ML628940066

Observation details

Immense dark raptor. Bird flushed from small hillside along Middle N. Fork Flowage Rd. & flew head on and then along the road quite low & close. Then I re-found it a few hundred meters away perched in a tree for extended observation. Distant photos acquired. Appears to be a “2nd year bird” per Sibley Guide. Dark brown overall with a bit of white in base of outer primates. Cinnamon nape very evident when in view. Tail base mottled light gray with wide dark terminal band. In flight had dark axilaries. I have lots of experience with Goldens in the west (I live in CO) and am confident with separating them from immature Balds.