Marsh Harriers at Fowlmere - 23rd February 2024

Finally some sun in what has been a very wet February, so time to pop up to Fowlmere and try to get some pictures of the Marsh Harriers. The reserve was initially very quiet with just a few Greylag and Mallard on the Mere. However, a distant Fox appeared and raptors included Kestrel, Sparrowhawk, Red Kite and this Common Buzzard.

The male Marsh Harrier (now I believe about 5 years old) was quite active and would fly around for a while before heading off to hunt. I only saw the female once when she briefly flew up to greet him after he had been away for a while. All of the shots here are of the male bird.

What superb markings!

And an unsuccessful hunting attempt over the reedbed.

Always a great bird to see and photograph.