Stonechat

It's been a lovely sunny day and we decided to go for a walk around Aylesbeare Common.  We were hoping to see a few Dartford Warblers and we did catch a quick glimpse of one shortly after we started.  We continued our walk around various habitats, there wasn't much out in the different small ponds other than early plant growth, a few water beetles and some insects.  We did see a fair number of Yellow Brimstone butterflies flitting around in the sun at various places.  After crossing the stream we headed to the area where the Dartford Warblers are often found and after listening out for them eventually spotted one coming along a hedge of gorse very close to us.  It quickly flew away but then flew up into the air, a lovely sight but much to quick to get a photo of it.  I did however spot this female Stonechat, I think, perching on top of a nearby gorse bush.  An enjoyable walk and not too muddy despite the recent rain.

After lunch we I did some weeding in the garden while my husband pruned some of the shrubs.  He is still recovering from a recent back injury so only doing gentle garden work, but is definately improving.