Sparrowhawk prey ID from feathers UK (1 Viewer)

[Dawsy]

A female sparrowhawk flew in to my garden in lowland central Scotland carrying prey earlier today. I didn't get a good look as I was trying not to disturb it. I went to have look at the feathers it left and they look really distinctive but I can't think what they're from. The longest feather in the picture is at least 6 cm, the others are probably more like 3 cm. The location is suburban with fields very nearby.
Any ideas?

Michael

 

[Andy Adcock]

Female Pheasant?

 

[Dawsy]

Female Pheasant?

I can see where you're coming from with that but I feel I'd have noticed such a large bird. Could a sparrowhawk even carry one? Whatever it was was still screaming when it was being carried so must have been a whole bird.

 

[Andy Adcock]

I can see where you're coming from with that but I feel I'd have noticed such a large bird. Could a sparrowhawk even carry one? Whatever it was was still screaming when it was being carried so must have been a whole bird.

I'd say yes.

 

[Joern Lehmhus]

a sparrowhawk carrying a pheasant?- that would be a sight to see!

these feathers belonged to a fieldfare!