Another Afternoon with the Shorties

26th January 2024

Is it just me or are Shorties addictive? I was only here a week ago and here I am looking forward to another afternoon with the Wallasea speciality, the Short-eared Owls, but first time to grab a few shots in the car park. No sign of the Stonechats today but there was a rather smart Linnet, a pair of Reed Buntings and a singing Wallasea Corn Bunting.

Then on to Caroline's Hide to see if any harriers were on show. The first view from the hide was just a small selection of the vast numbers of Golden Plovers on site.

There were just two male Marsh Harriers in the area which unfortunately kept their distance, but did provide a few opportunities for some shots helped along by the superb light.

Then the male Hen Harrier appeared from nowhere and shot across the marsh and spiralled over the sea wall

So time now to get into position for the owls.. Although they do occasionally fly earlier in the day the main flight time is from 2pm onwards and today was no exception. This one was flying along the river wall by the car park.

Not so many today with only 2-3 birds from the car park to the entrance, but they did put on a good show.

....................and relax!!!!

For me the highlight today was grabbing this dive sequence which I can never tire of. Just how amazing is that?

Well another superb visit to Wallasea and I suspect it won't be the last this winter.