On arrival we were split into two groups. The first group were brought to a tree lined area where three birds took turns being placed in different positions for us to photograph. The first was a little Boobook Owl named Bob, then we met an Abyssinian Owl called Alan and finally a Long Eared Owl.
In the meantime the second group went to a different part of the estate where they met a Barn Owl, an African Spotted Eagle Owl and last but by no means least, a Golden Eagle.
The two groups then swapped locations and were given time with the other birds.
Next, we were all brought together for the ‘fly over’. Everyone knelt in a line and a Barn Owl was flown from one handler to the other in front of us.
After that two Harris Hawks flew to a tree stump about 20 meters away (as they normally hunt in groups two could fly at the same time). On a signal they flew towards us and over our heads to the handlers, who were now positioned behind us.
They did this a number of times with the handlers working their way along the line so everyone had a good opportunity for shots.
As the birds and photographers began to tire, we adjourned to the café where we had coffee and sandwiches.
Everyone agreed that it had been a thoroughly enjoyable and educational day.
