Pallid Harrier - Seaton Snook

[IanF]

Seen this morning. I'd dropped down into the migrant bushes area after walking back along the top of the dunes from Seaton Snook. I passed under the big tree over the path and when I looked up I saw a Harrier flying straight towards me barely above ground level passing the end of the fence by the sand extraction track. It saw me and veered to it's left continuing south struggling against the strong southerly winds. It gave a good clear view from around 15m of the ring tail and with the sun on it's head highlighting the white face markings and dark collar and pale belly. I could hardly believe I'd come across another Pallid Harrier but at least this time I was pretty certain of the ID. I snapped a few photos before it ducked below the dune ridge line. By the time I got to the top of the dunes there was no sign of it.

I could only assume it carried on south though it seemed unlikely as a dog walker was on the beach edge of the dunes and I'd passed three birders stood together on the dune edge 150m south and another birder by Seaton Channel watching the Twite.

It may have headed over the beach to the Snook or maybe headed back north to Seaton Common. Not long after lots of Curlew, Lapwing, Golden Plover and Starlings took flight from Seaton Common. It could easily have settled in the grass to rest a while. I searched the area but didn't relocate it.

Hopefully it will turn up somewhere.

[Keith Ryan]

Wow Ian, talk about being in the right place at the right time, lightening striking twice, hope it gets re-found, I'd love to see another one.

[Gary Sharples]

Well done Ian! I see you also managed to repeat the fantastic quality of Pallid Harrier photos too.

Gary

[Dave Taylor]

Nice one Ian. I'm green with envy.

[Derickp]

Excellent find Ian and super shots to boot. Well Done. Like Dave, I too am envious.