Dead bird found in utica. (warning graphic)

[AFAngel376]

hi, my boyfriend texted me today sending me pictures of a bird, very worried that it was either maya or tor up here in utica. I was positive it wasnt them by the yellowed coloring, but instead feared it was a juvinille.

Since i've been home i"ve uploaded the pictures for a better look. I'm going to attatch the pictures. From the picture, I know its not a peregrine by the facial markings, and the tail bands. But what i'm confused about... is what bird is it then?

At first i was thinking Merlin, but the beak doesnt seem right, it was the closest description i could get to the tail bands though. Maybe you guys can give me some help so i can at least identify the poor guy.

[Helen in MD]

I'm thinking either Coopers or Sharp-shinned with preference toward Coop.

[Joyce]

Boy, your bird has the coloring and look of a falcon.  Here are a couple photos of a merlin with the same tail markings.  I think your first guess might be correct.  Perhaps the beak was damaged with the impact.   Based on the weeds in concrete, the size comparison is appropriate for a merlin as well.

 

[jeanne]

I just did a google image search and this little one does look like a merlin but I am not good at bird identification!  (remember the time I thought a black balloon was a falcon:)

[Judi]

I think I agree with Joyce, it's a merlin.  At first I thought it was a coop because of the tail but looking at the coloring, etc.  I'm gonna go with a merlin. 

[Lord G]

Boy, your bird has the coloring and look of a falcon.  Here are a couple photos of a merlin with the same tail markings.  I think your first guess might be correct.  Perhaps the beak was damaged with the impact.   Based on the weeds in concrete, the size comparison is appropriate for a merlin as well.

 

Yep, I was thinking Merlin as well...

[Albion]

  :star:Tail feathers give it away with the white stripe across....MERLIN