing common buzzard and kestrel in my neck of the woods!

In order, booted eagle, common buzzard, black vulture, short toed snake eagle x 2,

Cheers,

Tom

 

[MTem]

Well you're off to a good start. I agree with all.

Mick

 

[thomasclark1985]

A few more

A few more, in order. Peregrine x 2, Golden eagle, Honey Buzzard, Booted eagle.

Thanks,

Tom

 

[AlinoVegano]

First two photos show a Sparrowhawk, ok with the rest.

 

[thomasclark1985]

Thanks, what ID feature helped you ID sparrowhawk instead, so I should look out for it again? Is it longer tailed maybe?

Cheers,

Tom

 

[MTem]

Peregrine has much more pointed wings - you rarely see 'fingers'. It is often described as 'anchor-shaped' when soaring. Often the pale face and upper breast and black 'moustaches' show even from long distance. See below, (with an Alpine swift in one photo). This bird in Sardinia this spring was really high up and the photos are heavily cropped but this is what you'd see through bins most of the time.

Are the first two of your photos the same bird?

Mick

 

[thomasclark1985]

Yes the first 2 photos are the same bird.

 

[Simon Wates]

I'm having trouble with the 3rd photo on 2nd set being a Golden. I think it looks better for Bonelli's or maybe Spanish Imperial. No more photos I assume?

 

[thomasclark1985]

Golden eagle?

A few more of the possible golden eagle, although they aren't great!

 

[thomasclark1985]

The bird in question was seen in Faia Brava reserve if that's any help.

Cheers

 

[Simon Wates]

Ok thanks - agree on Golden now, the first photo was tricky. The first photo on this last set is a classic Golden shape.

 

[thomasclark1985]

Ideal, thanks again Simon. It's a shame I don't get many birds of prey here in Plymouth because I could really get into them!

Cheers