Perfect birding weather





Prunus Kanzan (flowering cherry)

I have continued my early morning visits to the patch which have been a bit mixed, the flash has had very little on just a few mallard, the occasional Lapwing and Stock Dove close by most mornings. The new Thacka beck nature reserve on the other hand has been doing OK, with recent sighting of Little Ringed plover yet again, sometimes 2 also more visits from the Ringed Plover, 2 Lapwing still sitting, and then the other day 2 White Wagtails amongst the Pied. At least 2 song thrush singing most morning by the M6, and  2 Red-legged Partridge in the same area.

Over at Bassenthwaite Lake the Ospreys are giving the powers that be the runaround, and have decided they don't want a man-made platform anymore, so have relocated yet again this time building their own nest down on the marsh. The amazing thing is they started building the nest last September after they had made sure the 2 young they had reared could fend for themselves. Then after approx. a 6000 mile round trip they arrive back and finish the job off at the beginning of April. Better co-operation than our present government, and no expenses claim for travel or materials.  this pic with a 300mm lens.

This pic digiscoped the following day, very hazy, both birds where on the nest. its funny really,  as I believe the nest can only be seen from from one viewpoint now and its miles away at that. Best views are from the lake itself.

Heron stalking the inhabitants of Bassenthwaite lake

Synchronised swimming, won't make the Olympics.

Wood Anemone

Another day and another trip out, this time down to Leighton Moss, calling at Sizergh castle, but no Hawfinch.

A Shell Duck with an Itch.

Black-tailed Godwit, both at Eric M hide. also at least 7 Avocet but at a good distance

Garganey from Grizedale hide

And Med Gull playing hide & seek, just did not want to show for a pic.
Next I moved on to Warton Crag where I was able  watch  a brilliant display by both Peregrines, including mating.

Cowslip
The weather was fantastic making it a very good day, in fact a good few days.