I had a trip out to Stoney Creek yesterday in hope of seeing one of the much photographed hen harriers.
Having picked up some tips from Garry Taylor I parked up on the roadside verge and waited.
It took quite a while for some action but there was plenty to keep me occupied as robins, blackbirds and wrens fed just outside the car as well as a large flock of fieldfare. Also plenty of waders were flying overhead and a solitary little egret flew up the drain. A pair of stonechats perched up occasionally on the set aside vegetation.
The highlight of the supporting cast however was a kingfisher that flew out of nowhere over the hedge and presumably along the dyke.
Eventually a hen harrier got up and was spectacularly chasing a small bird but didnt make a kill.
For the next 4 hours or so I was treated to quite close views of these spectacular birds of prey.On the way back I saw a couple of very close short eared owls and managed some nice shots in the late afternoon sunshine and mist.
If only the pallid harrier would pay a visit.....
