ML645730208

Observation details

I was in my driveway on the phone when I looked up and noticed a large dark raptor flying southwest high overhead. I immediately dropped the phone and grabbed my bins, and observed that the bird seemed to have a relatively small head compared to the tail (not large like BAEA), and what I thought were three distinct white patches: the tail base, and an isolated white patch under each wing (not splotchy white like juvenile BAEA). I was able to snap a few photos as the bird glided away. The white tail base is clearly visible in the photos, while the underwing patches are difficult to see, but still visible. The bird also appears to possess bulging secondary feathers, another field mark of Golden Eagle. YARD BIRD