The Lincolnshire Bird Club

About 11:30 this morning I saw a small bird of prey flying high, North/South in the RAF Waddington area. It had a direct flight, rapid wingbeats followed by a glide type action. The sun was relatively low in the South and I got overhead views of a small falcon with pale chin/face contrasting with darker body. Wings were relatively short as was the tail. Do any of these characteristics point to a merlin? Its most obvious feature was the contrasting pale chin/face with the rest of its body.

Also seen 1 x Common Buzzard.

Thanks,
Matthew.

Hi Matthew,

If you saw the pointed wings of a falcon, then merlin, kestrel and peregrine are the likely options at this time of year. Kestrels can sometimes fly fast (well for them anyway), but don't usually glide when doing so. Merlin does glide but typically flies reasonably close to the ground (unlike peregrine, which prefers altitude). Sparrowhawks are more common inland (regularly flies at a variety of heights) and can also sometimes give the impression of having pointed wings, but with a good view you'll always be able to see several individual feathers or 'fingers' on the wingtips. Of the four species adult peregine would show the palest throat.... Tricky one!

Best wishes,

John

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Contact: recorder_south@lincsbirdclub.co.uk

Thanks John.
I narrowed it down to Peregrine or Merlin. It definitely wasnt kestrel or sparrowhawk although these can cause confusion with me sometimes. Out of interest I saw a Barn Owl over the Airfield the other night - first one in this location in nearly 10 years.

Cheers,
Matthew.