This is a sad situation but need help with ID.
Feb 16, 2021 13:09:42 #
I found this raptor this morning. May have been hit by a car as there was no signs of trauma. Would like to have a good ID if possible.
Feb 16, 2021 15:19:49 #
Too small for a Coopers. Possibly a Sharp-shinned but the best and belly feather colors seem off. Can you let it dry and rephotograph?
Feb 16, 2021 18:25:21 #
Feb 16, 2021 19:46:35 #
DanielB wrote:
I found this raptor this morning. May have been hit by a car as there was no signs of trauma. Would like to have a good ID if possible.
That is really a shame - such an awesome, healthy-looking specimen in its prime
Feb 16, 2021 21:10:10 #
Retired CPO wrote:
Might be a Merlin.
I thought Merlin as well. Its about the right size. Hoping for some dried out shots.
Feb 17, 2021 06:56:18 #
Feb 17, 2021 12:28:37 #
Strix wrote:
Definitely a merlin....
Strix.
Strix.
If this is a Merlin, and after looking at the photos online I think you are right, this area of Southern CA is and uncommon area to find them in according to Audubon Field Guide.
Feb 17, 2021 13:34:46 #
The "tooth" on the upper mandible is usually a marker for a falcon. Size and color would suggest Merlin.
Feb 17, 2021 14:07:41 #
Feb 17, 2021 19:38:38 #
Retired CPO wrote:
Might be a Merlin.
That was my thought, also. Definitely too small for a Coopers, as Bill had already said.
Feb 21, 2021 16:57:11 #
Pretty definitely a Merlin. The notch on the bill is diagnostic of the Falcons. The size and coloration says Merlin. The reddish belly is typical of Pacific Coast birds. They say that Falcons are more closely related to the parrots than to the other raptors which seems strange until you look at the shape of a parrots bill and you see the similarity. If the back feathers and the wing coverts (The upper part of the wing that is visible when folded) is gray, it is a male, if brown: female.
Feb 21, 2021 16:57:27 #
Pretty definitely a Merlin. The notch on the bill is diagnostic of the Falcons. The size and coloration says Merlin. The reddish belly is typical of Pacific Coast birds. They say that Falcons are more closely related to the parrots than to the other raptors which seems strange until you look at the shape of a parrots bill and you see the similarity. If the back feathers and the wing coverts (The upper part of the wing that is visible when folded) is gray, it is a male, if brown: female.
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