Birds of Marais Poitevin & Ile de Ré / Private Excursion February 2022

We are at the beginning of February and I join Antoine in the early morning for his private excursion dedicated to the birds of the Marais Poitevin. This day was absolutely exceptional! From 8 a.m., we start with a favorable sector for the Short-eared Owl. We quickly come across a Long-eared Owl resting in an ivy and clearly visible, the day starts very well! Barely 10 meters further, it is a Short-eared Owl this time which is posed in a similar way. We take the time to photograph it without disturbance, the bird grooms itself in front of us. In total, there are 4 Short-eared Owls, some of which are almost exposed. Sublime moment.

Photo Thibaut Rivière

After taking a look at the hundreds of birds present at Baie de l'Aiguillon, we decide to check a Long-eared Owl roost. At least 4 individuals will be visible. Antoine did not expect so much!

A good picnic in the sun and here we go again. This morning's sightings are so motivating that we leave without too much delay to stop in a relatively well-preserved wooded area. We will observe a couple of Black-winged Kites, what a magnificent raptor! The couple goes hunting and rests several times in the open on dead trees within a thick hedge.

Photo Thibaut Rivière

Photo Thibaut Rivière

We even witness them mating and vocalizations of one of the adults. After making the most of it and taking a few photos, we explore other favorable areas for nocturnal raptors. We find 2 other Long-eared Owls including one only a few meters from the car! Finally, we end the day with the quick but rather nice observation of 2 Jack Snipes in a small wetland. It was really a very beautiful day in the Marais Poitevin!

Thibaut
Guide Salva Fauna