Monday, July 20, 2009

As this was a nice fine evening, after work we took a walk along the same route I did yesterday morning. We fed the Swans and remaining cygnets and all seemed well.

Down in the wood a small patch of Enchanters Nightshade caught my attention, its the first time I've seen this plant up here.

Then down to the Howick Burn Mouth where a large flock of 500+ Black headed Gulls had gathered on the sands along with a few terns including a single, black billed Roseate. A further scan traced an adult summer Mediterranean Gull. I might have gotten some shots if they hadn't been put up by dog walkers.

On the way back home a steady movement of Swifts flew south to avoid the thunder clouds approaching from the west...

At 10pm we walked Bunty along the lane to the road ends. The Barn Owl flew from Village Wood into the garden of the Old Rectory B&B and a Grasshopper Warbler was in full 'reel' in the wood clearing. I wonder if its the bird from the pond field or a new arrival. Maybe it hasn't been able to find a mate at its first stop?

4 comments:

abbey meadows said...

I find Enchanters nightshade almost impossible to photograph as the ones around here are always in deep shade and the flash doesn't do them justice.

Stewart said...

There were only a few and some had gone over so they weren't worth the trouble really...

Warren Baker said...

I often wonder about ''late'' singing birds stewart. Maybe your gropper was on for a second brood ?

PS ....and if I have to stay up till 10pm for a gropper ive no chance!!!

Stewart said...

I pondered that too Warren but I'm not sure it ever bred? Certainly not in the place it was singing but maybe nearby? A great dusk time sound when the air is still and all is quiet...