Re: April 4 - Eaglet on nest

Posted by NewMexiKen on Apr 14, 2013; 9:09am
URL: http://bald-eagles-of-broward-county-florida.17.s1.nabble.com/April-4-Eaglet-on-nest-tp7573023p7573038.html

I'll hazard some guesses but will defer to other opinions as to the ID of the two birds.

The first has the right proportions between its wings and the visible view of its body to be a large raptor, very possibly an eagle. The depth of its wing beat downstroke would be a bit unusual for an eagle, as they usually fly with rather shallow strokes. However it could be hauling up from a perch. Its wings are somewhat pointed, unlike a vulture. Its wings are slightly at an "M" angle to the body rather than horizontal, like Ospreys, herons and gulls. An Osprey usually has more of an angle at its "elbow." It could be a larger heron such as a Great Blue Heron, but neither long legs nor a neck are clearly visible in this out of focus view. Bottom line is that I am really not sure of its identity.

The second bird gives us the advantage of color and full exposure of its profile. It has an insect-eating bill and seems to have yellow underneath and I detect some reddish tint to its tail and maybe wings. Its bill and head are consistent with a flycatcher. I believe it is a Great Crested Flycatcher. Neat shot and fun to try to figure out.