Bird identification

[Fortwilliam]

Hi, I watched a large bird, here in Belfast, for about 10 mins last evening and couldn't identify it.

It was larger than a herring gull with brown wings which had rounded tips, a white belly and a slow wing beat/glide not unlike that of a crane.

I saw it from quite a distance and first noticed the wing beat. The white belly and rounded wings were clearly seen as it flew almost overhead but quite high up.

On its approach it was flying parallel to the coast approx. 1 mile inland and eventually turned and headed seaward.

I have searched various sites and haven't been able to identify it. Can you help?

Regards.

[aeshna5]

Difficult without a photo! Could it have been a Buzzard which can be quite variable in plumage?

[elvisoneill]

Hello fortwilliam

I agree with Aeshna,

It certainly behaved like a Buzzard. They can be seen lurking overhead
Belfast RSPB Harbour Reserve and approach it frim the hills on both sides of
the Lough.

Some of our local buzzards have plenty of white on their underparts. I took
these photos of a rather scruffy fellow when he came down a bit from circling
over City Airport last year.

[Fortwilliam]

Many thanks. I will have to keep an eye out for it and have the camera ready!