Bird ID - Chincoteague NWR, coastal Virginia, USA Dec 2017 (1 Viewer)

[dhhatfield]

I visited Chincoteague Nat'l Wildlife Refuge on Dec 1, 2017 (and at other times!) In recently reviewing some photos, I noticed some of a bird that I do not recognize, and am quite sure I have never seen. So I am seeking input here. I hope that the photos I post will have enough details for an ID. Thanks in advance for any input.

 

[jmepler]

Can you give us an idea of the size of the bird? My first impression is that of a Sharp-shinned Hawk.

 

[kevinsl06]

It stuck me as a Coopers Hawk, but it very well could be a Sharp-shinned.

 

[dhhatfield]

Hi, it was very far away, so not possible to know the size. (and 3 years ago, so I don't quite remember, sorry).

 

[Jeff Hopkins]

I'm thinking maybe young Peregrine.

 

[kevinsl06]

I'm thinking maybe young Peregrine.

It is an accipiter, not a falcon.
@The Bird Nuts might be able to help.

 

[kevinsl06]

Can we get the original photos? The screen shots are not the best qualty.

 

[Microtus]

I'm thinking maybe young Peregrine.

Or maybe a Merlin?

 

[A2GG]

Or maybe a Merlin?

Merlin was my first thought as well.

 

[Nutcracker]

Sharp-shin for me

 

[birdmeister]

I would be very comfortable calling this a Sharp-shinned Hawk, too. First of all, the overall very stocky wings, only somewhat pointed, strongly suggest an Accipiter to me.

The tail is very strikingly squared off, enough to really go against a Cooper's. The tail and head both look small to me, but this is a bit tougher given the bird's angle (flying away). The one feature that is not affected by this is the trailing edge of the wing, which shows shows the heavily curved profile of a Sharp-shinned (Cooper's normally shows a straighter trailing edge).

 

[KC Foggin]

I've lightened one of the screen shotsl Hope this helps.

 

[dhhatfield]

Thank you so much for all of your help. My French friend who was with me will be very happy. A lifer for her!