How was the bird SEEN BEST ?

Further questions will be based on how best the bird was seen, in flight or while landed.

The identification of hawk-like birds pose several unique difficulties. More often these birds are seen hunting, soaring or flying overhead. Thus they are often seen at a considerable distance. Size may be difficult to determine. These birds also remain immature for three to four years. Therefore you may see more immature birds than adults which may look totally different. Also females may be a of a different size and colour pattern than males. Getting to know the female by association with the male is often impossible due to the solitary nature of these birds.

All these difficulties add to the challenge to hawk identification.

Developing keen observational skills is essential.