I was out with my camera on a local adventure to a Castle. Within the grounds contains large areas of woodland and grassland. Perfect for wildlife. Many people visit here every week. Although most wildlife that live here are used to humans, I never expected to have such an incredible encounter with a wild animal.
As I walked along the woodland edge a notice a large brown bird land on the grass in front of me. I soon realised it was a Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo). A bird of prey that was once on the brink of extinction here in the UK. Despite being notoriously shy birds, this bird was different. I crawled on the damp grass closer to it. It noticed me and rather than flying away, in strolled towards me! Totally unfazed by my presence, it continued feeding on worms as I took photos of it.
Ever since that special morning I've always gone back to see this friendly bird. It's still just as brave! Buzzards are misunderstood creatures. They do hunt voles, but mainly scavenge on dead animals and even eat worms. Buzzards main threat in the UK is still illegal persecution from landowners who see these birds as pests. I hope my images show the true beauty and character of these spectacular creatures.
As I walked along the woodland edge a notice a large brown bird land on the grass in front of me. I soon realised it was a Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo). A bird of prey that was once on the brink of extinction here in the UK. Despite being notoriously shy birds, this bird was different. I crawled on the damp grass closer to it. It noticed me and rather than flying away, in strolled towards me! Totally unfazed by my presence, it continued feeding on worms as I took photos of it.
Ever since that special morning I've always gone back to see this friendly bird. It's still just as brave! Buzzards are misunderstood creatures. They do hunt voles, but mainly scavenge on dead animals and even eat worms. Buzzards main threat in the UK is still illegal persecution from landowners who see these birds as pests. I hope my images show the true beauty and character of these spectacular creatures.