Two top predators over the Somerset Levels
There are two top predators flying over the Somerset Levels today. A Marsh Harrier and an Apache helicopter.
The Marsh Harrier is a native British species which we hunted to extinction by the start of the 20th Century. It was reintroduced and then seriously affected by DDT poisoning in the 1950s and 60s. Now, they are routinely persecuted, their nesting sites disturbed, they are poisoned and their eggs are ‘collected’. Money is desperately needed to fund their conservation, protect their nests and reinstate and expand their fragile habitat. There are fewer than 400 breeding pairs in the UK and it is largely left to charitable organisations like the RSPB to try to promote and safeguard them.
Seeing this one fly past with its characteristic wing-shape is a thrill. It is a natural marvel.
The UK Ministry of Defence recently placed an order costing $2.3 billion for 50 Apache helicopters to be built for us in Arizona. These will ensure that the British Army will be able to continue killing large numbers of people and destroying property overseas on behalf of the UK Government from when they enter service in 2022. One of the seven tasks of the UK’s Ministry of Defence is “Defending our interests by projecting power strategically and through expeditionary interventions.” These new Apaches will maintain our ability to do that.
Politics is about making choices based upon your fundamental beliefs and values; on what you think is right. What is it that you value?
More Marsh Harriers
Talons bared The smaller male Marsh Harrier is chasing the larger female, which is calling loudly. The female turns upside-down in the… read more
Marsh Harrier courtship dance The church of St Mary the Virgin in Charlton-on-Otmoor, features a tall tower that acts as a beacon in the… read more
Eye contact with a Marsh Harrier This looks like an adult female Marsh Harrier. With Marsh Harriers, however, you can never be quite sure. Some adult… read more
Marsh Harrier overhead I love a close Marsh Harrier. Here at RSPB Otmoor they are busy, but distant, and a pleasant hour or… read more
Marsh Harrier I love seeing Marsh Harriers hunting. I've yet to see one kill anything yet, though. Surely it's just a matter… read more
Marsh Harrier at Greylake We're on a trip to RSPB Greylake in Somerset. There's a male Marsh Harrier harrying the marshes. I love its… read more
Marsh Harrier at Ham Wall I've had many happy times watching Marsh Harriers flying across RSPB reserves. Today is one of them as, after a… read more
A Marsh Harrier on the marsh A trip in dull weather with Birds of Poole Harbour gave me the chance to see a very distant Marsh… read more
Marsh Harrier over the reeds A highlight of my trips to RSPB Lodmoor is the sight of Marsh Harriers flying over the reeds. Their languid… read more