Some quality owlage (of the Short-eared variety) at Cossington Meadows this afternoon, and about time too - I've been several times over the winter and not seen the bastards at all. Today, however, they performed very well in nice evening light. I even managed to get some reasonable photos of them, despite feeling decidedly inadequate in the company of at least half a dozen camouflage-jacketed 'proper' photographers with their matching camouflage-jacketed 'bucket' lenses:
At least three birds were present, and probably four, although I never saw all of them together. There were also two Barn Owls, but I didn't manage to get any shots of them.
I see the obsessional trait of who ever has the largest and most expensive bit of camera kit is the best birder around is not just confined to Northumberland. I was in a hide at Druridge last week and couldn't get near the flaps as three photographers took up the whole space in a large hide. All of them taking 700 shots of a Goldeneye feeding just in front of the hide. How many pictures of a Goldeneye do you need? and not a notebook in sight. Does anyone get any pleasure out of simple birdwatching anymore?
ReplyDeleteReally great photos!
ReplyDeleteoh these are wonderful photos! The light is stunning and I love the way it highlights the owls' wings. They're such wonderful birds to watch too.
ReplyDeleteIn answer to Abbey Meadows question - it's a resounding yes from me.
ReplyDeleteLovely photos Andy, there's been a dearth of Short-eared Owls here in Kent this winter unfortunately.
Seems strange to see a Llama post where Beast isn't the first, and within minutes, to reply. Is he ill, I wonder?
ReplyDeleteI think he must be away at the moment.
ReplyDeleteJeff....the beast still lives...and is not ill....[tho i suppose that may be a matter of debate]..!Sick fuck that i am..!
ReplyDeleteNo...haven't gone away yet...[tho off soon to warmer climes to get some decent birding done]..!
The reason i ain't been doin me usual 'posting' verbal bollox is that i been busy getting obsessed with producing photo images...[and sticking on BF under wildlife art thread]....don't ask me why...just having fun really...keeps me amused!
I still like writing shit tho...[evidently]....!