ML404351121

Age

Not specified

Sex

Not specified

Observation details

Separation of Rufous/Intermediate morph of Long-legged Buzzard (LLB) impossible from very similar “Vulpinus” race of Common Buzzard (CB), when the bird is perched. But a series of field characteristics, wing pattern and structural differences helped in concluding the ID in this case. It was difficult to confirm the ID initially looking at the perched bird. The only clear feature was wingtips reaching the tail tip. But after observing the individual perched and in flight for almost 3 hours, we noted a number of field characteristics that pointed towards LLB: 1) Soaring bird was very similar in structure and size to two Booted Eagles flying alongside it. We noted in the field that the bird looked more like an eagle with a large, protruding head compared to vulpinus (CB in our previous observations have always been shorter-winged and shorter-necked in flight) 2) Wings were held buoyantly upward in a wide-V shape with wingtips slightly upturned. We also noticed that the bird was soaring in wide circles (which is a characteristic of LLB) 3) Compared to vulpinus, the wings were longer- especially at the “arms” and also quite wide, making it seem very rectangular overall (again very eagle-like). 4) Tail was lighter and longer, with faint barring and diffused subterminal band. 5) The most prominent feature was the dark carpal patches, which were very dark and extended to the primary-coverts. Interesting field note- We observed the bird attempting to hunt a Grey Francolin, and fail. In conclusion, this is possibly a Rufous/Intermediate morph Long-legged Buzzard. Most likely a juvenile bird from the pale eyes and faint barring on tail. Majority of above pointers taken from the Birds of Prey guide by Rishad Naoroji. Note: We had photographed a similar bird in the same location on November 14th, but ID was initially left as “buteo sp”. We are now confident that it is the same individual. Checklist link: https://ebird.org/checklist/S98573655

Technical information

Model

NIKON D850

Lens

200.0-500.0 mm f/5.6

ISO

450

Focal length

500 mm

Flash

Flash did not fire

f-stop

f/6.3

Shutter speed

1/2500 sec

Dimensions

2613 pixels x 1633 pixels

Original file size

2.43 MB