The following message has been approved by the OntBirds moderator:
A group of raptors researchers are currently investigating the subspecific identification of migrant and wintering dark morph Red-tails in the east. More specifically, we are investigating whether dark morphs exist in the Northern (abieticola) population. Here in Ontario, this question has been raised by Ron Pittaway and Jean Iron, both of whom have been studying and promoting interest in abieticola Red-tailed Hawks for many years. As it stands, the identification of putative Northern individuals is very subtle and it’s important to note that at this stage in our investigations, we are simply testing a theory. This is a call to birders who have photographed dark Red-tailed Hawks, either as migrants or as wintering birds on territory, here in Ontario. We are reviewing photos and documentation several ways. We are reviewing observations posted to Facebook bird sites, eBird checklists and those sent by email. For eBird users, we ask that birders upload any photos they may have and to leave the subspecific designation of the bird unassigned. In the comments section, simply write "dark morph" or "intermediate morph.” These details are helpful in keeping track of these particular checklists, which we will be tabulating in Google Docs. Completed eBird checklists may also be sent to the email found below. For birders interested in sending photos and documentation via email, please send an email to [email protected]. Please include pertinent details like the date and location of the sighting. Thanks for your time and for your assistance with this field study! Happy Holidays, Jon _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to [email protected] For information about ONTBIRDS including how to unsubscribe visit http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdssetup Posting guidelines can be found at http://www.ofo.ca/site/page/view/information.ontbirdsguide Visit the OFO Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists
