Firstly, let me direct all those looking for more bowland hen harrier web addresses, to the "My links" section. Scroll down on this page in the right-hand column. That's it!
I've been on duty at the Bowland visitor centre yesterday and today. Heres a short video from June 3rd. The mother bird, "Olivia" (named by local schoolkids) shows her wingtags and her satellite tracking antenna in this clip.
The chicks are growing fast and looking strong. They were moving away from the nest into the heather to get some shade from the sun. Mum now leaves the chicks alone for long periods now!
The most popular (non hen harrier)topics of discussion in the visitor centre are
1. the eagle owls
2. liking/disliking Bill Oddie on Springwatch
3. grouse shooting/gamekeeping
I've had visitors from all over the country, mostly birders and lovers of the great outdoors. Its great just to sit and chat while we watch the webcam.
Of interest now, having watched the nest for 6 hours a day, is that I've never seen grouse as the prey species yet! Meadow pipits are a huge percentage of the diet.
Not that I believe Harriers taking grouse is an excuse for the gamekeepers persecution of this beautiful species, but this dietary evidence (taking no grouse) would make the persecution over the last couple of centuries even more unfounded!
(as usual, click on photos to enlarge)
I saw a stoat on both days this weekend, in the same place, at the same time, Saturday then Sunday. Creatures of habit eh?
Also found this Wall brown butterfly near the Beacon fell car park.
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