Clear sky, minus 3c hard ground but very little frost. A little disappointing after the past few days as it was the first morning that I could escape from the desk and get out with the camera. Even so it was a great walk through the woods and meadows. Sunrise was just a weak glow, but the grass crunched underfoot and the air just so fresh….
The Hazel Catkins have been bright yellow with pollen for some time now and the buds starting to push their way through their protective caps, so one hopes that they have not made an appearance too soon as I suspect we will have some more very cold weather before winter is done with us……
Despite the cold the bird song is very full and vocal just like a spring morning. To-day it was the Nuthatch that had the loudest and most persistent call, but Long Tailed Tits were not far behind. Robins and Wrens trilled and Crows squabbled as always. On the meadows the Song and Mistle Thrush were still too busy scratching for worms to both. Goosander were on the lake (and I do mean on the lake as it was frozen solid) so I guess they will soon be off.
17th January
DAVID OAKES - IMAGES. 