Finn the barn owl has turned into an excellent first time dad to his two barn owl chicks. My latest film follows his story from those early, clumsy attempts at romance, to his increasing confidence in his role as a protector and provider for his two owl chicks. 

Watch Gylfie & Finn interact live on my nest cam:    • Live From Fotherdale | Robert E Fuller   and follow their story in this playlist:    • Barn Owls 🦉 Gylfie & Finn | Wild Live...  

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ABOUT THIS FILM
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Their owl story

Finn and Gylfie first hooked up together last year. Finn is just two years old - this is his first breeding season - and his inexperience has been amusing to watch. You can read more about Finn, who is an orphaned owl and was released here at Fotherdale, and his romantic courtship with Gylfie here: https://www.robertefuller.com/diary/a...

From clumsy courtship to devoted partner

But this male barn owl has now matured and proved he can provide for his family. He takes his job very seriously.

And dedicated dad

It's obvious he is a first time dad, however. When Gylfie stands up to reveal their first egg in May, he cannot contain his curiosity. He checks the egg with his beak, and wonders if he should brood it himself. But Gylfie steps in and pushes him aside… incubating is best left to the expert.

Barn owls lay every 2-3 days

Over the next week Gylfie lays two more eggs. The second egg's arrival is unusual, it pops out whilst she is standing. Again Finn is fascinated and Gylfie must gently nudge him away.

Attentive dad

Over the next few days, Finn rarely leaves Gylfie's side as she broods their eggs. The process continues to amaze Finn and when Gylfie has a rare moment away from the nest, he hops down to take a closer look.

Hunting for the owl family

Finn works hard bringing in food around the clock and spending his days standing guard over Gylfie and the eggs.

Threat from above

But there is unwanted attention outside the nest. Nearby, tawny owls are roosting and they’re highly territorial. Night after night, the pair endure a barrage of attacks. Thankfully, they keep the tawny owls at bay, and no harm comes to the eggs.

The chicks hatch

After 31 days of incubation, the first egg cracks open and a tiny, cheeping chicks emerges. Again Finn is mesmerised. Barn owl eggs hatch at the same interval as they were laid so, 3 days later, a second chick is revealed and a third 3 days after that.

One chick does not survive

Finn brings in food constantly, but competition between the chicks is fierce and one chick seems to be lagging behind. It’s a lot smaller than it’s siblings and when Gylfie tries to feed it just won’t take it. Overnight, it’s crawls away from the warmth of its siblings. And by the time Gylfie notices the lone chick it is too late.

Remaining chicks thrive

Thankfully the two remaining chicks are growing well. Finn and Gylfie now have one less mouth to feed, so these owlets now actually have a better chance of survival.

ABOUT ME
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I am a British wildlife artist and filmmaker on a mission to share my love for wildlife with the world. As well as creating detailed animal film and art portraits, I promote wildlife tours around the world and do all I can to help conserve and protect wildlife here at my home in Yorkshire. I hope that by putting nature in the frame I can foster a deep love for wildlife amongst my followers.

You may like to purchase my artwork which you can find on my website: https://www.robertefuller.com. Many of my paintings are portraits of the wonderful characters you watch here!

You can also follow me on these platforms:
Website: https://www.robertefuller.com
Facebook:   / robertefullerart  
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Instagram:   / robertefuller  

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© Robert E Fuller

Copyright Disclaimer: Please feel free to share my videos but do not download any content without permission with the intent to re-upload. If you would like to license any content, please get in touch: [email protected]

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