Catch

 Tuesday March 29

Buckenham was very quiet this morning. The vast numbers of geese, Lapwings, Golden Plovers and Wigeon have departed. Bathed in a low mist, the marshes have a mystic quality. A male Marsh Harrier ghosted through, three Buzzards hunched on a set of gates, two Cormorants on another. Careful scanning brought several Ruff, Little Egrets, Redshank, Canada Geese and Mute swans into view. Much more difficult were the first Norfolk views of two Snipe asleep behind a clump of sedge, on the large pool near the car park. 

The ducks are so beautiful in early spring, before frazzled parenthood shreds their feathers. Drake Wigeons, with their Bird's Custard mohican head stripe are one of my favourites. Even on a dull day they shine.

Strumpshaw Woods were alive with birdsong. Resident Song Thrushes, Wrens and Blackbirds announcing their territory to incomers, our first Blackcap heralding his triumphal arrival. 

Despite the mini heat wave (Sara would still have her fur coat on), moth trapping has been slower than expected in our garden. A few nice moths though, including having to acquire the skill of identifying moths from the wings left in the trap. Our Wren is to blame, An early riser and unafraid of diving past a hot MV bulb into the trap - and escaping the same way when it's had its breakfast. A lovely Brindled Beauty was the best this morning.

 

Pam's much loved Hellebores (Christmas Roses) are flourishing in the shade behind the well pond.