Otmoor RSPB Reserve, Oxford 7th June 2008

 

 

As we drove along the M40 towards Oxford a few Red Kites were flying around in the sunshine.

As we got out of the car at Otmoor a Grasshopper Warbler was reeling in the scrub and a distant Cuckoo was calling.

We set off around the reserve, Sedge Warblers, Reed Warblers and Cetti’s Warblers were singing, but were difficult to see.

There were very good views of Hobby, sometimes three in view at once. A flock of Lapwing flew over as did a Sparrowhawk. Snipe were heard drumming a couple of times. Reed Bunting were very obliging and showing well. A pair of Little Egrets flew by, followed by a pair of Buzzard. A Kestrel was also seen; a total of five raptors for the day.

 

 

Whitethroat

Black-tailed Skimmer

As we neared the car park to return home, a Turtle Dove was purring, giving us all good views of this increasingly rare bird.

As we left the reserve a Yellowhammer was calling from a telegraph wire, and several Red Kites were soaring above with a couple of them coming really low in front of us.

Driving back down the M40, at the Stokenchurch Cutting we counted at least twenty Red Kites. This was a great end to the outing.

 

Dave Jones (photos copyright Phil Farrer)

Turtle Dove