Greg Morgan wildlife's photostream  

A bit of a crop. Hoping to get better shots tomorrow, though the forescast not looking great :-(

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Taken last year. Wishing I can get one this close again!

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Gamekeepers have been illegally killing birds of prey for centuries. Last year only 4 hen harrier pairs managed to raise chicks in the whole of England. This was largely due to gamekeepers poisoning them. The law in Scotland holds estate owners liable for wildlife crimes carried out by their staff, but not in England. Sign this petition to get the law in England changed epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/23089.

Another archive shot from South Africa

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If only I could get a marsh harrier to pose like this! This was a wild bird, taken in South Africa last May.

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In fact, a curlew!

I went over to the Isle of Sheppey for the first time in a while, principally to see what was going on with the marsh harriers. It was too windy for much harrier activity at Capel Fleet I think - as well as being a right nuisance using the bag hide! I did get some good views of a female, but managed to miss the closest pass as it occured just as I was setting up. Then I got a great view of a male from the car, and realised too late that he was going to cross the road. If I'd been a bit quicker I could have got to the bend first and possibly got a good head-on shot. As it was I was a bit dozy, so didn't get there in time!

I also had a great view of a male sparrowhawk that came skimming over the pond behind me, a distant peregrine, a kestrel and then of all things I put up a short-eared owl on my way back to the car! They're becoming pests those bloody owls!

I also checked out Elmley Marshes on my way home (or at least the road up to the entrance), which was devoid of much apart from lapwings, until I saw three marsh harriers later on. I struggled to get close enough though as I was restricted to using the car, and thought I'd better not go off road! I also saw a buzzard perched on a post, bringing my raptor tally to six for the day.

A good day all in all, though I don't have much to show for it, shot-wise!

www.gregmorganphotography.co.uk