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Post by kastern on Feb 14, 2009 20:43:36 GMT -8
Please, is this a Golden Eagle??? I've posted the picture on my blog as well. Saw it on Nicoman Island today while doing the bird count. Thought it was some sort of Hawk, but when I checked my Sibley's it sure looks like a Golden Eagle to me - but I see so far no one has reported one in B.C. so I want to make sure before I post it. Thanks, Kathy  |
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Post by Gord on Feb 16, 2009 9:10:32 GMT -8
Kathy, I think your first thought might be right. Im wondering about a dark Red-tailed Hawk that is catching the light on the back of his head. The pattern of light feathers on the back and looks like some light feathers under the throat/breast would support a Red-tail too. Golden Eagles are certainly always possible especially this time of year.
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Post by kastern on Feb 16, 2009 10:24:58 GMT -8
What about the reddish feathering around the legs? That was one of the things that confused me. The tail was dark yet there is this 'red' feathering on the legs or around them at least. I have two more pictures but all 3 pictures were identical so not much help.
Kathy
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Post by murraybrown on Feb 16, 2009 10:48:24 GMT -8
Kathy, this is another one of those confusing Red-tailed Hawk colour morphs. It could be, and probably is, a Harlan's form which have the greatest variation in plumage.
When you see a Golden you will realize immediately how much more massive a bird it is. Especially the head and bill. Even from a distance they have a menacing appearance.
Over the years I have seen three Golden's in our area. One along Nickomen Slough, one at the base of Mt. Woodside, and one in the fields of Agassiz.
The latter two were in the process of killing a Mallard. They are so powerful they can also take Canada Geese with relative ease.
Murray
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Post by kastern on Feb 16, 2009 15:41:22 GMT -8
OK, thanks, I'm convinced. It was a Red Tail. Geesh! and I thought I had something exciting!
Kathy
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