Raptor Identification

[Neil Simms]

Took this very distant shot at Sleddale 1st October. Would appreciate comments

[Michael_A]

Looks like a Common Buzzard, very distant.

[Neil Simms]

Another couple of poor quality pics. These show obvious kink between lifted arm and hand, not found on common buzzard.

[Neil Simms]

Found another couple of pics I didnt know I had when tidying up the computer. All pics were taken within 2 minutes of each other.

[Derickp]

Hi Neil,
with respects to photo number 1. When I zoom in there is a distinct white tail with a definite dark band across it. If it were as some would say an illusion due to the angle of light, then why has the dark band not whited out too? Other factors/colour/shades/shape in the image point to it not being a Common Buzzard. However this is only my view as a novice compared to many on site. I would have hoped the more learned would have responded to the I.D request.

[Neil Simms]

Agree with you regarding poor response. I don't understand why. The sighting was submitted to the TBC Rarities Committee as rough legged buzzard and has been accepted.