An Early Winter Visit to Otmoor

13th November 2021

It was encouraging to see that the hedgerows along the lanes to the reserve were full of thrushes and finches which boded well for the day ahead. Indeed, the bushes along the trails from the car park held many Redwings and Fieldfares which were constantly on the move and seemed to be passing through with little evidence of feeding. There were also good numbers of Yellowhammers, Chaffinches and Reed Buntings. However, as is often the case, all were difficult to approach and we had to wait until we got into the protection of the hide before any shots were possible.

First up was a male Reed Bunting, although not showing its distinctive black head and throat. This is because it has just moulted and all the head and throat feathers have brown fringes which cover up the black. As the winter draws on the brown fringes will wear away allowing the black to show through for the spring and the breeding season.

And if you are going to photograph a Yellowhammer, why not photograph six!!

Luckily the hedgerow attracted a few Fieldfare allowing some closer shots than possible outside the hide...................

......................and although Redwings were far more numerous on site than the Fieldfares, just a single bird ventured close enough for some shots.

But without a doubt today the stars of the show were the three Marsh Harriers, a male and two females, that were centred on the main reed bed. This female was quartering the reed bed when it spotted something below.

A quick application of the brakes followed by a controlled descent with legs dangling to grab the unsuspecting prey.

Unfortunately we will never know whether it was successful or not, but great to witness.