Morningtime

An early start to the day, carrying out the fourth breeding bird transect at Thorpe Wood. Although mild, it was very overcast and the oaks are now in full leaf making it harder to spot birds in the canopy. Many species seem to be singing less, probably because they are busy feeding young, so it seemed much quieter than the earlier counts, though most species were still recorded. The Bluebells and Ramsons are still wonderful, and I made a second trip round the wood playing with in-camera movement and multiple exposures.

The afternoon was spent pottering in the garden and preparing food for our first family barbecue of the year, expertly cooked by Alex and CJ. Pete did a lot of the preparation as I was feeling quite tired after a busy week and an early start. Despite the lack of sunshine it was lovely to sit outside and enjoy food together, surrounded by all the late-spring flowers.