An exciting report shortly before noon of what was initially thought to be White-tailed Eagle flying low over Greenlands Farm, before gaining height and heading east towards Poole, had us scanning the skies over the harbour from Poole Quay. However, when photos emerged the images didn’t seem show a classic White-tailed Eagle, but in fact another large raptor species. The jury was out and suggestions ranging from Booted Eagle and Lesser Spotted Eagle began being muted. However as the photos were more widely circulated it was agreed the bird was in fact a kite species of sorts that was in heavy moult, most likely a Black Kite. In fact what was thought to be the same individual was photographed over Porthgwarra, Cornwall on June 18th and was ID’d then as a Black Kite. It certainly got plenty of heads scratching!
All four of the Poole town Peregrines were perched on the Asda building at midday, with one of the adults hunting over Holes Bay an hour prior. The Quail reported at Hartland earlier in the week has not been heard for the last two days.
Last night’s Nightjar walk at Slepe Heath delivered sensational views yet again with a male Nightjar catching a moth metres in front of the group to a chorus of churring and displays across the heath. Vocal Dartford Warblers accompanied the impressive parachute display flights of Meadow Pipit, mobile Linnet flocks and a Peregrine powered north over the heath towards to harbour as dusk drew in and the Nightjar activity built.
Probable Black Kite – Greenlands Farm – Aidan Brown
Spring seems to be creeping along with more displaying and nest building birds today, including multiple Raven pairs/territories…
Find out moreAlthough you couldn’t see further than 100m for much of the day, there were birds to be found…
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