Red-footed Falcon

The birding omens augured well as I made my way at first light to see the much reported Red-footed Falcon, a Short-eared Owl flew low over the Chichester by-pass, easily identified in the first low rays of the sun. It seemed that I was one of  the first birders to arrive, no sign of the falcon but of course it soon turned up. It remained perching at a distance in an obviously favourite tree, diving over the lake to make hunting forays which in the main were successful - a canny bird.

Usual routine - spot first - photograph second. Most of the shots were distant but there was plenty of sunlight, gradually the path filled up with birders until finally a coach load arrived - time to go. Nice to meet Adrian who has become the fourth reader of my blog - hope your photos were good.

A good looker and a great performer




Not a big bird....




...more red-booted than red-footed....



....but successful....



....a tad juvenile....

Happy to sit in the early morning sun