With long nights and short days, especially cold and wet ones, the camera never seems to get quite so much of a battering in winter. Some of our favourite subjects are tucked up safe in bed, some are simply harder to find, especially in the blustery winds we have been getting recently. However, it did strike me that I've been a bit remiss in putting up a thread in the past month or so, I certainly wouldn't want anyone to think the wildlife's all vanished!
Bird-wise, the ducks are still ruling the scrapes and a bit of winter sunshine highlights the colours on this Shelduck - everything's getting ready for spring and it's essential to look your best at that time
It's important not to miss the obvious though, friendly Robins are always nearby
and low-flying geese can get you worried - one day it'll come straight into the hide!
In the reedbeds, there is that ever popular masochistic birdwatcher's task of Snipe Spotting
Hang around long enough though, and you may be lucky to see the otters
Bluetits enjoyed the BGBW cake left out for them (until the badger stole it overnight!)
Elsewhere in the woods, Great Tits were investigating the nest boxes, looking for desirable accommodation
And the squirrels were building up their duvet for the cold nights
There are still plenty of deer around too, if you keep your eyes open. Some of the stags are starting to lose their antlers, but most are still pretty magnificent, like this chap out the back of the reserve
The days are lengthening slowly, it won't be long before the turning seasons speed up activity!