Montagu's Harrier at Blue House Farm, Essex - 7th August 2023

Two Montagu's Harriers (a female and juvenile) had been reported at Blue House Farm however some planned events and a day of awful weather meant waiting until Monday before a visit. Prior to this, two days before, I managed to visit Amwell and pick up this beautiful female Ruddy Shelduck.

But back to Essex! We walked down to the sea wall and headed East scanning the fields where the birds had been seen. Marsh Harrier, Buzzard and Kestrel were added but no sign of the Monty. A few waders were evident including Redshank, Oystercatcher and Black-tailed Godwit.

And a few Curlew.

Smaller birds included Skylark, Linnet and Corn Bunting. I must admit after an hour and a half I was getting anxious with no sign of the Harriers. Then just as we reached the end of the sea wall to turn off to the hides I spotted the female in the distance. Thankfully she came closer and flew past and indeed was quite mobile. Good views through bins and scope. Later we were treated to both birds in the air together and the female came slightly closer to allow for some record shots.

A shame about the heat haze so not the best pictures but a magnificent, graceful bird!