The "falcon" returned the following morning - and was eating a freakin GULL (of all things) on the NE corner of the nearby building...
I've boiled down the responses I've received from my last post/photos (thanks to everyone who commented)... The summary is "It's a Peregrine, you idiot"...
I can't disagree that I was wrong for barking up the Gyrfalcon tree... It's not right. But I continue to have some issue with the thought that this is a "normal" Peregrine. Seeing it the following morning, I still didn't look and think "Peregrine"... While everyone makes mistakes, I do like to think I'm pretty good with Peregrines - and given that this is my ~65th Peregrine sighting since moving to the condo in late 2012...
Anyways, here's the new series of photos from day 2 (haven't seen it since)..
It's really big
It's an odd gray/brown colour
the breast/belly streaking is odd
the helmet pattern is mostly "moustache stripes"
has odd pale markings on the top of its head
wings seem abnormally long and thin (??)
I pulled out a few more images from day 1 (cell phone + scope) - but they don't add a whole lot:
So in the end, I am horribly outnumbered in the "not a normal Peregrine camp" - so i'll probably just let this one fade away... Just one last time (unless it returns) I'll say "No - not a Gyrfalcon, but maybe not a "normal" Peregrine?"
As always, comments appreciated. Be sure to watch this video on full screen/youtube for a better impression of how it looked. (Same video as the top).
Interesting bird!
ReplyDeleteI found your sighting most intriguing, which prompted me to check out internet sites which discussed hybrids. Imagine my surprise when I found out how many businesses in North America breed falcons for sale for falconry. Your bird could easily pass for one of the many Gyr x Peregrines or other hybrids that are available for purchase on line. Many years ago a Prairie Falcon was reported from the Humber Bay area here in Toronto. I went looking for it and subsequently saw a large falcon with a darker armpit flying near the condo towers. I have never seen Prairie Falcon before and still haven't but this bird seemed promising so I posted it on Ontbirds. I was so excited I locked my keys in my car. Anyway it turned out the bird was a suspect Gyrfalcon x Saker Falcon hybrid. Long story short, always go with your gut no matter what.
ReplyDeleteI don't think it looks like a normal peregrine, whatever normal is haha. It does appear quite bulky in the photos. By the way, I'd say you are more qualified than some of the "experts" , whom often just like to hear the sound of their own voices. I consider you an expert of the top tier! As Garth says, gut feeling is often key.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comments gents - made my day :)
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