Hey Birders, During our annual midwinter bald eagle survey (from Glide to Elkton) this past Tuesday, I observed a falcon out on North Bank Road at 4.0 miles from the bridge on the east (Glide) end of North Bank Road or 12,4 miles from the west (Wilbur) end of North Bank Road. I have attached three (fuzzy) photos... they are not great at all since the bird was a good distance away (550-600 meters) and I couldn't keep a steady hand zoomed in. What I can tell ya, it was a BIG bulky falcon... at least the size of a large female red-tailed hawk. We were doing an eagle survey and my coworker thought it was an eagle (based on size) when she first saw it and when we finally were able to find a safe place to park, this is the view we had of the bird. I tried to take photos through the scope (forgot its camera adapter of course), but no luck. When I took my eye away from the scope, it had flown off and out of sight (probably behind the ridge it was sitting on) and we both missed it in flight. Please send me your thoughts on the species identification. I have referenced several raptor books, pictures online, and other references, and it only reinforces my determination. But, before making a final determination I wanted to get input on the pictures from others. Hope others get a chance to see it. It was on the north side of the road when we observed it. I may try to go out and find it again on Friday (tomorrow)... although, probably like looking for a needle in a haystack. But one never knows. Other birds of interest at 12.7 miles from the bridge on the Glide end or 3.7 from the Wilbur end of North Bank Road (this is nearly always a "hot spot" for lots of raptors at one time with pretty good number of species too), we had 8 red-tailed hawks, a harrier, Merlin, and turkey vulture. Also had 8 turkey vultures on Old Garden Valley Road. Had an average count (68 raptors - primarily red-tails and a few kestrels) compared to past years on number of raptors observed in general. Lowest count of eagles with one golden and three bald eagles. Thanks in advance. I look forward to your input! Good birding, *Liz* *Elizabeth I. Gayner* *OR/WA BLM Peregrine Falcon Technical Coordinator* *Lead Wildlife Biologist - Swiftwater Field Office* Bureau of Land Management - Roseburg District Office Phone: (541) 464-3381; egayner@xxxxxxx
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