Greetings from the Desert

[Greg Simkins]

Some pictures from the last few days.
A barn Owl has taken up residence in an old hack box
A large Saw-scaled Viper
This morning I got a super sighting of a Greater Spotted Eagle as well as one of the tagged Houbara and some sand gazelle.

Regards
Greg

[Mike Barth]

Hi Greg, long time ! Fabulous pics of the Eagle and Viper !!

[andrew]

I think the eagle here is steppe - not great spotted.

[Sandman]

Definitely Steppe Eagle - great photos Greg. Well done!

[Greg Simkins]

Could you give me a couple of pointers as to why it is Steppe?

[andrew]

Hi Greg

The white band of the greater coverts on the underwing is diagnostic pic ID 8782
Also long gape just extending past the eye. Greater spotted gape appears much shorter ending just under the eye.
Flattish head whereas great spots are more rounded.
Any more pointers Tommy?

[Greg Simkins]

Thanks appreciated.

[Sandman]

You nailed all the points Andrew. I also have a subjective feeling that the bill is absolutely massive.

[meesh]

Great Pix Greg!