Hawfinches at Bramfield Church

29th and 30th December 2021

Hawfinches have been visiting the Yew trees in Bramfield Churchyard since 2011 and normally number up to eight birds. However the winter of 2017/2018 saw an eruption of Hawfinches into the UK and a record number of 26 birds were seen. This year the first bird was seen on the 17th December and the highest record of just four birds has only been seen on one occasion and most sightings are of single birds.

The light for the last two weeks has been fairly atrocious but I eventually ventured out on the 29th December armed with my trusty camera and a strong torch. One bird appeared after just 10 minutes and perched at the top of one of the ash trees allowing some shots to be taken at ISO-3200.

Another visit was made the next day when it looked as though it might brighten up, although that never materialised, and after an hour this time another single bird appeared at sat up again in the top of another of the tall ash trees. 

All I can say is let us pray for some sunny days so that our photographs can do these magnificent birds justice.