Marsh Harrier question (1 Viewer)

[Earnest lad]

Please could anyone advise in regard to the bird I saw yesterday (Marsh Harrier). Based on the attached photos of the bird, is this an adult female or a juvenile, and also if possible what distinguishes it as such. My field guides dont seem to clarify this.

 

[tconzemi]

They are extremely variable, ad females can be very dark and juveniles may show a lot more white on wings.
In this case clear juvenile features are
Cream tips to greater upperwing coverts
Bulging secondaries
No sign of moult
Very dark tail

 

[Earnest lad]

They are extremely variable, ad females can be very dark and juveniles may show a lot more white on wings.
In this case clear juvenile features are
Cream tips to greater upperwing coverts
Bulging secondaries
No sign of moult
Very dark tail

Thank you so much for that very proficient and helpful advice concerning the bird. One learns much in this forum.