Meanwhile backk at the ranch - Long Eared Owl

I had a few hours out and about on Wednesday evening, a warm pleasant stroll and some surprizes along the way.

A first for me was a 'barking' Roe Deer that I flushed from a path as I walk along.
The deer stopped on a banking and gave me a bark before it left the scene.
Always wary of 'big' animals especially where young might be involved.

Another surprise was a 'squeaky' call which I did not recognise.
I sent a text to DJS for some assistance.

Before a reply came from DJS (LEO young - "Squeaky Gate") a Long Eared Owl flew low past me and landed in a tree in front.

I realised then that the calls were form LEO young so, not to disturb them, I turned around and went back along the path.

A little further along, a pleasing coincidence was that the Long Eared Owl flew low past me and landed in a tree right in front of me!

Another 'oddity' was a puzzling song.
The bird sounded like a Yellow Hammer but only the last 4 notes of the song - if that makes sense.
I could not locate the bird so I'll never know.

Others:

Curlew, Kestrel, Meadow Pipit,Whitethroat, Little Owl, Lapwing, Moorhen, Black Headed Gull, Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull.


A cracking outing.

Young Long Eared Owl Calling in the distance.