Had a walk along the path towards parkbridge and had 2 little owls moving between fence posts, trees & the derelict buildings.

Also had reed bunting sat on the post next to 1 of them

Andrew

I popped along on Wednesday afternoon, at 5pm...walked along the public footpath that goes into the field at the far end, opposite the houses on Alt Hill Lane. I spooked it and it flew across my path, onto the fence by the rail line path...then eventually in the direction of the derelict building. I lost sight because the horses had taken an interest in me :(

Several years more like! I know where they certainly used to breed in the area. Unfortunately, they were just out side of my old BBS square for Park Bridge!

Next time am in the area, I will see if they are still in the 'breeding spot'!

I do an annual Breeding Bird Survey in the Hartshead Pike area and often record Little Owl. Best place to see them seems to be between the Pike and the golf course (the Oldham GC not the Ashton one). That's also a good spot for Wheatear.

Steve

Monday 17th August
Seen again from old railway line, on fence post, looking towards Hartshead Pike - 100 yards from Alt Hill Lane.
Local resident reports that bird has been around for several months.

Viewed from old railway line from Ashton to Oldham via Park Bridge. Area just prior to Alt Hill Lane from Ashton side looking right. On fence posts in fields and on wires adjacent to row of houses.

Alan

Which area would that be please?

Saturday 25th 8.0pm Little owl seen, on right, from old railway footpath heading towards towards Park Bridge just before Alt Hill Road.