Mercer Times

Last Friday, January 20th we had another successful Raptor Walk, even with a date change due to weather. The Northern Harriers did not disappoint during this raptor walk. The Harriers were seen sitting in the meadow. When they were ready, we witnessed two Gray Ghosts flying acrobatically through the skies around three female Harriers. At times you could just stand still and they would fly nearby and over the trail. At one point, a large flock of Northern Harriers (around 30 individuals) was heard and spotted flying high over the tree line. Their distinctive sound was quite evident. These Harriers did not mix with the Harriers seen over the meadow, and they dispersed as quickly as they had gathered! As beautiful as the Harriers are, the star of the show also made an appearance. At least two, possibly three Short-eared Owls were spotted flying back and forth over the meadow just before the sun went down. To Register - http://register.communitypass.net/mercerNote  - Spaces still available in this week's walk on Thursday at 3:30pm - register on community pass (see above link)

Photo Credit: Picture 1 - Northern Harrier ; Alhaji Samura Picture 2 - Short-eared Owl ; Alhaji Samura

Original source can be found here.