This afternoon a Short-eared Owl was seen over Great Ovens Hill just near Sandford, heading south towards the Keysworth area of the Wareham Channel. They’ve been scarce this year, but spring passage of birds will start around now, so as individuals move from over-wintering areas, they’ll begin moving through the harbour during the latter part of the winter and early spring. The Common Sandpiper was seen at the PCW Drain entrance and 4 Chiffchaff were in the channel. This morning 12 Marsh Harrier left the harbour roost and 3 Spoonbill were in Middlebere.

Thank you to everyone who has sent in their sightings from the Big Poole Harbour Bird Count yesterday, do keep them coming if you’ve got any left to submit!

Reevse’s Pheasant – Norden