Wow - a really brilliant from the garden tick!
This morning I was in my garden about 7.15 doing the normal check of the local birds in the "patch" - and a large raptor appeared flying in the clear cloudless skies!
It didn't actually fly over my garden but I could clearly see it from my garden! Thankfully I had my bins with me but having watched lots this summer in Espana - I recognised its jizz!
I rushed through the house and out into the road and watched it turn south and fly on south...
Honey's have wide wings , a long tail a very clear stripe/band on their tails and they lead with their head - I'll try to explain that - on some birds when they fly you dont notice the head (Common Buzzard) but with a Honey you really see the head!
(I was shaking - and this is only a from the garden tick - rivals my Whooper Swans !!!!)
Apparently we are having a Honey buzzard invasion from Scandinavia - most of the birds appear to have by past London but some have come straight through.
Reminds me of Logie - Osprey who flew across Terminal 4 on her route back to Scotland earlier this year!
Oh boy - got to have another cup of tea!
_________________
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Rain and more rain!
Well sea watching proved a damp squib - so am hoping to go again this w/e Saturday or Sunday or both!Somewhere out there is a Sabine Gull with my name on it!
Found a small flock of Fieldfares in Syon Park the other day. I love to see these birds again as it shows that migration is in full swing! Their plumage was so smart - just like all the feathers had been through the dry cleaners!
There were a few House Martins busily feeding.
There was also a juvenile GSW with two adults.
Staines Reservoirs had a visit from a Great Skua - known as "Bonxies" in Shetland.It stayed for part of the afternoon before going off - presumably to find some sea!
I have to get used to "Bonxie" as I shall be going on my first visit to Shetland next October. I'm excited as I have been thinking about a proper visit for ages.
I say proper just in case something spectacular is turned up there that I have to twitch - that would be unlikely as its a long way to go - and I do have commitments down south!I will be travelling all over the Islands and getting to see all the "hot-spots" - with a view to going back if its as brilliant as birders say!
More about this trip later!
I am currently watching videos of birds in Southern Africa. I am trying to learn to id as there are many that I havent even seen on TV! Its a good video - I'll do an ad on it later - its in the wrong room!You get a clip of a bird then the name comes up so you can quickly have a go at its id! There is no commentary - oh bliss but good views and the calls/song - so you can then look it up in the field guide.
I am off for about 3 weeks towards the end of October into November.Kruger Safari - staying in 3 Rest Camps - cant believe I will rest as there will be too many birds and mammals to watch!This is a trip I wanted to do since I was 14 - quite why its taken this long I have no idea!Dreams are great but to be about to fulfill them... well.I wanted to be a Wildlife Photographer then (age 12 -14) and if I had gone on Safari to Africa then....who knows maybe I would have been as famous as Simon King! Or perhaps I would have stayed forever!Haha couldn't have afforded it then!
We are travelling about quite a bit and covering quite a lot - including St.Lucia wetlands and the Drakensburg Mountains!
I will blog later about this, now back to earth and some shopping!
Found a small flock of Fieldfares in Syon Park the other day. I love to see these birds again as it shows that migration is in full swing! Their plumage was so smart - just like all the feathers had been through the dry cleaners!
There were a few House Martins busily feeding.
There was also a juvenile GSW with two adults.
Staines Reservoirs had a visit from a Great Skua - known as "Bonxies" in Shetland.It stayed for part of the afternoon before going off - presumably to find some sea!
I have to get used to "Bonxie" as I shall be going on my first visit to Shetland next October. I'm excited as I have been thinking about a proper visit for ages.
I say proper just in case something spectacular is turned up there that I have to twitch - that would be unlikely as its a long way to go - and I do have commitments down south!I will be travelling all over the Islands and getting to see all the "hot-spots" - with a view to going back if its as brilliant as birders say!
More about this trip later!
I am currently watching videos of birds in Southern Africa. I am trying to learn to id as there are many that I havent even seen on TV! Its a good video - I'll do an ad on it later - its in the wrong room!You get a clip of a bird then the name comes up so you can quickly have a go at its id! There is no commentary - oh bliss but good views and the calls/song - so you can then look it up in the field guide.
I am off for about 3 weeks towards the end of October into November.Kruger Safari - staying in 3 Rest Camps - cant believe I will rest as there will be too many birds and mammals to watch!This is a trip I wanted to do since I was 14 - quite why its taken this long I have no idea!Dreams are great but to be about to fulfill them... well.I wanted to be a Wildlife Photographer then (age 12 -14) and if I had gone on Safari to Africa then....who knows maybe I would have been as famous as Simon King! Or perhaps I would have stayed forever!Haha couldn't have afforded it then!
We are travelling about quite a bit and covering quite a lot - including St.Lucia wetlands and the Drakensburg Mountains!
I will blog later about this, now back to earth and some shopping!
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
Ospreys on migration
I was going to follow Logie on her migration back to West Africa but it appears either the transmitter has fallen off/stopped working or Logie has, I'm hoping its the transmitter and not Lodie that has suffered the demise.
We will have to wait until Spring next year to see if she turns up at her nesting site or not.
So I am going to be following these Ospreys instead
Loch Garten ospreys take flight
Loch Garten's two osprey chicks have upped and left for their 3,000 mile journey to West Africa for the winter - and anyone can log on and see how they're getting on for the first time here
Nethy and Deshar - named after local primary schools - began to fly South late last week. Nethy seems to be flying strongly, making a beeline South, crossing the Forth and reaching Durham by last Thursday. She then flew South over Bradford, Huddersfield and the outskirts of Coventry.
Deshar, on the other hand, had a bit of a nightmare start, with a couple of further hiccups on the way. At the beginning of his marathon journey he headed almost due east far out over into the North sea before realising he'd made a mistake, and coming back to dry land to start again.
Since then he's made solid progress down the country, passing directly over Leeds, down the backbone of England over the Pennines to Nottingham, before heading south east over Cambridge. He then flew straight over Colchester and again charged out to sea over the Greater Thames estuary, before deciding against it and turning back towards Margate and on to the west of Folkestone.
Both birds had reached the South of England last night, and are expected to be over France today.
Nethy and Deshar have been travelling at speeds of up to 35 mph, and may take four to five weeks to reach their destination. Until that time, people in the UK, Southern Europe and Northern Africa will be able to see whether the birds will pass near them on their way. For the first time, we'll have an accurate idea of where these birds winter and how long it takes them to get there. As well as teaching us more about their behaviour, we hope to link up with people and schools along the migration route, to share information and enhance protection for these magnificent birds throughout the year.
Richard Thaxton, RSPB Loch Garten Visitor Centre Manager said: 'The new webpage builds on the blog and the live nestcam in opening up the enjoyment of following these birds to a huge online community. These innovations have proved hugely popular, with the nestcam alone receiving a phenomenal 200 000 unique visitors this year. We hope that the birds do make it to West Africa, and for the first time ever we'll know whether or not they have.'
It’s been a successful year for the Loch Garten nest, especially after last year’s disappointing season when no chicks survived. This year, three chicks were born to parents EJ (female) and VS but unfortunately, the third one proved to be just too weak to survive. However the two older chicks are very healthy, and this year has to be regarded as a success in the illustrious history of the Loch Garten nest.
Actually one has been in Gloucestershire and the other in Kent (Hythe area)for the last 12 days! Inclement weather and lots to eat has delayed them. This I think is a good thing as they left a fortnight earlier than they should have done.
Lets see where they go next.
NB An Osprey has been seen in the Hythe/Dungeness area altho I didn't see it on Sat!
We will have to wait until Spring next year to see if she turns up at her nesting site or not.
So I am going to be following these Ospreys instead
Loch Garten ospreys take flight
Loch Garten's two osprey chicks have upped and left for their 3,000 mile journey to West Africa for the winter - and anyone can log on and see how they're getting on for the first time here
Nethy and Deshar - named after local primary schools - began to fly South late last week. Nethy seems to be flying strongly, making a beeline South, crossing the Forth and reaching Durham by last Thursday. She then flew South over Bradford, Huddersfield and the outskirts of Coventry.
Deshar, on the other hand, had a bit of a nightmare start, with a couple of further hiccups on the way. At the beginning of his marathon journey he headed almost due east far out over into the North sea before realising he'd made a mistake, and coming back to dry land to start again.
Since then he's made solid progress down the country, passing directly over Leeds, down the backbone of England over the Pennines to Nottingham, before heading south east over Cambridge. He then flew straight over Colchester and again charged out to sea over the Greater Thames estuary, before deciding against it and turning back towards Margate and on to the west of Folkestone.
Both birds had reached the South of England last night, and are expected to be over France today.
Nethy and Deshar have been travelling at speeds of up to 35 mph, and may take four to five weeks to reach their destination. Until that time, people in the UK, Southern Europe and Northern Africa will be able to see whether the birds will pass near them on their way. For the first time, we'll have an accurate idea of where these birds winter and how long it takes them to get there. As well as teaching us more about their behaviour, we hope to link up with people and schools along the migration route, to share information and enhance protection for these magnificent birds throughout the year.
Richard Thaxton, RSPB Loch Garten Visitor Centre Manager said: 'The new webpage builds on the blog and the live nestcam in opening up the enjoyment of following these birds to a huge online community. These innovations have proved hugely popular, with the nestcam alone receiving a phenomenal 200 000 unique visitors this year. We hope that the birds do make it to West Africa, and for the first time ever we'll know whether or not they have.'
It’s been a successful year for the Loch Garten nest, especially after last year’s disappointing season when no chicks survived. This year, three chicks were born to parents EJ (female) and VS but unfortunately, the third one proved to be just too weak to survive. However the two older chicks are very healthy, and this year has to be regarded as a success in the illustrious history of the Loch Garten nest.
Actually one has been in Gloucestershire and the other in Kent (Hythe area)for the last 12 days! Inclement weather and lots to eat has delayed them. This I think is a good thing as they left a fortnight earlier than they should have done.
Lets see where they go next.
NB An Osprey has been seen in the Hythe/Dungeness area altho I didn't see it on Sat!
Friday, August 29, 2008
I dont like Cricket, I love it!
Well we have won a one day international series finally!
Well done Captain KP, Freddie (star!) and to Stuart and Sammi excellent bowling. All backed up by some great wk by Matty Prior, some good bowling of Anderson, Harmison and some good batting by Bell, Shah and some fielding by Colly - and theres Luke of course
well really great all round performance from our team!
Let's see if we can make it 5-0 (thats put the mockers on that!)
Anyway some pics from my long w/e on the Houseboat on the Thames.The reason a boy called cebo he is also included!
Some Great Crested Grebe juvs put in an appearance couldn't resist!
There were lots of Herons about!
Well done Captain KP, Freddie (star!) and to Stuart and Sammi excellent bowling. All backed up by some great wk by Matty Prior, some good bowling of Anderson, Harmison and some good batting by Bell, Shah and some fielding by Colly - and theres Luke of course
well really great all round performance from our team!
Let's see if we can make it 5-0 (thats put the mockers on that!)
Anyway some pics from my long w/e on the Houseboat on the Thames.The reason a boy called cebo he is also included!
Some Great Crested Grebe juvs put in an appearance couldn't resist!
There were lots of Herons about!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Lightening Bolt!
I tried posting this just after the Race but blogger wasn't playing!
Wow! I have changed the original post as its a couple of days later but wasn't that sensational?
What kind of time might he do if he really raced all the way?
Looking forward to the 200 now....
Well the Sailors have done us proud and for once we almost got good coverage! Still I expect the BBC think that was good coverage. Ben Ainslie is a fantastic dingy sailor!
Rowers glinted and I felt gutted for the womens coxless four how painful was that going for Gold and getting the silver! 3rd time too for Kath Grainger she will be inconsolible - holiday needed there and then a re think or what?
Cycling continues to shine for GB.
As for young Louis Smith that was spendid! First GB male to an individual final and then top it off with a medal!
Talons crossed for at least some medals in the Athletics...I suppose tho we will be looking for some pb's mainly and we cant ask for more than that.
Triple Jump? 400 metres? cant see further than that...altho our 1500 metre runner did really well ....but when it comes to the Finals?????????????
I notice that Commonwealth Countries are getting lots of attention not sure we have had that before? - Ireland too of course....clutching at straws???????????????
Wow! I have changed the original post as its a couple of days later but wasn't that sensational?
What kind of time might he do if he really raced all the way?
Looking forward to the 200 now....
Well the Sailors have done us proud and for once we almost got good coverage! Still I expect the BBC think that was good coverage. Ben Ainslie is a fantastic dingy sailor!
Rowers glinted and I felt gutted for the womens coxless four how painful was that going for Gold and getting the silver! 3rd time too for Kath Grainger she will be inconsolible - holiday needed there and then a re think or what?
Cycling continues to shine for GB.
As for young Louis Smith that was spendid! First GB male to an individual final and then top it off with a medal!
Talons crossed for at least some medals in the Athletics...I suppose tho we will be looking for some pb's mainly and we cant ask for more than that.
Triple Jump? 400 metres? cant see further than that...altho our 1500 metre runner did really well ....but when it comes to the Finals?????????????
I notice that Commonwealth Countries are getting lots of attention not sure we have had that before? - Ireland too of course....clutching at straws???????????????
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Just browsing
While I await a final - Rowing Men's coxless four - I was checking my e-mails and was reminded of some Big Cat pics I have on file here is one! I have to look at the others first before publishing any more!If you click on the pic you can see it enlarged...just look at that face!
Friday, August 15, 2008
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
More Espana
Well blogger wont let me upload images so I shall wait to another time.
Saw a Southern Hawker in a local park the other day!
Also Meadow Brown / Brown Argus / Gatekeeper this is a park next to a sewage farm whatever you call it so there is fantastic cover of trees and various wild shrubs ....
but this is the first year I have seen all of these.
No pics a)no camera with me and b) hands are full of dog (LOL!)
Saw a Southern Hawker in a local park the other day!
Also Meadow Brown / Brown Argus / Gatekeeper this is a park next to a sewage farm whatever you call it so there is fantastic cover of trees and various wild shrubs ....
but this is the first year I have seen all of these.
No pics a)no camera with me and b) hands are full of dog (LOL!)
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Too much rain!
Too much rain so my thoughts turned back to my birding and butterfly trip to the Picos in June.
Not many pics of birds or butterflies but some grand scenery so here are a few!
more later!
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Hogarth
My friend Pete has inspired me, reading his blog. He and Tricia went to Chiswick House recently and Pete has written about Hogarth.(Edited as Pete has been a trifle naughty!)
I often go to CH as its very local to me . Sometimes I am accompanied by a friends dog.
Its a place that Valerie walked her Labradors (when she had them) and I thought some of the things that Hogarth believed in were close to her heart too.
Hogarth may have lived three centuries ago, but his interests lay in matters which strike many chords with people today.
* Animals appear in many of his works - a pet monkey, a dog stealing food, pigs scampering away from a crowd - but his series of prints, Four Stages of Cruelty, against the horrors of London crime, show his abhorrence of their ill-treatment.
* His fondness for children is clear in his paintings, such as those of the Ranby children, who lived near him in Chiswick. And he was an energetic supporter of the Foundling Hospital, fostering some of its children each summer at his Chiswick house.
* His was sympathetic to the ordinary people of London, including the many black people who were his contemporaries, and portrays them with affection, both in conversation pieces and amongst the crowds on the street.
* He hated injustice and the corruption of his time, showing it in some of his work, such as his series of pictures of an election. He was also outraged that others produced pirated versions of his prints without any return for himself, campaigning successfully in 1735 for the first ever Act of Parliament which protected artists' intellectual property rights.
There is a sculpture of Hogarth in Chiswick High Rd accompanied by a pug. When it first went up the paintbrush in his hand kept being stolen. I must check and see what they have done to stop this!
see the sculpture here
I often go to CH as its very local to me . Sometimes I am accompanied by a friends dog.
Its a place that Valerie walked her Labradors (when she had them) and I thought some of the things that Hogarth believed in were close to her heart too.
Hogarth may have lived three centuries ago, but his interests lay in matters which strike many chords with people today.
* Animals appear in many of his works - a pet monkey, a dog stealing food, pigs scampering away from a crowd - but his series of prints, Four Stages of Cruelty, against the horrors of London crime, show his abhorrence of their ill-treatment.
* His fondness for children is clear in his paintings, such as those of the Ranby children, who lived near him in Chiswick. And he was an energetic supporter of the Foundling Hospital, fostering some of its children each summer at his Chiswick house.
* His was sympathetic to the ordinary people of London, including the many black people who were his contemporaries, and portrays them with affection, both in conversation pieces and amongst the crowds on the street.
* He hated injustice and the corruption of his time, showing it in some of his work, such as his series of pictures of an election. He was also outraged that others produced pirated versions of his prints without any return for himself, campaigning successfully in 1735 for the first ever Act of Parliament which protected artists' intellectual property rights.
There is a sculpture of Hogarth in Chiswick High Rd accompanied by a pug. When it first went up the paintbrush in his hand kept being stolen. I must check and see what they have done to stop this!
see the sculpture here
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Valerie's funeral went as these things do...but it was a fitting tribute and celebration of her life. Afterwards there was a champagne reception in a gastro pub where the champagne did flow and the food was great.We also were able to have a laugh which was what Valerie would have wanted. Her daughter thought Valerie would have been furious to have missed it! So true. What was good was it brought a lot of people together and we are arranging other drinks and meals.Thank you Valerie.
I have been able to do a couple of fairly local trips out to finally catch up on Spotted redshank and Green Sandpipers and a lovely White winged Black Tern at Rye. Sussex being the new Norfolk!
I have been able to do a couple of fairly local trips out to finally catch up on Spotted redshank and Green Sandpipers and a lovely White winged Black Tern at Rye. Sussex being the new Norfolk!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Valeries Funeral
The local press printed this article...despite being corrected as to how long Valerie fought cancer they managed to make it longer! Still most of it is accurate.
But they did print a lovely photo
The funeral is this afternoon.
But they did print a lovely photo
The funeral is this afternoon.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
Valerie Lamey. RIP
My good friend and ex fellow Cllr. Valerie Lamey died on Thursday evening.
I am very glad to have known her well and to have many happy memories of her.
Valerie was full of fun, a raconteur- sometimes so brilliant you cried and an immensely hard working and committed councillor.
She was direct and forthright as a Mancunian can be and a total MU fan.
She loved her G and T and Red wine and good food.
She was committed to environmental issues and introduced the Green Boxes scheme and composting and real nappies as Chair of the Environment Committee and Executive Member.
She was a fair and impartial Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee which was recognised nationally for its development.Valerie wanted to get at the truth and mainly did!She was also Deputy Leader of the Council.
Her socialism was unquestionable, she fought hard for her constituents and worked brilliantly with me as part of the team Syon!
Her love of history and reading was often useful in her speeches and her tales.
She loved Labradors and the wildlife in her garden.
She was proud as punch at her daughters nursing career - but probably didn't tell her too many times!
Kate you had a Mum to be proud of - I will miss her very much but treasure my memories of her.She was a good and kind friend.
I am very glad to have known her well and to have many happy memories of her.
Valerie was full of fun, a raconteur- sometimes so brilliant you cried and an immensely hard working and committed councillor.
She was direct and forthright as a Mancunian can be and a total MU fan.
She loved her G and T and Red wine and good food.
She was committed to environmental issues and introduced the Green Boxes scheme and composting and real nappies as Chair of the Environment Committee and Executive Member.
She was a fair and impartial Chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee which was recognised nationally for its development.Valerie wanted to get at the truth and mainly did!She was also Deputy Leader of the Council.
Her socialism was unquestionable, she fought hard for her constituents and worked brilliantly with me as part of the team Syon!
Her love of history and reading was often useful in her speeches and her tales.
She loved Labradors and the wildlife in her garden.
She was proud as punch at her daughters nursing career - but probably didn't tell her too many times!
Kate you had a Mum to be proud of - I will miss her very much but treasure my memories of her.She was a good and kind friend.
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Nadal triumphs!
Well I'm not sure he broke sweat!
Thats actually not really true as he looked very disheveled in his interview straight after the match with Murray.
Nadal is so focused and fights every point!
A great final may be in store if both Federer and Nadal make it there!
Andy Murray will surely work on his fitness again this winter and maybe he will reach the semi's next year......
Thats actually not really true as he looked very disheveled in his interview straight after the match with Murray.
Nadal is so focused and fights every point!
A great final may be in store if both Federer and Nadal make it there!
Andy Murray will surely work on his fitness again this winter and maybe he will reach the semi's next year......
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Murray fight back!
Congratulations to Andy Murray!
I was watching the match yesterday and was thinking such sublime tennis from Richard Gasquet would it really be possible for Andy to save that 3rd set? It was and he did!
I must admit that it was great to hear the support he got from the packed crowd.
Hats off to him!
Brilliant!
I look forward to seeing him play Nadal. Whether he wins tomorrow or not, I am happy that he has showed that he has the potential and strangth to go far!
He did after all take Nadal to 5 sets in Australia.
Still we hold our breath!
I was watching the match yesterday and was thinking such sublime tennis from Richard Gasquet would it really be possible for Andy to save that 3rd set? It was and he did!
I must admit that it was great to hear the support he got from the packed crowd.
Hats off to him!
Brilliant!
I look forward to seeing him play Nadal. Whether he wins tomorrow or not, I am happy that he has showed that he has the potential and strangth to go far!
He did after all take Nadal to 5 sets in Australia.
Still we hold our breath!
Monday, June 30, 2008
Espana win the European Cup!
Ole ole ole ole ole ole
Espana playing open attractive football and keeping the ball on the deck for the most part have won!
I was hoping they would win as I enjoy their style of football. It was a shame that Holland could not sustain their game as well.
Cricket
The powerful South Africans are here - lets hope England can raise their game - KP its time to stand up and be counted. I expect to watch lovely cricket from the SA's just hope we can live with them!
Tennis
2nd week and Andy is still there, good luck as well as I hope his second serve stands up better than it has so far or Richard Gasquet
will take advantage!Watch those drop shots too!
I think Andy is playing better than I have seen him and he deserves to go through to the quater finals and play probably a certain Spainard!
Espana playing open attractive football and keeping the ball on the deck for the most part have won!
I was hoping they would win as I enjoy their style of football. It was a shame that Holland could not sustain their game as well.
Cricket
The powerful South Africans are here - lets hope England can raise their game - KP its time to stand up and be counted. I expect to watch lovely cricket from the SA's just hope we can live with them!
Tennis
2nd week and Andy is still there, good luck as well as I hope his second serve stands up better than it has so far or Richard Gasquet
will take advantage!Watch those drop shots too!
I think Andy is playing better than I have seen him and he deserves to go through to the quater finals and play probably a certain Spainard!
Penguins, Loggerhead Turtles and......
Looking at the BBC news front page I always dip into the Science/Nature section some interesting news about id individual penguins on Robben Island, the return of two washed up Logger-heads from Britain to Gran Canaria and a warning to Tourists to stay out of the Congo DONT GO TO SEE THE GORILLAS here.
Also of interest the Australian Treasury Chief has taken five weeks leave to look after endangered Wombats.
all stories can be seen herehttp://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/default.stm
Also of interest the Australian Treasury Chief has taken five weeks leave to look after endangered Wombats.
all stories can be seen herehttp://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/default.stm
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Picos Trip
Well as I now know that Jules is writing up our trip as I post - ( and Andy Murray is on court!) I am happy to leave my report where it is at mo. I will post a link to Jules report and add anything I think!
If you are thinking of going to Espana birding or on a family trip to Espana may I highly recommend Jules! Top birder and top bloke!
If you want a holiday in Spain with the family and can escape for a days birding - if you stay in or nr Oliva brilliant or Alicante.
Look on his Oliva Rama Tours website and enjoy!
If you are thinking of going to Espana birding or on a family trip to Espana may I highly recommend Jules! Top birder and top bloke!
If you want a holiday in Spain with the family and can escape for a days birding - if you stay in or nr Oliva brilliant or Alicante.
Look on his Oliva Rama Tours website and enjoy!
Roding Woodcock
A trip out on Wednesday evening to Chobham Common - fantastic close views of a Hobby, a pair of Woodlarks and a pair of Tree Pipits!
Along with singing Dartford Warblers and Stonechats.
A Roebuck was also spotted in long grass.
Then at least 13 views of Woodcock - including roding!
One seriously great close view as a pair flew over us!
We heard some churring and spotted about 4 different Nightjars - disappointingly no really fantastic views (unlike the previous two years) - we were later going this year usually 1st week of June.
But it was a very light evening as well!
2 nice year tics!
Once again Bob and I had a great birding evening! Different each year!
Along with singing Dartford Warblers and Stonechats.
A Roebuck was also spotted in long grass.
Then at least 13 views of Woodcock - including roding!
One seriously great close view as a pair flew over us!
We heard some churring and spotted about 4 different Nightjars - disappointingly no really fantastic views (unlike the previous two years) - we were later going this year usually 1st week of June.
But it was a very light evening as well!
2 nice year tics!
Once again Bob and I had a great birding evening! Different each year!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Parque Natural del Rio Duraton to the Ermita de San Frutas
After we had landed at Madrid Airport and been picked up by Jules Sykes of Oliva Rama Tours (slightly changed itinerary for next year).We headed North of Madrid birding from the minibus - as we spotted Common Buzzards, Booted Eagles, Black Kites and Montague's Harriers.
On towards our Hotel in Sepulveda we stopped at a wooded area full of bird song and a variety of birds,Turtle Dove,Black Redstart, Nightingale, Goldfinch, Blackcap,Calling Cuckoos,and then Golden Eagles soaring above us!
There was a distinctive song or was it a call? A small warbler was above our heads and eventually I was able to separate its song from all others and I was rewarded eventually by a sight of a blocker for me Western Bonnelli's Warbler! Jules had come up trumps again! My first of three target lifers!
The birds then seemed to tumble out of the trees for us as Chaffinch, Jackdaw, Serin, Wren and Spotted Flycatchers all followed! Kestrels hovered above while Blackbirds alternated with beautiful song and loud chattering alarms!
Eventually a Melodious Warbler was located, along with Great Spotted Woodpeacker.
Others in the group heard and saw several other birds which I eventually caught up with later in the trip on next morning!
After unloading at the hotel we went out again.
We stopped near Sepulveda in the Parque Natural del Rio Duraton to seek out our first target species of Western Orphean Warbler a lifer for some, Bob and I were more than happy to see this little beauty.The Parque entrance track passes across a plateau of superb limestone grassland and scrub. I noted a slight twitchiness with Bob however as his target was the elusive Dupont's Lark! Of this bird not a sound was heard however we met the Park Warden and he gave us a precise location(well a large area it had to be said but at least we knew which way to look!) and said with patience you ought to see one! Well time was getting on and this location had to wait for the morning!
The next morning found us once again seeking the elusive Dupont's Lark. After a long time and a downpour of rain where we sought shelter in the minibus the sun again came out and with it birdsong and the distinctive song of a Duponts could be heard clearly.
Where was the little endangered species? Well we heard and looked and looked and heard but not a sighting was to be had. Many birders dip this bird and I must say i was really glad that I had seen Duponts last year on our way to the Pyrennes. However I was very aware that Bob's target birds were two- one being Dupont's Lark so for our trip to be successful we needed to pin this bird!
Jules spotted a lark on a rock and said quietly - Duponts singing and there followed directions!We all got to see the bird and it proceeded to sing away for an age! In fact so long that I actually was able to get a record shot myself before it disappeared into the surrounding grass!The pic below is not mine but from Jules Sykes.
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Back for Breakfast of Coffeee and toast then on to look at the gorge. The river has cut a deep scar through the limestone, in the form of a dramatically beautiful gorge that weaves it’s way through juniper and wild-flower cloaked hillsides.We stopped off the road to view the wildlife. A number of birds were called and plants id...then I spotted a couple of Griffon Vultures sitting under an overhang and posing nicely. Time for some digiscoping and once I have down loaded them I shall post a couple of pics!
Then it was time to leave this area where we could have birded for another day at least!
Oh yes we had wandered around and seen Larks of all kinds ,Southern Grey Shrike and Woodchat Shrikes a plenty with Tawny Pipits galor - heard Dartfords with some seeing the beauty. Above us were Short-toed and Booted Eagles - Two species of Black eared Wheatear with the more common Northern everywhere! Beeaters,Corn Buntings on wires.
Oh yes Spectacled Warbler!
Somewhere I have omitted the stop for coffee in a delightful place whose name eludes me. Stork City would be a good name for it as these delights were everywhere!I shall return to this on another post!
The journey to the Picos was somewhat spoiled as it rained and it poured!
As I re read this and look at my notes I see I have managed to leave out lots of birds from our first day and some delights of the morning of the second day such were the numbers thick and fast of the first two days!
How could I not mention the Golden Oriels, the Hobbies, and Woodlarks? The Egyptian Vulture so magnificent and frankly huge? Hearing Quail again? oh and Hoopoes?
Well along with Sprawk and Chough and a juvenile Rock Sparrow I did...and thats life!
On towards our Hotel in Sepulveda we stopped at a wooded area full of bird song and a variety of birds,Turtle Dove,Black Redstart, Nightingale, Goldfinch, Blackcap,Calling Cuckoos,and then Golden Eagles soaring above us!
There was a distinctive song or was it a call? A small warbler was above our heads and eventually I was able to separate its song from all others and I was rewarded eventually by a sight of a blocker for me Western Bonnelli's Warbler! Jules had come up trumps again! My first of three target lifers!
The birds then seemed to tumble out of the trees for us as Chaffinch, Jackdaw, Serin, Wren and Spotted Flycatchers all followed! Kestrels hovered above while Blackbirds alternated with beautiful song and loud chattering alarms!
Eventually a Melodious Warbler was located, along with Great Spotted Woodpeacker.
Others in the group heard and saw several other birds which I eventually caught up with later in the trip on next morning!
After unloading at the hotel we went out again.
We stopped near Sepulveda in the Parque Natural del Rio Duraton to seek out our first target species of Western Orphean Warbler a lifer for some, Bob and I were more than happy to see this little beauty.The Parque entrance track passes across a plateau of superb limestone grassland and scrub. I noted a slight twitchiness with Bob however as his target was the elusive Dupont's Lark! Of this bird not a sound was heard however we met the Park Warden and he gave us a precise location(well a large area it had to be said but at least we knew which way to look!) and said with patience you ought to see one! Well time was getting on and this location had to wait for the morning!
The next morning found us once again seeking the elusive Dupont's Lark. After a long time and a downpour of rain where we sought shelter in the minibus the sun again came out and with it birdsong and the distinctive song of a Duponts could be heard clearly.
Where was the little endangered species? Well we heard and looked and looked and heard but not a sighting was to be had. Many birders dip this bird and I must say i was really glad that I had seen Duponts last year on our way to the Pyrennes. However I was very aware that Bob's target birds were two- one being Dupont's Lark so for our trip to be successful we needed to pin this bird!
Jules spotted a lark on a rock and said quietly - Duponts singing and there followed directions!We all got to see the bird and it proceeded to sing away for an age! In fact so long that I actually was able to get a record shot myself before it disappeared into the surrounding grass!The pic below is not mine but from Jules Sykes.
.jpg)
Back for Breakfast of Coffeee and toast then on to look at the gorge. The river has cut a deep scar through the limestone, in the form of a dramatically beautiful gorge that weaves it’s way through juniper and wild-flower cloaked hillsides.We stopped off the road to view the wildlife. A number of birds were called and plants id...then I spotted a couple of Griffon Vultures sitting under an overhang and posing nicely. Time for some digiscoping and once I have down loaded them I shall post a couple of pics!
Then it was time to leave this area where we could have birded for another day at least!
Oh yes we had wandered around and seen Larks of all kinds ,Southern Grey Shrike and Woodchat Shrikes a plenty with Tawny Pipits galor - heard Dartfords with some seeing the beauty. Above us were Short-toed and Booted Eagles - Two species of Black eared Wheatear with the more common Northern everywhere! Beeaters,Corn Buntings on wires.
Oh yes Spectacled Warbler!
Somewhere I have omitted the stop for coffee in a delightful place whose name eludes me. Stork City would be a good name for it as these delights were everywhere!I shall return to this on another post!
The journey to the Picos was somewhat spoiled as it rained and it poured!
As I re read this and look at my notes I see I have managed to leave out lots of birds from our first day and some delights of the morning of the second day such were the numbers thick and fast of the first two days!
How could I not mention the Golden Oriels, the Hobbies, and Woodlarks? The Egyptian Vulture so magnificent and frankly huge? Hearing Quail again? oh and Hoopoes?
Well along with Sprawk and Chough and a juvenile Rock Sparrow I did...and thats life!
Monday, June 23, 2008
Picos de Europa
Just returned from a week in Espana!
Highlights were a dust bathing Wallcreeper below us at about 3/4 metres and a wing- clapping Honey Buzzard that flew right over us displaying all the features of a Honey and then flew off displaying and tumbling and rising and dipping and windclapping as he went! Superb!
The Wallcreeper was one of two we saw at close quarters - an Adult and a Juvenile. I have never been so close to a Wallcreeper before or seen them flying around so much and then this beauty dust bathing!
Pics are by Jules Sykes of Oliva Rama Tours
Highlights were a dust bathing Wallcreeper below us at about 3/4 metres and a wing- clapping Honey Buzzard that flew right over us displaying all the features of a Honey and then flew off displaying and tumbling and rising and dipping and windclapping as he went! Superb!
The Wallcreeper was one of two we saw at close quarters - an Adult and a Juvenile. I have never been so close to a Wallcreeper before or seen them flying around so much and then this beauty dust bathing!
Pics are by Jules Sykes of Oliva Rama Tours
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Sunday, June 08, 2008
A Raptor day plus a lifer!
I have had serious problems with my pc and this blog!
Hopefully things are back to normal now!
I will be writing up this posting tomorrow as I have been out since just before 6am and got home about 8.45pm so animals need some attention!
Monday morning and another lovely day!
At 6am I picked up Bob and we were at Walker's for breakfast at 7.30.On route past Lakenheath a Hobby flew so close to the car I was glad it wasn't a large van as it would have been no more! Brill views of the marking and feathers could be counted (if I hadn't been driving!)
To the Raptor Watchpoint in Norfolk by 9am and it was overcast and everywhere was wet from yesterday and overnight! It had to burn off soon. At 9.30 we were sitting down all sorted and waiting. I heard a kurfuffle behind me and there was a raptor being harrassed by lots of crows! A very dark Honey buzzard male! He was obviously hunting for a frog or two. Unfortunately the crows forced him upwards and he disappeared into the murk!(9.45)We then were on to a feast of raptors but no more Honey's.Common Buzzards a plenty, 2 Hobbies dashing through, a serene Barn Owl who even perched for us for a while, A Sparrowhawk, a Kestrel and an unknown raptor sp (by now the summer warden was with us...he thought poss. Gos but none of us was able to call it! Then Bob spotted a Red Kite!I saw a dark Marsh Harrier hunting low. There were Greylags with half a dozen or so Egyptian Geese in a field close to what had become a lake (the river!).
Surrounding us was a choir of Skylarks at least 5 pairs...occasionally a male would rise out of the field and hover ever upwards. The sun came out and shone all was well with the world.
We noticed high numbers of Kestrels on our journey- hope they are successful at raising the next generation.
Monty's were calling (in spirit.....) so off we went to seek out a pair. We arrived at location to be greeted by a male perched and preening. The female then flew and picked up a stick and disappeared again.The male gave a lovely view in flight and disappeared.
We were then treated to the lovely male flying over the field we were first looking at and then on to the next. A delightful flying lesson for anyone who cared to watch!
Then.....it was on to seek out the Buff-breasted Sandpiper at Maxey GP's nr Peterbough ( we did consider the Thrush Nightingale at Minsmere but you cant do everything!
I am posting a couple of photo's from Mike Weedons blog hope he doesn't mind...
A very nice bird!
No sign of any Little terns amidst the Commons.
I see today a Greensand was spotted -shame it wasn't there yesterday!
Then to the biggy.
On route home via Tring in Herts!
Earlier we had seen 2 Icterine Warblers reported on the pager. One at Ely another in Herts. We were going to go to see if the Ely bird was still around but as it had only been reported at 6.45 I thought it might have gone and a birder we met at Maxey had been for it and dipped.
We arrived at aptly named Cementry Corner nr to Wilstone Reservoir to massed cars!
We spotted the birders down the road all intently looking into trees and bushes.
Having arrived we were greeted by the Icterine's song very loud too! A case of stand and wait then...a couple near us had been there for 2 hours!The bird was in an Elder.
I spotted a tail as a guy called its there! We waited another while and it sat out briefly but I was in the wrong place to see it clearly -too much foliage to see through! Then it flew and sat up in a tree - burst into song and we were able to really see this glamerous warbler.Shinning even more yellow than any picture as the sun was right on the bird! A really wonderful bird and a terrific sighting! The slate coloured legs, the lores and light supercilium were all noted as well as the panel patch on the wing. Best of all was the crest raised on the head and the movement of the throat as he sang his heart out!
A wonderful feeling!
The couple next to me had met Bob somewhere else recently but she was not able to see the bird right away until I said "take your bins away and look with you eyes!" Strange but true as she immediately saw the bird and then was able to really look at him!Often happens!
We were all very happy - the couple were also seeing an Icterine for the very first time and Bob enjoyed his best ever views of one as well!
I have just found this blog showing photo's of our bird!
http://ashsbirdblog.blogspot.com/2008/06/icterine-warbler-hippolais-icterina.html
I shall ask if I might post a photo on here!Thank you Ashley for permission to use a couple of your photos! Top guy!
Bob and I then went to look at a Black tern as both of us are fond of Terns and particularly Black ones!
Then food called and we drove to Wendover to the Firecrest Pub and very nice it was too!
Well blog is back!
I have enjoyed several lifers in recent weeks none more so than Trumpeter Finch with one in Norfolk and then one for the Sussex list, with Terek Sandpiper also added to the World life list!
My Sussex list is now growing respectable!Sussex has enjoyed a great time recently with megas and rares and scarities left right and centre, including
Alpine Swift and Red-backed Shrike along with Trumpeter Finch and Terek Sandpiper. Almost dare not go too far away....hopeful the Thrush Nightingale may continue on its way southwards!(Dont mind if it lands in Kent or Sussex!)
Looking forward as well to a week in the Picos....birds, butterflies and orchids in fabulous scenery.
Hopefully things are back to normal now!
I will be writing up this posting tomorrow as I have been out since just before 6am and got home about 8.45pm so animals need some attention!
Monday morning and another lovely day!
At 6am I picked up Bob and we were at Walker's for breakfast at 7.30.On route past Lakenheath a Hobby flew so close to the car I was glad it wasn't a large van as it would have been no more! Brill views of the marking and feathers could be counted (if I hadn't been driving!)
To the Raptor Watchpoint in Norfolk by 9am and it was overcast and everywhere was wet from yesterday and overnight! It had to burn off soon. At 9.30 we were sitting down all sorted and waiting. I heard a kurfuffle behind me and there was a raptor being harrassed by lots of crows! A very dark Honey buzzard male! He was obviously hunting for a frog or two. Unfortunately the crows forced him upwards and he disappeared into the murk!(9.45)We then were on to a feast of raptors but no more Honey's.Common Buzzards a plenty, 2 Hobbies dashing through, a serene Barn Owl who even perched for us for a while, A Sparrowhawk, a Kestrel and an unknown raptor sp (by now the summer warden was with us...he thought poss. Gos but none of us was able to call it! Then Bob spotted a Red Kite!I saw a dark Marsh Harrier hunting low. There were Greylags with half a dozen or so Egyptian Geese in a field close to what had become a lake (the river!).
Surrounding us was a choir of Skylarks at least 5 pairs...occasionally a male would rise out of the field and hover ever upwards. The sun came out and shone all was well with the world.
We noticed high numbers of Kestrels on our journey- hope they are successful at raising the next generation.
Monty's were calling (in spirit.....) so off we went to seek out a pair. We arrived at location to be greeted by a male perched and preening. The female then flew and picked up a stick and disappeared again.The male gave a lovely view in flight and disappeared.
We were then treated to the lovely male flying over the field we were first looking at and then on to the next. A delightful flying lesson for anyone who cared to watch!
Then.....it was on to seek out the Buff-breasted Sandpiper at Maxey GP's nr Peterbough ( we did consider the Thrush Nightingale at Minsmere but you cant do everything!
I am posting a couple of photo's from Mike Weedons blog hope he doesn't mind...
A very nice bird!
No sign of any Little terns amidst the Commons.
I see today a Greensand was spotted -shame it wasn't there yesterday!
Then to the biggy.
On route home via Tring in Herts!
Earlier we had seen 2 Icterine Warblers reported on the pager. One at Ely another in Herts. We were going to go to see if the Ely bird was still around but as it had only been reported at 6.45 I thought it might have gone and a birder we met at Maxey had been for it and dipped.
We arrived at aptly named Cementry Corner nr to Wilstone Reservoir to massed cars!
We spotted the birders down the road all intently looking into trees and bushes.
Having arrived we were greeted by the Icterine's song very loud too! A case of stand and wait then...a couple near us had been there for 2 hours!The bird was in an Elder.
I spotted a tail as a guy called its there! We waited another while and it sat out briefly but I was in the wrong place to see it clearly -too much foliage to see through! Then it flew and sat up in a tree - burst into song and we were able to really see this glamerous warbler.Shinning even more yellow than any picture as the sun was right on the bird! A really wonderful bird and a terrific sighting! The slate coloured legs, the lores and light supercilium were all noted as well as the panel patch on the wing. Best of all was the crest raised on the head and the movement of the throat as he sang his heart out!
A wonderful feeling!
The couple next to me had met Bob somewhere else recently but she was not able to see the bird right away until I said "take your bins away and look with you eyes!" Strange but true as she immediately saw the bird and then was able to really look at him!Often happens!
We were all very happy - the couple were also seeing an Icterine for the very first time and Bob enjoyed his best ever views of one as well!
I have just found this blog showing photo's of our bird!
http://ashsbirdblog.blogspot.com/2008/06/icterine-warbler-hippolais-icterina.html
I shall ask if I might post a photo on here!Thank you Ashley for permission to use a couple of your photos! Top guy!
Bob and I then went to look at a Black tern as both of us are fond of Terns and particularly Black ones!
Then food called and we drove to Wendover to the Firecrest Pub and very nice it was too!
Well blog is back!
I have enjoyed several lifers in recent weeks none more so than Trumpeter Finch with one in Norfolk and then one for the Sussex list, with Terek Sandpiper also added to the World life list!
My Sussex list is now growing respectable!Sussex has enjoyed a great time recently with megas and rares and scarities left right and centre, including
Alpine Swift and Red-backed Shrike along with Trumpeter Finch and Terek Sandpiper. Almost dare not go too far away....hopeful the Thrush Nightingale may continue on its way southwards!(Dont mind if it lands in Kent or Sussex!)
Looking forward as well to a week in the Picos....birds, butterflies and orchids in fabulous scenery.
Friday, May 09, 2008
A day in Sussex that ended on Sheppey!
A planned trip to Sussex had to be changed to Thursday.
I left early morning to travel to Midhurst - parking in their free car park i saw a Kestrel hunting in the field...the first of many Kestrels I saw throughout the day.
After a good breakfast I was off- nearby is a good site for Dartford Warblers and on looking from the car park I immediately spotted one! Then there were two - a pair! Unfortunately no sign of Tree Pipit, my other main target here.
On to Pagham - where I saw lots of Terns including among the Commons - Little and Sandwich.Very little off the coast - in fact it was so choppy that I doubt I would have seen anything anyway...just not high enough - a nice tower would be good!
However the sound of a Whimbrel above my head was welcome indeed as was the sighting - my first this year!
Lots of nesting activity.
Wandered around looking in channels abd seeing lots of waders - but nothing new for the year!Where are the green Sandpipers when you want to see 'em?
Then a pair of Turtle Doves flew over.
In the Churchyard a Spotted Flycatcher was catching .....flies!
In to the Visitors centre and found that the most updated list was for Monday - no help there then!
Over to Pulborough - it was a planned visit but helpful that Temminck's Stints I didn't see on Sheppey on Sunday were still being reported as present.
A walk towards Nettley Hide and at Jupp's View I joined another birder who hadn't been there long we were than almost immediately joined by another birder - Common Sandpiper...and then the secong chap said got one! We all got onto one in front of a Canade Goose...then later we spied another two! Great.
I had heard and seen a couple of Nightingales on my way around but still not sight nor sound of a Cuckoo!
As I was leaving Pulborough I looked at the pager- Collared Pratincole- Swale NNR.
This would be a UK Lifer -having seen lots in Espana as well as a very good Kent tick. So by a slight diversion I was on my way home!
Arriving on Sheppey to see said bird hawking for flies! Great!
Many thanks to Derek Faulkner the finder.
Then it was home to try to beat the rush hour traffic.
A fabulous day weather wise and certainly a great day birding wise!
I left early morning to travel to Midhurst - parking in their free car park i saw a Kestrel hunting in the field...the first of many Kestrels I saw throughout the day.
After a good breakfast I was off- nearby is a good site for Dartford Warblers and on looking from the car park I immediately spotted one! Then there were two - a pair! Unfortunately no sign of Tree Pipit, my other main target here.
On to Pagham - where I saw lots of Terns including among the Commons - Little and Sandwich.Very little off the coast - in fact it was so choppy that I doubt I would have seen anything anyway...just not high enough - a nice tower would be good!
However the sound of a Whimbrel above my head was welcome indeed as was the sighting - my first this year!
Lots of nesting activity.
Wandered around looking in channels abd seeing lots of waders - but nothing new for the year!Where are the green Sandpipers when you want to see 'em?
Then a pair of Turtle Doves flew over.
In the Churchyard a Spotted Flycatcher was catching .....flies!
In to the Visitors centre and found that the most updated list was for Monday - no help there then!
Over to Pulborough - it was a planned visit but helpful that Temminck's Stints I didn't see on Sheppey on Sunday were still being reported as present.
A walk towards Nettley Hide and at Jupp's View I joined another birder who hadn't been there long we were than almost immediately joined by another birder - Common Sandpiper...and then the secong chap said got one! We all got onto one in front of a Canade Goose...then later we spied another two! Great.
I had heard and seen a couple of Nightingales on my way around but still not sight nor sound of a Cuckoo!
As I was leaving Pulborough I looked at the pager- Collared Pratincole- Swale NNR.
This would be a UK Lifer -having seen lots in Espana as well as a very good Kent tick. So by a slight diversion I was on my way home!
Arriving on Sheppey to see said bird hawking for flies! Great!
Many thanks to Derek Faulkner the finder.
Then it was home to try to beat the rush hour traffic.
A fabulous day weather wise and certainly a great day birding wise!
Sunday, May 04, 2008
Birding makes you feel good.
I shall not say a lot about London Elections. I am very sorry to see Ken go. Just glad that Labour GLA members held their seats and we actually gained Brent and Harrow.
I was utterly dismayed to see Johnson win and to see the BNP take an Assembly seat.
I wait and see now.
Altho I have to say what a farce is the count. Electronic counting ought to be quicker than hand counting...well I certainly didn't observe that. I have seen exam marking speeded up with electronic counting but that was a farce on Friday!
Felt sorry for the workers who had to do it!
Birding makes you feel good.
Bob and i went to Rutland Water to see the Ospreys nesting there!
We saw the female on her eggs and the male came in with another stick for the nest (the nest is at least 10 feet high!) He perched on the nearby triangle stick and then they cpoulated and then he flew off ...we hoped to fish...but after flying around for 5 mins he perched up on a stump on a tree and watched!
Still a pair of Ospreys!
There were lots of Common Terns about and we managed to find one Arctic. I finally have seen a Swift!
(lots of other birds in fine plumage particularly The great crested grebes!
We then went to Eyebrook Reservoir where we knew there was a Green-winged teal. A nice male to look for so we spotted some Teal and there was the one with the white on the shoulder! We then got the scope on it to look properly!
Here as we drove slowly around the res were hedges full of Whitethroats...we saw at least 30and there were others! The air was full of their songs!
We had views of Hobby here as well.
We dropped in at a couple of other places around Rutland Water. 6 Black terns were also seen....such a pretty bird...I love Terns..
We saw Kestrels and Sparrowhawks and with Osprey and Hobbies we finished with at least 5 Buzzards and a Red Kite.
6 Birds of prey - makes one feel great!
We were enjoying a cup of coffeee and a scone when we spied on the pager
Dotterels in Canbridgeshire....off the A505....so as they were not too far away and we were on our way home.....
Interesting as we walked towards the pea field the pair were reported in I saw a couple walking towards us from the field...yes I recognised a male birder...Daz!
It was good to see him and Katie even if briefly!
Forgot to ask if Katie had managed a pic!
Well the pair of Dotterels were visible on a slight ridge but mainly their heads and when the female looked directly at us we could see her breast band. She was a picture! Thet were very wary. So we didn't stay long as we didn't want to cause them any stress and let them feed.
I see no reports from there today.
A lovely bird!
So what appeared in Kent on our travels a pair of Black-winged Stilts. That clinched where I was going on Sunday (today) I will blog about today later.
I was utterly dismayed to see Johnson win and to see the BNP take an Assembly seat.
I wait and see now.
Altho I have to say what a farce is the count. Electronic counting ought to be quicker than hand counting...well I certainly didn't observe that. I have seen exam marking speeded up with electronic counting but that was a farce on Friday!
Felt sorry for the workers who had to do it!
Birding makes you feel good.
Bob and i went to Rutland Water to see the Ospreys nesting there!
We saw the female on her eggs and the male came in with another stick for the nest (the nest is at least 10 feet high!) He perched on the nearby triangle stick and then they cpoulated and then he flew off ...we hoped to fish...but after flying around for 5 mins he perched up on a stump on a tree and watched!
Still a pair of Ospreys!
There were lots of Common Terns about and we managed to find one Arctic. I finally have seen a Swift!
(lots of other birds in fine plumage particularly The great crested grebes!
We then went to Eyebrook Reservoir where we knew there was a Green-winged teal. A nice male to look for so we spotted some Teal and there was the one with the white on the shoulder! We then got the scope on it to look properly!
Here as we drove slowly around the res were hedges full of Whitethroats...we saw at least 30and there were others! The air was full of their songs!
We had views of Hobby here as well.
We dropped in at a couple of other places around Rutland Water. 6 Black terns were also seen....such a pretty bird...I love Terns..
We saw Kestrels and Sparrowhawks and with Osprey and Hobbies we finished with at least 5 Buzzards and a Red Kite.
6 Birds of prey - makes one feel great!
We were enjoying a cup of coffeee and a scone when we spied on the pager
Dotterels in Canbridgeshire....off the A505....so as they were not too far away and we were on our way home.....
Interesting as we walked towards the pea field the pair were reported in I saw a couple walking towards us from the field...yes I recognised a male birder...Daz!
It was good to see him and Katie even if briefly!
Forgot to ask if Katie had managed a pic!
Well the pair of Dotterels were visible on a slight ridge but mainly their heads and when the female looked directly at us we could see her breast band. She was a picture! Thet were very wary. So we didn't stay long as we didn't want to cause them any stress and let them feed.
I see no reports from there today.
A lovely bird!
So what appeared in Kent on our travels a pair of Black-winged Stilts. That clinched where I was going on Sunday (today) I will blog about today later.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Been a bit busy!
Goodness its ages since I last blogged!
Been doing some birding but mainly its the London Mayor and Assembly elections, that have meant I havent blogged!
When I have been on-line its been to check e-mails,a few other blogs and do data inputting of one kind or another.
Normal service will be resumed at the w/e.
Plan for Saturday will be to go with Bob and watch the Osprey's nesting at Rutland.
Sunday - not sure yet....
Monday - that will be local unless a mega appears- I really dislike Bank Holiday traffic!
If you are in London VOTE FOR LONDON vote KEN on 1st May.
Been doing some birding but mainly its the London Mayor and Assembly elections, that have meant I havent blogged!
When I have been on-line its been to check e-mails,a few other blogs and do data inputting of one kind or another.
Normal service will be resumed at the w/e.
Plan for Saturday will be to go with Bob and watch the Osprey's nesting at Rutland.
Sunday - not sure yet....
Monday - that will be local unless a mega appears- I really dislike Bank Holiday traffic!
If you are in London VOTE FOR LONDON vote KEN on 1st May.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Friday, April 18, 2008
Gwyneth Dunwoody
I heard this morning that sadly Gweneth has died.
The longest serving Woman Labour MP.
A feisty independently minded MP who really came into her own during the Blair Government.She was a great constituency MP. I wasn't a big fan when I first knew her as she was more right wing in those days and I was very left!
But she grew on one!
She was an excellent Chair of the Transport Select Committee and it was to the back benchers that she managed to keep that post when Blair tried his coup in 2001. The Government needed to have a strong Chair in a Select Committee (they might not have agreed!)
A Parliamentarian with an independent mind and spirited...She will be missed.
The longest serving Woman Labour MP.
A feisty independently minded MP who really came into her own during the Blair Government.She was a great constituency MP. I wasn't a big fan when I first knew her as she was more right wing in those days and I was very left!
But she grew on one!
She was an excellent Chair of the Transport Select Committee and it was to the back benchers that she managed to keep that post when Blair tried his coup in 2001. The Government needed to have a strong Chair in a Select Committee (they might not have agreed!)
A Parliamentarian with an independent mind and spirited...She will be missed.
Mottisfont Abbey Garden, House and Estate
Yesterday a trip to Hampshire to Mottisfont
We picked the right day weather wise. As well as a look at the garden and house plus a coffee on arrival and lunch before the 6 and a half mile walk we had a really enjoyable day.
The weather actually improved as the day wore on!
The best part of the day was the 2 and a half hours where we didn't see another walker and the only people seen were a couple of drivers of cars as we crossed a lane!
We had some lovely views of woodland birds- Robin, Blackbird and the usual Tits but also Coal Tits (not usual to see then in London) and close up views of a female Kestrel in a tree, Blackcap pair obviously nesting,Chaffinch and Goldcrests, Great spot woody and Yaffles everywhere (their "Yaffle" that is!) Only Mallards seen on the river....odd I thought.Dunnocks and Wrens everywhere.
Fabulous views of soaring Buzzards.
Corvids a plenty with Rooks being the most scarce , Jackdaws and then plentiful Crows and oddly only the occasional Magpie.
There was a wood (next to part of the Estate) which had a floor full of Bluebells- stretching as far as the eye could see.
Lots of different habitats. The NT are working on bringing in hedges and natural breaks in land- some parts left au natural others coppiced and other areas are cultivated but with wildlife as a priority.
Good to see.
When I have download a few pics...they will be posted.
We picked the right day weather wise. As well as a look at the garden and house plus a coffee on arrival and lunch before the 6 and a half mile walk we had a really enjoyable day.
The weather actually improved as the day wore on!
The best part of the day was the 2 and a half hours where we didn't see another walker and the only people seen were a couple of drivers of cars as we crossed a lane!
We had some lovely views of woodland birds- Robin, Blackbird and the usual Tits but also Coal Tits (not usual to see then in London) and close up views of a female Kestrel in a tree, Blackcap pair obviously nesting,Chaffinch and Goldcrests, Great spot woody and Yaffles everywhere (their "Yaffle" that is!) Only Mallards seen on the river....odd I thought.Dunnocks and Wrens everywhere.
Fabulous views of soaring Buzzards.
Corvids a plenty with Rooks being the most scarce , Jackdaws and then plentiful Crows and oddly only the occasional Magpie.
There was a wood (next to part of the Estate) which had a floor full of Bluebells- stretching as far as the eye could see.
Lots of different habitats. The NT are working on bringing in hedges and natural breaks in land- some parts left au natural others coppiced and other areas are cultivated but with wildlife as a priority.
Good to see.
When I have download a few pics...they will be posted.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Migrants and Water Voles
Well the Internet has been down for over a week and I have been very busy. Some birding and we are in the midst of an Election here in London- so I have been mega busy!
Here is a Water Vole I spied at Barnes!Actually the one with carrots is from a different day and the other water voles we watched for ages and then realised there were two of them!
I have been out and about birding and finding migrants which is always fun !
No sign yet of Cuckoo altho a birding friend of mine text me the other Sat that he had heard one that day! Thanks Pete!
Barnes has become something of a mecca for migrants with Yellow Wagtails, Reed and Sedge Warblers and now today Groppers (Grasshopper Warblers) reeling and slight sitings - as they are real skulkers and Lesser Whitethroats!
Going to Staines early evening to see if any Terns are about.
Friday, April 04, 2008
water Voles!
Barnes this afternoon showed 2 Water Voles with territorial disputes!
Fortunately i was able to get a couple of good shots which i shall post tomorrow!
Sand Martins a plenty - 4 Redshanks and a Ringed Plover...couldn't see the eye ring but I know 2 LRP were on site.
So the sunny day turned out delightfully!
Fortunately i was able to get a couple of good shots which i shall post tomorrow!
Sand Martins a plenty - 4 Redshanks and a Ringed Plover...couldn't see the eye ring but I know 2 LRP were on site.
So the sunny day turned out delightfully!
Memories!
Feel better for that last posting and thinking Swallows....
Forgot to finish off the birding trip to Scotland. Will do later!
The Crane pic did it. Three Cranes in a field near Elgin, a family group. Mum Dad and Juv- and I remembered our 6 Cranes flying in to roost at Stubb Mill in February and the ones that called over our heads at the centre loos!
There is always something to make one feel good!
Forgot to finish off the birding trip to Scotland. Will do later!
The Crane pic did it. Three Cranes in a field near Elgin, a family group. Mum Dad and Juv- and I remembered our 6 Cranes flying in to roost at Stubb Mill in February and the ones that called over our heads at the centre loos!
There is always something to make one feel good!
Need to cheer myself up!
Sometimes you get up in the morning and the sun is shining and the local birds are singing and then you feel kinda down. Well I do have one reason for this but that will stay with me!What I am surprised at is that I usually rise above all this doom and gloom but i didn't this morning. So I did what any sensible person might. I had a very long bath!
I do feel slightly different but I shall think of what i have in store today and tomorrow.
This afternoon I am having a practice manual camera session, with a friend. We are going to Barnes Wetlands Centre...this ensures that some birds stay still long enough for me to attempt a good shot!As Barnes is a local patch for me I shall be on the look out for migrants to add to my year list and I know I shall see Sand Martins- tho I doubt I'll get any shots of them!Still waiting for a Swallow to fly over!(Talons crossed!)
Tomorrow its out to Kent for more photography.We are going to Ashford and I hope to post a couple of shots on Sunday evening.
I really shouldn't let one letdown make me feel a bit down but I do.
I am going to my local patch now for a walk around and see if any migrants have turned up...nearby Osterley - into the Woods.Or once I am in my car it might be to
Stanwell Moor nearby is a farm where Swallows and House Martins nest I wonder if they have arrived?
And just to make me feel better- forget the photo quality think a Crane in Elgin?
I do feel slightly different but I shall think of what i have in store today and tomorrow.
This afternoon I am having a practice manual camera session, with a friend. We are going to Barnes Wetlands Centre...this ensures that some birds stay still long enough for me to attempt a good shot!As Barnes is a local patch for me I shall be on the look out for migrants to add to my year list and I know I shall see Sand Martins- tho I doubt I'll get any shots of them!Still waiting for a Swallow to fly over!(Talons crossed!)
Tomorrow its out to Kent for more photography.We are going to Ashford and I hope to post a couple of shots on Sunday evening.
I really shouldn't let one letdown make me feel a bit down but I do.
I am going to my local patch now for a walk around and see if any migrants have turned up...nearby Osterley - into the Woods.Or once I am in my car it might be to
Stanwell Moor nearby is a farm where Swallows and House Martins nest I wonder if they have arrived?
And just to make me feel better- forget the photo quality think a Crane in Elgin?
Thursday, April 03, 2008
Sussex foray
Burton Mill Pond is a lovely site.
Bob and I went down there to spy the Bittern earlier this year.Following Bob's Easter visit he told me about the Firecrests there.
I was greeted by the sound of a male singing as I got out of my car in the Car Park. It took a while top locate it as the feisty chap whizzed about at the top of a tree.
However I really need not have worried as I spotted a confiding pair exactly where Bob had said on my walk around the Pond!
Lots of lovely birds about but sadly no new year ticks of migrants!
So to Pulborough Brooks for the coffee and loo stop!
A bonus LRP spotted there!
A short stay in Sussex as i had work to do!
Having had some pretty aweful weather since this trip I wish I had gone to Pagham first- still to see Wimbrel and Spotted Red!
Bob and I went down there to spy the Bittern earlier this year.Following Bob's Easter visit he told me about the Firecrests there.
I was greeted by the sound of a male singing as I got out of my car in the Car Park. It took a while top locate it as the feisty chap whizzed about at the top of a tree.
However I really need not have worried as I spotted a confiding pair exactly where Bob had said on my walk around the Pond!
Lots of lovely birds about but sadly no new year ticks of migrants!
So to Pulborough Brooks for the coffee and loo stop!
A bonus LRP spotted there!
A short stay in Sussex as i had work to do!
Having had some pretty aweful weather since this trip I wish I had gone to Pagham first- still to see Wimbrel and Spotted Red!
Friday, March 28, 2008
A few lifers!
A little sally into West Wales and through Somerset to Devon brought its reward.
Black Duck,Rosy-Coloured Starling and King Eider as lifers and an accompanying cast of
Chough, Spoonbill, Long Eared Owl,Franklins Gull and GWE.
A long drive but an enjoyable one with all the country scenery. A really lovely B and B, where they let me go out first thing and return for my breakfast later before my drive back into Somerset and home.
I do like Devon - I say this everytime I venture forth.The people are friendly as well as the incomers. This is no reflection on elsewhere just my thoughts.
Will continue later.
Black Duck,Rosy-Coloured Starling and King Eider as lifers and an accompanying cast of
Chough, Spoonbill, Long Eared Owl,Franklins Gull and GWE.
A long drive but an enjoyable one with all the country scenery. A really lovely B and B, where they let me go out first thing and return for my breakfast later before my drive back into Somerset and home.
I do like Devon - I say this everytime I venture forth.The people are friendly as well as the incomers. This is no reflection on elsewhere just my thoughts.
Will continue later.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
The white-winged gull
Interruption to the daily tales from Scotland. I have now solved the problem of my mysterious white winged gull.
Edit: It appears I haven't!
Birdguides thought it might be a 2nd winter Med Gull.There were no other reports to Birdguides on that date - and it seems as that part of the coast is regularly watched I may be mistaken.So be it - I can only report what I saw, altho I did make notes at the time- for now I shall record it as a gull species.....but as I am not an expert on gulls(never claimed to be) I shall just remember this trip with the mysterious gull unexplained!
I wonder what that gull was?
On my train journey to Aviemore from Edinburgh I was busy watching the outside world.
My first journey on a train on this particular route.
Its a really interesting journey. First through Edinburgh and then along the coast - the north of the Firth of Forth.One travels across the Firth of Forth on the rail bridge as apposed to the Forth Road Bridge. That bridge has been made famous by the story of as soon as they finish painting it they have to start again! I read somewhere that this time they have got some clever paint that means it doesn't have to be done for some time. Must go and find that tale.(Sounds like turkey's voting for Christmas from the companies point of view. I expect the tax payers in Scotland are pleased.)
I digress ....
I was travelling between Inverkeith and Kirkcaldy - birding as I went when we reached Kinghorn Station and we went through very slowly I spotted a flock of Seagulls , mainly Herring Gulls- and I spotted a white winged Gull!
Now I was looking out for different gulls particularly large ones after my recent successes with finding a Caspian Gull and generally watching and seeing a variety of Gulls.
NB note my new hobby is looking at gulls, something I used to find so daunting that I didn't! I waited for friends to say there is a xxxxxxxx and looking ! Very lazy but honest.
Last year I began trying to id - I felt fairly confident with Glaucous Gulls having
been able to see them regularly ...starting from my first juvenile self found on the Isle of Sheppey in 2004.....when it decided to fly over me!
They are so stonkingly big as well!
It has helped birding with Bob who fortunately has been seriously birding for the last 30 years and is very experienced.He helped me find my Caspian in that we were at Dungeness and he had seen the juvenile before I spotted it but he let me find it and go through the salient id features before saying he had seen it! Very helpful learning technik (sic).
This is by way of background.
A birding friend from birding forums BBF and BF also has helped my gull interest! You know who you are Shifty!He recommended a couple of Gull id books.
Back to the WW Gull.
I spotted a very different gull amidst the Herring Gulls, and was thinking Iceland as that was what I was looking for - for my year list. Well this Bird was white all over - so I thought thats no Iceland! So I watched it and noted some details, black legs, white with black spots on the tips of feathers on its wings with a dark face.
Black spots on the tail like a band but not as obvious a band as in birds of prey.
Best description would be like someone had dipped the ends of the feathers in paint! They were not splodged or streaked.
Well that was what i had as notes....I had an overall impression.It was smaller than the Herrings and much bigger than a BH Gull.It appeared to be a "sparky" bird holding its own amid the biggies.I was aware of its black legs.
So what is it?
I searched the Seabirds book at my Hotel but as i was thinking Iceland - I looked there and it defo wasn't that- nothing seemed to fit.
Then I got carried away with the Scottish birding - the Bird Race and visits to Findhorn Valley - but when we saw an Iceland Gull in Aviemore I remembered it all again.
I did not realise the significance of the black legs until Shifty emailed about them!
I returned home and began getting my notes and pics together.
On Thursday I went to Barnes WWT and was in the bins and scope shop when I spied the Gull book....Olsen and Larsson.It looked really good and despite being expensive I purchased it on the recommendation of Shifty!
Later that day I was flicking through the book admiring the photos and the illustrations when I spotted my bird...yes the photo leapt off the page...whats that?
It was an IVORY gull! 1st winter juv. I compared my notes and it was an Ivory! Wow lifer!
Hang on better check what else could it be......couldn't find any other white gull with those black spots in the pattern they were!
Wish I had had my camera for a record shot.
NB I did know what an Ivory Gull adult looked like - it was the juvs I dont remember seeing(noticing on film or in photos).
I was not expecting or looking for an Ivory Gull but I know I have seen one now!
Pleased I am really excited!
Now I want to see an Adult! - in real life I mean!
(Technical points the black was on the primaries, outer wing-coverts and tail feathers.)
By chance i have found a page from someones blog about an Ivory juv and an Iceland Gull in Ayrshire!
http://www.atricillaimages.co.uk/index.php?q=node/2559
Edit: It appears I haven't!
Birdguides thought it might be a 2nd winter Med Gull.There were no other reports to Birdguides on that date - and it seems as that part of the coast is regularly watched I may be mistaken.So be it - I can only report what I saw, altho I did make notes at the time- for now I shall record it as a gull species.....but as I am not an expert on gulls(never claimed to be) I shall just remember this trip with the mysterious gull unexplained!
I wonder what that gull was?
On my train journey to Aviemore from Edinburgh I was busy watching the outside world.
My first journey on a train on this particular route.
Its a really interesting journey. First through Edinburgh and then along the coast - the north of the Firth of Forth.One travels across the Firth of Forth on the rail bridge as apposed to the Forth Road Bridge. That bridge has been made famous by the story of as soon as they finish painting it they have to start again! I read somewhere that this time they have got some clever paint that means it doesn't have to be done for some time. Must go and find that tale.(Sounds like turkey's voting for Christmas from the companies point of view. I expect the tax payers in Scotland are pleased.)
I digress ....
I was travelling between Inverkeith and Kirkcaldy - birding as I went when we reached Kinghorn Station and we went through very slowly I spotted a flock of Seagulls , mainly Herring Gulls- and I spotted a white winged Gull!
Now I was looking out for different gulls particularly large ones after my recent successes with finding a Caspian Gull and generally watching and seeing a variety of Gulls.
NB note my new hobby is looking at gulls, something I used to find so daunting that I didn't! I waited for friends to say there is a xxxxxxxx and looking ! Very lazy but honest.
Last year I began trying to id - I felt fairly confident with Glaucous Gulls having
been able to see them regularly ...starting from my first juvenile self found on the Isle of Sheppey in 2004.....when it decided to fly over me!
They are so stonkingly big as well!
It has helped birding with Bob who fortunately has been seriously birding for the last 30 years and is very experienced.He helped me find my Caspian in that we were at Dungeness and he had seen the juvenile before I spotted it but he let me find it and go through the salient id features before saying he had seen it! Very helpful learning technik (sic).
This is by way of background.
A birding friend from birding forums BBF and BF also has helped my gull interest! You know who you are Shifty!He recommended a couple of Gull id books.
Back to the WW Gull.
I spotted a very different gull amidst the Herring Gulls, and was thinking Iceland as that was what I was looking for - for my year list. Well this Bird was white all over - so I thought thats no Iceland! So I watched it and noted some details, black legs, white with black spots on the tips of feathers on its wings with a dark face.
Black spots on the tail like a band but not as obvious a band as in birds of prey.
Best description would be like someone had dipped the ends of the feathers in paint! They were not splodged or streaked.
Well that was what i had as notes....I had an overall impression.It was smaller than the Herrings and much bigger than a BH Gull.It appeared to be a "sparky" bird holding its own amid the biggies.I was aware of its black legs.
So what is it?
I searched the Seabirds book at my Hotel but as i was thinking Iceland - I looked there and it defo wasn't that- nothing seemed to fit.
Then I got carried away with the Scottish birding - the Bird Race and visits to Findhorn Valley - but when we saw an Iceland Gull in Aviemore I remembered it all again.
I did not realise the significance of the black legs until Shifty emailed about them!
I returned home and began getting my notes and pics together.
On Thursday I went to Barnes WWT and was in the bins and scope shop when I spied the Gull book....Olsen and Larsson.It looked really good and despite being expensive I purchased it on the recommendation of Shifty!
Later that day I was flicking through the book admiring the photos and the illustrations when I spotted my bird...yes the photo leapt off the page...whats that?
It was an IVORY gull! 1st winter juv. I compared my notes and it was an Ivory! Wow lifer!
Hang on better check what else could it be......couldn't find any other white gull with those black spots in the pattern they were!
Wish I had had my camera for a record shot.
NB I did know what an Ivory Gull adult looked like - it was the juvs I dont remember seeing(noticing on film or in photos).
I was not expecting or looking for an Ivory Gull but I know I have seen one now!
Pleased I am really excited!
Now I want to see an Adult! - in real life I mean!
(Technical points the black was on the primaries, outer wing-coverts and tail feathers.)
By chance i have found a page from someones blog about an Ivory juv and an Iceland Gull in Ayrshire!
http://www.atricillaimages.co.uk/index.php?q=node/2559
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Quest for the Surf Scoter
When we were on our "Bird Race" we spent time sea watching on the Moray Firth.
The last time I had seen a Surf Scoter was on the Moray Firth. Not one had been seen there this winter.We did see 110 Common Scoters and several Velvet Scoters.
110! 110 yes that number and very close views too.(As far as my year list went I had already seen both Common and Velvets but certainly not as close views!)
On the third day we went on an exbirdition up the East Coast north of Inverness -
to go onto the Black Isle to look at the other side of the Moray Firth and to wend our way to Dornoch.
Saw this animal and was amazed at its face - not sure if its caught in this pic though- appeared deep in thought!
Not so much snow about here!
We birded our way up the East Coast to Dornoch.What a absolutely stunning Town this is and what a location.
The Cathedral so its a City?
I love to look at Churches where ever I go and sometimes when we are birding it isn't possible so a photo opportunity was not to be turned down!
On to the Target bird of the day!
We got to the coast and the car park to sea watch, at first there appears to be nothing there, then as your eyes get used to the sea and glare and the lumps and bumps you begin to see ......yes black dots and these became Scoters hundreds of them! A velvet but mainly commons and more velvets and mixed up lots of Long tailed Ducks which are a really lovely and striking bird of its own! But we were after a rare a rarity.....search and search and scan and scan....
"Whats this?" No I think I saw it and its gone!
What to look for with a Surf scoter - well you might think its the bill or beak...but in lumpy sea best bet is to look for the white circle on the back of its neck.
We were there scanning...John, Peter, Paul, Bryan (I don't like sea watching)and moi.
When Bryan says I think I have got it...."help" to Peter ...now if you were there you would appreciate this "look in my scope" (Bryan is over 6foot and Peter well he is smaller shall we say!) How Peter managed to look in the scope, see anything and be able to confirm it we dont know but he did!
Where? Eventually we were all on the bird and enjoying views of it.
How did Bryan spot it? Well as often with birding a bit of luck...many birds took off and flew while he was watching them and in the midst a white circle on a neck!
Bryan (I dont like sea watching) was the hero!
NB By the end of the week Bryan was loving it!
Target bird found we could have lunch!
Interesting birds.....well inquisitive and hungry birds well just plain get in there and get their food birds!
Rooks, Hooded Crows and Jackdaws.
One very brave or stoopid Rook pictured here!
On to Embo
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
This is Tulloch Moor.
How I wish I had been able to get into blogger while I was in Scotland and I could have done a daily blog - its so easy to post every day and not leave it until one returns!
We met a lovely working dog called Millie in the woods in Nethybridge. She came up to me carrying a large piece of pine which she had dug up or found! She was wearing her Save and Rescue gear (green and white) and had been working all the previous night in the Cairngorms where they were trying to find a man who was missing.
She was full of beans! Her owner rather tired!
Millie was up for fun and we had some!
It was a privilege to met both her owner and Millie!
Millie is a collie with one ear up and one ear down!
I did mean to keep a dog list but somehow it got forgotten!
But I do remember a Soft coated Wheaten terrier, a Weimeraner (sp?), a Labrador cross and something, who was a real gorgeous beast!
Cairns, Scotties and Westies as one would expect! Dachshunds and Labs and Retreviers.
Plenty of Heinze 57's and rescue dogs.
Surreal experience
We stopped further down the valley on our way out to see if the Golden Eagles would put in an appearance.Conclusion drawn was that it had been too wild and windy and the pair had flown further down!
To the surreal.Bryan spotted a tree trunk and said it looks like a German Officer- see if you can see it? We could!
shortly after this 2 Spitfires flew across the valley. Weird or what?
And I looked across the valley and it looked just like the Russian front where there was a valley and it looked for all the world like the Panzars would come through with their tanks!
It could not go on!
Hahaha - it was like a parallel universe!
To the surreal.Bryan spotted a tree trunk and said it looks like a German Officer- see if you can see it? We could!
shortly after this 2 Spitfires flew across the valley. Weird or what?
And I looked across the valley and it looked just like the Russian front where there was a valley and it looked for all the world like the Panzars would come through with their tanks!
It could not go on!
Hahaha - it was like a parallel universe!
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