Went birding with Hervey Bay Birdwatchers his morning and took this at Catakers Bay near Hervey Bay Qld.
There is a difference of opinions as to which Raptor this is.
My internet is limited so a quick answer would be greatly appreciated.
The image is heavily cropped, the shadows lightend and slight sharpening.
Please help so I can let them know.
I am no expert, but just want a crack before they (the experts turn up). I reckon it is a Little Eagle, trousered legs (unless my eyes are playing up) correct number of "fingers" in the flight feathers, and the distinctive lighter colour on the outside edge of the wings, slightly rounded tail when spread. Any way just checking if I might be right, and hopefully learning more in the process.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
I think juvenile Brahminy Kite. Note the dark section on the front inner part of the underwing goes out past the elbow(carpal joint), on light morph Little Eagle this dark section stops before the carpal joint. I hope that explanation makes sense!
Lol, those were the 2 they had trouble deciding between. The bigger round tail is what made some think Little Eagle, the white meant Pale morph. I know what you are saying though Steve.some others said the wings were too big for Little Eagle. Would love to get some more opinions.
I'm certainly no expert either but from a quick look in my field guides and some google images I would say Juvi. Brahminy Kite. As Steve has said, on the Little Eagle the dark patch underwing is about in line with the secondaries and on the kite it extends beyond that point, as in this photo. There is also some barring on the underside of the tail on the Litttle Eagle.
LM
Thanks guys, not the outcome I wanted, but that's birding. If anyone has any further input either way, please feel free to comment.
Looks like a pale version of a Brahminy Kite juv.
Tegan - Melbourne Vic.
Well that's just cool, I have learnt a few more tips on ID. Forgot to mention it is a nice photo.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Thanks Dale
If you have any half decent bird ID book, you'll definitely note this is a juvenile Brahminy Kite!!!!