Patch additions for the year

Dad got his first GARDEN WARBLER (79) on the 23rd April, I picked up one a few days later on the 27th. Several have now arrived, as summer migrants continue to slowly be added to the year list. A busy period at work meant very few visits last week and my first proper walk was yesterday morning. I did get an interesting report from a local lady of an Albino Heron in the week which flew up out of the stream, the lady knows Little Egret and has seen many, so was happy that this bird was much too big, Great White Egret? Who knows but always interesting to hear what other people are seeing and either way I would have been happy to see that.
So back to yesterday, the RED LEGGED PARTRIDGES were seen again, 2 pairs of SWALLOWS are now in residence and a pair of REED BUNTINGS were by the lake also a pair BULLFINCH flew up from here. A KINGFISHER flew from near the moat and the WILLOW WARBLER was still in song from its favoured spot, still not sure if it has found a mate though. The first of 2 NIGHTINGALES was seen and heard near the stream, the second was just off Digdog Lane and was shared with a couple who had never seen one before, most enjoyable for the three of us. Another chat with a regular walker around the castle revealed he had seen a Coot a week or so ago, another bird I haven't connected with yet this year here.
The second walk of the day, in the afternoon with Bec, started well when a HONEY BUZZARD (80) was seen over Park Field it drifted north being harassed by crows. Finally I found a Common Blue Damselfly and what I think is a Beautiful Demoiselle the first this year. A few butterflies were around 3 BRIMSTONE, 1 ORANGE TIP, 4 SMALL WHITE and  2 SMALL TORTOISESHELL. The last action of the day was 2 SWIFT (81) heading north before we headed home, 48 species today, some good weather and meeting some nice people made it extremely enjoyable.

Cold Play...............

Beautiful Demoiselle?