Date: 4/15/24 7:18 pm From: Thomas Turner via groups.io <habarimbu...> Subject: [sbcobirding] Possible Broad-Winged Hawk over North Goleta
I had an interesting Buteo above San Jose Creek this morning, north of Cathedral Oaks. It was soaring, and just seemed a little off for a Red-Tailed. I watched it for a bit and couldn’t make out a dark leading edge, or any other feature that would clinch it. I took a few photos. I was trying to turn it into a Swainson’s, but didn’t prioritize looking at my photos, because I was pretty sure it was too broad for that. I downloaded them this afternoon and asked bird Slack, and Wes says it is good for Broad-Winged. I imagine he is right, given his vast experience, but I am sitting here with Sibley and still can’t tell for sure. Input welcome. Photos on eBird:
A BWHA on the coast would be pretty rare for Spring. The closest Spring record I see on eBird is one Dave had up near Painted Cave last May, and BOSBC doesn’t mention others.
