The wind was strong last weekend when Dean was trying to count birds - see his blog, and it was strong again today. But at least it let me watch a masterful display of flying by a Marsh harrier. Early this morning one flew over our workshop but this afternoon I witnessed one in flight in strong wind over Haverton Hill when I was working on the Wildflower Walk. The long tail and the shallow V of the wings in a bird of this size was unmistakable - and the aerial control magical. Later I was told by a visitor that two juveniles were seen over Dormans Pool. Lets hope that in time we will have a breeding pair in the area.
There has been a noticable increase in Kestrel sightings - back to what we had been accustomed to seeing a few years ago. The Kestrel trail lives up to its name although they are also frequently seen over the main drive and car park and, to the delight of cafe customers, from the visitor centre windows.
Thanks to Lockhart for this shot taken today in windy weather.
Peter