January, over and out.

So, the last visit of the month, it actually felt quite mild as I walked out the front door and on arriving at the castle the birds were in good voice. For the first time this year a male Chaffinch was in song, joining the Robin and now singing Dunnocks. It was much lighter this morning than on previous work mornings which meant in the first 10 minutes instead of the usual 8-10 species, I managed at least 20. Notable were the Siskins, a flock of 8 and a few singles, mainly because after being out for a good four and a half hours yesterday, I didn't see or hear one! A Grey Heron got up from the lake as I approached and possibly the Water Rail dived into cover but I couldn't be certain. The Sparrowhawk was up early again and at least two Great Spotted Woodpeckers were drumming, I was enjoying all the activity, still by the lake a Pied Wagtail called on its way over as did Yellowhammer and Redpoll, Treecreepers and Nuthatches were not to be outdone and added to my predicament of which way to look next. As I made my way back to the car a few gulls were starting to congregate in the winter wheat, I'm sure there were more to come but as usual time had run out! Stephen was out at the castle yesterday and got some nice video grabs of  Firecrest, what little stunners they are!!

Stephen managed to get these images yesterday, they certainly brighten the day!