Prairie Falcon
Found and photographed 3 November by Tyler D. Funk in Coles County. This bird was present through to 14 March 2013 (when seen by Alex B. Bloss). During its stay it was seen by many individuals, some of whom obtained further photographs. Two Prairie Falcons were seen together by Eric Walters at the location of this bird on 9 March 2013, but documentation of the two was not submitted to IORC.
Details submitted by Tyler D. Funk:
At around 5:30 pm (November 3, 2012) while heading north on CR 1000 E, Douglas County (between 100N and Route 133) I saw a large falcon like bird sitting with a Mourning Dove on a utility pole just ahead of me. They both flew off of the pole as I approached. I was able to pull over and get my binoculars on the falcon. It flew west towards the Interstate, but then banked back and flew north eventually returning to another utility pole further down the road. I was able to see very clearly the dark underwing formed by the greater coverts and axillaries. I knew right then it was a Prairie Falcon. After it landed I was able to creep up the road and get a couple of photos of the bird. The one that I have included is the best I was able to obtain due to the fading light. As it flew a second time I attempted to get some flight shots, but I was unsuccessful.
Photo #1, by Tyler D. Funk, 3 Nov 2012.
Photo #2, by Geoffrey A. Williamson, 23 Dec 2012.
Photo #3, by Geoffrey A. Williamson, 23 Dec 2012.
Photo #4, by Geoffrey A. Williamson, 23 Dec 2012.
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page was last updated on 28 Septebmer 2013
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