Ullswater diaries. Day 4. Part 1. Circular walk taking in Pooley bridge, rooks and swallows. Red Squirrel watch continues

After a couple of days of moderately strenuous walks, we decided on our usual 'rest' day. We could walk virtually all the way from where we were staying to Pooley bridge on footpaths, and thence return via River Eamont and other footpaths.

Firstly, if you want to be virtually guaranteed to see Red Squirrels then visit the ground of the Shap Wells Hotel in Shap. I learnt this from the Penrith and District Red Squirrel Group when I sent them photos of the Reds we spotted. They like to be informed of Red Squirrel sightings.

A genteel start with a subject that was happy to remain still as it soaked up the morning sun.

We found our way blocked by a belligerent goat, on watch duty as its comrades noshed by the side of the road.

Zooming in for this uncropped photo

Weather conditions were fantastic for walking (mainly overcast, light winds, reasonable temperatures), but not so good for photography. I'd lugged my long lens with me in the hope of photographing the myriad of birds we could hear and see flitting around us. Most, however, stayed out of range or hidden in trees or undergrowth. Except some rooks, in a field, who still remained tantalisingly distant, necessitating cropping to get close ups.

Background clutter made for difficult BIF photos. AI tracking was easily fooled, but occasionally worked well.

More heavy duty cropping.

I haven't seen any rooks where we live. Mainly, I reckon, because I'm not looking in the right place. Carrion crows and Jackdaws are what we usually see. Therefore it was pleasant to see rooks.

I think this one is a Carrion crow.

I was happy for there to be a robust fence between me and this cow and calf.

And this one.

Some swallows posed for us on various wires

Still needing extreme cropping and a bit of sharpening.

90% luck, 5% field craft, 5% camera skills.