Hi
I didn't want to crash the Little Owl thread thats running but I just wanted to mention that I've spent all week on Barn Owl watch (so far unsuccessful) and also I have a claim to fame - I've been attacked by an Eagle Owl!
There's a pair that nest at Dunsop Bridge in Lancashire (escapees probably) and when I was walking along the footpath one came to sit about 6 yards away looking at us. Next minute I felt a heavy blow on my rucksack. It was the Eagle Owl. It swooped round and came at me again. By this time I was running!!!
Apparently it was attacking people with dogs mostly but I think it must have taken a special dislike to me!!!
I had claw holes in my rucksack when I looked later!
The footpath is now closed off when the EOs are breeding. Just as well as they are ENORMOUS!! Probably standing over 2.5 foot high, with a 6 foot wingspan and huge yellow eyes. Magnificent, but very, very scary!!
See this article for more info and some nice pics.
http://www.birdguides.com/webzine/article.asp?a=1026
Pipit
Hi,
They fear nobody.... I remember reading years ago that Eagle owl pellets had even been found to contain Peregrine bones- I guess they attack roosting birds.
S
For advice about Birding, Identification,field guides, binoculars, scopes, tripods, etc - put 'Birding Tips' into the search box
I met one on the pipedeck of the rig I was working on about 20 years ago .
Never got such a fright in my life. Climbing up on top of the pipes to sling some and you come face to face with a feathered Frankenstine.
found out that Adreraline is brown and runs down yer leg!!
Cheers
AL
If its no fun Yer no doin it right!