Stunning photo of rare Long-eared Owl taken at Milton Keynes nature reserve

These beautiful birds were frequent visitors to the site back in the 1980’s but have since been a very rare sight, says the Parks Trust.

Bird Ringer Kenny Cramer was thrilled that this was his first Long-eared owl ringed at this location,

Linford Lakes Nature Reserve is only open to permit holders, and you can find out more about the site and purchase permits here .

The site was established as a wildfowl research centre in 1970 following decades of mineral extraction in the area.

Previously known as Hanson Environmental Study Centre, The Parks Trust purchased the site in 2015 and it continues to be used as a nature reserve and a base for environmental education. It is widely regarded as the most biodiverse site in Milton Keynes.

The 37 hectare area consists of a large lake, reedbeds, wet woodland and several small meadows interlaced with a number of smaller lakes and ponds.

Four bird watching hides are sited to giving fine views of the wildlife and beautiful scenery, say the Parks Trust.

A spokesman said: "The lakes attract a good variety of wildfowl and passage wading birds and breeding birds include Barn Owl, Cuckoo and Common Tern. In early spring, one of the islands supports a thriving heronry and good views can be obtained of Herons and Little Egrets on their nests.

"In winter, rare visitors include Bittern, Great White Egret and Short Eared Owl. The woodland and meadows support a wide variety of mammals including Water Shrew, Otter, Harvest Mouse and hedgehog and a dedicated group of volunteers studies the mammal populations. Foxes, deer and badgers may sometimes be glimpsed on early morning visits."

Linford Lakes is also known for important populations of insects, especially dragonflies and moths.

The Friends of Linford Lakes run Open Sunday events on the third Sunday of each month, so members of the public can visit the site for free. Sadly, these are currently suspended due to the Covid crisis.