nest Tub in Scots Pine @ 40' above the ground
Two Long-eared Owlets in a sturdy & safe nest - these are used by a variety of other species, from Kestrel to Wood Pigeon !
These 2 remain from a clutch of 5 eggs - both were bill clacking, the large one rocking & swaying - after a few moments the small individual made a series of begging calls.
Other larger raptors use this area, & interestingly, the adult birds, although watching us, made no vocalisations at all - perhaps not wanting to draw any attention to themselves or the nest.
Also of note, the body plumage of these birds is more advanced than we usually find at this stage.
This tub contained 3 adult flight feathers
Two images showing comparison between Long-eared & Tawny feathers :-
Long-eared Left - Tawny Right |
Tawny Left - Long-eared Right. |
An interesting & informative visit - Many thanks to local nest-boxer JW.