This morning, I headed to Denhall Quay, hoping to catch up with the Short-eared Owls that have been seen daily hunting over the marshes. It didn’t take long before I spotted one in the distance, gliding low and purposeful across the open habitat. Gradually, it drew nearer, providing classic views of this striking, ghostly hunter as it quartered the marsh in search of prey.
Short Eared Owl
While the owl hunted, it spooked a male Hen Harrier from the reeds, offering a fleeting but excellent view. I managed to capture a quick photograph as the harrier returned to the safety of the marsh.
Male Hen Harrier
On my walk back towards the Harp Inn Pub, the Short-eared Owl had perched on a bush, allowing for a final, calm observation before it melted back into the landscape. Its presence, alongside the harrier, highlighted the quality of the marshes and the value of having such magnificent raptors on the Wirral.
Another great morning’s birding, and a reminder of why mornings in these coastal marshes are always worth the effort.