hkwongkit

Please help identify this raptor which was seen hunting on cage birds at Mongkok area today not far from Bird Gardens!

EOS-1D Mk II, EF600/4L + EF1.4x on monopod

Photo #01

Photo #02

Photo #03


Thanks!

[ Last edited by hkwongkit at 11/12/2008 15:07 ]

thinfor

Not very sure...can't see the back and the tail.  But from the face and the breast plumage, it should be a common kestrel?  Expereinced birders please comment.

cgeoff

A Kestrel, yes.

Yet more evidence for the transmission potential of AI via the cage bird trade.

Geoff

kmatthew

A pretty scruffy bird I must say!! Never thought a Kestrel will end up there either!!

hkwongkit

Quote:

Original posted by cgeoff at 11/12/2008 16:18
A Kestrel, yes ...

Thanks, Geoff!

I was tempted to call it a Kestrel at first but hesitate after reading the bird guides. Could you point me to the obvious such as field mark(s) that lead to your conclusion please. Thanks again!

HFCheung

Small size, large head, small bill, long wing (not seen well) point to a Falcon species.
Redish upperparts (black and red spots or bars) point to Kestrel.  The greyish face also helps.
The dark craws rule out lesser Kestrel.  Hope that is useful.

HF Cheung

[ Last edited by HFCheung at 12/12/2008 14:42 ]

hkwongkit

Thanks for your pointers, HF!
Is this a female?