Its been a rather dreich weekend here at Coombes; although it gives the place a somewhat mystical feeling, it has dampened the attendance to both DSI (Deadly Scene Investigation) and History Walk events – though thanks to all who did come along!
Rather than sitting in the office and complaining about the weather, I donned my wellies I went for a wander up the brook. Top meadow was alive with Redwing and Fieldfare, and the Plantation was teeming with Redpoll, Long Tailed Tits and Bullfinches. As I got down to the brook, the Alder trees were buzzing to the sound of Goldcrest, Treecreeper and Greater Spotted Woodpecker. Through Clough Meadow is where the magic happened though: first a flushed a Woodcock (my first of the winter!), which then went on to spook a Garganey, which flew off up the brook calling as it went! Though the Garganey is probably and escapee from someone’s collection, they are a truly beautiful bird, bringing a bit of colour to an otherwise grey day at Coombes.
Now off for a run to “check the trails” – isn’t work a drag!