Hi and welcome to my Blog, my name is Paul Riddle and I live in south Leicestershire, UK. Back in August 2007 my quest began to locate as many local Little Owl territories as possible. The driving force was a reported decline in the uk numbers so I thought I would do my bit and conduct a study in my area. After 7 years and countless hours out in the field I have detected over 200 different sites. With a thirst for a greater understanding of the owls a more comprehensive monitoring and nest box programme then commenced. This also now includes monitoring the local and very sparse population of Barn Owls, please pop back occasionally and catch up with the life and times of my owls and any other wildlife that I come across. I hope you enjoy your visit!!!

Sunday, 4 March 2012

Drowned Rats

After weeks of cutting, sawing, hammering, screwing and painting another load of owl boxes are now ready to find new homes. Carl (Tubbs Tyler) Colin and myself were the hard core team up for the task of erecting.  Although the image (below) only shows 12 boxes we have actually made 21 in this latest batch.


As the day progressed the atrocious weather just got worse, but the "team" knew the job had to be done so they just got on with it without moaning. There was however talk of mutiny at one stage, but the refusal to give them a lift home soon stopped that!

 Little Owl box in it's new home, won't be long I'm sure before there is an enquiry.


Tawny box among the ivy, totally irresistible....to an owl that is!


It has become a long running joke (especially with Daz) that yours truly never does anything when we are out erecting the boxes! He just does not realise how difficult it is to be the director of operations and to hold the camera!! Well Daz, just take a look at this image (below) that was taken between the showers and before you ask no it is not an optical illusion and nor has it been digitally manipulated.


Good job Col, another Tawny box in situ, and maybe a lift home!

 
Poser Tubbs, admiring yet another quality erection!


Cold and damp, but Col soldiered on......whilst I watched! 


This image of Tubbs was taken from the moderate luxury of my Landrover as I waited for them to finish, well I have to try and keep the camera dry!


Unfortunately we ran out of time and one box didn't get put up, something to do with Col going to watch a rugby match........yes I agree a lousy excuse. I don't know you can't get the staff nowadays?


5 comments:

  1. Good job done team a few boxes up and the mighty Tigers stuffed Gloucester Happy Days

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  2. These are awesome!!! I had a friend once build me a dozen squirrel boxes, but would love Owl boxes, but in my area Squirrels would take those over too~

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