A good night's sleep and I was rocking 'n' rolling this morning!

Up bright, bushy tailed & ready to do my head count after a better night's sleep (thanks to 2 glasses of red no doubt!). I even managed to do the housework today (which I hate) singing & dancing throughout (much to the Abbot's dismay)!
Feeders stocked, worms from compost bin in full view... no point in wasting time... so let's get down to it: Blackbird 6, Dunnock 2, Starling 9, Songthrush 1, Blue Tit 2, Robin 1, H Sparrow 7, Coal Tit 2, Gt Tit 2, Blackcap (F), Chaffinch 4, H Gull 8 (& making strange howling sounds - bizarre!), Woodpigeon 4, Carrion Crow 2, Magpie 4, L T Tit 2, Goldfinch 2, Greenfinch 1 (same as the Abbot as he still has that snail?? on his cheek), Goldcrest 1, Firecrest 1.
Now, I have put up a shot of my Firecrest today & yes, I am useless at photography & it won't get any better I suspect, so if you don't like bad photography, don't look, but its your loss! I will get a perfect shot - all good things come to those who are patient!
I added to my day list when travelling through Par with: Jackdaw 9, Pied Wagtail 1, C Dove 2 & at Tesco... believe it or not... Mallard 2!
The Blackbirds are becoming too familiar. I don't mind them around my feet, but one shot around the corner of the house this morning at break-neck speed, heading straight for one of the bird tables. Having picked up some suet pellets he headed for my face at what seemed to me to be even speedier than his arrival. Seated with my back against the wall and no-where to go... for that split second I prayed he would find a steering wheel! He did, I am pleased to say!
The Magpies were also playing a dangerous game... 4 of them came down in the trees directly in front of me in what could only be described as a riot. I saw one go down & after a lot of squawking, 2 flew away. The fourth obviously did not want to leave.. to say he was bothered was an understatement. After what seemed like hours... the grounded one (which I thought may be injured and considered climbing the fence for!) flew up... & off they went. Phew!
Off out and about tomorrow and I can't wait for my next slice of action - let's hope its all I dream of!
Early to bed... early to rise Abbot x

Firecrest in the garden this afternoon... by me... (yeah, I know the photography is bad, but I had to get him up again... he could be gone tomorrow)!

My view from the garden at dawn today

More Gulls

Larus argentatus

Gulls photographed at Par freshwater pool.

Dawn... Dusk...

My first bird this morning was a Robin at 3.09am, and singing for his soul by the sound of it!
Having been awake at 1.30am, 3.09am, 4.14am & 5.20am, I got up at 6.15am feeling like a zombie (and looking like one no doubt, but no-one was to witness the event thank goodness)!
Nevertheless, I decided to give the birds a treat this morning and dived into the compost bin for a handful of fresh juicy worms! They don't last long and I felt a bit cruel, but hey-ho I thought, that's the circle of life - at least they had my nice warm compost bin to enjoy when they were here and its all for a good cause!
Feeders full and seated with tea (and juice for the long haul!), notepad, pen and bins I started the count: C Crow 2, Wood Pigeon 2, Blackbird 5, Gt Tit 2, Dunnock 2, H Gull 2, Blackcap (F) (she has Greta Garbo eyes!), Robin 1, H Sparrow 6, Magpie 2, elusive Wren (heard), Chaffinch 4, LT Tits 2, Starlings 6, Blue Tit 2, Coal Tit 2 (and more interested in feeding today - obviously exhausted by yesterday’s shenanigans!)
Also had the Firecrest & Goldcrest, but not together! (I wonder how much longer they will be here to enjoy?).
The Songthrush was also serenading with that unmistakable varied repertoire, which I have become so familiar with.
I noticed the Squirrel over in the high trees causing a stir with the Carrion Crows. He made his way across to my garden, flying most of the way in mid air. He fed for around 15 minutes.
A Bee bumbled by in a sloshed kind of fashion! (A bit like the Abbot if he has a second glass of ruby!). My first Bee this year - promising.
I also noticed the midges about, so it is definitely getting milder. I think one bit me on my cheek. (on my face of course!)
I also added to the day list (at work and about): Jackdaw 2, F Pigeon 30+, Pied Wagtail and H Gull (lots).
As I draw to a close, I have to refer to tonight's heading. We always talk of how wonderful the dawn chorus is (and it is, especially at this time of year), but as I was walking my dog this evening, later than usual, the dusk chorus of mainly Blackbirds and Robins, was so enchanting. I meandered home thinking of that sweet reunion of strangers in the trees and bushes tonight as they roost and huddle up for warmth.
I am now relaxed, having put the working week behind me and looking forward with excitment to my weekend of birding!
I bet I won't sleep again, but who cares. There is so much to look forward to!

Our feeders

2 tall bird tables, 2 open trays on the fencing, 2 suet logs, 1 suet square, 1 suet ball holder, 1 lantern (rarely used), 1 Niger seed feeder, 1 peanut feeder, 1 sunflower/hemp seed feeder, 1 mixed seed feeder, and not forgetting.... the floor!

Greenfinch

Carduelis chloris

We welcome the return of the Greenfinchs after two months of non appearance.

Changing the feeder to a more robust one and also adding a specialist Nyger Seed Feeder has had the anticipated results with the return of both Goldies and Greenies.

Another regular feeding bird conspicuous by its absence is the Song Thrush... now they just sing from the treetops (so I am informed) but do not feed anymore. Hopefully we can entice them back to the garden again.

Male & Female Chaffinch

Fringilla coelebs

Male birds tend to be more colourful than their female counterparts.

The night sky has long since fallen....

but... the earth is still alive... in my garden anyway.
Over the last few evenings I have noticed changes at night. Whereas during winter 'night' really means night and all fall's silent after dusk, now there is life! I have only ventured out for stolen moments each evening (with tonight being no exception), but every time I have been fortunate enough to hear a lone Blackbird making a fuss in the bush, which is covered in ivy. I know he's not alone though! Surrounded by companions I suspect, huddled up to keep warm, and at dawn they will venture out to become strangers, dualling for their mates.
I also hear the feint cries of what I think are mice.
Soon the Robins will be singing at 11pm and throughout the night... keeping me awake in anticipation for morning and wondering how they manage to stay awake throughout the day and be such adequate parents to their young!

Spring bloomers... Kiss-chase... All in a day...

Before I get to the most important subject of watching birds I just have to mention the other little things that make my time in the garden so pleasant. From where I am seated in the morning I cast my eyes upon the signs of Spring in abundance. The Rosemary in my herb area is in flower. In my Woodland Glen are delicate Crocus, Snowdrop and Primrose in full bloom. All around me, Polyanthus bursting with exotic colours, along with Narcissi and Daffodil. When I glance at them my heart dances. (Sorry... its that romantic thing again!).
Enough of that and back to birds.
4.16am - I woke to hear 2 Robins singing... I lay still to listen and ponder on the images of them in my mind.
Not having slept much, at 6.20am I was out filling the feeders and I discovered this morning what a dangerous job it is. I heard a commotion and looked up to see the silhouettes of about 8 Blackbirds bombing towards me at record breaking speed and screaming like banshees! They flew passed, narrowly missing my head and crash landed in the bushes (still screaming and making a fuss). Its like watching a game of Rugby! Eventually they burnt themselves out and the garden was once again peaceful. I wonder if that’s what its like having kids!
What a lovely morning was my thought, as I sat in my favourite watching spot (a little further away from the house than usual in a bid to avoid more splats on my head!).
My list began: Blackbird 8, Carrion Crow 2, Robin 1, Woodpigeon 4, Magpie 3, H Gull 2, Dunnock 1, Blackcap (M & F), Gt Tit 2, Starling 9, Chaffinch 2, H Sparrow 8, Coal Tit 2, Goldfinch 4, Songthrush 1, Blue Tit 1, LT Tits 2, Jay (heard & saw the silhouette), Bullfinch (heard), Firecrest 1 (still here and making my day).
There were also 2 Coal Tits, definitely mating; Flitting around as if dancing on air... I remember that feeling... just about! I managed to follow them with my bins and that's an achievement because they move so fast when they are excited! It would be nice to catch on film I thought to myself, and they really do look like they are playing kiss-chase.
Sorry - no more romance, I promise.
The Mouse arrived to clear up the suet droppings. Save’s me having to watch the dog when she's in the garden. She’ll eat anything. I’m sure that’s what was making her ill!
Then came the Squirrel - he fed for about 20 minutes - and what did he come for? No, not the Abbot’s nuts, but my berry suet. Coupled with the Starlings I’ll be going bankrupt buying those pellets! Time for work :-(
At lunchtime I sat in the garden for 10 minutes and had: Blue Tit 1, LT Tit 4, Blackbird 4, Starling 3, Gt Tit 2, Robin 1, Dunnock 1, Coal Tit 2, Chaffinch 2, Woodpigeon 1, H Sparrow 3 and Firecrest.
Saw 2 Jackdaw on the way back to work.
The Abbot informs me that he has added to the day list with: Greenfinch (feeding) and Goldfinch (feeding).
Watching birds requires dedication, passion and time in abundance. Regretfully, I do not have the latter, but I make up for it with the other two!
Its all in a day.

Gull

Larus argentatus

This one will not be hanging around the Curry House in future!!

Gorse

The Gorse is still there but the Stonechat is in a different Parish.

Accidental spillages.... Calculated aiming....

It was milder in the garden this morning so I settled in with my tea and started off with: Blackbird 5, Carrion Crow 2, Robin 2, Woodpigeon 4, Chaffinch 4, Songthrush 1, Magpie 3, H Gull 3, Gt Tit 2, Bullfinch (heard), Starling 12, Dunnock 2, Blackcap (F), Jay 1 (high in trees), Coal Tit 2, H Sparrow 6, Blue Tit 1, LT Tit 2 (chattering away as usual).
I also saw what I thought was another Carrion Crow coming over… I waited and listened… and then it called out as it went over my head… a Raven! Fabulous, I thought.
A bit later, 2 Carrion Crow and 5 Magpies were having a ding-dong up in the tree. It was starting to irritate me a little, so having finished my tea (due to the fact that I’m spending a lot more than 20 minutes in the garden in the mornings) I decided to get some orange juice and wait for them to settle down (BIG mistake!). As I returned the Woodpigeons had joined in (all 4 of them... refereeing I guess). Eventually the Magpies submitted and left the scene. At last I thought... a white flag and peace at last! I reached out for my juice and… (it must be my age or the fact that I was staring up at the birds) I missed my mouth and accidentally spilt it all over my bins! Now, there’s nothing worse than having juicy bits in your bins! Next time I’ll get ‘smooth’! As I’m cleaning out my bins and thinking to myself… “Why am I doing this”… I felt a gentle, but definite splat on top of my head! Hand on head by now, I glanced up to see a H Sparrow peering down at me from the guttering... I’m absolutely sure he was grinning at having made a very accurate and calculated aim! Well, that's two so look out for the third I thought to myself.
On the brighter side, the Firecrest is still with us after all. He turned up for a feed this morning and has been seen again throughout the day.
On the way to work in the car (listening to the Abbot chuntering about his digiscoping ideas) I had: H Gull 5, Blue Tit 1, H Sparrow 5, Jackdaw 2, C Dove 1, Magpie 1.
At lunchtime at home I had: LT Tit 2, Robin 1, Bullfinch (M), Blackbird 5, Chaffinch 2.
On the roof at work: H Gull 6, F Pigeons (lots and thankfully, behaving themselves today!).
No birding on the way home - the Abbot was chuntering again and it had been a long day!
I am now drawing up the plans for my special plan! All will be revealed in good time.
The Abbot has informed me that he has had 2 Greenfinch in the garden today (well, I informed him they were in fact Greenfinches when he showed me the shots he'd taken. He had convinced himself that they were not in fact Greenfinch or Siskin, but something rare!!! - I wish).
I love birding (and the Abbot)!

Coal Tit, GreatTit and Blue Tit

Parus ater

Parus major

Parus caeruleus

The Great Tit seems to me to be an awkward bird to digiscope in our small garden with the dark copse as a backdrop. I am hoping better images will appear in the future.

Unlike the DSLR the tripod held scope is virtually impossible to pan with fast moving action so a different technique is called for.

Coal Tits with their fast darting sorties are a case in question. It all comes down to anticipation with a good slice of experience.

Early Bird..... Naughty Pigeons!

There was an early bird in the garden this morning - Me! My 20 minutes in the mornings has become an hour and a half… I have a very addictive nature! It was still dark, but I could just about see the silhouettes of 5 Blackbirds in the tree branches.
I had: H Gull 3, Woodpigeon 4, Carrion Crow 2, Robin 3 (one singing to the left, one singing to the right and one feeding in front of me!).
I also heard the feint and distinctive song of a Bullfinch.
Blackbird 6, Songthrush 2, Starling 4, Magpie 2, H Sparrow 6, Coal Tit 2, Chaffinch 4, Gt Tit 2, Dunnock, Goldfinch 4 (they were heading down to feed, but something spooked them - probably me!), Blackcap 3 (2 M and 1 F - flitting around together in the bushes along the stream), Long Tailed Tit 4, Blue Tit 2, Goldcrest 2 (yes, 2 and I am 100% sure). No Firecrest (I fear I have seen the last of him).
The Abbot reckons he has seen a Siskin again today - I will believe it when I see it with my own eyes (no offence Abbot, but remember the telegraph pole at Stiths)! Also a Greenfinch (ditto, although you have seen a lot of Greenfinches).
On the way to work I had: Carrion Crow 2, C Dove 1, Goldfinch 1, Woodpigeon 7, H Gull (lots), Blackbird 4, Long Tailed Tits 4 (in the Churchyard opposite my office in the centre of town!).
Lunchtime at home I had: Coal Tit, Blackcap (F), Blue Tit, Blackbird 3, Robin 2, Magpie, H Gull 2, Dunnock 2, Bullfinch (1 feisty male chasing the Dunnocks off the feeder). At this time of year, we start putting out Hemp Seed as the Bullfinch seem to like it, along with the Sunflower Hearts.
When I looked out of my office window I saw two F Pigeons doing the unspeakable… You’d think they’d find somewhere a little more private! Viewing them from the balconies were: H Gull 12 and more F Pigeons 7. Mind you, I had the best seat in the house!
I am still busy making plans for something special, which I hope will mean we can enjoy birding even more!
I love birding!

Great Spotted Woodpecker (Male)

Dendrocopos major

Have a look at the claws on the Woodpecker.

A promising start to the day in the garden

Monday morning hits hard, as always, but with a new visitor!

The weekend now just a distant (very pleasing) memory and I was up bright and early this morning, but not such a good head count as usual and in any event, I have a lot on my mind, so I have not been so dedicated today. The reason... I am making plans for a very important event. Still, I've not done too bad. Due to the low head count I left my notepad out on the kitchen table today. Off I went to work saying to the Abbot and my mother "if you see anything, jot it on the pad for me". So, I shall start by telling you that the Abbot and my mother did not jot anything on my pad and when I enquired the Abbot said.... wait for it... "2 Collared Doves and 2 Coal Tits"... my mother said "4 Blackbirds - fighting"... now I say... "That's dedication for you"!
In the garden this morning I had: Carrion Crow 3, Blackbird 6, Robin 1, Gt Tit 2, Woodpigeon 4, H Sparrows 7, Blue Tit 1, Songthrush 2, Starling 12, Blackcap 1 (F), Dunnock 1, H Gull 2, Magpie 3, Chaffinch 4, Long Tailed Tit 2, Goldfinch (heard only).
Now to the new visitor: a Mouse! Cute little fella and doesn't seem to mind me sitting there with my cuppa. (Don't tell my mother Abbot - she'll do her nut!).
At work on the roof I had: Jackdaw 3, F Pigeon 40+, H Gull 18 (two of which are nest building in the favoured position, which will be ideal for digiscoping). I also had the tail-less Pied Wagtail, which I saw last week.
When walking the Wuffa this evening I saw: Magpie 7, Blackbirds 6, Gt Tit 2, Blue Tit 1, Robin 1, Woodpigeon 4, Goldfinch 4, Goldcrest 1.
Now, my friend at work, Fran, came in to work all excited to tell me she'd had a Nuthatch this morning. She's my new recruit. Told you it was addictive Fran! I want a Nuthatch in my garden :-(
I still love birding!

Siskins in the garden last year taken by Angie with the faithful Fuji!

Our Life Lists are moving.. albeit very slowly and really do need a shot in the forward direction. Yesterday's duo was courtesy of Steve Rogers as Angie has already mentioned in her write up.
So.. where do we go next?
Seawatching is certainly on the agenda and as of now we have no Shearwaters, Petrels, Auks, Skuas.Loons and only the Common Tern and a few popular Gulls... but this will go on the back-burner till later in the year when hopefully we can join an experienced watch.
With spring looming I think it will be the Heathlands ,Woodlands and the local Moors for our Little Brown Jobs.

Turnstones. Newlyn Harbour

Arenaria interpres

Photographed at Newlyn Harbour.

The one is heavy with bling ... yellow,red and purple rings. Does anyone have any information or know why it is so heavily ringed?

Glad it was not a Fulmar.

Larus argentatus

Marazion Car Park.

A little bit here.... and a little bit there....!

Well, as you can see from the title today I had a little bit here and a little bit there and I have to say it was very enjoyable... the best for a while.
Before I start I would like to say that when I go out watching birds I meet some really nice people. They are helpful and always willing to lend a hand to amateurs like myself. Thanks to them I continue to enjoy watching birds.
I did a head count in the garden this morning. but if I do that separately I am in danger of droning on even more than usual, so I have decided to include all the birds I have seen today in one count. I started in the garden early, and then we drove to Marazion (head counting all the way as I am a passenger). On to Penzance, Newlyn, Mousehole, Drift Resevoir, Hayle Estuary and finishing up at Stithians Resevoir (which is one of my favourite places).
I had 60 species today, but this includes 2 possibles. Here's my list:
5 Little Grebe, 2 Great Crested Grebe (fab), 9 Cormorant, 2 Little Egret, 1 Grey Heron, 8 Mute Swans (one of which flew over the A30 at Hayle), 2 Pink Footed Goose (a newby for my life list and a BIG thank you to Steve Rogers from South West Optics for pointing them out), Canada Geese (lots), 2 Mallard, 6 Wigeon, Teal (dozens), 2 Oystercatcher, 3 Shelduck (if I ID'd them correctly, which I think I did), 8 Tufted Ducks, 7 Goldeneye, 6 Common Buazzard (3 of which were soaring together), 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Moorhen, Coots (lots), 8 Turnstone, 12 Lapwing, 2 Redshank, 1 Bar Tailed Godwit (if the man was right, and I have no reason to doubt him by the way), Curlew (lots), Black Headed Gull (6), 1 Med Gull, H Gull (lots and I'm learning how the feathers develop on Juvs), 3 Lesser Black Backed Gulls (hope I got that right), 1 Iceland Gull (again, thanks to Steve Rogers for pointing it out, as without him I would have been sunk!), 5 Greater Black Backed Gulls, 9 Woodpigeons, 1 Collared Dove, 1 Gt Spotted Pecker (photos taken by the Abbot at Stiths), 20+ Meadow Pipit (hope I ID'd them okay), 5 Pied Wagtail, 1 Wren (a silhouette in the garden this morning, which I could not mistake), 1 Dunnock (may have seen more), 4 Robins, 1 Songthrush, 2 Redwing, Fieldfare (and I think Simon said 55 - I've had a glass of red and cannot read my scribble!), 9 Blackbirds, 3 Goldcrest (1 in garden am and 2 as I came out of the main hide at Stithians to go home), 1 Firecrest (at the front of my house in the bush as I was leaving this morning), 3 Gt Tits, 4 Blue Tits, 4 LT Tits, 1 Coal Tit, 3 Magpies, 6 Jackdaw, 2 Rooks (possible - I go by the bill), Carrion Crows (lots), 4 Ravens (I've cracked it now Simon), 14 Starlings, H Sparrows (lots), 11 Chaffinches, 1 Greenfinch, 3 Bullfinch, 4 Reed Bunting, 2 Water Pipits.
Back to humdrum tomorrow... but with a spring in my step.
I still love birding!

A Special Morning

My excitement for the weekend has caused me a little discomfort - I'm tired. Had my first bird at 4.44am - yes, that's right (the alarm call of a Blackbird) followed shortly after by a Robin. I woke at 4am and lay there.... could I sleep? No, too excited about what I'm going to see today and when I heard the Blackbird and Robin, I thought to myself "no point in getting up because I can't watch the birds in the dark". Lying there... thinking... it takes a while... "I'll listen then"... and that's what I did. Before 5.15am I was sitting with my cup of tea beneath the stars. Our garden is small, and backs onto a wooded area. Just over the fence is a stream. It was calm and quite mild. Very peaceful, running water of the stream, the bare branches of tall trees lit up by streetlamps and the sound of the dawn chorus emerging. I heard a Carrion Crow and I thought "this is a bit eerie" and all of a sudden something bolted from the tree - I jumped and spilt my tea in my lap! It was a Blackbird. I also heard the Robins (obviously arguing over whose patch this is), Dunnocks, Wren, Magpies, possible Gt Tit and a plane! I'm not too good with bird song so I shall have to start listening to recordings if I'm to improve my birding skills.
By 6.30am the sky was lighting up a little. I had my first Woodpigeon at 6.36am and the silhouettes of Blackbirds in the trees. 6.43am, H Gulls and H Sparrows. 6.50am the Songthrush started serenading and at 7.02am I think I heard a Warbler, but can't be sure.
What a lovely morning I thought... my passion for birding will never leave me.
My watch for the morning and all day in fact goes like this: 4 Carrion Crows, 2 Songthrushes, 4 Woodpigeons, 3 Robins (dualling in mid air like fighter jets), 8 Blackbirds, 3 H Gulls, 6 Chaffinches, 8 H Sparrows, 2 Dunnocks, 3 Magpies, 8 Starlings, 3 Blue Tits, 4 Goldfinches, 2 Gt Tits, 2 Coal Tits, Blackcap (F), 4 LT Tits, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Firecrest (yeah I know), 1 Jay, 2 Collared Doves.
2 Pied Wagtails and 2 Jackdaws (at Tesco).
I also have two newbies for my garden list today.
At 7.28am I heard wingbeats and saw something in the corner of my eye... I glanced up and saw the back end of 1 Mute Swan disappearing behind the houses and a full view of a second.
At 8.05am I heard a call that stirred my memory of last weekend at Stiths when the Abbot and I were walking with Simon - a Raven! I looked directly above me and it flew over the tree - fabulous! Later in the day walking the dog I heard and saw another.
I really do love birding!

Female Chaffinch.

Fringilla coelebs.

The Chaffinch's numbers have increased quite a lot this year in our small garden.
They are not in the *Red Baron* class as fliers and often hover over the feeders.
Still they are most welcome... and are delightful to watch with their circus antics.

Never mix dog walking and birding!

Now, these blog entries are in serious danger of becoming too long, but I have so much to say, so in advance "I'm sorry if you get bored and feel the need to snooze".
Another Friday comes and goes and time to look forward to the weekend. How excited am I? Very! Tea in the garden this morning and here goes: Magpies having a scrum in the tree, Songthrush, Robin, 4 Wood Pigeons, 6 Blackbirds (now they always look like they are doing the relay, chasing each other from branch to branch), 2 Gt Tits, then 2 Robins dualling at the feeder (only one got to feed, obviously), 2 H Gulls, 2 Blue Tits, 6 H Sparrows, 2 Dunnocks, Blackcap (F), 5 Chaffinches, 7 Starlings, Goldfinches around (I can hear them), 1 Firecrest (all by myself....!), 4 Carrion Crows flew over, 1 Coal Tit, and just as I was thinking of going in, 2 Long T Tits. Lovely morning, but I was cold.
On the roof at work: 2 Jackdaw, 16 H Gulls, 40 ish F Pigeons, the tail-less Pied Wagtail that I saw yesterday and a fine looking Grey Wagtail. Now Fran, you are in serious danger of getting into birding with me at work!
Lunchtime at home I saw the Goldcrest (glad he's still kicking about).
Now, when I got home tonight the Abbot said he was going shopping so I could walk the dog alone. Freedom - this excited me. Now don't take this down the wrong route Abbot, I love your company, but let's face it, deaf men talk a lot (I love to listen mind you), and you have to admit you said last night you did not see those Magpies and you could not miss them if you were concentrating on birding even slightly!
So off I went and here's what I saw: 14 Starlings, 1 Robin, 8 Blackbirds (which the dog loves to chase), 2 Collared Doves, 1 Gt Tit, 12 Magpies.
Now, here's the tricky bit and this is why you should not watch birds and dog walk. The mobile goes - a text from a friend... I fetch it out... reading it... my arm is yanked from the socket - a cat! I shall struggle to lift my bins tomorrow I thought! Then, wandering around (looking up in the sky mostly with my mouth slightly open) all of a sudden - wham, a pile of mud and twigs hits my face - the dog had done a pee and started kicking those back feet out along the ground all proud of her achievement! What's that all about? Why do they do that? I copped a mouthful of dirt and my hair was full of all sorts! I'm just thankful she'd only done a pee I can tell you! Hesper's not the brightest of pooches so I have to watch that she does not paddle in it!
So, to the rules: Never mix dog walking and birding. If you do, don't look up. If you do look up, close your mouth and prey you have a sensible Wuffa!
Can't wait for Sunday. I feel it is going to be a very enjoyable day.
I love birding!

Starling.

Sturnus vulgaris One of a regular flock of resident birds.

You would not invite these to the Mad Hatters Tea Party.

Morning tea party with a special guest.... and the rest of my day's action!

No soppy stuff today so down to business. Warm enough to sit out again this morning with my cuppa. As soon as I opened the door to go and stock the feeding stations I could hear Carrion Crows and there were 3. Also, H Gulls (lots of them in the distance).
Now, in order of how I saw them:-
1 Robin, 2 Woodpigeons, 6 Blackbirds (they love to scuffle), 2 Great Tits (no messing about - they know what they are there for - sunflower hearts), Mr Bullfinch feintly singing, as they do up in the tree and then I saw his silhouette flitting away, 6 H Sparrows (well, you know what's on their minds!), 2 Coal Tits (again, straight in for the food), 2 Dunnocks, 2 Magpies and then.... the Firecrest... and friend. Now, I don't know what to think. I had my bins and clearly ID'd the Firecrest and clearly ID'd his friend... as a Goldcrest! Don't get me wrong, I love the Goldcrest, after all he turned up first, but I REALLY wanted the Firecrest to have a mate... and why are they hanging around together anyway???
Oh well, back to business: Who turned up next but my special guest, a Squirrel (Trevor's best mate - not). He loves to come down for Trevor's nuts! He stayed munching for a good 15 minutes and I promised not to tell!
At 7.25am - late for him - the Songthrush arrived to serenade me. Then 10 Starlings, 2 Chaffinches and 1 Blue Tit. The Firecrest came back, alone at 7.50am for another feed on the peanuts of all things. He soon decided he preferred the suet again. I then heard Goldfinches, but they decided not to visit the new feeder! At 8pm as I was heading in, 4 Long Tailed Tits turned up.
At lunchtime Trevor reliably informed me that the Blackcap (F) had been around along with a Bullfinch (M). At home at lunchtime I saw the Firecrest again.
Out on the roof at work I saw 2 Jackdaws, roughly 25 F Pigeons and 12 H Gulls. I also heard and then tracked down a tail-less Pied Wagtail. He was still bopping though!
On the way home in the car I spotted two Pied Wagtails on a footpath (both with full tails I am pleased to say).
When walking the Wuffa Dog at tea time I saw a Parliament of Magpies (21 to be exact) and all looking very official! Also saw 2 Collared Doves, 2 Carrion Crows, 3 Blackbirds, 1 Great Tit, 1 Robin.
That's it for today. Not bad considering I work 9-5 and I bet not a single person where I work noticed a bird today... however, I know a few of you check out my blog so get birding you lot and you can be as happy as me in the mornings!
I love birding!

Go West Young Man.

Looks like it will now be the far west of Cornwall.

Travelling *Greenhorn* Birders

This weekend it is time to target the offshore Loons and Grebes around the south east coast before they move to fresh pastures.
The added possibility of a gull or two testing our identity skills before joining our Life Lists promises an enjoyable weekend ....unless nature intervenes.

Wood Pigeon

One of our regular Woodland Wilburs.

Love is in the air... every SIGHT and every SOUND...

Another nice morning and a chance for me to sit out in the garden with my tea to do the head count. Mind you, every morning will be a good one from now on for me. I hate the winter. Being a Spring baby myself, once the New Year is over and the birds start singing for their mates I start to flourish! Today was no exception. I'm in the groove now. I started off with Blackbirds x 6, 1 Jay squawking up in the tree, 3 Carrion Crows up and about in the top of the trees and making a fuss about something, 1 Magpie, 2 H Gulls, 2 Wood Pigeons and I am sure the one was saying to the other "I wanna be your boyfriend sweet little girl"!. The Songthrush was also up and about (he sits in the tree just above me every morning, facing me, head held high and singing. I could fall in love with him myself, unless he's a she of course, because I'm not that way inclined!). 7 Starlings and more further up the street in the top of a tree having a conflab. 1 Blue tit, 2 Great Tits.... and then... the Firecrest. I heard him before I saw him. Cute little fella! He had a feed and then went off again, but I could tell he was full of himself, darting about as if he had somewhere better to be. 2 Coal Tits (Simons), 1 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 4 House Sparrows (those girlies really need to stop flapping and flaunting in front of the lads), 2 Chaffinches and 2 Blackcap (M & F). There's the love thing again! Just as I was about to go in for a shower I heard the tuneful notes of the Firecrest again, and what do you think he was singing...
"When you kiss me I just gotta say... baby I love you... come on baby..."
low and behold another Firecrest came flitting around him and off they went together. Pretty sure after that we must have 2 Firecrest and 1 Goldcrest. Goldy get your act together I say - time is running out!
The Abbot reliably informs me that we had a newby today... A Greenfinch or a Siskin... Think the Abbot should get his act together too especially as he was looking at it through his bins!
On the roof at work today I had 2 Jackdaw, about 50 F Pigeons and 18 H Gulls, 1 Pied Wagtail.
Walking the Wuffa I had Blackbirds (lots!), 2 Great Tits, 1 Blue Tit, Goldfinch (heard but not seen), 2 Magpies.
The Abbot added to the feeders today as we felt we needed to improve the chances of the Goldfinches sticking around so we now have a very posh Niger seed feeder. Come on lads.. you need to build up your strength!
That's all for today... I love birding!

Robocop

This nonchalant Robin has been given the nickname...*Robocop* he is a very welcome daily visitor.
Robocop, Gordon the Great Tit and the Coal Tits which in honour of the Stithians Warden will now be known as ....(roll of drums)........... Simons are some of my favorite visitors.

I love birding

A nice morning and I could feel spring in the air. I got up early and stocked the feeding stations. The dawn chorus was fabulous and so I thought, no back door step for me this morning. With my cup of tea and bins at the ready I sat out in the garden 10 feet away from the feeders. I had:
3 Carrion Crows, 4 Magpies (1 came down to feed), 1 H Gull, 2 Wood Pigeons (both came down to feed), 1 Songthrush, 6 Blackbirds, 5 Starlings, 2 Blue Tits, 2 Great Tits, 2 Long Tailed Tits, 2 Coal Tits (there's a pattern here with these 2's!), 1 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 6 H Sparrows, 3 Chaffinches and 2 Goldfinches (have not seen them for a while, so was chuffed). I did also have the Firecrest. He was feeding for a while and then, out of no-where what I thought was another Firecrest. The feeding one flipped up towards the second and they went off together so I never really got to positively ID the second as a Firecrest and not Goldcrest. A little while later the Goldcrest arrived, same feeding place as usual and where the Firecrest feeds. So, did I have 2 Firecrest and a Goldcrest or 1 Firecrest and 1 Goldcrest. Dunno is the answer, but I'm still as happy as the Stithians Warden in pond water!!!!
Had about 30 Pigeons on the roof at work, 1 Grey Wagtail and H Gulls (5).
Pied Wagtail on the way home in the car. Not literally - on the footpath!!!
Blackbirds everywhere when I walked the dog at dusk.
Wherever I am and whatever I am doing I am listening for or watching birds.
People pass by so much in their everyday lives and miss it.
I love birding!

Stonechat on Gorse Bush

Scopeless Birding

You can't always have what you want

Well, as you will see my theme for today is that you can't always have what you want :-(
Before we started this blog we had a GS Woodpecker visiting the garden. We've been in this house a few years and later in 2008 he/she started to visit. I was thrilled as I love Peckers! I get up every day with the hope of seeing him/her in the garden again, and today was no exception. I did'nt know the difference between the sexes until the warden at Stithians told me a few weeks ago. I have since then started to check out our bird books more frequently. I do need to read up more! Anyway, I did not have the Pecker this morning, but I did have the following:
2 Carrion Crows, 3 Magpies (1 of which came down to feed), 1 H Gull, 2 Wood Pigeons (both came down to feed), 1 Songthrush, 4 Blackbirds, 6 Starlings, 2 Blue Tits, 2 Great Tits, 4 Long Tailed Tits, 2 Coal Tits (this one pleases Trevor as he loves Coal Tits), 1 Firecrest (he's still here and I hope he stays long enough for me to borrow a camcorder), 1 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 5 H Sparrows, 4 Chaffinches, and the newby for today - 1 JAY. I heard him before I spotted him - nice to know they are around.
Believe it or not I did not have time to look out of my office window at work today to check out the roof.
That's all folks....

A shot from the freshwater pool at Par.

Stithians Cut Off

Viewed from the roadside.

Dam Walk

Untouched Sunset.

Taken on the way back from Stithians this evening.

Never go birding without your wellies!

No time for a head count in the garden this morning, but I put all the food out as usual and heard the commotion of the first callers whilst getting ready to go out. Left mother in charge of feeding at lunchtime and off we went to Stithians.
Started at Golden Lion Hide at 10am. Had a walk with Simon Taylor, Warden at Stithians. Had Golden Plover amongst others - a life tick for both the Abbot and I.
Off to the Main Hide at 12.35pm and then for a walk to the Dam, again with Simon. Very muddy in a couple of places, and I wish I'd had my wellies! At least I kept my boots on though. They normally pull off in the mud and I end up hopping until I get assistance!
Went back to the Southern Cut Off around 2.15pm. Hide was busy with regulars and thanks to John Rowe (who is very helpful and knowledgable on the subject) I think we may be able to get the camera and scope sorted soon. Won't make much difference to my efforts though!
I will not list all the birds I have seen today because they will all be listed on Simon Taylor's Stithians Birding blog so if you visit this blog, be sure to visit Stithians blog.
Our thanks to Simon for the walks and guidance today. Very much appreciated.
Had 50 species today, but when I check out Mr Stiths count I'm sure I will see some I had, but failed to jot down in all my excitement!

Early to bed... early to rise... catch the worm

Well, I did see the Firecrest after all. Several times - in fact nearly every time I went to the back door he was out there, along wth the Coal Tit who I have missed the last few days. Went to my local supplier with Trevor and we bought new feeders (one each as they are pricey for good quality). Stocked up with food for them too. Within 30 minutes of the new feeders being erected they were in use by Tits.
Up early in the morning and off to see Mr Stiths. Hope his Plovers are still showing.

On reflection..... My thought for the day

Desire makes all things flourish...
Marcel Proust

Bare Branches & Silhouettes

Another week of humdrum drawing to a close and Friday I can feel the anticipation and passion burning up inside me for what I will see at the weekend! Got up this morning for an early dawn session to be met by the bare branches of the tree and silhouettes of 6 Blackbirds, all waiting for my suet and pastry balls! All feeders stocked and tea made I position myself, excitedly anticipating a mad rush! I sit and watch... they sit and watch! As the light improves the 6 Blackbirds descend, along with 2 Robins, 8 Starlings, 4 H Sparrows, 2 Gt Tits, 1 Dunnock, 1 Blue Tit, 4 Chaffinches, 1 (F) Blackcap, 1 Magpie, 2 L T Tits.
Also about, 2 W Pigeons, 6 Carrion Crows, 1 H Gull.
I shall stake out the garden later in the hope of seeing Goldcrest or Firecrest.
Here's a question for the experts: How on earth do you sex a Magpie?

Valentine.

Feelin good!

Woke up bright and early and feeling sprightly - the birds that is! The improvement in the weather helps I'm sure. Heard an Owl last night. Morning tea, dog (Hesper not Trevor Mr Stiths) was up and snoozing whilst waiting for breakfast. In the garden: 2 Wood Pigeon (both on my open seed feeders), 4 Carrion Crows, 1 Magpie, 2 H Gull, 1 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 1 Songthrush, 5 Blackbirds, 1 (F) Blackcap, 2 Gt Tits, 1 Blue Tit, 4 Long T Tits, 6 Starlings, 4 Chaffinches, 5 H Sparrows.
No sign of the Goldcrest or Firecrest. Hope to find time to look out for them tomorrow.
At work: Pigeons bathing in puddles on the roof and sunbathing (about 25), 8 H Gulls, 2 Jackdaws, 1 Pied Wagtail.

Bodinnick-by-Fowey

Overlooking the Ferry at Fowey.

My day list

It was a rush this morning, but I made time and here goes: 1 Wood Pigeon (feeding on the seed) and 1 Wood Pigeon watching from the tree!, 1 Magpie, 2 Carrion Crows, 1 H Gull, 1 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 1 Songthrush, 4 Blackbirds (M & F), 1 (F) Blackcap, 1 Firecrest (and still a thrill every time I see it), 2 Great Tits, 1 Blue Tit (they seem to have declined over the last couple of years), 2 Long Tailed Tits, 5 Starlings, 3 Chaffinches, 6 House Sparrows.
On the roof at work and in the air above the roof: 8 H Gulls. about 60 Pigeons (in two sections and all flying at once), 2 Jackdaws, 1 Pied Wagtail.

Charlestown Harbour. Often used for film sets.

Harbour and Cottages.

One I took late January in the garden

Not much to report

Short time to watch the garden this morning, but saw: 4 Carrion Crows, 3 H Gulls, 3 Wood Pigeons, 4 Blackbirds, 2 Chaffinches, 1 Dunnock, 2 Robins, 1 Gt Tit, 1 Blackcap (F), 5 Starlings, 3 H Sparrows, 2 Magpies (heard the Songthrush).

4 Jackdaws on the roof at work, along with 5 H Gulls, about 15 Pigeons, 1 Grey Wagtail.

H Sparrows busy nest building. Hope they have a better year. They have declined dramatically in our garden over the last 3 years.

Missing the Greenfinches. We had a lot during summer 08. Hope they return.

Also hoping for the Siskins' return.

View from Charlestown Harbour.

Feral Pigeon/Rock Dove?

Vision of Spring.

Spring is definitely on its way (in my garden anyhow!)

The garden was lively this morning. Romance is in the air!
My 20 minutes at dawn produced: 1 Blackcap (F), 4 Blackbirds, 4 Carrion Crows, 3 H Gulls, 2 Gt Tits, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Bullfinch (M), 1 Robin, 2 Chaffinches, 4 H Sparrows, 5 Starlings, 4 Long T Tits, 2 W Pigeons and a Songthrush singing high up in the trees.
At lunchtime I watched the H Sparrows collecting and building nests up in the roof of the house next door. They are feeling the romance!


Dawn breaks, the earth is alive,
Birds singing in the skies.
A blanket of dew drops glistens in the morning sun.
The sea is calm, the day has won.


The soaring Buzzard dominates the sky,
For his feast, his prey will surely die,
Tis not for us to reason why,
Who made this earth to breed... and die.

Return of the Abbot.

After spending a week hovering around the Dark Side of the Moon I am now back offering guidance on all aspects of the Coefficient of Linear Expansion and the courting habits of the Rain Forest Pygmies.

View from Stithians Main Hide.

Monday morning feeling

Woke up wishing it was Sunday and think the birds did too... Raced out to clear the open seed feeders as it was all water logged. Put fresh mixed seed and sunflower hearts in those with a few suet pellets. Fruit suet and pastry balls on the bird houses (x 2) with a few SF hearts for good measure. Cup of tea and 20 mins whilst getting dog's breakfast and saw: 1 Male Blackcap, 2 Chaffinches, 1 Robin, 4 Blackbirds, 2 Wood Pigeons, 2 H Gulls, 1 Blue Tit, 3 Starlings, 1 Dunnock, 1 Coal Tit. No sound of the Songthrush this morning.
Lunchtime I popped home to re-stock the feeders for the soft bills. Firecrest was milling around the large suet feeder as usual. Glad to catch a glimpse of him - it cheered up the day!

High ISO..

The Chaffinch like most of the others was shot on an ISO rating of 3200 which has given a lot of noise. The Aperture was f5.6 and the speed was 0.010s (1/99) .
Focal length 2.1mm equates to 103mm using the 35mm format.