Merlin or American Kestrel? Phoenix 3rd Nov (1 Viewer)

[markdunton]

Sorry not the best photo but not a bad one either.

This was taken in Phoenix. I am tending towards Merlin because of the large final band on the tail and also the aggressive and fast flight.

Anyone can assist please?

Thanks

 

[Bewick]

This is not a merlin, this is an accipiter- Sharp-shinned hawk.

 

[markdunton]

Many many thanks. We did consider that it looked very rounded winged, but it appeared to be very small, which confused us, I thought it was smaller than a European kestrel, but the height might have confused issues across an open space. Now I have seen a flight video this confirms it. Thanks again.