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!!!

Monday, 4 March 2013

Sleepy Beauty

An early morning barn checking session on Sunday came up trumps when I located my 15th different local Barn Owl so far this year. This hen owl (you can tell its a "she" by the heavily speckled breast) was found fast asleep up in the rafters of an old derelict building.
 
I was very "mouse like" and did my up most not to make a noise and consequently wake her up, a couple of quick images were taken and then I made a hasty retreat leaving her to snooze the day away.



After leaving the owl to sleep I went and checked another nearby building where I erected a box a couple of years ago. There were plenty of owl pellets and poo on the ground so obviously the owl(s) have found it and have been visiting, but my heart sank when a pair of Stock Doves flew from the box..............................enough said about them!!!! 
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8 comments:

  1. Alan Pavey5 March 2013 at 13:54

    Great finding that many Barn Owls this year, excellent

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    1. Paul Riddle6 March 2013 at 21:44

      Oh it has taken me 5 years to perfect and countless hours making the boxes Alan, but my project is sure starting to pay dividens.
      Thanks for your comment.

      Delete
  2. Douglas Mcfarlane5 March 2013 at 18:31

    I wonder if you kept disturbing the stock doves it might deter them from staying at the owl box?

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    1. Paul Riddle6 March 2013 at 21:45

      I think employing a gang of "Dove chasers" is going to be the only long term solution Doug! Do you fancy a new job??

      Delete
  3. Richard Pegler6 March 2013 at 14:11

    Isn't she a beauty! You seem to have the same magic with the Barnies as you do with the Little'uns, Paul. Briliant!

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    1. Paul Riddle6 March 2013 at 21:47

      You know its not easy mate, I don't talk about all the hours I spend searching when I find nothing! And yes you are right, she is a beauty!

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  4. Louisette6 March 2013 at 21:03

    Wonderfull , also album fotos, best regard from Belgium

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    Replies
    1. Paul Riddle6 March 2013 at 21:48

      Thank you for stopping by Louisette, and greeting to Belgium from the UK.

      Delete

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