What a lovely day after all the recent snow! I was glad to get out after the best part of the week cooped up with a cold. Fresh air's a great decongestant! Wasn't sure what to expect either but I was certainly tempted by the thought of water rail. I have a memory from my distant youth (a Young Ornithologists trip I think) at the North Gare when a water rail flew inland, this great carrot of a bill coming straight at us! Since then I could probably count on one hand the number of times I've seen one. So two in front of the hide, pottering around happily was wonderful.
I couldn't believe how much of the reserve was ice still - but it had the benefit of bringing the birds in - don't suppose I'll see skylark that close again for a while. And reed buntings were just so easy to creep up on. Really really good. I know there were plenty people around with better cameras but I'm still thrilled with some of the shots I got and I'll post some in the gallery and on facebook as soon as I can.
All the best,
Alyson
Hi Alyson,
Thanks for your message. Not many visitors use the forum yet, but let's hope that more and more of you do.
I'm glad that you made the most of the weekend. This has been one of my favourite times at Saltholme. The snow is stunning, the wildlife is closer than ever and the perfect light has added a different dimension to things.
Your water rail picture on facebook is top. Do you mind if I steal your 'great carrot of a bill' description? I love things like that. Someone I work with said that the yellow patch on a wigeon's forehead looks like a chewy banana sweet. I promptly went and bought a jar full of banana chews for everyone to enjoy. Might have to buy a bag of carrots tomorrow ...
Anyway, we really want to encourage more photographers to make the most of Saltholme, so do keep posting your shots.
Ben.
In reply to Ben Calvert:
Hi Ben,
Yes you can use the phrase! I can't swear that it's an Alyson original - may have pinched it from elsewhere.
I think it was Chris Packham said Wigeon colours were not co-ordinated - I disagree, I think they're the most stunning array of colours. Not sure of the banana sweet though!
And on a separate tack - who'd have thought Moorhens and bananas. Good quick energy though.
See you soon I hope,
Alyson.