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!
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.
Great pics from you both, hope that you are enjoying a lovely Christmas Day!