Northern Harrier? Arkansas, USA (1 Viewer)

[Trojansoc]

I was shooting today in the Holla Bend National Wildlife Refuge and got several photos of these raptors. From the field guide, I'm guessing Northern Harrier based on the white at the top of the tail and behavior, skimming low over fields, but this is a new bird for me, so I wanted to be sure. These four photos are of the same individual.

Any help will be appreciated.

 

[AlexC]

Northern Harrier, indeed. Your photos almost look like paintings!

 

[nickderry]

agreed - Northern Harrier and beautiful photos.

 

[JCLynn]

Great images of your first Northern Harrier (Hen Harrier to us Brits)

 

[njlarsen]

Northern Harrier, indeed. Your photos almost look like paintings!

I am afraid some of the painting effect is due to an overactive noise reduction.

Niels

 

[AlexC]

I am afraid some of the painting effect is due to an overactive noise reduction.

Niels

No I know, just thought it was cool.

 

[Guinness537]

Nice pics.....number 3 is the best as the NH looks like he's giving you the evil eye.

 

[Trojansoc]

I am afraid some of the painting effect is due to an overactive noise reduction.

Niels

I agree with you, Niels. I was shooting under very foggy, dreary conditions and had to boost my ISO to 3200 to get enough shutter speed to have even a chance at a flight shot. I'm going to go back to the original photo and see if I can get an edit that pulls back some on the NR without introducing too much noise.

I was just excited about seeing a new bird. I appreciate the help on the ID, and the kind comments on the photo.

Paul