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September 17, 2011

Raptor Remnants

We stumbled across the remains of a raptor today. I'm not clear what it is/was. I would initially think a Red-tailed Hawk, but wings lack patagial markings. So, I dunno what it is really. I posted on Whatbird.com.

From Whatbird commenter Cavan Wood:

"The shape and the pattern on primaries and primary coverts looks good and t's large. Check the leading edge of the primaries to see if they have the tell-tale fringe of an owl.

http://www.owlpages.com/image.php?image=articles-Owl+Physiology-Feathers-3"

Update: So, this is something I was not aware of. The leading edge of the primaries on an owl have this tell-tale fringe that reduces the sound of air flowing over the feathers, allowing them to fly more quietly. Very cool. So, it's a Great Horned Owl (Bubo virginianus). Mystery solved.

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Posted by Rob Kiser on September 17, 2011 at 3:56 PM

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