Artificial nest - 2 young close to fledging

A series of images showing how young Long-eared's attempt to defend themselves while in the nest.

The eldest youngster quickly jumped up onto the rim of the nest tub & took up a defensive posture - ive noticed that on taking up this stance the birds initially close their eyes for a short spell - as if to confuse any would be predators.

who've we got here then......

 A closer view

After a few moments they settled down

Side on view - at this point, one of the adults flew into view - the youngster seemed to forget about his peace being interupted, a good time to head off & leave them to it.

Female sitting on rim of nest.

Ringing visit

Some images of  Long-eared Owl chicks from ringing visits :-

Long-eared @2wks old

small broods this year

Quite a difference between the two - the eldest bill clacking& having bright eyes

In Safe hands - Should have been a goalie !

2 older chicks, @2.5 wks old back in the nest after ringing.

and a Little Owl chick:-