Falcon in Southern Henan, China (1 Viewer)

[beijingbabbler]

I saw a falcon flying over quite low today and was surprised by how big it was - thought it was a night heron size-wise, feels bigger than a kestrel. I got views through binoculars and saw briefly a helmeted head pattern, and I'm thinking that it's either an eurasian hobby or peregrine falcon. however, my camera only focused on it while it was flying away so I only have poor shots without its head. seems like it has yellow feet. any ID help appreciated, thanks!

 

[johnallcock]

Seems like a Peregrine to me - not as slim as Hobby or Amur, with broad base to tail and (relatively) broad wings, and pattern of underparts seems to fit best as well. This could also fit with your thought that the bird looked large.