Wildlife Spotting

Yes, however, you cannot guarantee the end result of such a hybrid, can you? There are so many factors and variables in the genetics that can cause unwanted outcomes. At least that's my theory. (I experienced this first hand when one of my Rhode Island Red Roosters, got in with some of my Araucana hens). The resulting hatch was not something that was 100% positive.

Falconers often hybridize falcon species, simply because of "hybrid vigor". The falcons are larger and better hunters, sometimes even smarter.

Liam I agree, although I am not sure why someone would cross breed the raptor species as they are perfectly adept at what they do, as they were made to do it. I don't see any way to actually improve upon their current evolutionary standings. (I am not one for playing with genetics and mixing breeds just to see what will happen).

I believe it to be a Falcon, Gyrfalcon hybrid most likely. A very odd individual indeed. The eyebrows are not at all like they should be, they're raised much higher than a normal raptor's are.

I think you are right it's probably a juvenile, but still I am no expert. It sounds like you are, so I will post a photo where I need your help :)

I agree. I was stumped for awhile because the shape of the beak, particularly the Cere (yellow tissue at the top of the maxilla surrounding the nostril) as well as the lore, and the eye ring. It may be due to the bird being young, and not completely filled out yet. The other thing that catches my eye is the mandible (lower jaw) doesn't seem like it's full length, usually the mandible will reach the curved hook on the upper jaw.

@ Brandon, yes he looks a bit sad and dull, no sparks in his eyes... I also thought the colour of the eyes are normally more yellowish or light brown...

Jeannette I believe you are correct, however, there is something off with this birds beak, and how deep the eyes seem to be set in the head. I don't know if it's due to generations of captive breeding and or breeding for specific traits, however something just doesn't seem 100% to me.

I think it's a Buteo buteo, but I am not good at raptors :)

This kind of looks like a barn owl