I think it's my age...

..but these days I find birds fascinating although my sense of wonder will never be compromised by any actual knowledge. I have a couple of birdy friends who will break off a conversation to say 'that's the long tailed ducks - must be rough out at sea' or acknowledge a hovering shape in the sky with 'aah - peregrine'. It is always a pleasure to go for walk with them although I do find myself birling on the spot saying 'what?' 'where?' 'really? These however, even though you can't really see them are eider ducks - I think - I know them because they make a sound like les dawson in drag as if they sit on the cold sea gossiping 'well I never - good gracious me - did you see her ?-oooh I know '