Odds & Sods 2023

I was a bit worried because 2 hogs made a bee line to where the food would normally be and then sniffed about the station but didn't go in. But luckily later on two did venture into it. Hopefully the others will learn that food awaits inside.

Little Ringed Plovers have been breeding successfully for many years on the ex-quarries and reserves around Finchampstead. Even when the quarry was operational. Birds, I find, aren't worried about dirty great big hulking machines, clanking around them. They have realised they are relatively safe. It's only when humans pop out of the machines to the birds disappear pronto.

Anyway, no machinery around these birds as all restoration work has halted for the breeding season.

The birds were some 50m from a relatively footpath - mostly frequented by bird watchers, dog walkers and joggers. Though breeding wise, their nests are much further away from the footpath.

First, some context of where the bird was. This area is still being restored, but is about 95% complete.

Cropping out remainder. Annoyed with self, as didn't take monopod. Had to use wobbly fence post for support, with intervening vegetation making life difficult for me.

Call me Narcissus. This bird spent ages staring at its reflection.

Young red deer practicing for the rut on the moors this morning. It's a little easier and safer when you don't have the big pointy things on your head..... maybe in a few years time they will be up for it properly but no harm in getting your technique down pat,

Nice ones Angus.  I Like the one looking at itself ...

Well captured Bob. As you say it's a bit safer practicing now while they are too young to hurt each other ...

Oh yes Stephen the rest will find it!! They have a an acute sense of smell. I moved the food about quite a few times before I set up the permanent station, and every time the hogs found it, so no need to worry

Fabulous catch Bob! Well done! What an amazing sight to come upon.... thanks for sharing this with us

Goldfinches taken today at Kilnsey