At last, a long-awaited ringing session when the BBC promised a drop in wind speed with a tiny window of dry weather, the first time Will and I had managed to get to Lee Farm since 20 November, when we caught 49 birds. In the meantime Will kept up the food drops for the local Tree Sparrows and for the Chaffinches which roost half a mile away.
The morning wasn’t nearly as good as promised, with heavy cloud from the off and little bouts of drizzle which turned to rain and then aborted the session at 10am. We caught just 14 birds, 11 new and 3 recaptures from 20 November. New birds: 8 Chaffinch, 2 Tree Sparrow and 1 Great Tit. Recaptures: 2 Chaffinch and a Blue Tit.
After the rain of recent weeks the track proved heavy going, even in wellies.
On the way home I found 2 Buzzards sitting in the rain atop telegraph poles, so fired off a few shots - at ISO1600 again. One of the Buzzards had a comment about the less than ideal morning.
Sue tells me our friendly neighbourhood Sparrowhawk was back in the garden this morning, no wonder there are no small birds about.
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6 comments:
My sentiments exactly Mr. Buzzard!
Funny shot of the Buzzard! I also love the photos of the male Sparrowhawk in your garden in this and the earlier post. Thank you for visiting my blog throughout the year 2011. Wish you have a great 2012. Happy new year!
Cool shots of the buzzard and I love the cute Tree Sparrow!
The Kestrel is beautiful.
My, I should say most certainly a time for the wellies. I have been wearing mine each day due to the creek overflowing where I walk to care for the neighbors wildlife while they are away on holiday.
I get that line from the perched hawks as well;))
Your opening image of the House Sparrow, love that rich colouring of the head feathers.
Happy New Year~
Hi Phil: Best wishes for 2012 & good birding I hope & keep up the
interesting blog.JWB.
Sorry the sparrowhawk has been in your garden to scare the other birds away.
Happy New Year and all the best in 2012!
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