Posted by John Tobias on October 31, 2012 at 2:33 PM
I think this is a pine siskin, not positive. There were a few of these with the streaked undersides hanging out with some goldfinches. Been wanting to see/photograph pine siskins for some time. It looks like the photo of one at the nature center. The bird in the larger image flew over the nature center as I was photographing the siskins. Not sure what it is. It was a snap shot. My first thought is a osprey. But can't say for sure.
Thanks for your help.
Posted by Brian Gatlin on October 31, 2012 at 3:26 PM
Yes to Pine Siskin. The hawk is a Red-tailed Hawk, notice especially the dark patagial mark (on the leading edge of the wing).
Posted by John Tobias on October 31, 2012 at 5:16 PM
Thanks Brian, appreicate your ID ing these birds. I should have known about the redtail, just seemed different from the ones I usually see around here.
Posted by Brian Gatlin on October 31, 2012 at 7:44 PM
Redtails are extremely variable in their plumage, John--they can be tricky, especially in tough light like here. another good mark that is visible is the dark belly band.
Posted by Luke Ormand on November 2, 2012 at 11:23 AM
Concur on everything Brian has to say. This year (at least in NY) has been phenomenal for the number of siskins moving through on migration
Posted by John Tobias on November 3, 2012 at 12:54 PM
Thanks everyone. Now that I can ID pine siskins they seem to be in large numbers at the nature center, at least for now.
Discussion
5 repliesThanks for your help.