The best thing about watching wildlife is the way it throws up un-usual sightings, even in areas you see almost every day.  This sighting of a Short-eared owl from the viewing area of the Visitor Centre is one of those times.

While Short-eared Owls are not unusual in the Montrose areas, getting to watch one during the day is.  This individual was perched on some drift wood that had been washed up when the tide had come in and was kind enough to remain on that spot long enough for us to catch some footage.  The mottled brown pattern on its feathers means that it was perfectly camouflaged in this surrounding, and may not have been spotted had it not been moving its head.

It’s worth watching right to the end of the footage for some ever so slightly comical exit.

Georgina Bowie (Visitor Centre Assistant)