I leave the door to my chicken run open every day as they free range. Today I was surprised to discover this unexpected visitor. I'm not sure what it is ... a kestrel or a hobby?
It escaped without any problems, for it or the hens, fortunately. (I reduced the quality of the photo before uploading, but I hope you can identify it for me please.)
Certainly no expert, just trying to see if I am right, before the experts turn up. Happy to be corrected.
Location - town, region and state can be helpful for ID to longtimemother.
My thinking - Brown Goshawk, I think it has got the frown of a brown goshawk and the partially trousered legs.
Nice Photo as well.
Dale Huonville, Tasmania
Definitely an immature (most likely first year) Brown Goshawk. As Dale mentioned the brow ridge being very distinct also all its toes appear to be rather similar in length. A sparrowhawk would have a visibly longer middle toe.
Goshawks will take your chickens down!