Well after two glorious days the rain has returned with a vengeance to my part of the world. So for this week's Monday Moment, I thought I'd share what happens when rain and sun mix.

Mike Lane took this great image of a rainbow, I just love the colours brightening up an otherwise grey day. I hope it does the same for you too.

This is one of thousands of fantastic wildlife, countryside and everything else in between images you can find on RSPB Images. You can buy them all as prints too!

This weekend, my recommendation is that you go for a stroll and enjoy something really simple: the array of beautiful new green leaves which have emerged. 

If the sun's out, there's nothing brighter than the zingy lime-green of delicate miniature baby leaves. And it's those leaves which will sustain so much of the food chain in our woodlands over the coming month. 

Leaves are everywhere, of course, but if you fancy a trip out somewhere, we've got loads of nature reserves to choose from.

Have a great weekend!

All over the UK, eggs are being tapped open from inside and chicks are struggling into the outside world. This young lapwing was photographed by Steve Round as it returned to its mother to be kept warm under her feathers.

Unfortunately, the recent heavy rain has meant that the Ouse Washes - one of England's most important sites for breeding waders - has been flooded, bringing disaster for hundreds of nesting attempts. But in other parts of the country, extra rain has been welcomed.

Browse more beautiful photos at RSPB Images.

We're not all early birds, but at this time of year I would seriously suggest that those among us who prefer a few extra hours of duvet-snuggling make an exception.

For one thing, the light at this time of day can be absolutely beautiful:

But enough of lovely morning shots, because at this time of year the big draw is the dawn chorus.

Having spent March and April warming up their vocal chords, the time has come for birds everywhere to ramp up the noise and defend their territories and sing to attract a mate.

You want me up at what time?

There's no getting away from the fact that the best time to enjoy the dawn chorus is early in the morning. The first birds tune up about an hour before sunrise!

Across the UK this weekend, we'll be running lots of events (check out a reserve near you) to celebrate this wonderful birdsong symphony. Why? Because Sunday (6 May) is International Dawn Chorus Day.

If you really can't find the strength to leave your bed, over at Arne they'll be doing the hard work for you. You just need to lie back and listen.

And for anyone who misses the main morning event, you'll be pleased to hear you don't miss out on all the fun. There is actually another chorus at dusk. It's considered quieter, but some birds - like tree sparrows and blue tits – seem to prefer to sing at this time of day.

So whichever end of the day you catch it, I hope you enjoy revelling in the beauty of birdsong this weekend. I certainly plan to!

The rain was pretty relentless round my way this weekend, so I spent most of it cooped up inside. But today, the skies are blue and the sun is shining.

I'm just hoping that unlike the very atmospheric image below, this break in the clouds is a little more permanent.

Find your break in the clouds on RSPB Images.