Seen in Yorkshire yesterday (19th of December) at midday. It was flying low over a grouse moor, kept dropping to the ground and taking off again. Judging from the stone walls it perched on, it's wingspan would be at least 1 metre
Looks like it may be a Barn Owl. They're not usually out in the middle of the day, but if the weather's been bad - preventing them hunting - and they're hungry, then they'll come out (especially if it's a bit gloomy). This is one I saw in Norfolk some time back
I would agree with joe. Based off the first photo which has the best lighting, it certainly looks like a barn owl
It's a beautiful Barn Owl,we do get them hunting during the day over our local moors in Nidderdale. This is often due to bad weather stopping them hunting during the night or a shortage of food may also be the reason.
Definitely a barn owl. Beautiful birds, you are very lucky! I sat and watched one hunting at dusk at RSPB St Aidan's.... only to see it get pounced on and brought to the ground by a large buzzard. Fortunately, the owl seemed more shocked than scathed as it was able to fly off into woodland. My heart was in my mouth for a while, though!