We don't make it to The Lodge very often - it's a bit of a drive from our home on the Suffolk coast. However the repeated sighting of one particular bird - which neither of us had ever seen - made a visit a seriously good idea. Especially when there is always a chance of seeing a magnificent raven as well!
After getting tea and snacks from the shop we joined the group of birders who were paying a nearby yew tree a considerable amount of attention. Nothing exciting was yet in view, but I thought I'd snap this female blackbird:
This obliging robin was demanding to be admired as well:
Just then the bird we'd travelled to see made an appearance:
OUR VERY FIRST HAWFINCH!!!!!!!!!!
It stayed for a bit and then disappeared from my sight. Happily, though, another gorgeous bird appeared:
I'm always happy to see a lovely Nutty.
I was a bit worried by the red goo on the side of this great tit's face.
I managed to pick the hawfinch up as it was stuffing its face!
Wow. I've wanted to see a hawfinch for years and this absolutely made my day.
I couldn't resist snapping these riders.
A dear little coal tit.
The Nutties were spoiling me. I probably won't see another one for years!
Er........ the Twelve Days are next week.
I didn't realise The Lodge gets so many bramblings in winter.
What a beauty.
Another brambling, with a greenfinch for company.
Finishing with this expressive blackbird.
Limpy's snaps to follow!
Our herring gulls are red listed birds. Think about that the next time you hear some flaming idiot calling for a cull of them.
Limpy, That is a fabulous collection of photos of truly gorgeous birds--thanks for posting! And I would not call that getting carried away--I'd be happy to see many more photos of each of them! As Hazel says, here is wishing that you and Clare and Helen have a lovely Christmas and I look forward to more wonderful photos from you and Clare in the new year.
Kind regards, Ann
Great pics from you both, hope that you are enjoying a lovely Christmas Day!