Birds, Visitors and Sun

The low sun cast shadows across the access road as it lifted the early morning mist.

The range of bird species caught and processed was varied, as it was last week.  Redpolls were caught in increasing numbers.

Several new Siskin were also ringed.  The males are almost bright yellow with black heads, as they come into the breeding season.

Bramblings are beautiful birds and I make no apologies for another photo of one, on this blog.

Birds move into the reserve for food during the winter, but many of these leave as they prepare for the breeding season.  On the other hand some birds return to the reserve for breeding.  There were several older birds processed today, that have not been seen over winter.  These birds have probably made their way back to Foxglove and are looking for a territory in order to rear their young.

Many visitors appreciated the spring like day as they enjoyed the reserve.  The bird ringers explained to those who visited the ringing room the importance of bird ringing and showed them the process involved. 

A ringing day is a team effort.  Thank you to everyone who supported the ringing team.