A memorable Raptor day.......

14 July - A very successful trip down to the New Forest on a sunny warm morning, and my best ever views of Honey Buzzards at Acres Down, with 1, then 3 birds in the air for 40 mins - probably more active as the young have hatched? Very good views of the flat-winged, fairly compact profile and languid flight (3,4) - 2 birds were interacting with 2 soaring Goshawks at times. One had greyer plumage, presumably a male, another obviously a brown female type. Dark carpal patches on the underwing obvious at times. Common Buzzards also seen for comparison. Crossbill, Siskin and Hawfinch also in the area. At Slufter's Pond (5), a cooperative Dartford Warbler (6) was singing although mid-July. On the way home, I checked an area in Wiltshire with a pair of Montagu's Harriers breeding and the male (7) flew across the road in front of me as it hunted the fields - excellent view of the narrow-winged profile and buoyant flight and smart plumage pattern. A six-raptor day - Honey Buzzard, Buzzard, Red Kite, Montagu's Harrier, Goshawk and Kestrel. Photos JM - Monty's print, RSPB.