Thursday March 17
Overnight rain kept the Cley Visitor Centre's moth trap virtually empty. Always a pleasure to sit on the terrace in lovely sunshine with views of the reserve, and to chat with friends. Time flies by. A Skylark sang thoughout, and there were at least fifteen Grey Herons on Simmonds Scrape. Unable to get up on time, we missed the Peregrine cruising through.
On our way to Morston, Pam asked if I wanted to go and look for Goshawk instead. Not the best time of day to look, early afternoon, but I agreed.
The gateway to Hindolveston's Raptor Watchpoint field was a bit muddy after the rain, but easily driven. .A lone car, boot open, scope and tripod set up nearby, no occupant, was intriguing. He later emerged from the hedgerow tall vegetation, clad in camouflage gear and carrying a massive lens and camera. As soon as we parked, Pam spotted raptors high in the distance. Four Buzzards kept our interest for some time. As did a bird diving into the far line of trees. The friendly birder known as Richard the Hat had drawn up alongside, leaving his vehicle to chat to the camera man. A shout alerted us to a Goshawk appearing from the right before diving into the trees. Not brilliant views but good enough.
The next, and definitely more exciting views, were of three Bullfinches in the hedge, two males and a female, industriously and very delicately nipping new hawthorn growth buds. As Richard said, when they were perscuted for disbudding fruit trees, there were always plenty of fruit on the trees later. They are one of the birds I find breathtaking every time I see one. The males are so beautiful. Seldom have I been able to scope them at work, as I did today - for at least twenty minutes - before tearing ourselves away.
The photos are only fit for my year folder until something better comes along.
A few more 'new for the year' NFY moths
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| Double-striped Pug |
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| Small Quaker |
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| Twin-spotted Quaker |
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