A few things about the pattern on the tips to the outer primaries of Red-tailed Hawks. On juvenile Harlan's, the tips are almost always banded instead of solid dark (see photo above, click to enlarge). However, a few can be solid like other races. Also, other races can show banded primary tips, especially Eastern and even more commonly on Krider's. One thing I have heard a bit too often is birders discussing the primary tips of adult birds....this issue only pertains to juveniles, so don't confuse the issue by trying to help determine the race of an adult based on primary tip pattern.
Hope this helps.
Labels: identification, raptors

5 Comments:
Gorgeous bird!
Stellar shot!
Robert - Lindenhurst, IL
Thanks Robert....one of my better Harlan's pics
"One of your better.." That shot is freaking awesome Jerry--as with all your photos!
nice post
Walatra G Sea Jelly
There is a hawk I've been seeing here in Missouri and I think it's a Krider's red tail. IS there a way to send someone a picture to get verification of the type of hawk?
Post a Comment
Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]
<< Back to Previous