sign question

[moko]

Out in the woods again when I came across a large heap of wood pigeon feathers on top of a mound of earth created by the roots of an upturned tree. The feathers were fresh. I couldn't find the carcass nearby or see any evidence of tracks or sign of possible predetors. Later I found exactly the same scene about 300 yards further on in the wood. I 'm guessing it was a bird of prey, possibly a Sparrow Hawk. However, the wood is thick with Beech and Oak with few open spaces which I think Sparrow Hawks prefer. Anyone got any better ideas?

 

[led]

I'm definitely no expert on these things, but if the feathers were plucked, there was no carcass or 'messy bits', then I'd agree it definitely sounds like a bird of prey. I couldn't venture a guess at what type though.

 

[scanker]

Was there any sign of the heads knocking about? I'm no expert either, but I seem to recall sparrowhawks most often decapitate their prey first, before proceeding with plucking etc. Certainly sounds like a bird of prey to me in any case.

 

[Bob]

It's sometimes possible to narrow it down to an avian or mammalian predator by looking at the method of feather removal - if plucked (often with a split shaft) then a bird of prey; if chewed off then a mammal.

However do bear in mind that carcasses are scavenged too so if you come across older remains then more than one type of sign may be seen.

Bob

 

[moko]

The feathers were plucked, no blood or body parts around that I could see. I am still going with my best guess, a Sparrow Hawk.
Thanks for your input.