Barn owls have bred in the milking parlour.This is the seventh year and they are an absolute joy to watch. Also, see Oct-Nov Wildlife Archive.                                    

They produced 6 eggs, 5 of which hatched, (you can see the 6th egg to the right of the female adult). 

Currently, 4 young are being raised and we can only presume that, as food supply is plentiful this year, one chick just failed to thrive. The absence of a body is quite normal as one of the others would have eaten it shortly after death. 

Each bird is weighed and then measured, first, from beak tip to back of head and then, wing length.

All the detailed measurements and observations are recorded in a book, including the unique code on each leg ring which identifies the individual bird.

Our sincerest gratitude goes to Tony Cross of The Welsh Kite Trust for his services as a registered ringer. He has enthusiastically supported us for many years and is a constant inspiration.  

PROMOTION : The Welsh Kite Trust was set up in 1996 and has worked tirelesly to ensure this stunning bird's safe future. The Trust is almost entirely run on "Friends of the Welsh Kite" sponsorship. In return for a very modest annual donation 'Friends' receive a colour booklet, packed with facinating information, an enamel lapel badge and car window sticker. Twice a year a newsletter is sent out detailing the Trust's latest developments, breeding reports etc.

We urge you to become a 'Friend' and details can be obtained from: Tony Cross, The Welsh Kite Trust, 'Samaria', Nantmel, Llandrindod Wells, Powys, LD1 6EN, or www.welshkitetrust.org  Please, please join.