Small bird of prey Central France (1 Viewer)

[Mike Beer]

Hello. Took this photograph today in central France. It was a very grey day and photographed through a car window can I have a ID if possible; Thanks . Mike

 

[Mike Earp]

Hello. Took this photograph today in central France. It was a very grey day and photographed through a car window can I have a ID if possible; Thanks . Mike

Looks like a Black-winged Kite. Is that possible there - and at this time of year?

 

[Mike Beer]

Hello Mike. I do not know if a Black Winged Kite is in this part of France or not. Im in Jaunoux 18170. Mike

 

[Alexander Stöhr]

Hello Mike,
I agree with Mike, thats a Black-winged Kite. Please note unique combination of black, grey and white.

This species had expanded its range in France, and vagrants are now annual in Germany. Therefore I think, you can safely assume its a wild bird. Congratulations!

 

[Mike Beer]

Thank you Alexander just proves even on a really grey day I should carry my my proper Camera. Mike.

 

[Alexander Stöhr]

Hello again Mike,
yes, I agree with you: birdwatching is always a good idea!

Here are two pictures of a BW Kite, that was present during the summer of 2016 in NE-Germany (Randowbruch):

https://flic.kr/p/2n2doCH

https://flic.kr/p/2n26MYH

 

[Joern Lehmhus]

There is also one in Germany currently ...

and here is a distant photo from one from northern Germany in late autumn 2019

https://flic.kr/p/2i1CgJf

Nice find Mike!