Bonelli's eagle??? Marettimo Sicily (1 Viewer)

[Kinthissa]

this is a long shot ~ i thought there was a bird way up atop the cliffs, and took 3 snaps. first snap was of the wrong rocks, and the second and third appear to show that sphinx-like Bonelli's eagle sitting parallel-thighed. am i seeing things? 6 September.

 

[Andy Adcock]

Why isn't it a Common Buzzard?


A

 

[SteveClifton]

Why isn't it a Common Buzzard?


A

My thoughts too

 

[Simon Wates]

Can't see a Bonelli's - shape and underparts more like CB as suggested.

 

[Kinthissa]

Gavel coming down, CB! thank you!

locals say there's a resident pair of Bonelli's eagles but that they are not often seen, their hunting terrain extends to the Sicilian mainland

 

[Simon Wates]

locals say there's a resident pair of Bonelli's eagles but that they are not often seen

That's normal for any pair They are quite discreet (not always!) - every day in good weather soaring very high indeed over their territory, spending time perched often hidden and hunting low . The best plan to see them would be to find a high viewpoint and scan and scan - 1, 2 or 3 visits of a couple of hours should produce sightings and you will know when you see them decently. In the autumn I would visit mid-morning to lunch or the last couple of hours of the day. Hanging around a breeding site would be counter-productive - they will see you from far away and not approach or do so in a way that you wouldn't see.

 

[Kinthissa]

Thank you for your suggestions, Simon. I hope to have another chance second half of November, i will keep in mind those periods in the day.