If we're talking about the same incident then the collie wasn't killed. I heard directly from someone who saw it happen that the female swooped down and made a grab for it but only managed to knock it over onto its side. It's apparently done the same the to 2 other dogs over the last few days, but I've not heard that it's battered any of them to death... yet!
Me and my dad got these birds today and they were pretty awesome, the male and one young were viewable on the valleyside, the young looked like a "fluffy rock" quite hard to see at first. Good views from the roadside were obtained. Aparently one of the adults caught and killed a collie dog and put some people in hospital with serious injuries
Also in the valley this morning were Osprey, Goshawk, Hen Harrier and Short Eared Owl so its worth the walk or in my case the bike ride!
Finished off with a nice adult Common Crane near Chipping mid afternoon so not a bad trip.
A pair of Eagle Owls has bred successfully in Whitendale, raising 3 young which have now left the nest. We were requested not to publicise their presence but an article has now appeared in the Lancashire Evening Telegraph with comment by a spokesman for the RSPB, so the news is out officially. The young have been ringed and DNA tested and the site is monitored by CCTV and there is usually a police presence.
Unauthorised vehicles are NOT allowed to drive up the Dunsop Valley. You MUST leave your car in Dunsop Bridge and walk the 2½ miles into Whitendale. The birds may be viewed on the opposite side of the valley from the farm road just before it descends to Whitendale Farm. DO NOT go down the hill from the road - bird photographers THIS MEANS YOU. The public footpath on the other side of the river is CLOSED, not only to protect the birds but also for PUBLIC SAFETY. Two persons who ignored the warning and who also took dogs with them have been attacked and required treatment.
Please both enjoy and respect these magnificent birds.
Me and my Dad are gonna head up there tomorrow so if you see someone in red cycling gear thats me
Anyone wanting to see the Eagle Owls - the following information from BirdGuides:
5km north of Dunsop Bridge, 800m south of Whitendale Farm at SD659542; park in Dunsop Bridge and walk north along the path for 4km to view east from post 68a. keep to path
I have spoken to a friend who lives and birds this area. The presence of the Owls has been well known by the locals - apparently some people have been attacked by the Owls. Maybe the presence of birders watching the Owls will deter anyone trying to shoot them or drive them away.
Also look out for Goshawk, Merlin and Hen Harrier which can all be seen in this area.
A pair of Eagle Owls have apparently bred at in Bowland. Does anyone have any details? Apparently further details and viewing arrangements can be made via the East Lancs Ornithologists Club.
EDIT: It's okay - I've found out the details from the website. And, sorry for posting in the wrong section.
