birderUK007
Well-known member
Hi there
Was out birding today and over a large lake in inland Gloucestershire I saw a bird of prey soaring above it, not ridiculously high but certainly above the tree line. My first impression was Peregrine, it didn't circle as if on thermals, it glided across the sky and changed direction with barely a wing beat. There was no flap-flap-glide of the Sparrowhawk and the general shape was not Kestrel. The tail was fanned a lot.
I've never seen a Peregrine at this location before but have seen Sparrowhawks.
I know Sparrowhawks can soar in early Spring for mating reasons, but would they do so in January? Is this ever a method they use for hunting?
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.
Was out birding today and over a large lake in inland Gloucestershire I saw a bird of prey soaring above it, not ridiculously high but certainly above the tree line. My first impression was Peregrine, it didn't circle as if on thermals, it glided across the sky and changed direction with barely a wing beat. There was no flap-flap-glide of the Sparrowhawk and the general shape was not Kestrel. The tail was fanned a lot.
I've never seen a Peregrine at this location before but have seen Sparrowhawks.
I know Sparrowhawks can soar in early Spring for mating reasons, but would they do so in January? Is this ever a method they use for hunting?
Thanks in advance for your thoughts.