Raptor ID

[Steve Canuel]

This was captured near Colorado Springs in the Summer. I'm thinking it's an immature bird but can't tell which one. Appreciate any clues for ID.

[Dan Walker]

Swainson's Hawk, adult. From this view the dark bib and white face are key characteristics.

[Dan Brown]

I agree, Swainson's adult.

[Steve Canuel]

Thanks Dan. After your ID I managed to find a pic that showed the red chest patch. Is this just a different morph of the same bird (this one was taken in Jan)?

[Dan Brown]

I'm not a raptor expert but, I believe that this second bird is a Red-tailed Hawk. The face, chest and belly band say Red-tail to me.

[Steve Canuel]

I'm not a raptor expert but, I believe that this second bird is a Red-tailed Hawk. The face, chest and belly band say Red-tail to me.

Thanks Dan B. I'll take a closer look at some pictures of them as well.

[James Prudente]

A Photographic Guide to North American Raptors by Wheeler and Clark is an invaluable aid in identifying the various forms and morphs of all the species found in North America.