Hidden Worlds

Sunday, November 16th 2014

Conditions this morning were ideal for bird ringing, no wind, almost blue sky and sun, with just a hint of mist.

A hidden world was revealed.  Spiders had been busy overnight.  Their webs were strung across plants and between grasses. Often a single strand of silk spread across several feet. 

We usually see the webs in the Gorse.

They are rarely seen in Hawthorn.

Some of the webs were coated in dew drops.

What a fascinating night 'a fly on the wall' could have had watching spiders work so hard to produce such works of art.

Another hidden world is that of the birds of Foxglove.  A quick movement, a cheep or a call can be recognisable to many bird watchers.  Seeing birds in the hand reveals a new world and a totally different view.

A Grey Wagtail, possibly not always the same one, has been seen on the lake recently, particularly near the bridge.  This species tends to move to lower ground for the winter, often seen on lowland streams and on farm land, where they feed on insects, so it is a little surprising that they are still at Foxglove. This juvenile was ringed today.  

There have not been many birds seen flying and there has been little song heard over the last few days, but the birds are still around!  The ringing team were busy today and over 270 birds were processed, many of them new birds caught for the first time.

Eight new Bullfinch were ringed and 12 Lesser Redpoll, as well as Willow Tit, Marsh Tit, and several Goldcrests. Reed Buntings have been scarce during early Autumn but their numbers too are beginning to increase and 8 new birds were ringed. (Listen for them as you walk through the reed bed.)

Many visitors came to the ringing room and were amazed at seeing birds in the hand.  Under supervsion they released some birds.  something that they will remember for a long time.

Many thanks to the 10 bird ringers and 2 new starters who took part - and to everyone who supported them today.

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