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!!!

Tuesday, 2 April 2013

Sun soaked owls.

Thank goodness for the clocks changing to BST, it now means I can get out after work in some reasonable light. I knew that I hadn't got much time before the sun set so I decided to re-visit the Tawny Owl site I located yesterday, you never know it may be there again?? And my luck was in, it was there in exactly the same place only this time it was bathed in glorious light.

 
After the Tawny I had a drive around the lanes to see if I could locate a hunting Barn Owl, and I did! I watched it catch 2 voles in as many minutes, definitely a sign that the spring like conditions are far more favourable for catching their prey. I just managed to capture it as it flew past me, with the low setting sun reflecting off its plumage it really made it look like a flying bar of gold.  
 

All we need now to go along with these brighter evenings is for the bitterly cold wind to drop and then it may even be a pleasure to be out and about with the owls.
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9 comments:

  1. Richard Pegler2 April 2013 at 21:38

    More wonderful images Paul. I share your frustration with the cold winds. Hoping to go out with a picnic tomorrow afternoon and evening, and keeping my fingers crossed.

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    1. Paul Riddle4 April 2013 at 11:28

      Don't forget to take along with you a flask of hot coffee, I fear you may need it!

      Delete
  2. colin2 April 2013 at 21:41

    Stunning Barnie mate.............

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  3. Douglas Mcfarlane2 April 2013 at 23:11

    Well between your tawny and Richards Tawny I'm getting very jealous down here in Northants...not fair:)

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    1. Paul Riddle4 April 2013 at 11:31

      There is no doubt about it Doug, Richards Tawny image is magical, one of the best I have ever seen of this species. Having said that I am happy with my effort too! They don't show in the day very often, I am sure your turn will be soon?

      Delete
  4. Millhouse Photography3 April 2013 at 08:10

    Superb quality post. Love both images.

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    Replies
    1. Paul Riddle4 April 2013 at 11:32

      Thanks Steve, oooops sorry I meant Christian!!!.......LOL

      Delete
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    ReplyDelete

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