And secondly long-eared owls are particularly sensitive when laying or near hatching and great care must be taken not to disturb nesting pairs. According to the surveying methodology any intensive searches for nests should be delayed until after chicks will have hatched (if this can be determined). Because the timing of breeding is very variable, caution should be employed in all visits before late June.
I know that we are now outside of the dates set out in the guidelines but the protection of the site is still important.
Fieldcraft is essential including the understanding of the birds ecology, also the use of the correct equipment. These owls are elusive and shy, so a telephoto lens is critical for maintaining distance so that they don’t flee and aunt disturbed.
Never flush owls from their roosts, which they’ve carefully chosen for seclusion and cover from the elements and from predators and harassing crows. Be constantly on the alert for signs of stress as you approach an owl.
When you I see any signs of alarm, I freeze or back off and leave to give the bird space. I always try to follow these basic guiltiness when surveying owls.
The rain came just as I heard the tell-tale characteristic sound of the juvenile's begging call is a soliciting call and their most obvious sound during the breeding season. Despite the rain the owls kept tight and under cover amongst the pine trees.