Short eared owl

Spotted just after 4 pm - from the embankment at Marton Mere.
This owl flew so close I could see into its beautiful eyes. Unfortunately, the straps of my binoculars and the camera became entangled and it was all I could do to prevent my own strangulation. By the time I had freed the camera, my nerves were a little unsteady and this shot is the best I could manage.  
This morning I saw a bittern and I haven't quite taken it in yet. My camera was in my bag at the time so I didn't get a photo but I don't care. I HAVE SEEN A BITTERN!