UK Question: Large bird of prey, wingspan at least 12-18 inches, seen flying over Thames near Henley?

Question

I actually saw 2 or 3 of these birds while walking along the Thames near Henley (near the village of Marlow to be more precise) so I assume they are quite common in this area.

I didn't get a close enough look to give a good description but what bird of prey could have such a large wingspan and be found in this area?

Answer 1

Could be any number of raptors, but Peregrine Falcon is the most likely answer.

Answer 2

12-18 inches is not a large wingspan. I can think of no raptor that small. Kestrels have a wingspan of about 60cm (24 inches) while peregrines are about a metre (39 inches).

Answer 3

Distance makes it difficult to tell but it could have been a marsh harrier which is slightly larger but they often hunt in pairs. Not usually pairs for kestrels, and buzzards are a little larger still and quite bulky to look at.

Answer 4

John Prescott

Answer 5

Four that step out for me. 1. The bald eagle for it's Majesty and national symbol. 2. The peregrine falcon for it's speed. 3. The Great Horned owl for it's size and power. 4. The Wild turkey as i like to be reminded of my family now and again.

Answer 6

Boris Johnson riding riding a handglider!

Answer 7

more likely to be kestrels. buzzards and peregrines are larger than you describe and sparrowhawks dont hang about.

if they are kestrels they should be red coloured across the back and wings.

Answer 8

Might have been a common buzzard

Answer 9

Gordon brown after your taxes.

Answer 10

they may be buzzards,there vary common,
if you see one there's usualy others around.