April 2014 Great Crested Grebes

Its great to see these Great Crested Grebes nesting in the local park.  I am hopeful of getting a shot with the young on the parents back as I have always loved these shots.  I guess it's a matter of luck and being able to be there at the right time. Not always easy when you work full time!

Pair at nest

Incubating

On Nest

Trying to be patient but this grass is irritating

Both birds attentive

April 2014 Reed Buntings

Lovely bird the reed bunting. They can quite often be found in quite dry habitats as well as the more usual reedy environments.

Female Reed Bunting

Male Reed Bunting

March 2014 Water Vole. The original "Ratty!"

I remember when we used to go fishing as young boys on the local stream water voles used to be so common you would take them for granted.  They are now one of the UK's most declining mammals.  Great to get some shots of one.

Water Vole

Water Vole

March 2014 Grey Heron liked his poise and strut.

Loved the way this heron strode across the water carefully ensuring his feet did not make a splash.

Grey Heron

March 2014 Great days birding

Had a great days birding, early morning at Slimbridge and the the evening in the Cotswold's.

Barn Owl Cotswold's

Common Cranes displaying

Grey Heron

Northern Pintail

Male Reed Bunting

Golden Plover

March 2014 Spring is in the air at Slimbridge WWT

Had a great morning at Slimbridge in the sunshine.  The last group of European White Fronted geese look edgy and ready to migrate back to the far north east tundra.  The pairs of Common Cranes were disputing possible nesting sites.

Common Crane

Common Crane

European White Fronted Geese

March 2014 Barn Owls so addictive

Just can't imagine how anyone would not be amazed by seeing this beautiful bird quartering a field on the hunt.

Barn Owl