Last week my wife and I spotted an extremely large bird in back yard. It was about 95 degrees and he was stationary. I got to within 20 feet before he flew off. This dude was about 24 inches in height!
When he flew off, it became apparent he has a small squirrel in his grip. That was why he was just hanging out there. He was able to fly off with the prey.
Unusual to get so close. Got some good fotos!
It sounds like some sort of raptor, especially at that size. Have you been able to identify it yet?