Mystery Raptor Lingdale area

[Derickp]

Here are the photos of the Mystery Hawk/Raptor seen near Lingdale last week.
They are as said extremely poor quality and if small on your viewer simply zoom them in with you Photo software.

Photo 1 shows what seems to be an owl shaped face but that was not the case. The Bird was preening with its head over its left shoulder. One can just make out the longer than owl tail and the 2 definite stripes/bars on the breast from the center to the edge. The prominent yellow feet are clearly visible too. Zoom in as required.

Photo 2  shows its close proximity to a caravan (about 30 foot beyond it) It was not quickly alarmed as most Raptor types would be. If one zooms in on this photo the long tail can be clearly seen and if examined carefully the 2 bars across the tail and the bar at the end of the tail can be seen. The photo shows the back and wings as dark and the breast and under parts very much lighter. On this photo it is apparent that it is no longer an owl shape.

Photo 3 shows the bird looking to its left. The white face, cheeks and dark head crown can be seen. Again the yellow feet/legs and dark barred tail can be seen as well as the 2 diagonal stripes on the breast.

Photo 4 is even worse quality but shows a rear and right shoulder angled view. This shows the colour make up of the upper parts with the white/lighter flank showing.  As said on the sightings page, what confused the issue more was the fact that when it eventually flew off the wings had pointed ends.
Obviously the Lady who took the photos could not track the bird with that particular type of camera and consequently no photos of it flying were available.
I will be interested on the expert's conclusions. I personally can't identify it.
It's sods law. I have 2 camera's at home which are well able to pick even his eye out at that distance and sadly that's where they were this day, at Home.  There's a lot to be said for these Quality Mini zooms that will fit into a jacket pocket.

Derick

[Harry M]

Hi Derick,
Looks like a Sparrowhawk.

Harry.

[Derickp]

Thanks Harry. Seems pretty certian by amount who agree with you.
Regards
Derick