A Perfect Ringing Day

No wind, no rain and mild. Added to that an extra hour in bed for the ringers and an 8am start.  Walking around in the early morning hints of sunshine caught the yellowing reeds.

The lake had its usual compliment of Mallards.  Taken at full zoom, it was not until the photo was downloaded that the Little Grebe could just be seen.

A Wren complained that I was walking close to it.

The ringing room was busy as birds were processed from each net round.  Species were varied and included Goldfinch, Goldcrest, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Siskin and Redpoll.  Several Greenfinch were ringed, which was of note, as few have been seen recently due to disease. Bullfinch, Coal Tit and Marsh Tit are returning to the reserve from the surrounding area, for the winter. One Coal Tit was over 6 yeras old.  Redwing and Brambling, the winter migrants, remain in good numbers..

Late in the afternoon a Pied Wagtail made an appearance.  It was a beautiful bird - only the second ever ringed on the reserve.

Over 220 birds were processed by the ringers during the day.  Thanks to everyone who took part.