August 19, 2011

Red Shoulder or Red Tail?

SDP  8-19-11

I was so excited to spot this hawk and set up my camera right as the sun was casting a beautiful ray of golden light, that I did not take note of the bird's shoulder...or its tail, for that matter. Now, I'm left wondering: is this a red-shouldered hawk or a red-tailed hawk? The Birds of Florida field guide, unfortunately, really isn't much help this time. So, once again, the SDP staff is at odds over a bird photo. As Editor-in-Chief, I'm leaning toward red-tailed hawk.  It just looks different than a red-shouldered hawk.  Whatever it was, it sure had an impressive stature.    

8 comments:

cieldequimper said...

It's gorgeous!

Kathy said...

I wouldn't know but he does look regal sitting their posing for you.

Lorraine said...

Go easy on the SDP staff. It's a beautiful hawk, whatever it is! Nice shot!

Lowell said...

I am so jealous! I've tried to get a picture of one of these red-tailed hawks for years without success. What a gorgeous shot - and the light is perfect!

Birdman said...

The hunt is on. Beware all pigeons in the vicinity!

Halcyon said...

Whatever it is, it's beautiful. How lucky that he posed so nicely for you. :)

Jack said...

Why didn't you just ask him? Most hawks are friendly and are willing to tell you what they are if you just ask them politely.

Ernie said...

I think it's a juvenile red-shoulder. The full-on adult color scheme hasn't grown in yet. It's the right time of year for the young ones to be out and about. And the red-tails are bigger and rarer. But it could be something else entirely, like a Coopers or a sharp-shinned. I know, I'm no help at all... :)