Early morning Barn Owl at Amwell, 24th March 2021

Up and at Amwell for around 5.45am to try and see and photograph the local Barn Owl. It is regularly seen in the evening but usually too dark for pictures. It literally was quartering the bottom of the field when I arrived but drifted off over Tumbling Bay as a dog walker approached. Patience paid off though as about 30 minutes later it reappeared allowing a few shots. Sadly the light was still fairly poor and it was fairly distant. However, always a magical experience watching them.

Heading back to the Viewpoint I heard a Cetti's Warbler calling close by and saw it fly into a small bush before disappearing again. I got ready in case it returned, which it did shortly afterwards and I managed to get a few shots of this notoriously tricky bird before it flew off again. It is a good time of year to try and see one as they are vocal and slightly showier when trying to attract a mate.

A successful couple of hours and yes, the Great Egret was still present!