Shabby buzzard or a kite? West Cornwall UK (1 Viewer)

Apologies firstly that I am not a proper birder so please excuse what might be a silly question...

I saw a large bird of prey this afternoon (at Raftra near Polgigga in west Cornwall) which looked at first glance to be a buzzard who has lost some feathers: the bird's tail looked a bit longer than a buzzard's and was almost forked like a red kite's but not wedge shaped, much more straight. Flight was not typical buzzard: we see them every day and their V-shaped wings and soaring flight are easily recognisable. This bird had level wings and wasn't circling and soaring. We had black kites here last year (probably three): could this be an early returner?

It basically looked like a buzzard who had lost some feathers, but any thoughts on what it might be would be received with interest. Thanks. Ad

Ad its a difficult one with no images. If your used to seeing Buzzards and can readily count that one out you have probably answered your own question.

Do you know of any local sightings services for your area? Local RSPB groups sometimes have them.... its always a good starting point to see if other birders have picked up on anything unusual

Dave