What bird did I see gliding over Walton today?? (2 Viewers)

[David Smith]

Sorry to be vague but we saw it briefly the first time and while driving the 2nd time.
It was on its own so difficult to size but..........here goes.

It appeared to be as big or bigger than a buzzard (overhead it was difficult to be possitive).
Wings where NOT rounded or fingered like a Buzzard.........almost pointed.
It was gliding and when using its wings it was a very slow/smooth wing beat.
It seemed to glide as though it was hunting.

I would go with Kite but the only Kites I have seen had very definite 'forked' tails and this didn't.
Peregrine also seems to fit exept the speed of flight and wing beat (according to the book......not experience )

Just hoping someone else has been watching it???
Thanks

 

[bradinho]

Given the area could you rule out Great Black-backed gull?

 

[David Smith]

Given the area could you rule out Great Black-backed gull?

Thanks for the reply.
That is (if I may say) good lateral thinking. Looking at the book a first winter GBBG IS mottled underneath (as against white)
While remaining open minded and only seeing it briefly my inclination is to say no as everything said to me 'bird of prey'.
However........I am often wrong re i.d :-O
Thanks again.