Why are barn owls struggling in the Somerset Levels floods?

Barn owls are struggling because the flooded fields have driven away their rodent prey, and their non-waterproof feathers prevent them from hunting effectively in the rain.

Which bird species are benefiting from the Somerset Levels floods?

Gulls of various kinds, including common, herring, black-headed, Mediterranean, and little gulls, are benefiting from the abundant feeding opportunities in the flooded fields.

What is the long-term outlook for birdlife due to extreme weather events?

The long-term forecast for birdlife is not good, as severe and frequent weather events like the current rainfall pose a significant threat to their survival.

Home / Environment / Gulls Feast as Owls Struggle in Floodwaters

Gulls Feast as Owls Struggle in Floodwaters

19 Feb

•

Summary

Flooded fields provide abundant food for gulls but starve barn owls.
Barn owls cannot hunt in heavy rain due to non-waterproof feathers.
Extreme weather events threaten the long-term survival of birdlife.

Gulls Feast as Owls Struggle in Floodwaters

The Somerset Levels are currently submerged following exceptionally heavy winter rainfall, leading to overflowing fields and moors. This dramatic increase in water levels has created distinct winners and losers among the local bird populations. Large gatherings of gulls, encompassing common, herring, black-headed, Mediterranean, and little gulls, are taking advantage of the abundant feeding opportunities in the flooded areas. These gull congregations have even attracted a white-tailed eagle, recently introduced to the Isle of Wight, though it has not yet been observed hunting.