Thursday 1st September (Summer is Fading)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue sunny sky. Now this was a pleasant surprise for the first day of September. With the leaves falling and the Swallows sitting on the telegraph wires Mr. Kite knows that autumn is here. Mr. Kite is quite happy with the changing season because he has a few trips planned.
Today Mr. Kite headed to Sharpstone Quarry to see very little and then Venus Pool where Ruff, Green Sandpiper and Common Snipe were showing. Now after a very lazy day Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Becks. Cheers.
Wednesday 31 August 2011
Tuesday 30 August 2011
Wednesday 31st August (Autumn and a Train Trip)
Mr. Kite looked out into a grey and white sky with a little patch of blue in the east where the edges of the cloud shone in the sunlight. Mr. Kite's plan was to go on a train trip to the seaside.
At nine-thirty Mr. Kite was looking out of the train window as it trundled along the line towards the Cambrian Coast. To cut a long story short Mr. Kite spotted the usual birds in Shropshire and into Wales. However the train to Barmouth travels along The Dovey Estuary, the Cambrian Coast through Aberdovey and around the Mawddach Estuary to Barmouth. The Dovey Estuary was at high tide when the train traveled around the edge so the birds were scarce. But on a sunny clear morning the views of the wide estuary and heather clad mountains were spectacular. Gradually the train reached Aberdovey where the the flat blue Irish Sea came into view and once again the views were unbeatable.
Every now and again Mr. Kite spotted Herring Gulls sitting on buildings, Starlings perched on aerials and House Sparrows on the edge of the villages flying into the grass for seeds. The high tide along the Cambrian Coast hid the shoreline so only a few flying Cormorants were spotted. Passing Llanyngwril the little town of Barmouth came into view flat and view against the green and brown mountains that are the back drop.
So Mr. Kite sat on the beach for five hours in the sun watching Herring Gulls intimidate chip eating holiday makers. Sitting on the promenade wall these large white and grey birds squawked at people with food and moved towards them until they tossed a chip or morsel of sandwich onto the ground. Mr. Kite thought that the people feeding the gulls were afraid of them as they had large bills and behaved aggressively reminding Mr. Kite of Hithcock's film 'The Birds'.
At five o'clock Mr. Kite boarded the train and sat by the window looking out onto The Irish Sea lit by the bright sunshine. Now in contrast to the morning ride when the tide was high, this time it was low tide and the seashore and mudbanks were fully exposed showing a vast area suitable for birds. So at intervals Mr. Kite noticed large flock of Oystercatchers, Herring Gulls and Curlews.
At seven thirty Mr. Kite sat at home enjoying a tipple of Becks. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out into a grey and white sky with a little patch of blue in the east where the edges of the cloud shone in the sunlight. Mr. Kite's plan was to go on a train trip to the seaside.
At nine-thirty Mr. Kite was looking out of the train window as it trundled along the line towards the Cambrian Coast. To cut a long story short Mr. Kite spotted the usual birds in Shropshire and into Wales. However the train to Barmouth travels along The Dovey Estuary, the Cambrian Coast through Aberdovey and around the Mawddach Estuary to Barmouth. The Dovey Estuary was at high tide when the train traveled around the edge so the birds were scarce. But on a sunny clear morning the views of the wide estuary and heather clad mountains were spectacular. Gradually the train reached Aberdovey where the the flat blue Irish Sea came into view and once again the views were unbeatable.
Every now and again Mr. Kite spotted Herring Gulls sitting on buildings, Starlings perched on aerials and House Sparrows on the edge of the villages flying into the grass for seeds. The high tide along the Cambrian Coast hid the shoreline so only a few flying Cormorants were spotted. Passing Llanyngwril the little town of Barmouth came into view flat and view against the green and brown mountains that are the back drop.
So Mr. Kite sat on the beach for five hours in the sun watching Herring Gulls intimidate chip eating holiday makers. Sitting on the promenade wall these large white and grey birds squawked at people with food and moved towards them until they tossed a chip or morsel of sandwich onto the ground. Mr. Kite thought that the people feeding the gulls were afraid of them as they had large bills and behaved aggressively reminding Mr. Kite of Hithcock's film 'The Birds'.
At five o'clock Mr. Kite boarded the train and sat by the window looking out onto The Irish Sea lit by the bright sunshine. Now in contrast to the morning ride when the tide was high, this time it was low tide and the seashore and mudbanks were fully exposed showing a vast area suitable for birds. So at intervals Mr. Kite noticed large flock of Oystercatchers, Herring Gulls and Curlews.
At seven thirty Mr. Kite sat at home enjoying a tipple of Becks. Cheers.
Tuesday 30th August (Autumn continues and a few Waders Arrive)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom into a gloomy grey and cool autumn morning. A little later Mr. Kite was cycling around the Quarry looking for birds on the River Severn. As usual in Coleham the Mallards and Black-headed Gulls were waiting on the river to be fed bread by the public.
The quiet trip along the river was followed by a quiet visit to Monkmoor Lagoon where the only bird on the water was a Grey Heron wading near the edge looking half-heartedly for small fish. Then it was on to Venus Pool where the water level was lower.
Once again V.P. was on form. Looking from the members hide Mr. Kite watched the well established Green Sandpipers and a Common Sandpiper feeding in the muddy edge of the drying pool. They were joined by three Ruff looking very colourful. But the star of today was a juvenile Spotted Redshank with long bright red legs; a long slender bill and a dark spotted back. The Spotted Redshank fed in contrast with the sandpipers because it casually prodded the waters edge whilst the latter busily moved around a small area of the pool sampling different locations. To add a bit more of a wadery theme a Dunlin popped in for a few minutes rest before continuing it's journey.
With the lowering water level, and concentration of the fish, the Cormorant population has increased to over forty. Each trawling excursion lasts about ten minutes and is a short circle around the right hand side of the pool in line and line astern dipping under to pick a sprat. These short fruitful dives are producing a content and healthy stock of Cormorants who can now spend most of their time with their wings outspread. Mind you with twelve Grey Herons fishing in the pool Mr. Kite is beginning to wonder about the fish stocks in Venus Pool.
Mr. Kite returned along the Salop lanes home for a Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom into a gloomy grey and cool autumn morning. A little later Mr. Kite was cycling around the Quarry looking for birds on the River Severn. As usual in Coleham the Mallards and Black-headed Gulls were waiting on the river to be fed bread by the public.
The quiet trip along the river was followed by a quiet visit to Monkmoor Lagoon where the only bird on the water was a Grey Heron wading near the edge looking half-heartedly for small fish. Then it was on to Venus Pool where the water level was lower.
Once again V.P. was on form. Looking from the members hide Mr. Kite watched the well established Green Sandpipers and a Common Sandpiper feeding in the muddy edge of the drying pool. They were joined by three Ruff looking very colourful. But the star of today was a juvenile Spotted Redshank with long bright red legs; a long slender bill and a dark spotted back. The Spotted Redshank fed in contrast with the sandpipers because it casually prodded the waters edge whilst the latter busily moved around a small area of the pool sampling different locations. To add a bit more of a wadery theme a Dunlin popped in for a few minutes rest before continuing it's journey.
With the lowering water level, and concentration of the fish, the Cormorant population has increased to over forty. Each trawling excursion lasts about ten minutes and is a short circle around the right hand side of the pool in line and line astern dipping under to pick a sprat. These short fruitful dives are producing a content and healthy stock of Cormorants who can now spend most of their time with their wings outspread. Mind you with twelve Grey Herons fishing in the pool Mr. Kite is beginning to wonder about the fish stocks in Venus Pool.
Mr. Kite returned along the Salop lanes home for a Tetley tea. Cheers.
Monday 29 August 2011
Monday 29th August (Another Anniversary)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky and remembered the dawn thirty-four years ago on the Bank Holiday Monday when one life ended. Another gloomy and dark chapter in a lifes rich story as it unfolds with laughter and sadness.
Now today Mr. Kite had a short cycle ride onto The Longmynd. The usual birds were spotted including a number of noisy Ravens. On this quiet day Mr. Kite returned home for a tipple of Marstons Strong Pale Ale. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky and remembered the dawn thirty-four years ago on the Bank Holiday Monday when one life ended. Another gloomy and dark chapter in a lifes rich story as it unfolds with laughter and sadness.
Now today Mr. Kite had a short cycle ride onto The Longmynd. The usual birds were spotted including a number of noisy Ravens. On this quiet day Mr. Kite returned home for a tipple of Marstons Strong Pale Ale. Cheers.
Sunday 28 August 2011
Sunday 28th August (Over the Garden)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear blue sky. The green leaves on the Lime trees were darkening and turning to brown before falling to the ground. Today Mr. Kite was going to watch birds fly over the garden for a short time.
During the morning Mr. Kite sat on the garden bench looking up to see an empty sky.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear blue sky. The green leaves on the Lime trees were darkening and turning to brown before falling to the ground. Today Mr. Kite was going to watch birds fly over the garden for a short time.
During the morning Mr. Kite sat on the garden bench looking up to see an empty sky.
Saturday 27 August 2011
Saturday 27th August (Autumn Continues)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue sky with some bright white fluffy clouds. With rain forecast Mr. Kite was soon cycling along the lanes of Salop before most people were awake. In the early morning sunshine and autumnal chill Mr. Kite soon reached Venus Pool.
Now Venus Pool was similar to the last two days but four Ringed Plovers dropped in for two minutes to sip water and stretch their legs. Soon they took off and climbed quickly in a circle flight path high into the sky before flying south-west.
Mr. Kite scanned the area for new visitor and arrivals but none were spotted. But Mr. Kite did have a pleasant time in the early morning sun watching the birds stir and wake up.
With an early start and early finish it was time for Mr. Kite to have an early drink. So for breakfast Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Badger Furst Quenching Fursty Ferret. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue sky with some bright white fluffy clouds. With rain forecast Mr. Kite was soon cycling along the lanes of Salop before most people were awake. In the early morning sunshine and autumnal chill Mr. Kite soon reached Venus Pool.
Now Venus Pool was similar to the last two days but four Ringed Plovers dropped in for two minutes to sip water and stretch their legs. Soon they took off and climbed quickly in a circle flight path high into the sky before flying south-west.
Mr. Kite scanned the area for new visitor and arrivals but none were spotted. But Mr. Kite did have a pleasant time in the early morning sun watching the birds stir and wake up.
With an early start and early finish it was time for Mr. Kite to have an early drink. So for breakfast Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Badger Furst Quenching Fursty Ferret. Cheers.
Friday 26 August 2011
Friday 26th August (More Rain)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky and a wet road. Looking closely into the air Mr. Kite could see a light drizzle in the damp air. Now the farmers might need rain for the crops and gardeners for their flowers but Mr. Kite does not need rain when he is cycling. So Mr. Kite had a cup of coffee while he decided when to go for a short trip.
When the sky brightened Mr. Kite cycled to Venus Pool along the lanes of Salop. Now Venus Pool had not changed much since the previous day. Cormorants were hanging out to dry and Green Sandpipers, Common Sandpipers and Ringed Plover enjoyed the newly exposed mud.
But one interesting thing did happen; the Mallards, all million of them, swam towards the reeds making a noise. Now Mr. Kite expected to see a fox appear but he looked and looked and nothing appeared. Knowing that there are mink in the area Mr. Kite assumed that the Mallards had seen a long black mink.
Mr. Kite then returned home for a tipple of Romanian Black Ursus, King of beer in Romania. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky and a wet road. Looking closely into the air Mr. Kite could see a light drizzle in the damp air. Now the farmers might need rain for the crops and gardeners for their flowers but Mr. Kite does not need rain when he is cycling. So Mr. Kite had a cup of coffee while he decided when to go for a short trip.
When the sky brightened Mr. Kite cycled to Venus Pool along the lanes of Salop. Now Venus Pool had not changed much since the previous day. Cormorants were hanging out to dry and Green Sandpipers, Common Sandpipers and Ringed Plover enjoyed the newly exposed mud.
But one interesting thing did happen; the Mallards, all million of them, swam towards the reeds making a noise. Now Mr. Kite expected to see a fox appear but he looked and looked and nothing appeared. Knowing that there are mink in the area Mr. Kite assumed that the Mallards had seen a long black mink.
Mr. Kite then returned home for a tipple of Romanian Black Ursus, King of beer in Romania. Cheers.
Thursday 25 August 2011
Thursday 25th August (Rain, Wind and Whitethroats)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue and sunny sky. Now the road was wet; it had rained, just a little.
Now Mr. Kite planned a gentle amble around some of Salop's lanes bird-watching. The amble was not as gentle as expected; firstly the roads were more busy and secondly the wind was strong and gusty at times.
To cut a long story short Mr. Kite spotted the usual birds but he did notice more Common Whitethroats than normal and they were actively flying along the hedgerows; perhaps warming up for the flight home. Their distinctive shape and quite dart into the shrubbery had made them a familiar sight recently.
Mr. Kite returned home and found a Canada Goose amongst some books on his shelf. Fortunately it was a print that he had bought at a jumble sale and forgotten about. Now this splendid wood engraving was a copy of Charles F Tunnicliffe 1939 original. So Mr. Kite then did a bit of research about Charles F. Tunnicliffe (1901-1979) and found out that his originals are now in The Anglesey Gallery (Oriel Ynys Mon) in Llangefni. So soon Mr. Kite will do some bird-watching in the gallery and on the island.
After a busy day Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue and sunny sky. Now the road was wet; it had rained, just a little.
Now Mr. Kite planned a gentle amble around some of Salop's lanes bird-watching. The amble was not as gentle as expected; firstly the roads were more busy and secondly the wind was strong and gusty at times.
To cut a long story short Mr. Kite spotted the usual birds but he did notice more Common Whitethroats than normal and they were actively flying along the hedgerows; perhaps warming up for the flight home. Their distinctive shape and quite dart into the shrubbery had made them a familiar sight recently.
Mr. Kite returned home and found a Canada Goose amongst some books on his shelf. Fortunately it was a print that he had bought at a jumble sale and forgotten about. Now this splendid wood engraving was a copy of Charles F Tunnicliffe 1939 original. So Mr. Kite then did a bit of research about Charles F. Tunnicliffe (1901-1979) and found out that his originals are now in The Anglesey Gallery (Oriel Ynys Mon) in Llangefni. So soon Mr. Kite will do some bird-watching in the gallery and on the island.
After a busy day Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Wednesday 24 August 2011
Wednesday 24th August (Raptors)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue sky with some white fluffy clouds. With rain forecast for the afternoon Mr. Kite was soon taking The Beast towards Long Mountain. The sun was shining and the wind was blowing from the west and blustery at times.
Mr. Kite watched and listened to Common Buzzards and Carrion Crows that were near the road. Just as Mr. Kite reached Westbury he heard a slightly different call from the buzzard; looking up Mr. Kite watched two Red Kites circling together. In the rising warm air they soon disappeared as Mr. Kite cycled west and the kites flew east.
In Westbury Mr. Kite turned off the main road onto the narrower road at the start of Long Mountain. A few ups and down towards Vennington where a family of Raven flew. Past Vron Gate and the long gentle climb with emerging views to the right and the sight of The Breiddons. A Peregrine Falcon glided into view with a following of House Martins. The powerful bird glided over the hill looking for prey.
The climb flattened gradually and the mast on Heldre Hill came into view. From here it was Corvids, Buzzards and little brown birds in the hedges. Reaching Heldre Hill the wind was chilly and Mr. Kite turned right climbing slightly before going down the steep roads towards Brockton. A Merlin passed low in front before heading towards a bird table in one of the few dwellings on the road down.
Carefully going down this narrow bumpy road with pot-holes Mr. Kite annoyed a wasp that soon sat on Mr. Kites leg before injecting a good sharp sting; bastard. After a few minutes mr. Kite was on the main road at Brockton. From here it was a meandering trip back along known lanes, unknown lanes, known lanes that were unknown and some unknown unknown looking for some known. Eventually Westbury was reached and then it was more lanes to Stoney Stretton and Polemere.
With the rain traveling from the west it was full steam ahead towards Shrewsbury. A good morning trip with some raptors.
In the early evening with the sun popping through the dark clouds Mr. Kite headed towards Venus Pool for a spot of wader watching. Luckily the waders were in front of The Members Hide so Mr. Kite could compare the size, plumage, leg colour and feeding behaviour of Common Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper and Greenshank with the occasional foray of a Ringed Plover.
With the transformed features of V.P. it is now difficult to decide where the islands are and what is a peninsular. Anyway Cormorants, Mallards and a Little Egret sat about on mud, grass or stones. Rabbits were enjoying places that they never had access to before the water disappeared.
With the sun going down Mr. Kite returned home to celebrate a good day with a Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue sky with some white fluffy clouds. With rain forecast for the afternoon Mr. Kite was soon taking The Beast towards Long Mountain. The sun was shining and the wind was blowing from the west and blustery at times.
Mr. Kite watched and listened to Common Buzzards and Carrion Crows that were near the road. Just as Mr. Kite reached Westbury he heard a slightly different call from the buzzard; looking up Mr. Kite watched two Red Kites circling together. In the rising warm air they soon disappeared as Mr. Kite cycled west and the kites flew east.
In Westbury Mr. Kite turned off the main road onto the narrower road at the start of Long Mountain. A few ups and down towards Vennington where a family of Raven flew. Past Vron Gate and the long gentle climb with emerging views to the right and the sight of The Breiddons. A Peregrine Falcon glided into view with a following of House Martins. The powerful bird glided over the hill looking for prey.
The climb flattened gradually and the mast on Heldre Hill came into view. From here it was Corvids, Buzzards and little brown birds in the hedges. Reaching Heldre Hill the wind was chilly and Mr. Kite turned right climbing slightly before going down the steep roads towards Brockton. A Merlin passed low in front before heading towards a bird table in one of the few dwellings on the road down.
Carefully going down this narrow bumpy road with pot-holes Mr. Kite annoyed a wasp that soon sat on Mr. Kites leg before injecting a good sharp sting; bastard. After a few minutes mr. Kite was on the main road at Brockton. From here it was a meandering trip back along known lanes, unknown lanes, known lanes that were unknown and some unknown unknown looking for some known. Eventually Westbury was reached and then it was more lanes to Stoney Stretton and Polemere.
With the rain traveling from the west it was full steam ahead towards Shrewsbury. A good morning trip with some raptors.
In the early evening with the sun popping through the dark clouds Mr. Kite headed towards Venus Pool for a spot of wader watching. Luckily the waders were in front of The Members Hide so Mr. Kite could compare the size, plumage, leg colour and feeding behaviour of Common Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper and Greenshank with the occasional foray of a Ringed Plover.
With the transformed features of V.P. it is now difficult to decide where the islands are and what is a peninsular. Anyway Cormorants, Mallards and a Little Egret sat about on mud, grass or stones. Rabbits were enjoying places that they never had access to before the water disappeared.
With the sun going down Mr. Kite returned home to celebrate a good day with a Tetley tea. Cheers.
Tuesday 23 August 2011
Tuesday 23rd August (The Rain did not Appear)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window expecting to see a wet road and damp pavements as rain was forecast. However it was dry so Mr. Kite took a trip to Atcham where Mallards and Canadian Geese sat on the waters edge. The Rooks in Attingham Park looked happy feeding on the grassy surface along with Jackdaws.
Soon Mr. Kite was at The Mire looking over the shallow pool where the usual gulls and water-fowl fed. To cut a long story short Mr. Kite searched very closely looking to recognise the species there and the least common was a Green Sandpiper.
With a little breeze Mr. Kite had a good trip along country lanes.
In the evening Mr. Kite cycled to Venus Pool. If the water continues to evaporate it will soon be known as Venus. Tonight the waders included Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper and Ringed Plover. A Sparrowhawk stirred all the birds as it flew over and a Little Egret landed amongst the black Cormorants to lighten things up.
After a good day watching birds and cycling Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window expecting to see a wet road and damp pavements as rain was forecast. However it was dry so Mr. Kite took a trip to Atcham where Mallards and Canadian Geese sat on the waters edge. The Rooks in Attingham Park looked happy feeding on the grassy surface along with Jackdaws.
Soon Mr. Kite was at The Mire looking over the shallow pool where the usual gulls and water-fowl fed. To cut a long story short Mr. Kite searched very closely looking to recognise the species there and the least common was a Green Sandpiper.
With a little breeze Mr. Kite had a good trip along country lanes.
In the evening Mr. Kite cycled to Venus Pool. If the water continues to evaporate it will soon be known as Venus. Tonight the waders included Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper and Ringed Plover. A Sparrowhawk stirred all the birds as it flew over and a Little Egret landed amongst the black Cormorants to lighten things up.
After a good day watching birds and cycling Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Monday 22 August 2011
Monday 22nd August (The Mornings are Quieter)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a silent street under a grey English summer morning. With a good weather forecast Mr. Kite was soon on The Beast and heading towards Polemere. On a windless morning Mr. Kite cycled easily along the roads in the emerging sunshine.
The first thing that Mr. Kite noticed at Polemere was the low water level had lowered more revealing more mud flats and less pool. Ducks and geese had now given up swimming as they could walk wherever they wanted in the shallow water. Today the ducks and geese were lazy and just sat on the mud and grass with their heads on their backs.
Mr. Kite then entered the hide where a Robin was flying around. It is not every day that a bird-watcher in a hide is accompanied by a bird but today Mr. Kite watched the ducks and geese laze around with a flying Robin. After a spot of bird-watching the Robin left the hide and went into a nearby hedge where it looked more at home.
From Polemere Mr. Kite headed to Pontesbury, Minsterley and over the Callow. The warm weather had stirred the corvids and groups of them were circling over the Shropshire countryside. From Callow Mr. Kite cycled past The Stiperstones pub to The Devil's Chair car park for a quick look at the purple moors and perhaps a passing Red Grouse. As expected the grouse were scarce.
Mr. Kite then rode over The Long Mynd to Church Stretton stopping on the quiet parts of the hill to scan the moors for a grouse. Non were heard or seen.
Lastly Mr. Kite pedaled to Venus Pool for a wader watch. Amongst the many ducks, geese, Grey Herons and Lapwings Mr. Kite spotted two Greenshanks and a Green Sandpiper. After a long day mr. Kite returned home for a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a silent street under a grey English summer morning. With a good weather forecast Mr. Kite was soon on The Beast and heading towards Polemere. On a windless morning Mr. Kite cycled easily along the roads in the emerging sunshine.
The first thing that Mr. Kite noticed at Polemere was the low water level had lowered more revealing more mud flats and less pool. Ducks and geese had now given up swimming as they could walk wherever they wanted in the shallow water. Today the ducks and geese were lazy and just sat on the mud and grass with their heads on their backs.
Mr. Kite then entered the hide where a Robin was flying around. It is not every day that a bird-watcher in a hide is accompanied by a bird but today Mr. Kite watched the ducks and geese laze around with a flying Robin. After a spot of bird-watching the Robin left the hide and went into a nearby hedge where it looked more at home.
From Polemere Mr. Kite headed to Pontesbury, Minsterley and over the Callow. The warm weather had stirred the corvids and groups of them were circling over the Shropshire countryside. From Callow Mr. Kite cycled past The Stiperstones pub to The Devil's Chair car park for a quick look at the purple moors and perhaps a passing Red Grouse. As expected the grouse were scarce.
Mr. Kite then rode over The Long Mynd to Church Stretton stopping on the quiet parts of the hill to scan the moors for a grouse. Non were heard or seen.
Lastly Mr. Kite pedaled to Venus Pool for a wader watch. Amongst the many ducks, geese, Grey Herons and Lapwings Mr. Kite spotted two Greenshanks and a Green Sandpiper. After a long day mr. Kite returned home for a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Saturday 20 August 2011
Sunday 21st August (Silence on the Road)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky hung with rain clouds. Outside was silent.
Sunday morning was a lazy morning; preparing food and reading newspapers. However at noon when the sun was high in the sky and warm Mr. Kite took to The Beast and headed towards Venus Pool. With a window of only two hours it was just to see what was at V.P.
Firstly there was not too much water in the 'old pool'. In fact it looked like an African water-hole without the wildebeest. Secondly the low water level was good for the fishing birds as the fish had less places to hide. So Mr. Kite watched twenty Cormorants fishing in formation as a way to concentrate the fish in groups. Swimming along the birds occasionally dipped under the water to fish before emerging for a breath of air before the next snack. Mr. Kite could only think that this was an efficient way to fish. After twenty minutes snacking the Cormorants returned to their island, opening their wings and sat absorbing the warm sunshine.
Looking for waders Mr. Kite could only find two Greenshanks. After a very pleasant two hours Mr. Kite returned for a tipple of Romanian beer. Poti Castiga un Vagon de Premii. Brasov Ciucas. Bere Medliata. Cheers; a great little tinny.
Mr. Kite was enjoying his tipple in the garden and looked up to see a large group of Swifts flying high in the sky in a westerly direction. Some of these looked large, almost Alpine Swift size.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky hung with rain clouds. Outside was silent.
Sunday morning was a lazy morning; preparing food and reading newspapers. However at noon when the sun was high in the sky and warm Mr. Kite took to The Beast and headed towards Venus Pool. With a window of only two hours it was just to see what was at V.P.
Firstly there was not too much water in the 'old pool'. In fact it looked like an African water-hole without the wildebeest. Secondly the low water level was good for the fishing birds as the fish had less places to hide. So Mr. Kite watched twenty Cormorants fishing in formation as a way to concentrate the fish in groups. Swimming along the birds occasionally dipped under the water to fish before emerging for a breath of air before the next snack. Mr. Kite could only think that this was an efficient way to fish. After twenty minutes snacking the Cormorants returned to their island, opening their wings and sat absorbing the warm sunshine.
Looking for waders Mr. Kite could only find two Greenshanks. After a very pleasant two hours Mr. Kite returned for a tipple of Romanian beer. Poti Castiga un Vagon de Premii. Brasov Ciucas. Bere Medliata. Cheers; a great little tinny.
Mr. Kite was enjoying his tipple in the garden and looked up to see a large group of Swifts flying high in the sky in a westerly direction. Some of these looked large, almost Alpine Swift size.
Friday 19 August 2011
Thursday 18 August 2011
Thursday 18th August (Autumn, White Cloud and Silence)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a white cloudy sky. Today the birds were silent as autumn slowly progresses with a slight prickly cold feeling in the morning.
Today was not to be a good day because things had to be done. However Mr. Kite did spot a huge eagle shaped metallic bird in the car park of Salop Leisure. Now this is a spectacular piece of art; go there and see for yourself.
Mr. Kite returned home for a Wychwood Scarecrow. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a white cloudy sky. Today the birds were silent as autumn slowly progresses with a slight prickly cold feeling in the morning.
Today was not to be a good day because things had to be done. However Mr. Kite did spot a huge eagle shaped metallic bird in the car park of Salop Leisure. Now this is a spectacular piece of art; go there and see for yourself.
Mr. Kite returned home for a Wychwood Scarecrow. Cheers.
Wednesday 17 August 2011
Wednesday 17th August (Cleric's Cure)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a sunny sky. Soon Mr. Kite was cycling along lanes towards High Park with his birding companion. Hook-a-Gate, Annscroft, Stapleton and then the lanes to High Park. The usual birds were spotted including a family of Willow Warblers. A gentle ride along the high ground looking for grouse was followed by a slow descent to The Bridges.
Lunch hour at The Bridges was a chance to consume as much Cleric's Cure as possible. A zig-zag return to Shrewsbury followed by more beer. The birding competition was a draw. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a sunny sky. Soon Mr. Kite was cycling along lanes towards High Park with his birding companion. Hook-a-Gate, Annscroft, Stapleton and then the lanes to High Park. The usual birds were spotted including a family of Willow Warblers. A gentle ride along the high ground looking for grouse was followed by a slow descent to The Bridges.
Lunch hour at The Bridges was a chance to consume as much Cleric's Cure as possible. A zig-zag return to Shrewsbury followed by more beer. The birding competition was a draw. Cheers.
Tuesday 16 August 2011
Tuesday 16th August (August)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey sky with patches of blue on the horizon. The gentle breeze blew spots of rain onto the window pane. This was not a good start to the day. So Mr. Kite sat and read for most of the day.
In the late afternoon the clouds lifted and the sun shone so Mr. Kite took The Beast from the shed and headed for Venus Pool in the pleasant warmth. The speed was slow. But soon Mr. Kite was looking out over the very low Venus Pool.
Just in front of the hide two Little Ringed Plover darted over mud stopping occasionally to feed. In the water just behind two Greenshanks fed in the shallows and behind then four Ruff fed. During the hour Mr. Kite sat there these birds fed the whole time and did not move too far. On the left side a Green Sandpiper walked along the edge of the water feeding.
With darkness beginning Mr. Kite cycled home to have a tipple of Wychwood Goliah. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey sky with patches of blue on the horizon. The gentle breeze blew spots of rain onto the window pane. This was not a good start to the day. So Mr. Kite sat and read for most of the day.
In the late afternoon the clouds lifted and the sun shone so Mr. Kite took The Beast from the shed and headed for Venus Pool in the pleasant warmth. The speed was slow. But soon Mr. Kite was looking out over the very low Venus Pool.
Just in front of the hide two Little Ringed Plover darted over mud stopping occasionally to feed. In the water just behind two Greenshanks fed in the shallows and behind then four Ruff fed. During the hour Mr. Kite sat there these birds fed the whole time and did not move too far. On the left side a Green Sandpiper walked along the edge of the water feeding.
With darkness beginning Mr. Kite cycled home to have a tipple of Wychwood Goliah. Cheers.
Monday 15 August 2011
Monday 15th August (Another Anniversary)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue clear sky. Today was another anniversary. This anniversary was one to be remembered but not celebrated. Later in the day Mr. KIte and His Lady would tidy The Special Grave, put flowers on it and think about The Star.
On a sunny warm afternoon Mr. Kite and His Lady listened to the sound of a Green Woodpecker as they laid flowers onto a neat grave.
Mr. Kite returned home for a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue clear sky. Today was another anniversary. This anniversary was one to be remembered but not celebrated. Later in the day Mr. KIte and His Lady would tidy The Special Grave, put flowers on it and think about The Star.
On a sunny warm afternoon Mr. Kite and His Lady listened to the sound of a Green Woodpecker as they laid flowers onto a neat grave.
Mr. Kite returned home for a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Sunday 14th August (Cooking, Celebration and Cheers)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a cloudy grey sky. The road was silent on this Sunday morning.
With a celebrations planned for later in the day Mr. Kite was soon cooking for the guests, celebrating the birthday girl and saying cheers as bottles of Becks, Goliah, Scarecrow, Hobgoblin and Wychcraft were drunk.
As a result of such a long hectic day Mr. Kite forgot to watch the birds. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a cloudy grey sky. The road was silent on this Sunday morning.
With a celebrations planned for later in the day Mr. Kite was soon cooking for the guests, celebrating the birthday girl and saying cheers as bottles of Becks, Goliah, Scarecrow, Hobgoblin and Wychcraft were drunk.
As a result of such a long hectic day Mr. Kite forgot to watch the birds. Cheers.
Saturday 13 August 2011
Saturday 13th August (Guano)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a brightening sky just after the meteor storm had disappeared from view and had a lazy morning reading the newspaper. But in the afternoon Mr. Kite cycled to Venus Pool where yesterdays birds were still on view.
To cut a long story short Mr. Kite cycled from Venus Pool to Cound Stank where hundreds of House Martins were feeding on insects in the air and resting on telegraphs wires that crossed the road. Now Mr. Kite was wondering whether these birds were preparing to go home after a successful summer or just congregating on a pleasant autumn afternoon. Mr. Kite watched these birds as he slowly cycled down the lane. Passing under a group of House Martins perched on a telegraph wire Mr. Kite felt a cold splodge on his exposed left shoulder. Looking onto his shoulder Mr. Kite noticed an irregular shaped white lump of guano. Now Mr. Kite could not identify the culprit but that did not matter. mr. Kite had a dilemma: should he leave the guano in place or should he remove it?
Mr. Kite decided he would leave it and consider it a lucky omen. So on his return to town Mr. Kite bought a lottery ticked before having a tipple of Wychwood Hobgoblin. Cheers from the lucky Mr. Kite with a white spotted shoulder and a lucky lottery ticket.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a brightening sky just after the meteor storm had disappeared from view and had a lazy morning reading the newspaper. But in the afternoon Mr. Kite cycled to Venus Pool where yesterdays birds were still on view.
To cut a long story short Mr. Kite cycled from Venus Pool to Cound Stank where hundreds of House Martins were feeding on insects in the air and resting on telegraphs wires that crossed the road. Now Mr. Kite was wondering whether these birds were preparing to go home after a successful summer or just congregating on a pleasant autumn afternoon. Mr. Kite watched these birds as he slowly cycled down the lane. Passing under a group of House Martins perched on a telegraph wire Mr. Kite felt a cold splodge on his exposed left shoulder. Looking onto his shoulder Mr. Kite noticed an irregular shaped white lump of guano. Now Mr. Kite could not identify the culprit but that did not matter. mr. Kite had a dilemma: should he leave the guano in place or should he remove it?
Mr. Kite decided he would leave it and consider it a lucky omen. So on his return to town Mr. Kite bought a lottery ticked before having a tipple of Wychwood Hobgoblin. Cheers from the lucky Mr. Kite with a white spotted shoulder and a lucky lottery ticket.
Friday 12 August 2011
Friday 12th August (The Glorious Twelfth and a Horny Horse)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey sky and a hint of drizzle. On the first day of the grouse shooting season Mr. Kite was going to visit the moors.
Firstly Mr. Kite stopped at Polemere to watch idle Mallards and Greylag Geese sitting on the mud residue left after the water receded. Now being a bird-watcher Mr. Kite can only watch sitting duck for so long. However Mr. Kite was entertained at Polemere by a 'horny horse' that made strange ear piercing noises as it pursued a female horse with an extra leg.
As Mr. Kite left Polemere the drizzle started but the intrepid Mr. Kite headed to Plox Green to start the ascent to the moors. After a four mile climb Mr. Kite reached the Stiperstones car park where he parked The Beast and strolled towards The Devil's Chair. The good news was that Mr. Kite did not spot a Grouse Shooters but the bad news was that he did not spot a Red Grouse either.
Then Mr. Kite cycled towards The Bridges where he smelt the beer but did not stop for refreshments. With the sound of Farmer Phil's festival Mr. Kite headed over the moors towards Church Stretton. On this Friday morning only a few walkers and a Kestrel were spotted on the high ground. The walkers did not beat well enough to bring the Red Grouse out of their cover. An exciting descent down The Burway lead Mr. Kite into Church Stretton.
With the hard work completed Mr. Kite cycled towards Venus Pool. The sun was shining, the wind behind and the roads empty so Mr. Kite ambled along using all the road spotting Ravens, Rooks, Buzzards, Chaffinch etc. Mr. Kite reached Venus Pool where he watched Greenshank feeding in the shallow water. This pair waded along with their beaks in the water. Green Sandpipers walked along the waters edge but occasionally flew to other parts of the pool.
After more than forty miles and five hours Mr. Kite returned home for a tipple of Wychwood Goliath. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey sky and a hint of drizzle. On the first day of the grouse shooting season Mr. Kite was going to visit the moors.
Firstly Mr. Kite stopped at Polemere to watch idle Mallards and Greylag Geese sitting on the mud residue left after the water receded. Now being a bird-watcher Mr. Kite can only watch sitting duck for so long. However Mr. Kite was entertained at Polemere by a 'horny horse' that made strange ear piercing noises as it pursued a female horse with an extra leg.
As Mr. Kite left Polemere the drizzle started but the intrepid Mr. Kite headed to Plox Green to start the ascent to the moors. After a four mile climb Mr. Kite reached the Stiperstones car park where he parked The Beast and strolled towards The Devil's Chair. The good news was that Mr. Kite did not spot a Grouse Shooters but the bad news was that he did not spot a Red Grouse either.
Then Mr. Kite cycled towards The Bridges where he smelt the beer but did not stop for refreshments. With the sound of Farmer Phil's festival Mr. Kite headed over the moors towards Church Stretton. On this Friday morning only a few walkers and a Kestrel were spotted on the high ground. The walkers did not beat well enough to bring the Red Grouse out of their cover. An exciting descent down The Burway lead Mr. Kite into Church Stretton.
With the hard work completed Mr. Kite cycled towards Venus Pool. The sun was shining, the wind behind and the roads empty so Mr. Kite ambled along using all the road spotting Ravens, Rooks, Buzzards, Chaffinch etc. Mr. Kite reached Venus Pool where he watched Greenshank feeding in the shallow water. This pair waded along with their beaks in the water. Green Sandpipers walked along the waters edge but occasionally flew to other parts of the pool.
After more than forty miles and five hours Mr. Kite returned home for a tipple of Wychwood Goliath. Cheers.
Thursday 11 August 2011
Thursday 11th August (Waders Waddle In and a Swift Flies Over)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window. The green leaves on the trees were being blown about in the gusty wind and the pale dried fruit dropped to the floor. The sky was grey and the weather forecast was wind and rain.
However after a few days of laziness Mr. Kite has plans of bird-watching. Just after nine o'clock Mr. Kite's birding companion rang to organise a competition. So by ten o'clock The Incapacitants were heading towards Atcham Bridge. Passing a large flock of Canadian Geese they arrived at Atcham. Mallards, Cormorants, Swallows, House Martins and twenty-six Goosander. A good start improved as a Little Egret delicately flew upstream and a Hobby passed by followed by the Swallows and House Martins.
A drive through Attingham Park was a chance to pass close to Jackdaws, Carrion Crows and Rooks with Common Buzzards overhead. Then it was a trespass on The Mire to meet another trespasser with a telescope. So cooperative birder provided the equipment to spot Ruff, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper and Ringed Plover amongst the Mallard, Teal and Shoveler. Then it was a county tick in the book; two Turnstones. A passing Peregrine Falcon provided more aerial spectaculars as Lapwings, waders and lots of little birds took to the air.
With time passing and a curfew it was time for Venus Pool to see Great Crested Grebe, Greenshank, Little Ringed Plover and Pied Wagtail. With forty-four species spotted Mr. Kite won the competition where a celebratory Tetley tea was tippled. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window. The green leaves on the trees were being blown about in the gusty wind and the pale dried fruit dropped to the floor. The sky was grey and the weather forecast was wind and rain.
However after a few days of laziness Mr. Kite has plans of bird-watching. Just after nine o'clock Mr. Kite's birding companion rang to organise a competition. So by ten o'clock The Incapacitants were heading towards Atcham Bridge. Passing a large flock of Canadian Geese they arrived at Atcham. Mallards, Cormorants, Swallows, House Martins and twenty-six Goosander. A good start improved as a Little Egret delicately flew upstream and a Hobby passed by followed by the Swallows and House Martins.
A drive through Attingham Park was a chance to pass close to Jackdaws, Carrion Crows and Rooks with Common Buzzards overhead. Then it was a trespass on The Mire to meet another trespasser with a telescope. So cooperative birder provided the equipment to spot Ruff, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper and Ringed Plover amongst the Mallard, Teal and Shoveler. Then it was a county tick in the book; two Turnstones. A passing Peregrine Falcon provided more aerial spectaculars as Lapwings, waders and lots of little birds took to the air.
With time passing and a curfew it was time for Venus Pool to see Great Crested Grebe, Greenshank, Little Ringed Plover and Pied Wagtail. With forty-four species spotted Mr. Kite won the competition where a celebratory Tetley tea was tippled. Cheers.
Wednesday 10 August 2011
Wednesday 10th August (Dull and Gloomy)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey and gloomy sky. Now Mr. Kite thought, "Why would any bird fly in that grot?"
After a lazy morning and most of the afternoon Mr. Kite went for a stroll and spotted one Sparrowhawk and that's about it for today. But Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey and gloomy sky. Now Mr. Kite thought, "Why would any bird fly in that grot?"
After a lazy morning and most of the afternoon Mr. Kite went for a stroll and spotted one Sparrowhawk and that's about it for today. But Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Tuesday 9 August 2011
Tuesday 9th August (England Burns and the Swifts have Flown)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window to see that the sky was grey the fires of the inner cities had not reached the Shires.The Swifts have flown to those warm lands of Africa.
Mr. Kite looked for Swifts but did not see one; so the Swifts have flown. During the afternoon Mr. Kite and His Lady took a stroll over the English Bridge just as a Peregrine Falcon flew above the river and cleared the bridge by about ten feet. As the falcon powerfully flew towards the bridge it's bold black and white head pattern was clear and the bird was focused on following the river.
Mr. Kite returned home to have a Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window to see that the sky was grey the fires of the inner cities had not reached the Shires.The Swifts have flown to those warm lands of Africa.
Mr. Kite looked for Swifts but did not see one; so the Swifts have flown. During the afternoon Mr. Kite and His Lady took a stroll over the English Bridge just as a Peregrine Falcon flew above the river and cleared the bridge by about ten feet. As the falcon powerfully flew towards the bridge it's bold black and white head pattern was clear and the bird was focused on following the river.
Mr. Kite returned home to have a Tetley tea. Cheers.
Sunday 7 August 2011
Monday 8th August (A Quiet Start and Scary End)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a dark sky with small light patches. A few raindrops stuck to the window pane; outside looked cool and quiet. The wind was beginning to stir the leaves on the trees. Mr. Kite searched for signs of life in the morning light but outside was lifeless.
Now Mr. Kite did a tour of The Midlands and returned home for a tipple of Wychwood Brewery Scarecrow. This was the best bird of the day.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a dark sky with small light patches. A few raindrops stuck to the window pane; outside looked cool and quiet. The wind was beginning to stir the leaves on the trees. Mr. Kite searched for signs of life in the morning light but outside was lifeless.
Now Mr. Kite did a tour of The Midlands and returned home for a tipple of Wychwood Brewery Scarecrow. This was the best bird of the day.
Sunday 7th August (Promises, Wind and some Hot Air)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue sky with some white fluffy clouds. Today the Swifts seemed to have flown back to Africa. Mr. Kite looked into the trees and saw that the wind was quite strong but Mr. Kite was going bird-watching today.
So in the breeze Mr. Kite headed to Venus Pool where hopefully an odd migrant might be resting. At Venus Pool the birds were resting. A gulp of thirty Cormorants sat on an island alongside an equal number of motionless Mallards and lazy Lapwings. Grey Herons half-heartedly fished in the shallow water. However two energetic Greenshanks fed on the waters edge in preparation for their migratory trip. These elegant individuals had real long green shanks supporting a slim body with a white breast; streaky head and breast. The bill is slim and slightly upward pointing.
During this time two Lesser Black-backed Gulls dropped in to annoy the juvenile Black-headed Gulls that were enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon. Mr. Kite then cycled slowly to Polemere to watch the waterfowl there. The birds here also considered that Sunday was for lounging around. In the adjacent field a large group of Greylag Geese sat on the grass nibbling at the juicy shoots. The Mallards sat on the mud and did nothing at all. A group of eight Shovelers floated around on the water. With the ducks resting their beaks o their backs and head turned around they all looked the same.
With showers developing it was time for Mr. Kite to go home. So with the wind behind him he soon reached Shrewsbury where he cycled through The Quarry along the river where a group of sixteen Goosander were having a Sunday afternoon fishing. Reaching home Mr. Kite had a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue sky with some white fluffy clouds. Today the Swifts seemed to have flown back to Africa. Mr. Kite looked into the trees and saw that the wind was quite strong but Mr. Kite was going bird-watching today.
So in the breeze Mr. Kite headed to Venus Pool where hopefully an odd migrant might be resting. At Venus Pool the birds were resting. A gulp of thirty Cormorants sat on an island alongside an equal number of motionless Mallards and lazy Lapwings. Grey Herons half-heartedly fished in the shallow water. However two energetic Greenshanks fed on the waters edge in preparation for their migratory trip. These elegant individuals had real long green shanks supporting a slim body with a white breast; streaky head and breast. The bill is slim and slightly upward pointing.
During this time two Lesser Black-backed Gulls dropped in to annoy the juvenile Black-headed Gulls that were enjoying a lazy Sunday afternoon. Mr. Kite then cycled slowly to Polemere to watch the waterfowl there. The birds here also considered that Sunday was for lounging around. In the adjacent field a large group of Greylag Geese sat on the grass nibbling at the juicy shoots. The Mallards sat on the mud and did nothing at all. A group of eight Shovelers floated around on the water. With the ducks resting their beaks o their backs and head turned around they all looked the same.
With showers developing it was time for Mr. Kite to go home. So with the wind behind him he soon reached Shrewsbury where he cycled through The Quarry along the river where a group of sixteen Goosander were having a Sunday afternoon fishing. Reaching home Mr. Kite had a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Saturday 6 August 2011
Saturday 6th August (Migration, Waders and Swiftless)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window. The sky was grey and birdless. Now birdless does not seem to be a proper word but Mr. Kite observed that the sky was birdless; that is no birds flying. Mr. Kite has a small piece of logic; if the sky is birdless then it must be Swiftless. So in the morning Mr. Kite could see that the Swifts might have flown.
Recently Mr. Kite had read that Venus Pool had been visited by a Turnstone, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper and Greenshank so on this Saturday morning cycled to V.P. in search of a migratory wader or just a few hours bird-watching.
At ten o'clock Mr. Kite took The Beast towards V.P. on a windless and Swiftless morning. Without the wind Mr. Kite sped along the lanes until just before Eaton Mascott Mr.Kite stopped to watch a Merlin sitting in the middle of the road. Now a stationary sitting Merlin is a great sight. The Merlin sat there for a good half-minute before it took off with a flock of local House Martins making sure that its presence and position was known. With the element of surprise gone and the Merlin just about airborne it flew slowly into a low tree. The brown colour on it's back and barred tail suggested a female.
Feeling please Mr. Kite arrived at V.P. expecting to see a variety of waders. Firstly Mr. Kite noted that the water level was low; just right for migratory waders. Secondly Mr. Kite noticed a group of five Grey Herons standing in the shallow water to the left of the main hide. These Grey heron were occasionally picking little fish out of the water but they seemed more interested in a family of four Moorhens. The two clean, black, fluffy and naive bundles of new juicy Moorhens were enjoying life outside of the reed bed on the muddy shores of the pool but seemed unaware of the herons that nonchalantly moved towards them. Mr. Kite thought what a difficult situation for the parents of the Moorhens; how to allow the youngsters to enjoy the 'freedom of the pool and recognise the dangers that are only feet away' or one outstretched neck and beak.
Mr. Kite is pleased to say that the young Moorhens, with the expert guidance of their proud parents, avoided being a 'heron's snack'. And nearby Mr. Kite watched a Greenshank feed on the waters edge. Did Mr. Kite see a Turnstone, or Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper or Spoonbill? No. Did it matter? No because Mr. Kite had watched birds and the continuing cycle of young birds, migration and the brutal world of nature.
Soon Mr. Kite was repairing The Beast because it sprung a leak but was soon home enjoying a tipple of Leffe 9 degrees. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window. The sky was grey and birdless. Now birdless does not seem to be a proper word but Mr. Kite observed that the sky was birdless; that is no birds flying. Mr. Kite has a small piece of logic; if the sky is birdless then it must be Swiftless. So in the morning Mr. Kite could see that the Swifts might have flown.
Recently Mr. Kite had read that Venus Pool had been visited by a Turnstone, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper and Greenshank so on this Saturday morning cycled to V.P. in search of a migratory wader or just a few hours bird-watching.
At ten o'clock Mr. Kite took The Beast towards V.P. on a windless and Swiftless morning. Without the wind Mr. Kite sped along the lanes until just before Eaton Mascott Mr.Kite stopped to watch a Merlin sitting in the middle of the road. Now a stationary sitting Merlin is a great sight. The Merlin sat there for a good half-minute before it took off with a flock of local House Martins making sure that its presence and position was known. With the element of surprise gone and the Merlin just about airborne it flew slowly into a low tree. The brown colour on it's back and barred tail suggested a female.
Feeling please Mr. Kite arrived at V.P. expecting to see a variety of waders. Firstly Mr. Kite noted that the water level was low; just right for migratory waders. Secondly Mr. Kite noticed a group of five Grey Herons standing in the shallow water to the left of the main hide. These Grey heron were occasionally picking little fish out of the water but they seemed more interested in a family of four Moorhens. The two clean, black, fluffy and naive bundles of new juicy Moorhens were enjoying life outside of the reed bed on the muddy shores of the pool but seemed unaware of the herons that nonchalantly moved towards them. Mr. Kite thought what a difficult situation for the parents of the Moorhens; how to allow the youngsters to enjoy the 'freedom of the pool and recognise the dangers that are only feet away' or one outstretched neck and beak.
Mr. Kite is pleased to say that the young Moorhens, with the expert guidance of their proud parents, avoided being a 'heron's snack'. And nearby Mr. Kite watched a Greenshank feed on the waters edge. Did Mr. Kite see a Turnstone, or Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper or Spoonbill? No. Did it matter? No because Mr. Kite had watched birds and the continuing cycle of young birds, migration and the brutal world of nature.
Soon Mr. Kite was repairing The Beast because it sprung a leak but was soon home enjoying a tipple of Leffe 9 degrees. Cheers.
Friday 5 August 2011
Friday 5th August (Blue Sky)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window. The sun was shining and the skies were blue. Now the question is still about Swifts; are they still here? Mr. Kite scoured the sky and did not see any.
Following a lazy morning Mr. Kite had a lazy afternoon. During this lazy period Mr. Kite sat in the garden and looked into the blue sunny sky. A Common Buzzard appeared directly above Mr. Kite with two Swifts circling around it. The Buzzard was light underneath and with wings outstretched it soared in circles and then folded in it's wings and turned into a black blob that then dived in a steep angle towards the earth. After three seconds of a head first dive the Buzzard opened it's wings, slowed down and then soared upwards to repeat this manoeuvre four times. Eventually the bird soared high into the clear blue sky and glided in a high speed shallow dive over the roof and out of sight.
Mr. Kite considers himself fortunate that Common Buzzards are a regular sight over his garden. A flying, soaring, diving Buzzard is something for the bird-watcher. To watch the Common Buzzard performing in the air is spectacular. To celebrate his bird-watching experience Mr. Kite had a tipple of Shepherd Neame Master Brew Kentish Ale. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window. The sun was shining and the skies were blue. Now the question is still about Swifts; are they still here? Mr. Kite scoured the sky and did not see any.
Following a lazy morning Mr. Kite had a lazy afternoon. During this lazy period Mr. Kite sat in the garden and looked into the blue sunny sky. A Common Buzzard appeared directly above Mr. Kite with two Swifts circling around it. The Buzzard was light underneath and with wings outstretched it soared in circles and then folded in it's wings and turned into a black blob that then dived in a steep angle towards the earth. After three seconds of a head first dive the Buzzard opened it's wings, slowed down and then soared upwards to repeat this manoeuvre four times. Eventually the bird soared high into the clear blue sky and glided in a high speed shallow dive over the roof and out of sight.
Mr. Kite considers himself fortunate that Common Buzzards are a regular sight over his garden. A flying, soaring, diving Buzzard is something for the bird-watcher. To watch the Common Buzzard performing in the air is spectacular. To celebrate his bird-watching experience Mr. Kite had a tipple of Shepherd Neame Master Brew Kentish Ale. Cheers.
Thursday 4 August 2011
Thursday 4th August (Autumn is Here)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey sky. Now this was not a good start to the day as Mr. Kite had an almighty hangover after drinking too much Clerics Cure, Bank's Bitter and Becks.
Soon Mr. Kite was cycling along Sydney Avenue with Lime tree droppings raining down in the autumnal air. A few Mallards sat on the River Severn and little else was visible. Then the drizzle started and the skies turned grey.
To cut a long story Mr. Kite did not watch many birds today although he noticed two Swifts. Mr. Kite did enjoy a tipple of Becks. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey sky. Now this was not a good start to the day as Mr. Kite had an almighty hangover after drinking too much Clerics Cure, Bank's Bitter and Becks.
Soon Mr. Kite was cycling along Sydney Avenue with Lime tree droppings raining down in the autumnal air. A few Mallards sat on the River Severn and little else was visible. Then the drizzle started and the skies turned grey.
To cut a long story Mr. Kite did not watch many birds today although he noticed two Swifts. Mr. Kite did enjoy a tipple of Becks. Cheers.
Tuesday 2 August 2011
Wednesday 3rd August (Formation Flying on an Autumnal Morning)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window. Mr. Kite had decided that this was the third day of autumn although lots of people are enjoying their summer holiday. Now on this autumn morning the sky was light blue with a few clouds. Looking closely Mr. Kite could see that the clouds were in two layers; the lower level clouds were 'wispy' and black whilst the higher level clouds were white and tinged with pink edges caused by the rising sun.
Now the word 'wisp' made Mr. Kite think; the collective noun for Common Snipe; a wisp of Snipe. Anyway Mr. Kite was unlikely to see Common Snipe out of his bedroom window.
Mr. Kite then went down the stairs and into the garden. The cool air had that tingle of autumn; the air of pleasantly dry and cool but only just; a little cooler and the arms would need to be covered. Around Mr. Kite listened to Wood Pigeons and Collared Doves. In the relaxed and familiar sound Mr. Kite then heard the more anxious loud rattling call of geese. Looking up Mr. Kite counted seven Greylag Geese flying west in a fast low flying disorganised formation. In the five seconds that it took for the formation to fly into view and out of sight Mr. Kite thought that this must be a family of Greylags practicing their formation flying. With the continual cackling of instruction the tail end of the flock were manoeuvring to slot into the slipstream of the lead birds. But their lack of skill and speed was making it difficult as once in position they could not stay there and then had to turn and speed up to catch the leading birds. It is not easy being a goose learning to fly in that relaxed efficient formation.
Now Mr. Kite went into the garden to count the Swifts not watch geese. But that is bird-watching; have an aim but then be distracted by something unexpected. With the Swift count zero and the thoughts on formation flying Mr. Kite had another unexpected sighting. This was not something exceptional or scarce or a major event but was related to birds flying in formation.
Having just watched seven Greylag Geese trying to fly as a formation three Mallards then appeared from the west in a close tight formation and climbed gently as they turned through ninety degrees and headed south in a line abreast. This was a relaxed, smooth and fast turn. Silently the Mallards completed the turn equidistant and close together. A well rehearsed manoeuvre looks simple, professional and does the job. With the Swift count on zero Mr. Kite went indoors.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite and 'his birding companion' went for a cycle and bird-watching trip. After cycling through Hook-a-Gate The Incapacitants stopped at The Bridges for a quick beer whilst watching birds. Pied Wagtails, House Sparrows, Sparrowhawk and Red Kite were noted but more beer was consumed than birds spotted. The bird count went up, the Clerics Cure went down and The Incapacitants money passed into the pubs profit.
After three hours The Incapacitants returned to Shrewsbury for a tipple of Bank's Bitter in The Crown where, from the beer garden, Mute Swan, Mallard and Cormorant were spotted. With the evening creeping up and the money going down it was time to return home. The birding competiton was won by Mr. Kites 'birding companion' with a tally of twenty-eight.
The day was rounded off with Becks. Cheers after a great day.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window. Mr. Kite had decided that this was the third day of autumn although lots of people are enjoying their summer holiday. Now on this autumn morning the sky was light blue with a few clouds. Looking closely Mr. Kite could see that the clouds were in two layers; the lower level clouds were 'wispy' and black whilst the higher level clouds were white and tinged with pink edges caused by the rising sun.
Now the word 'wisp' made Mr. Kite think; the collective noun for Common Snipe; a wisp of Snipe. Anyway Mr. Kite was unlikely to see Common Snipe out of his bedroom window.
Mr. Kite then went down the stairs and into the garden. The cool air had that tingle of autumn; the air of pleasantly dry and cool but only just; a little cooler and the arms would need to be covered. Around Mr. Kite listened to Wood Pigeons and Collared Doves. In the relaxed and familiar sound Mr. Kite then heard the more anxious loud rattling call of geese. Looking up Mr. Kite counted seven Greylag Geese flying west in a fast low flying disorganised formation. In the five seconds that it took for the formation to fly into view and out of sight Mr. Kite thought that this must be a family of Greylags practicing their formation flying. With the continual cackling of instruction the tail end of the flock were manoeuvring to slot into the slipstream of the lead birds. But their lack of skill and speed was making it difficult as once in position they could not stay there and then had to turn and speed up to catch the leading birds. It is not easy being a goose learning to fly in that relaxed efficient formation.
Now Mr. Kite went into the garden to count the Swifts not watch geese. But that is bird-watching; have an aim but then be distracted by something unexpected. With the Swift count zero and the thoughts on formation flying Mr. Kite had another unexpected sighting. This was not something exceptional or scarce or a major event but was related to birds flying in formation.
Having just watched seven Greylag Geese trying to fly as a formation three Mallards then appeared from the west in a close tight formation and climbed gently as they turned through ninety degrees and headed south in a line abreast. This was a relaxed, smooth and fast turn. Silently the Mallards completed the turn equidistant and close together. A well rehearsed manoeuvre looks simple, professional and does the job. With the Swift count on zero Mr. Kite went indoors.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite and 'his birding companion' went for a cycle and bird-watching trip. After cycling through Hook-a-Gate The Incapacitants stopped at The Bridges for a quick beer whilst watching birds. Pied Wagtails, House Sparrows, Sparrowhawk and Red Kite were noted but more beer was consumed than birds spotted. The bird count went up, the Clerics Cure went down and The Incapacitants money passed into the pubs profit.
After three hours The Incapacitants returned to Shrewsbury for a tipple of Bank's Bitter in The Crown where, from the beer garden, Mute Swan, Mallard and Cormorant were spotted. With the evening creeping up and the money going down it was time to return home. The birding competiton was won by Mr. Kites 'birding companion' with a tally of twenty-eight.
The day was rounded off with Becks. Cheers after a great day.
Tuesday 2nd August (Autumn: A Time of Maturity or Incipient Decay)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey sky. Now Mr. Kite is coming to believe that autumn has started. The newspapers, the school holidays and the modern calender may suggest otherwise but with leaves falling from the trees and now brown patches of dead foliage appearing in the Lime trees Mr. Kite can only believe that this is autumn: a time of maturity or incipient decay.
Now Mr. Kite has a question: do birds migrate in winter, spring, summer and autumn? So Mr. Kite considers one species of bird; the Swift. The first Swift Mr. Kite watched this year was on 1st May in Avignon and to arrive on this day the birds must have traveled in April. At the moment Mr. Kite is watching Swifts carefully just to note when they leave. Today Mr. Kite has watched a few scream across the sky but wonders on what day will the skies be empty of them.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite cycled to Monkmoor Lagoon bird-watching. To cut a long story short the water was devoid of birds. Five Mallards sat on the waters edge, three Moorhen walked a long the edge of the island and Wood Pigeons flew over. But in the warm afternoon sun it was sufficient to have a pleasant time.
Mr. Kite then went home for a Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey sky. Now Mr. Kite is coming to believe that autumn has started. The newspapers, the school holidays and the modern calender may suggest otherwise but with leaves falling from the trees and now brown patches of dead foliage appearing in the Lime trees Mr. Kite can only believe that this is autumn: a time of maturity or incipient decay.
Now Mr. Kite has a question: do birds migrate in winter, spring, summer and autumn? So Mr. Kite considers one species of bird; the Swift. The first Swift Mr. Kite watched this year was on 1st May in Avignon and to arrive on this day the birds must have traveled in April. At the moment Mr. Kite is watching Swifts carefully just to note when they leave. Today Mr. Kite has watched a few scream across the sky but wonders on what day will the skies be empty of them.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite cycled to Monkmoor Lagoon bird-watching. To cut a long story short the water was devoid of birds. Five Mallards sat on the waters edge, three Moorhen walked a long the edge of the island and Wood Pigeons flew over. But in the warm afternoon sun it was sufficient to have a pleasant time.
Mr. Kite then went home for a Tetley tea. Cheers.
Monday 1 August 2011
Monday 1st August (A New Month and a New Start)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey and cloudy sky where Swifts flew. Some of the leaves and buds on the Lime trees had served their purpose and were parting company with their lifeline and drifting down onto the road where they were collecting in the gutter. With millions of buds and leaves on the trees the number dropping did not make much difference to the foliage yet. But it is a sign that in August the onset of autumn is creeping up.
Now today Wood Pigeons and Collared Doves called from the Lime trees. So Mr. Kite thought that today he would use the Celtic Calender or Irish Calender and call August the first the start of autumn. Without any Pagan ceremonies planned Mr. Kite, after a painless visit to the dentist, took The Beast for a trip around some country lanes and past The Callow.
In the countryside autumn is the start of game shooting where Common Pheasants and Red-legged Partridge are shot. So Mr. Kite planned a little bird-watching trip to count the 'game birds' and any indigenous species that stand out. Mr. Kite then cycled through Hook-a-Gate, Annscroft, Plealey, Pontesbury, Minsterley and then over The Callow and then home. To cut a long story short Mr. Kite spotted one manky male pheasant and many healthy Common Buzzards, Carrion Crows, Ravens and Rooks. So Mr. Kites conclusion is that the artificial reared birds seem to be less healthy than the native birds. Perhaps this year there will be a fewer introduced game birds in the Salop countryside.
After a thirty miles trip Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey and cloudy sky where Swifts flew. Some of the leaves and buds on the Lime trees had served their purpose and were parting company with their lifeline and drifting down onto the road where they were collecting in the gutter. With millions of buds and leaves on the trees the number dropping did not make much difference to the foliage yet. But it is a sign that in August the onset of autumn is creeping up.
Now today Wood Pigeons and Collared Doves called from the Lime trees. So Mr. Kite thought that today he would use the Celtic Calender or Irish Calender and call August the first the start of autumn. Without any Pagan ceremonies planned Mr. Kite, after a painless visit to the dentist, took The Beast for a trip around some country lanes and past The Callow.
In the countryside autumn is the start of game shooting where Common Pheasants and Red-legged Partridge are shot. So Mr. Kite planned a little bird-watching trip to count the 'game birds' and any indigenous species that stand out. Mr. Kite then cycled through Hook-a-Gate, Annscroft, Plealey, Pontesbury, Minsterley and then over The Callow and then home. To cut a long story short Mr. Kite spotted one manky male pheasant and many healthy Common Buzzards, Carrion Crows, Ravens and Rooks. So Mr. Kites conclusion is that the artificial reared birds seem to be less healthy than the native birds. Perhaps this year there will be a fewer introduced game birds in the Salop countryside.
After a thirty miles trip Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)