Help identifying a raptor

[pratjeffley]

I was standing around waiting for an ambulance (long story--not relevant) yesterday when I saw a small raptor I couldn't identify. It was about the size of a kestrel, but it was a uniform sandy colour beneath (I didn't get to see the top of the bird). It was flying straight, so its tail was straight back, not fanned out.

It could have been a juvenile, I guess, but it appeared to be alone. This was in the South Wales valleys. Any suggestions?

[aeshna5]

I'm guessing it was a Kestrel. The male has buff underparts + assumming you weren't using binoculars in the circumstances any streaking here probably wouldn't show.

[Rob_D]

How high was it flying? It could have been a Merlin. They're slightly smaller than a Kestrel and there are a few breeding around S Wales. Merlin usually fly low and with fast wingbeats and they don't hover like Kestrels. Both Merlin and Kestrel are streaked undersides though.

[pratjeffley]

Thanks for those responses--I guess it must have been a kestrel, though it was very pale and uniform in colour in comparison with others I've seen (I often see one hunting breakfast when walking the dog). Must have been the sunlight, which is a rare commodity this year!