Buzzards (was - Birds of prey in Nth Wexford)

Juniorhurler

As the title says, I have spotted birds of prey just north of Gorey in Co. Wexford. These are defo birds of prey as I saw one with a victim in its claw at a distance of about 60-70 metres. I failed in my attempts to get a picture today as when I stopped the jeep they took off to a massive height.

I have seen them about the area three times over the last month. They are travelling in a group of three. They are from what I can make out, a brown and white pattern on he underside of the wing. They seem to have a wingspan of about three times the size of a common crow.

I went on the RSPB site and tried to figure it out myself but as total noob to all of this I didn't even know where to start. I listened to the call of the buzzard on there but the call I heard, while similar, was much harsher or more shrill if you know what I mean.

I would love to know what they are and if anybody on here has seen them or heard from anybody else who has.

Birdnuts

Sounds like buzzards - their calls are particulary distinctive at this time of year as its the height of the courtship period. They look rather larger than they actually are since their wings are very broad and are designed for prolonged soaring. Buzzards are now breeding in many parts of the country including Wexford.

jmkennedyie

Buzzard your best bet but in that part of the world Red Kite a possibility also - the distinctive shape should be a giveaway though.

cuddlycavies

yep fan like tail Buzzard. Fork tail Kite

Juniorhurler

Thanks folks. I saw them again today and am fairly sure they are buzzards. Do they always travel in pairs or threes, or is this to do with mating season?

cuddlycavies

no they are often solitary. It could be the remnants of a family last year or two males competing for a mate!

Birdnuts

cuddlycavies wrote: »

no they are often solitary. It could be the remnants of a family last year or two males competing for a mate!

Saw a threesome today - appeared to be 2 males(obviously smaller) and a female.

Juniorhurler

Spotted these again today. Just a pair this time. They always appear between 1 and 2.30 pm. Any reason for this? Is it a favoured hunting time or just co-incidence?

OpenYourEyes

Its probably the warmest time of day (close to midday when the sun is at its highest) - they use the warm air thermals to soar around!

They also probably follow a similar day-to-day routine, and you probably do too, thus increasing your chances of seeing them at a specific time of day!