Short-eared Owls at Wallasea Island

28th February 2025

I have had some good days with the harriers at Wallasea this winter, but up to now the Short-eared Owls have been very disappointing. There seemed to be very few coming into the country before Xmas and during this time only the odd one had been reported at Wallasea. However, since then their numbers have increased to four so time for a visit.

This year, instead of the entrance gate and cattle coral, they seem to be favouring the Pool Marsh area and along the track to one of the new hides so this is where we set up base. Luckily they started flying a bit earlier this afternoon and in beautiful sunlight which always helps, but not quite as close as I would have liked but mustn't grumble.

Then there was a lull in proceedings but luckily the next bird to fly was much closer but without the sun, and therefore the colours on the bird were lost. Oh well, can't have it all!!!

Well, I'm sure I'll be back a few more times before they depart for their breeding grounds.