What is this bird of prey?

[Orcababe]

Bird of prey sitting under a tree by the river Spey Aviemore in Scotland August 2008
Brown plumage with buff/gold head and neck
Yellow feet
Yellow/black beak
Can anyone please identify it?

[Ruth Daniel]

It looks like a juv Buzzard,nice pic!

[RobinP]

I've not seen one, but is Juv Marsh Harrier a possibility here? Particularly thinking of the golden head and mask.

[ericrovve]

Young Marsh Harrier, perhaps?

[ChrisJB]

Yes, a young Marsh Harrier. Though wasn't aware of them breeding so far north.

Regards, Chris

[Lance Morgan]

Def Marsh Harrier nice picture by the way.

[aeshna5]

Agree, Marsh Harrier, but like Chris was surprised this was seen so far north. They are doing very well in recent years.

[RobinP]

There was one in Aberdeenshire yesterday, wonder if it was the same one?

[Davy Crockett]

Orcababe
this is without doubt a juv marsh harrier can you find out what the breeding status is up there, its unusual to hear of them up your way but don't let slip exact locations or you know what will happen

[lovfinion]

Marsh harriers have been colonizing Scotland since the late 80's, here's a link with some decent info..

Scottish Raptor Groups - The Marsh Harrier

[demicav]

Gorgeous photo, wonderful find.

[Davy Crockett]

Originally Posted by lovfinion

Marsh harriers have been colonizing Scotland since the late 80's, here's a link with some decent info..

Scottish Raptor Groups - The Marsh Harrier

lovfinion ) Thanks for the link to the scottish raptor groups web site
regards Crockett

[Orcababe]

Thanks everyone.

We did think marsh harrier but I had not heard of them up here. Thanks for the link to the website also very interesting.

Best wishes.
Orcababe

[loony]

hi , wonder if it could be a young osprey as they are seen around speyside ? could be wrong but hope i may be right .
the loch garten osprey chicks have now gone . sue

[larachmor]

Originally Posted by loony

hi , wonder if it could be a young osprey as they are seen around speyside ? could be wrong but hope i may be right .
the loch garten osprey chicks have now gone . sue

A fledgling osprey appears almost the same as the adult bird, the only difference being an orange eye as opposed to yellow in the adult.
I would say that this is almost certainly a (female) marsh harrier, and what an excellent shot may I say.

[deer boy]

Great pic & a nice find Orcababe