Aston Upthorpe 26th August

Montagu's Harrier (m) Stunned! Long, slim-winged raptor observed (Although white rump made Jay pop into my head initially!), got scope on it quickly. Viewed mostly from above due to vantage point at top Western edge of valley. Decent, albeit brief initial view as it skirted the Western edge of Oven Bottom Wood before disappearing round Southern Edge. Mid to dark grey overall with obvious black wingtips and white rump. Rufous & black underwing markings observed briefly during manouvre. Shoulder/back also appeared slightly rufous but perhaps trick of the evening sunlight? Despite this overall impression was of male Monty. I'm certain it wasn't a male marsh anyway! Seen about 10 minutes later far beyond the Eastern edge of the woods, low over field, close to Juniper Valley - very distant but longer (still fairly brief) view. Light was still fairly decent at this time. SU537836.

Mark Merritt