Sunday safari

I don't like to leave Nella at home when I go walking. Today I was hoping to photograph the Redwing and Fieldfare that have flown into the area from Northern Europe. Each year they come, I have never been able to capture them on camera.

As I walk along the lane I am surprised to see so many rooks nests......with the gales last week, it is amazing they have survived.

Many branches lie on the verge and in the fields.........some in mid-air, catch my eye......

The ditches are full. Only a month ago they were empty.....bone dry. How swiftly things change.
I arrive at the lane where the birds gather. How different it looks from a month ago. The wind is cold and bites at my face....my eyes water. The wind is always so aggressive along this stretch of road. I can see the birds in the tops of the oaks.
Voices carry on the wind. The birds fly across the fields and the moment is lost. How frustrating....another day perhaps.

In the distance I can see the farmer rounding up his sheep. I like Phil the farmer. His family has worked the land here for four generations.

I turn the corner, the old spaniel glances at me. We know each other well. His body is too weary to chase away a friend.

A rook flies overhead as I go through the gate into the garden.
Sparrows sit amongst the Dogwoods.....

and Gt Tits enjoy the fat balls in the feeder.

I check plants that have been re-located.

They are all looking healthy.

Hmmm something has been munching the Calendula petals.
The next bloom reveals all.....a tiny caterpillar. I think of Spring and what is to come. Happy safari Sunday.......