Raptors don't like crossing water? The recent Booted Eagle in Cornwall and elsewhere has inspired me to update my raptors page on my website, and also to reminisce about the Booted Eagle in Cornwall in 1999. That year is etched in many birder's memories as one of the best ever, from Slender-billed Gulls in spring to Short-billed Dowitcher, and thence to one of the best autumns on Scilly. Ann and I were waiting for a Siberian Thrush to re-appear on Gugh when someone came running up with a cry of "Eagle!!!!!!" Britain's first record of Short-toed Eagle appeared within range of our binoculars, as it arrived from across the sea to tour the Scillies for a few days. We saw it again distantly that afternoon, but the best views were from boats in later days. However, we were busy with White's and Blue Rock Thrushes by then, and it is easily seen in other parts of the world. After a few more rarities on returning home, such as Paddyfield Warbler and Pallid Swift, we...
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Showing posts from February, 2025