Washing Up

Washing up can take a little while as the birds flying into the feeders can cause a very good distraction.  Each species has their own way of feeding.  Great Tits examine each seed they remove, sometimes dropping those they do not like.  Blue Tits can be quite aggressive and seem to spend much of their time chasing other birds away rather than feeding!

Carla is continuing to work on the bird ringing data and needs some photos of birds to add to her presentation.  Consequently I have been on the look out for a Great Spotted Woodpecker, which have been conspicuous by their absence.  When one appeared on the peanuts, the washing up was neglected whilst some photos were taken.

More washing up was attempted but he (the red mark on the nape indicates that this is a male bird) arrived back and sat on the fence.  We all commented on his very muddy beak.

The washing up was completed by Ken - thank you.

There are Mallard on the lake and walking quietly over the bridge they can sometimes be seen on the tree.  I think this female was showing off a little by sitting at its highest point.

Nicola has been checking all our mink rafts and putting out the camera traps.  Unfortunately nothing has been caught on camera - yet.  However she has found a perfect Otter print.  It is most unusual to find the fifth digit in an imprint, but you can see it clearly in the footmarks of the first print.

Colin has been busy making more small bug hotels and bird feeders.  (These would make ideal Christmas Presents.)  Foxglove volunteers have such a varied set of skills and contribute so much to the reserve.  Many thanks to them all.