Definitely not an owl. Long eared owls are unmistakeable. They have heavier bodies and quite braod (though long) wings. They also have obvious 'owl' faces. This was a quick flying bird, changing direction rapidly. Thin long wings, thin long body and squarish tail. It also had a small head. Darting in and out of the woods at mid-tree height. Skirting round the edges mostly, and quickly charging in and out. Speckled white and brown plumage.
Not a goshawk. Wrong shape. They're a bit more solid I think.
peewits are so cool
I'm sure this is pretty routine but yesterday watched from close quarters as a heron took a fish. It was fascinating to watch.
I'm sure this is pretty routine
99.9% sure I saw a merlin at Burbage bridge this morning. Had a quick look on RSPB site and youtube videos when I got in and I'm pretty convinced. I was in the car but stopped when I saw it. It dashed into the road, back over some heather and then crossed the road in front of me before shooting off towards the Cowperstone. The .1% uncertainty is because a) I'd not seen one before b) I understood them to be pretty shy and restricted to wilder areas such as Bleaklow etc, and Burbage bridge seemed a little unlikely. I guess it could be on its way to coastal wintering habitat? Anyhow, look out for it if you're up there. Smaller than a kestrel, low dashing flight, the male (which I saw) has a dark blue/grey back. If anyone else has seen one in the vicinity it would be good to know, if only to eliminate the .1%!
Thanks JB that's good to know. Tempted to post in the YYFY thread I'm that pleased to have finally seen one!
Up there with tree creepers as best bird named after what they do
cranes