ON the last day of my break from work I trooped down to the Somerset Levels to see what was about. I had an embarrassingly large number of layers on to stave off the cold - it just about worked, but I did look like the Michelin man.
Along with the usual overwintering ducks and waders, I was keen to catch the starling flocks and try out my camera in video mode - I managed to capture a few sequences (video)
It was truly amazing to see the thousands of birds - they make an astonishing whooshing noise as they fly low over your head - it honestly sends a shiver down the spine. However the real excitement comes when the starlings are preyed on (sorry I know that this sounds mean), as their reaction is amazing. I was surprised to see a buzzard swoop into the flock and have a pop, but was more thrilled when a peregrine did the same. The peregrine managed to catch its dinner and flew off with the poor victim in its talons.
When I was looking through my photos I realised that the peregrine had been harassing the flock earlier too. Also a picture of the Tor (like the one above) had a marsh harrier loitering in the background. How unobservant am I?
An excellent account of the murmurations which I also been fortunate enough to witness.
ReplyDeleteGood video clip too.
Best Wishes
Tony Powell
to think that once, years ago people were talking about the nuisance of "Starlings"! they are just amazing!
ReplyDelete