Monday 2 January 2012

First Birds of 2012

A gentle introduction to 2012

What better way to start the New Year than with an early morning walk to see in the start of the New Year. My walk took me along the Canal close to home, despite some rain falling it still feels far too mild for January.

Some of the birds noted on this gentle stroll were 2 Kingfishers, one perched on the rails of a moored boat. (wish I had taken my camera with me), with the other Kingfisher seen flying up river with it's distintive 'peep peep' call. The ever present Mallards and Mute Swans along with at least 35 Moorhens along the Canal. I was pleased to see the Little Egret this morning. I have been seeing this bird along the Canal off and on for a number of weeks, how they have spread in recent years.

Of the other birds seen along the hedgerows were Blue and Great Tits, with a single stunning Male Bullfinch. three Balckbirds and Starlings in good numbers. Quite a few House Sparrows all ever gregarious chirping and chasing each other through the hedgerows. Asingle Mistle Thrush sat perched a top of a bush was a pleasing sight. I really love our Winter Thrushes that grace our Country, and seeing up to 15 Redwing and 9 Fieldfares was the best sightings this morning. On the way home a large mixed flock of the beautiful Thrushes flew overhead calling.

A lovely gentle start to 2012. Here's to a great year of amazing Wildlife watching.

6 comments:

  1. There is always plenty of birds about when you don't have a camera with you John. Have a great 2012.

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  2. WHAT!!?? You went for a stroll without your camera? I think that's sacreligous (sp) or something....against the law (of nature)? happy New Year to you, John. I am enjoying my new reading material and looking for just the right little something to send in return. Just about the time you will have forgotten about it, you'll get some fun mail! (I'm a little slow!).~karen

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  3. Hi Roy,

    I agree with you, how many times have I been out without a camera. Just wanted to enjoy a little walk to see in the New Year. Have a wonderful 2012, I will visit your blog more during the year. John

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  4. Hi Karen,

    Happy New Year to you as well. It is going to be a really special year. I have a feeling. I used to love my wildlife walks as a youngster without camera and just my bins, noting all the wildlife. Felt like going back in time :) Ok you have me really excited now...it's like Christmas again :) John

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  5. ...a beautiful start to the new year! I always like to start it with birds too...

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  6. Hi Kelly,

    Thank you. Happy New Year to you. I really hope 2012 is a really special year for you. John

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