Possible Cassin's Hawk-Eagle - D. R. Congo from boat between Basankusu and Lingunda, Sep 13, 2024 (1 Viewer)

[ScottSobel]

These photos were taken from a moving boat between Basankusu and Lingunda on our way to the Lomako Tokolala Reserve in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Link is to map for location. I think we were closer to Lingunda. Merlin suggested Cassin's Hawk-Eagle as an ID. We did not have a birding guide on this trip as it was almost exclusively to see the bonobos. I would rather not check off a new bird without confirmation.

These photos were taken on September 13, 2024.

Note that I lightened the photos significantly to show the markings. In reality the bird appeared darker. Feel free to let me know if you'd like to see the photos closer to natural lighting.

Thank you for any help you can provide,
Scott

 

[tconzemi]

Young African Harrier-hawk aka Gymnogene

 

[ScottSobel]

Young African Harrier-hawk aka Gymnogene

Thank you Tom. I can't say I'm not disappointed not to have a new bird to check off or that I failed to ID a fairly common bird. But, I definitely appreciate the help with the ID. Much appreciated!