Long-eared Owls are back for the winter, and spend the day sitting in scrub at Haverton. They are very difficult to see and have a remarkable ability to blend into their surroundings. The best way to see them is to ask at reception if we have a Saltholme Guide manning the viewpoint. We try to have a guide on duty there whenever we can.
Long-eared Owl enjoying a snooze by Mark Stokeld
Long-eared Owls are prone to disturbance. Please do not venture into the scrub to try and get a closer view. If they look alert, with open eyes and raised ear feathers, you are way too close, and it's time to back off and give the other birdwatchers a chance to see them. Not to mention giving the Owls a chance to get some sleep.