Marsh Harrier at Walmsley sanctuary 26th July - 3rd August 2021.

 

I first became aware of this bird on the 26th July when it suddenly appeared perched in the top of a willow tree along the line of old slates that runs across the reserve. 

It is very dark both top and bottom and has a bright orange head around a black facial mask.This is the plumage of a juvenile marsh harrier so I'm now left wondering where it had fledged from. I'm aware there are several pairs on the Somerset Levels but sort of hope its been hatched a bit nearer to home.

Well wherever its come from it has spent at least a week now on the reserve and the Amble marshes wetland area. Not only that it has put on an amazing show for watchers and photographers with numerous forays around the 3 islands in front of the tower hide at Walmsley. At times within touching distance of the shutters.

Needless to say I've taken many photos so I will quit typing and just add a load of images of this stunning bird.

Too close to get him all in the photo!

crashing into the reeds

Young Peregrine Falcons take to the wing. North Cornwall coast 7th July 2020.

These Peregrine falcons have finally fledged and can be seen doing their aerobatic displays over the Cornish cliffs.

Strong winds have seen them perfecting their flying skills as they swoop & soar on the updraughts.
At times the gales have been so strong that they've taken shelter under the ledges until a grumpy raven or a frumpy fulmar moves them on.

We're not sure if they've fledged 2 or 3 youngsters although we are thinking more towards the 2 birds as they're often seen together and are looking like a male & a female.

A young Puffin

Juvenile Puffin

We came across this young puffin about 2 miles north of Mouls island this afternoon.

A very encouraging sight as I'd watched adults carrying sandeels to the nest earlier in the summer.

Hopefully this is a bird from that island and thus a successful breeding result for Cornish puffins.

It was spending a lot of time peering in the water and scuttled across the surface away from us which looked like it was still unable to fly yet.

Juvenile Kingfisher

Juvenile Kingfisher

Watched this young kingfisher perched on a delightful arched over, reed stem, this evening in at Walmsley sanctuary.
Unfortunately it was too far away to get a good shot so I had to take 2nd best when it flew onto the fence surrounding the new sluice.

Always a treat to see a kingfisher!!