Owl Spotting

Early evening stroll with my friend Ian around the Castle estate in the hope of spotting the elusive barn owl that's currently hunting somewhere up in the Parkland.

We walked past the Willow Maze and through thick mud past the mole hills into the Parkland. It was lovely to see the Castle from a different angle. Just when I think I've seen the Estate from every angle I spot a new hidden gem.

As we walked across the Upper Parkland along the boundary of the Estate looking down to the Woodland Garden Ian spotted the Barn Owl flying towards us from the trees.

We stood perfectly still and watched as the owl flew in an S shape close to the ground then over to the trees. The owl swooped around towards us and caught something on the ground.

Shortly afterwards he flew up to the Walnut Tree to eat his catch. We could clearly see something dangling as he flew up. If only we'd had some binoculars or a decent camera. You'll have to look closely on the photo to see the Barn Owl in my Blip but I assure you he is there!

Flying across from the Cricket ground we heard the distinctive call of a Green Woodpecker just before he flashed past us. Then further along the Parkland soaring above our heads was a low flying buzzard.

What a privilege to see these wild birds up so close. Seeing the Barn Owl hunting is a sight I won't ever forget.