Golden eagle? So Cal. (1 Viewer)

[Tiraya]

Attached my only photo of a distant bird of prey, one of a pair. This was taken from the car so no moaning about quality

They struck me as quite big, but I assumed they were turkey vultures until the very last second where golden eagle ran through my mind--got this picture then. Seems to line up with the species well, with the overall impression and shape, and the white bit visible on each wing.

A lifer though, so I wanted other thoughts.

 

[tconzemi]

Looks good for big eagle, and I guess the choice is limited in California. I would expect Golden to have wing position in very shallow V, but a single picture does not mean anything.

 

[Larry Lade]

I would like to have a better view for a "lifer", if it were me. * Just saying!

 

[Tiraya]

I would like to have a better view for a "lifer", if it were me. * Just saying!

Well I don't expect to have a chance to see them again, so the evidence of white in the wings, the apparent yellowish sheen on the neck and the size is enough for me.

 

[Larry Lade]

Congrats on your latest lifer!

 

[eagle golden]

By the head and neck shape & the upturned emarginated primaries, I would say golden eagle, I have seen that angle on many trips, in the highlands.

 

[Tiraya]

Congrats on your latest lifer!

Thanks Larry. Hope to get that list to 600 soon...but the last few birds I haven't seen are a pain.

Thanks all for the input.