Rough-legged Hawk (Buteo lagopus), Sulphur Springs Valley, Cochise County

This Rough-legged Hawk was discovered by Tom Woods and Sheri Williamson on 15 January 2011 during Hawk Stalk at Wings Over Willcox. It was photographed by Scott Olmstead on 16 January 2011 and Andrew Core on 19 January 2011.

Very rare and irregular winter visitor.  Perhaps decreasing. 

This Rough-legged Hawk, a light morph, shows the typical whitish head and black belly. In flight black carpal patches are visible on the underwing. Note the petite, small-headed appearance and proportionately small bill.

16 January 2011, photo by Scott Olmstead

19 January 2011, photos by Andrew Core

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