I took Nigel's dad and Monty on the '3 churches' walk near Newmarket today, setting off from Moulton for a change. We were on the home stretch with me trotting behind trying to keep up with Peter when he suddenly stopped, doubled back and told me to get the camera out to take an owl sitting nearby. He took Monty back along the path so he didn't bark and ruin the shot while I risked the extra time needed to change lenses. I took a couple of shots of the back of his/her head and then crept along the path to try and get in front, at which point he turned and stared at me for a second or two before flying off. He was very well camouflaged and a sharp rain shower had just passed over so Peter did really well to spot him. The question is - which owl? As far as I can tell from my bird book - Long Eared Owl - but I will defer to expert opinion. Edit: I should point out that he was sitting above a deep but dry river bed so was slightly lower than eye level with me which gave me a really clear shot but I nearly lost it when he fixed those eyes on me - he didn't look how I expected him to!
@marytj@deens Thanks so much - it was one of those moments when you thank 365 because you're constantly lugging a camera about with you and suddenly the first Long Eared Owl you've ever seen is looking down its lens!!
What an amazing thing to see. I can't believe you saw him while you were out and about rather than in an owl sanctuary. He is beautiful and it is a perfectly executed photo.
i am so envious! i've only ever seen an owl once and it was just for an instance. i think they are amazing birds. this is one of those once in a lifetime shots and yours came out perfectly!!
Fantastic shot. Spent an afternoon with captive owls a few years ago and loved it - but to see one in the wild, and get the camera out, must be really special.
awesome capture Judith - absolutely wonderful and crystal clear! I saw a green woodpecker earlier at the gym but unfortunately couldn't get my camera out quick enough before it flew away in a green blur! this is a once in a lifetime type shot - good on you!
Judith, this is amazing!!! A long eared owl! You lucky girl! I found this on the pop page (again!). We've been bird watching for years and only seen these once! What an opportunity and such a brilliant shot!
@Cherrill Thanks for confirming the ID & that they aren't very common - I was suspecting they might be two a penny after all!! It's quite a cross looking bird - it was definitely once in a lifetime to see it AND not have Monty scare it off.
I think you will find the birds are gone from the Farne Islands by then. Best to check with the locals before you decide to take the tour. Inner Farne is run by the National Trust and they should have updated information. The Puffins, Shags ;-) and Terns as well as Razorbills and Gulls use it as a nest site and then move on. I would hate for you to go there and find the place deserted. If you go to Seahouses there is a walk on the cliff leading south of town past the caravan park. That is where the Gulls are nesting.
