Not enough time today to venture too far afield so decided to pay a couple of local sites a visit. First stop was Bramfield Churchyard, famous for its wintering Hawfinches. No sign yet as they don't arrive until early January, except for last year when there was a national invasion. No, the reason for my visit was to try and photograph the Redwings that feast on the berries of the numerous Yew trees. The first thrush to appear was a Mistle Thrush.
The berries were also being enjoyed by the local Jay.
But the target bird today was the Redwing of which there were many commuting from the Old Rectory garden to the churchyard. What can beat a photo of a Redwing against a back-drop of Yew berries?
Now on to Amwell in the hope of getting another glimpse of the Bittern. In the White Hide the usual suspects were parading up and down including these Gadwall, Wigeon and Shoveler.
A Great Crested Grebe was also lurking just off the reedbed alongside a Heron.
Back at the viewpoint the Bittern had not been seen all morning, but did eventually make an appearance to enjoy the low winter sun.
It kept motionless as usual for a while, but then jumped up with much shaking of the head and flapping of wings. Still don't know what that was all about, but it did make for some good photography
Well that was a successful morning and also managed to tick off a couple of other targets, Paul Trigg and Bill Last, but they didn't perform like the Bittern.
I agree the Redding amongst the few berries is a beautiful sight, somehow very feztive. Lovely pics as always Alan.
ReplyDeleteThanks Pam.
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