Midsummer Otmoor

A (fairly) early morning visit to Otmoor and certainly the summer birding doldrums, but well worthwhile - I spent a while enjoying watching the Turtles Doves near the feeders, all the more special as each year I wonder whether this rapidly declining species will return to purr for another summer, so characteristic of warm summer days. A couple of hours at the screen gave a reasonable flight view of a Bittern, and repeated looks at the Marsh Harrier family, at least 3 juveniles seen, also the female carrying sticks to ? Nest again, or at least make repairs. Other sightings included a flyby Kingfisher, flyover Snipe and Great Crested Grebe carrying a youngster on its back. Also lots of Dragonfly activity in the continuing heatwave.