The photo is terrible, and caused some debate over on the WAB forums where I tend to go for help in identifying new finds.
I saw it high overhead late this afternoon. I assumed it was a kestrel or sparrowhawk (the usual suspects), and it obviously wasn't a buzzard (I can tell them apart from the others even at a ridiculous distance). I fired off about a dozen shots, none of which are clear. The white/grey sky contrived to make getting any sensible contrast impossible. The consensus though is that this is a Peregrine Falcon (the alternative was a Hobby).
That makes four birds of prey that I've seen overhead this year. They're attracted to the surrounding downland and tend simply to pass over, though the kestrels and sparrowhawks have been known to swoop low. Anyway, no apologies for the poor quality. It's the best I could do.
SittingFox
17 Jun 2007Peregrine :eyes: :yes:
Great find! Was it actually flying over your garden?
Words
17 Jun 2007Yes it flew virtually directly overhead 😀 On of the shots the camera even slipped into portrait layout as I just kept leaning back to keep it in view (but unfortunately not in focus).
claudette.bb
18 Jun 2007😎