May 2014 Will the Crane's hatch this weekend?

I was told that the Crane's at Slimbridge were due to hatch their eggs on Wednesday 14th May.  Went down there on Friday but still no sign.  Will it happen this weekend?

"Chris" getting up off the nest for a stretch .

May 2014 Spring has truly Sprung!

Lovely Spring sunshine in early May. Great to get out there!

Lovely to see Cowslips at the local lane

Reed Warbler gathering nest material

Male Orange Tip

April 2014 Ruff migrating through

I felt really lucky to get quite close to a Ruff at Slimbridge Gloucestershire as it was migrating through to its northerly breeding site. Moulting into breeding plumage it adopted this Redshank as an extra pair of eyes, and seem to follow it everywhere. It's amazing what partnerships can be temporarily formed when there is a mutual benefit.

Ruff Moulting into breeding plumage

Partners Ruff & Redshank

Oyster Catcher decided to get in close too

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