Yet Another Surprise Visitor to Our Garden

12th July 2021

I woke up, opened my eyes and the first thing I could see were two Great Spotted Woodpeckers at the top of our Hazel tree, presumably looking for some early nuts. I laid there for a few moments wondering whether it was worth rushing up and grabbing my camera when one flew off and the other flew on to our apple tree and starting to search for grubs under the peeling bar. This was just too much so up I went and grabbed the camera.

I then quietly unlocked the study window and starting taking some shots. The light was very poor and I was soon on ISO 5000. The bird on the apple tree was an adult female and was tapping away at the bark, trying to dislodge some tasty morels.

It was then joined by the second bird which turned out to be one of her youngsters with its fabulous crimson crown. It certainly knew what to do and was soon pulling some enormous grubs from under the bark.

Well, what a fabulous way to start the day!!!