Hi There
I had a great 'open' day a the RSPB Headquarters - though the weather was dull and wet.. We parked at the car park and the bird sound was very apparant to us. As we we walked to the RSPB shop we saw a Nuthatch sitting on the feeders outside next to the sitting area. Super to see one so close up as we did.
Lots of Goldfinches flew above our heads as we walked up the path to the RSPB shop. The Goldfinches landed inn the nearby trees in a group - making all the tinkling noises as they moved about. Never tire of their calls.
As we walked to the Lodge, past the birdhide, a Jay flew past us in a rush. It squawked a couple of times before disappearing amongst the conifers in the distance. I wish i had got a better look at it. A Yaffle sounded closeby from a Green Woodpecker, then a couple of calls form a Great Spotted Woodpecker. The area seemed to be full of bird song and lots of bird activity. Lots of Robins singing to state their territories. It was although the woodland was echoing with bird song - yes finally Autumn is here.
We had a chat to one or two people that we already knew, and spent a lot of our time watching the birds being ringed at the ringing marqee. It was great to see professional bird ringers doing their job, and it is a valuable one too.
It was super to see the birds so close up and personal. The Blue Tits where very annoyed at the fact that they where being ringed at all, +and spent their time trying to chew peoples fingers (ouch) They certainly let you know how they felt and they where having none of it!
Blue tits where the most 'popular' bird along with the Coal Tit and a Female Chaffinch or two. Two robins looking as handsome as ever. Then A Nuthatch was caught in the mist net, and it was so interesting to see it close up and what a beautiful little birds. The colouration else something else to see. I did not realise they have white spots on a Brownish background under their tails. The colours under the bird are just as beautiful to look at.
This is the first time I have seen birds being ringed, and I would love the chance of being able to see it again in the future.
Just a great experience indeed, and well done to all the people who organised the event!!!
Pictures to follow
Regards
Kathy and Dave
Great Pictures of the nuthatch!
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Blackbird, what a wonderful experience to have taken part in. Just watching our nuthatch whilst looking at your photograph. Your enthusiasm comes through your writing and therefore made it a joy to read. Thankyou.
Hi everyone
Thank you for your kind comments here.
MarJus: I hope that there is a RSPB place closeby to where you stay, and it would be a bonus if it was as close as Sandy is to where we stay.
Martin: Thank you for your comments about the Nuthatch photo. Yes he was a super looking bird and ti find out about him via his plumage was another experience. I was told he is a rare catch in the ringing department. One of 3 birds over the years.
Brenda: Thank you once more for your kind comments about my report. I am really flattered with what you have said to me {smile}
Just love my birds!
Unknown said: Blackbird, what a wonderful experience to have taken part in. Just watching our nuthatch whilst looking at your photograph. Your enthusiasm comes through your writing and therefore made it a joy to read. Thankyou.