Question from Pennsylvania, USA (1 Viewer)

[JCA]

Philadelphia, PA, USA
December 2023
Near Birdfeeder Near House

This is the first bird of prey I’ve seen perched near my house. To my inexperienced eye, it matches pictures of the Sharp-Skinned Hawk the best.

Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[qwerty5]

Shape seems to indicate Cooper's Hawk to me, but I'm not certain.

 

[JCA]

Thank you. Now I’m looking at pictures of juvenile Cooper’s Hawks, and the colors and patterns seem to match better. I think this is bigger than a Sharp-Skinned as well. Appreciate the response.

 

[Butty]

Underparts look better for Cooper's hawk - but the view's doubtfully adequate.

 

[Ruff-Leg]

Head shape (angular), eye placement (forward), apparent size (chunky accipiter), and feet (strong and dangerous looking) all say Cooper's. Not a bad picture for a phone photo through glass!