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Swainson's Hawk

Buteo swainsoni

Photo by phredshome
Published on Project Noah
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37.7984, -121.222

Field Notes

Description:

Such a graceful flyer. this hawk has been suggested as a Swainson's but it does not have the stripes on the tail.... could it be a Red shouldered Hawk?

Habitat:

Ca. central valley, Urban, city edge, there have been 3 soaring and playing most of the afternoon.... great relaxation tools

Notes:

thanks Emily, Christy, and Liam

Species ID Suggestions

Swainson's Hawk

Buteo swainsoni

Reference Link
Liam
3

Comments (3)
flyingfrogconcepts
Having been recently challenged by trying to capture for posterity, images of a nearby (most likely) sea eagle I can appreciate the effort that went into getting shots that allow us to identify the bird. I didn't bring my camera with me on this holiday and have only an iphone which doesn't seem to see any better or even as well as my eyes - which is saying something for distance shots since I'm short sighted! In a nutshell, I dip my proverbial hat to you.
ChristyHolland
Definitely a swainie!! I think they get to CA before CO...someone else saw a swainie in CA in yesterday's spottings...but we should have them within a couple weeks! Great series!! I'd love you to add this spotting (and your other raptors) to the mission Raptors of North America: http://www.projectnoah.org/missions/8627557
EmilyMarino
Almost has the rounded shape and the wing pattern of a Swainson's Hawk. They are heading back up North from South America this time of year.

Spotted for Missions

Mission
Birds of the World
Mission
Raptors of North America
Photographed
PublishedApril 2, 2013

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