Return to Hawling

Digiscoped images

Photographers waiting for show time

I couldn't resist a return to Hawling in Gloucestershire on Saturday. A nice day with no wind was the deciding factor before making the hour long journey into the heart of the Cotswolds. Arriving just after 1pm there were plenty of spectators all hoping for a good showing from the Owls.  

I set up my tripod next to Birmingham based photographer Pete Walkden who I hadn't seen for quite some time so we had a good rattle. There was a nice selection of birds to watch whilst we waited which included 2 Red Kites, Buzzard, Raven, Kestrel, 30 Golden Plover, 50 Lapwing and large flocks of Redwings and Fieldfares.

There was no early show from the Short-eared Owls the first one didn't show until gone 3.15pm appearing sat on top of the field wall before starting to hunt. He was quickly joined by another Owl which then increased to a maximum 5 Owls all hunting at the same time. A brilliant session of birding. One of the Owls perched up to enable the photographers to get some great shots. 

As the final rays of light faded I headed off down the lane. As I reached the cross roads and turned right a Barn Owl took flight and flew along the road before crossing in front of me into the farm. Another top afternoon. 

Many thanks to Pete who kindly forwarded the above images he took.