The sunsets here at Kiptopeke State Park are just as lovely as the sunrises...
Photo by Joe Beatty.
On Friday, the 16th, we were fortunate to view a kettle of 52 Broad-winged Hawks. Now although Anna and Brian can identify and often age these birds even as specks in the sky, I would be much happier if they would land on the tower so that I could do so. However, second best to that scenario is having a wonderful photographer, like our friend Peter Harris, send photos!
Here we have a juvenile Broad-winged Hawk.
Note the thinly barred tail and streaking on the breast instead of the reddish barring.
The majority of the Broad-wings that we have seen here so far have been juveniles making their first south-bound journey.
This adult has thick, bold bars on the tail and reddish-brown barring on the chest versus streaking. Also note the more distinct trailing edge of the wing on the adult.
I imagine the majority of readers of this blog already know these differences, but for aspiring identifiers like myself, this is extremely helpful!
Very grateful to Peter Harris for the wonderful shots!
Now I better get back to spotting for Anna... Happy Birding!
We hope to see you soon!
Caroline
