Live stream reveals rare bird of prey’s nest
Male and female honey buzzard at their nest in Sussex [Wildlife Windows]
Livestream of a nesting pair of honey buzzards offers a rare glimpse into one of the UK’s most mysterious birds of prey.
The birds, who lay two eggs in a Sussex woodland, are being filmed around the clock as they incubate them and prepare for the arrival of the chicks.
Experts say that this is the first time such detailed nesting behavior has been captured for the species that migrated from West Africa in May.
Ash Walmsley, who led the project, said: “This is extraordinary, a very intimate look at this mysterious bird. We are already learning so much about their lives.”
Little is known about the unusual species that feed on wasp larvae because they are often misidentified.
Walmsley, Ashdown Forest’s countryside manager, said: “We installed cameras at a number of nests before the birds returned to the country.
“None of the other nests have been successful but I’m so glad we let this couple use the nest, they have eggs and they do everything they need to do with the eggs. It’s wonderful.”
He said the camera had already revealed the fascinating behavior of the male bird, which remained in the nest for 22 hours without a break.
Viewers also heard motorcycle clicks and subtle whistles coming from the woman, which were probably never heard before in the UK.
The project is being run in partnership with Ashdown Forest, the Sussex Ornithological Society (SOS) and Wildlife Windows, a technology company specializing in filming wildlife in remote areas.
Ashdown Forest countryside chairman Ash Walmsley is delighted that a pair of honey buzzards have successfully established a nest in Sussex woodland [Ashdown Forest]
There are thought to be between 130 and 150 pairs of honey buzzards in the UK, and more than 20 pairs are believed to be breeding in Sussex.
The birds are known to mate for life, often returning to the same nesting grounds in pristine forest areas each year.
The exact location of the nest is kept secret to avoid disturbing protected species.
Walmsley said the livestream was a “perfect way” for people unable to visit Ashdown Forest to connect with nature.
Mark Mallalieu, of the Sussex Ornithological Society (SOS), said: “Very few people have been able to observe breeding habits this closely.”
He said viewers will be able to watch “what they feed on, their nesting behavior and what they will feed their young over time and hopefully a successful fledgling.”
Honey-buzzard live streaming is available via the Ashdown Forest and SOS websites.
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