Sharp-shinned vs Cooper's Hawk, California (1 Viewer)

[OkamotoKeitaSin]

Hi all,

A question that has been asked a million times before I'm sure. Was looking through some old pictures and a bird I identified once as a Cooper's looks more like a Sharp-shinned to me now.

ID reasons: Small head unlike Cooper's which should have a bulky and bigger looking head, thin looking legs, and limited extent of white on tail end.

Would be happy to get some confirmation/corrections!

Photographed 8 August 2018, Yolo, California, USA.

 

[The Bird Nuts]

Cooper's based on the graduated tail feathers, flat-topped head, small eye, and lack of rufous blotches on the flanks. It is likely a male because of the small size and thin legs.

 

[fugl]

Coop

 

[OkamotoKeitaSin]

Ah I see, thanks for the clarification!

 

[Microtus]

Another for Cooper's.