More Otters

Some good sightings of otters on recent tours. This individual was extremely curious of passers-by.

In search of Butterflies

The search for Wood Whites and Black Hairstreaks took us into Northamptonshire on tour this weekend. As well as the target species there was the odd surprise too!

 

A Good Dousing

While waiting for Parrot Crossbill to come down to drink last month a few Common Crossbills attended the puddle at which we were waiting. The still sunny almost warm February day gave an opportunity to sit and wait in relative comfort. I guess when you’re eating something akin to dry Muesli all day a good dousing of water from time to time is essential.

Rushing Water

Water is the lifeblood of our countryside. It attracts all manner of wildlife; indeed it is essential for its existence. One species which is at home around it, particularly fast running water, is the Grey Wagtail.

I called at the mill race this week to photograph the Grey Wagtails nesting there. Given the dearth of fast moving streams and rivers in Norfolk the species is not common in the county.

Above all it was important not to disturb them. The welfare of the birds always comes first. I hung back to watch for a while getting a feel for their habits. I watched from a distance. Both birds, the male and female, were building a nest within the thatched roof of the building and I didn’t want to impede or distract them. I stood at the opposite side of the mill, the sunny side, out of sight. As the birds were leaving to fetch more nesting material they sometimes briefly stood on the sunlit side of the roof to take off. Completely oblivious to my presence they went about their business. It was a delight to be hidden in the shadows and listen to the rushing of the water as a spring dawn bled into late morning.

I managed, after a few hours waiting, to get one or two shots of these beautiful birds.

Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but photographs, kill nothing but time.