One of the unappreciated stars of European avifauna.I am convinced that their time is just around the corner, and that they will be every bit as appreciated in the popular imagination as golden eagles and capercaillies.Already certain Spanish mainstream online "newspapers" feature them regularly , not just the specialist titles.
This Hawk Trust had two adult males. One a damaged bird from the Great Bustard Reintroduction project on Salisbury Plain, the other a confiscated bird (of the Spanish race) which came from Belgium. The Spanish bird died recently.
There were 4 birds running together in this aviary when I visited last Friday , all unfit for release . I think 2 were yougsters from last year's introduction . I assume the dominant male had his tail erect but did no further display . I have not checked the photos I took yet , if OK I will post some soon .
We now know from the Otis mag that 3 are injured birds from last year's releases. No 4 is the longer term resident, the adult male 'Fergus.' One new male will be staying with him here.
