Black Kite or Buzzard? (3 Viewers)

[logos]

My sentiments entirely Wayne!

Spud

 

[Sumit]

Gentlemen,
If it helps your discussion at all, attached is certainly a Black Kite in a similar position, for comparison.
Cheers!
sumit

 

[logos]

Thanks Sumit.

Spud

 

[Andrew Rowlands]

Hi again,

Maybe we are not getting to grips with the correct ID of this bird because there are no
diagnostic features to be seen.

We can all see features that are suggestive of certain species

Is there a definitive feature or set of features that would enable us to name the species?

Maybe there isn't!

Regards,

Andy.

 

[logos]

That's my conclusion too Andy, though I think it's a Buteo-type.

Spud

 

[Andrew Rowlands]

Balance of evidence probably on the side of dark phase Rough - legged Buzzard?

Andy.

 

[logos]

Or a darkish Rough-leg made darker by the photographic effects THH has mentioned?

Would anyone disagree that it has to be a Buteo?

Spud

 

[Andrew Rowlands]

Not photographic, Spud, just plain contrast.

 

[logos]

Of course it's photographic, that's why the head doesn't contrast in flight in the way it contrasts in the perched shot!

Can I assume that you longer hold the view that this is 'defintely a Honey Buzzard' then.

Spud

 

[wpercy]

That would be be one funny looking Roughleg,...but on the other hand it would be one funny looking black Kite.
I must admit i,m worried about the wing formula,wing shape and that trailing edge,but its that tail, i'm not that familier With Rough legged Buzzard so.......God knows!.

 

[Andrew Rowlands]

It is purely an effect of the light and the direction of the light source .

I am no longer of that opinion, correct.

I am not sure what it is.

Andy.

 

[logos]

Neither am I, but then I never was....

Spud

 

[Michael Frankis]

Anyone any more thoughts on Marsh Harrier?

Michael

 

[wpercy]

Marsh Harrier......hmmmm...Males can show that sort of underwing pattern...Andy get Dick round for tea,Thats Dick Forsman not the other one!.