The first 2 pics below are the ‘dark’ morph F
adult and pale morph M adult from last year at FSP. They seem to have
drifted off in recent months. Pics 3 & 4 are of the small LE that is
now regularly around the wetlands. The point is that 3 & 4 closely resembles 2. If they are different birds the similarity is remarkable. I
would still call 3 & 4 the young bird on the grounds (1) it seems
distinctly smaller to me (2) when perched it allows a close approach (12m
- haven’t tried any closer) (3) it gives a continual
complaining call, although whether this is really complaint or something else I don’t know.
Another distinction although a
bit subtle is that according to the books the pale morph juv has a kind of
background rufous wash on its head and neck. I think I can see this
(presumed juv on right in second set of pics, adult M on left).
