Sunday 1st January (A Happy New Year and Good Birding to you All)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a dark sky that was becoming lighter. The tree were bare but ready to burst into life. On this New Years Morning Mr. Kite was greeted not by the sight of birds but with a singing robin, a clucking blackbird and a cooing collared dove. Today was the start of another year birding, traveling, cycling and watching nature; Mr. Kite was excited.
As the dawn rose Mr. Kite saw his first birds of the year a flock of eight feral pigeons. These birds flew quickly over the houses. Wood pigeons, blackbirds and a carrion crow soon followed. A skein of unidentified geese flew low over the skyline. So by half eight the birding year had began and The Beast was oiled ready for a trip around the lanes of Floreat Salopia.
Towards Atcham Bridge
At half eight Mr. Kite headed on The Beast towards Atcham Bridge under a cloudy sky that did not looke promising. Cycling along Mr. Kite ticked off; magpie, jackdaw, collared dove, starling. Just after Emstrey Island Mr. Kite stopped to look at a flock of redwings and fieldfare. Hundreds of birds were moving across the green meadow feeding; 'eating on the hoof'. Soon Mr. Kite was cycling along parallel with the River Severn where canadian geese sat on the river bank and a grey heron was standing in the river. The water level was higher than normal. Reaching Atcham bridge Mr. Kite stopped to peer over the paraphet. Mute swans, black-headed gulls fed on the waters edge and a blue tit passed by. The shingle beaches that normally are visible were under water today. Looking down Mr. Kite watched a sparrowhawk fly low along the river bank attracting the attention of the gulls who then took to the air like a squadron of fighters and hassled the hawk out of sight.
Attingham Park and Beyond
The trees in the park were bare and looked an ideal habitat for woodpeckers and other tree birds. Mr. Kite searched carefully for signs of life but only had fleeting glimpses of passing birds. Today the grassy park was not thriving with birds but Mr. Kite did pick out; common buzzard, robin, rook, stock dove and the home bred common pheasants.
Leaving Attingham Park Mr. Kite headed for the bridge over the River Tern at Upton Forge passing chaffinch, bullfinch and house sparrows. Today the bridge was quiet. So Mr. Kite continued to the confluence of the River Roden and the River Tern. A pair of goosander fished in the Tern watched by two moorhens. In the hedgerow colourful bullfinches and chaffinches moved through.
Mirelake
Just past the confluence is Mirelake. Today the water level was higher than normal so the waders were not encouraged to fed in the shallow edges. However plenty of ducks bobbed up and down on the water. Looking carefully Mr. Kite identified mallard, teal, wigeon and northern shoveler. On most occasions more species of birds can be picked out here but the high water, cool breeze and drizzly rain was not encouraging. So Mr. Kite set course for Atcham Church stopping on the way to watch greenfinches and a great spotted woodpecker.
Atcham Church and Cross Houses
Plenty of common garden birds flew around the churchyard including a nuthatch. Most of these were then disturbed when the church doors opened and the congregation hurried out to preach the gospel; that did scare the birds. So Mr. Kite cycled slowly along the lanes through Cross Houses to Venus Pool.
Venus Pool
Mr. Kite has not visited V.P. for a number of weeks and was pleased to see that the water level was rising and was looking more like a pool and not a ploughed field. Plenty of birds fluttered around the area and sat on the pool. Also lots of bird watchers walked around with bins, scopes and bags of optical equipment. Scouring the nature reserve Mr. Kite identified goldfinch, lapwing, common shelduck, lesser black-back gull, pied wagtail and green sandpiper. In the cool breeze and drizzle the green sandpiper just sat on the edge of the pool and only bobbed about occasionally.
Searching near the feeders Mr. Kite picked out marsh tit and coal tit. Lastly Mr. Kite went to look over the Trout Pool where many birds were present including lots of coots, a little group of tufted ducks and a smaller group of common pochard.
With the drizzle turning to rain and with a poor forecast Mr. Kite headed towards Monkmoor Lagoon.
Towards the Lagoon and at the Lagoon
Leaving the Venus Pool Nature Reserve Mr. Kite cycled to the bridge at Cound Stank where a large flock of finches flew over. But in the murk they were difficult to identify. The bridge produced nothing. Cycling along the lanes Mr. Kite looking into hedges, over fields and up to the sky. The usual species were spotted and eventually Mr. Kite stopped to watch and listen to a dunnock.
Six miles later Mr. Kite was at Monkmoor Lagoon drenched through. The clouds were descending and the mud was building up on The Beast, Mr. Kite and his saddlebags. To cut a long story short The Lagoon had mallards, mallards and more mallards.
At this stage with the light fading Mr. Kite returned to The Residence following a good day cycling and bird watching. With thirty miles cycled and forty-seven species spotted Mr. Kite was quite happy. After a shower and a change of clothing Mr. Kite settled down to a tipple of Shepherd Neame Premium Spitfire Kentish Ale. At this point Mr. Kite flew around the front room before landing on the sofa for a short nap. Cheers from the start of another year watching birds, looking at nature and enjoying the natural world.
Saturday 31 December 2011
Saturday 31st December (The End of 2011)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a white cloudy sky. A wood pigeon cooed gently in a tree. The year of 2011 was ending and 2012 was nearing.
On the last day of the year Mr. Kite watched some common garden birds fluttering around the trees. Today Mr. Kite did not see as many birds as expected.
This is Mr. Kites last blog of the year. During the past year Mr. Kite has noted the species of birds spotted, described some bird behaviour and bird colours and some birdie named beers. He has written down placed he has visited and adventures had.
With nearly two hundred species identified and more than three thousand miles cycled Mr. Kite has had a good year. Tomorrow a new year starts and more birds, more adventures, more cycling and more beer.
Mr. Kite is going to finish the year with a tipple of Youngs Light Ale. Cheers to all those who have read my story. A Happy New Year to you all. The adventures start again tomorrow.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a white cloudy sky. A wood pigeon cooed gently in a tree. The year of 2011 was ending and 2012 was nearing.
On the last day of the year Mr. Kite watched some common garden birds fluttering around the trees. Today Mr. Kite did not see as many birds as expected.
This is Mr. Kites last blog of the year. During the past year Mr. Kite has noted the species of birds spotted, described some bird behaviour and bird colours and some birdie named beers. He has written down placed he has visited and adventures had.
With nearly two hundred species identified and more than three thousand miles cycled Mr. Kite has had a good year. Tomorrow a new year starts and more birds, more adventures, more cycling and more beer.
Mr. Kite is going to finish the year with a tipple of Youngs Light Ale. Cheers to all those who have read my story. A Happy New Year to you all. The adventures start again tomorrow.
Thursday 29 December 2011
Friday 30th December (A Wet Day on the Wrekin)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a light cloudy sky. A pigeon flew from a tree to the ground and a blackbird sat on top of a lime tree singing. In the garden a collared dove tidied up a nest made from twigs in the fork of a sycamore tree.
Later in the morning Mr. Kite and his birding companion went bird watching. Soon The Incapacitants were heading towards The Wrekin. The weather forecast was for rain but The Incapacitants were not put off by rain, mud and murk. To cut a long story short Mr. Kite was the winner of the birding competition with twenty five species spotted.
On two occasions The Incapacitants stopped to discuss the species in question. The first being; 'Is it a marsh tit or willow tit?' The discussion centred around the colour of 'the black cap'; 'Was it dull or shiny?' It was decided it was shiny and therefore a marsh tit and a slightly grating call confirmed this.
On top of The Wrekin The Incapacitants looked at a large black corvid deciding whether it was a juvenile raven or a carrion crow. The beak was large but not quite as robust as a raven. The shape was more raven like but debatable. It was decided it was a carrion crow.
Then the rain began and a chilly wind blew. So it was time to go home. Walking back to the car a colourful jay displayed itself; a common buzzard called but could not be seen. Flocks of redwing and fieldfare flew around.
In the late afternoon as darkness descended Mr. Kite arrived home and sat in front of the warm fire and was soon enjoying a tipple of Leffe Tripel. Cheers to all the birds of The Wrekin.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a light cloudy sky. A pigeon flew from a tree to the ground and a blackbird sat on top of a lime tree singing. In the garden a collared dove tidied up a nest made from twigs in the fork of a sycamore tree.
Later in the morning Mr. Kite and his birding companion went bird watching. Soon The Incapacitants were heading towards The Wrekin. The weather forecast was for rain but The Incapacitants were not put off by rain, mud and murk. To cut a long story short Mr. Kite was the winner of the birding competition with twenty five species spotted.
On two occasions The Incapacitants stopped to discuss the species in question. The first being; 'Is it a marsh tit or willow tit?' The discussion centred around the colour of 'the black cap'; 'Was it dull or shiny?' It was decided it was shiny and therefore a marsh tit and a slightly grating call confirmed this.
On top of The Wrekin The Incapacitants looked at a large black corvid deciding whether it was a juvenile raven or a carrion crow. The beak was large but not quite as robust as a raven. The shape was more raven like but debatable. It was decided it was a carrion crow.
Then the rain began and a chilly wind blew. So it was time to go home. Walking back to the car a colourful jay displayed itself; a common buzzard called but could not be seen. Flocks of redwing and fieldfare flew around.
In the late afternoon as darkness descended Mr. Kite arrived home and sat in front of the warm fire and was soon enjoying a tipple of Leffe Tripel. Cheers to all the birds of The Wrekin.
Thursday 29th December (Home)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky. The bare branches on the tree moved in the strong breeze. The year had turned and the trees were bare but set to grow in the months ahead. On this dark December morning the birds were resting somewhere huddled up to keep warm. Mr. Kite was by a warm fire drinking coffee.
Later Mr. Kite went for a walk to the recycling. On the way wood pigeons, carrion crows and black-headed gulls flew over and a robin song loudly. Once again mr. Kite was impressed by an early flowering cherry tree that stood in a garden with small pink fruit dangling from it.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite and His Lady went visiting, eating, drinking, playing cards and putting on weight. Mr. Kite enjoyed many tipples of cider. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky. The bare branches on the tree moved in the strong breeze. The year had turned and the trees were bare but set to grow in the months ahead. On this dark December morning the birds were resting somewhere huddled up to keep warm. Mr. Kite was by a warm fire drinking coffee.
Later Mr. Kite went for a walk to the recycling. On the way wood pigeons, carrion crows and black-headed gulls flew over and a robin song loudly. Once again mr. Kite was impressed by an early flowering cherry tree that stood in a garden with small pink fruit dangling from it.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite and His Lady went visiting, eating, drinking, playing cards and putting on weight. Mr. Kite enjoyed many tipples of cider. Cheers.
Wednesday 28 December 2011
Wednesday 28th December (Hampstead and Home)
Mr. Kite looked out of The London Residence into a white cloudy day where a few breaks in the cloud revealed tinges of pink. This was another London Decenber dawn. The baubles on the London plane trees added a Christmas decoration.
During the morning Mr. Kite watched the birds of Hampstead. In the trees blue tits and great tits hung upside down feeding on the grubs sleeping in the nooks and crannies. High above lesser black-backed gulls circled and wheeled around.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite returned to Floreat Salopia to enjoy a tipple of Greene King Abbot Ale. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of The London Residence into a white cloudy day where a few breaks in the cloud revealed tinges of pink. This was another London Decenber dawn. The baubles on the London plane trees added a Christmas decoration.
During the morning Mr. Kite watched the birds of Hampstead. In the trees blue tits and great tits hung upside down feeding on the grubs sleeping in the nooks and crannies. High above lesser black-backed gulls circled and wheeled around.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite returned to Floreat Salopia to enjoy a tipple of Greene King Abbot Ale. Cheers.
Monday 26 December 2011
Tuesday 27th December (Mr. Kite's Bag of Shite)
Mr. Kite looked out of The London Residence window into a dark December sky. The baubles on the London plane trees were siloutted against the sky as they moved in the breeze. Once again the birds were still asleep but the colourful berries and green foilage were just beginning to show their colours and shape as the dawn progressed.
As the dark December days drew to an end Mr. Kite was still amazed by this years display of flora; the most spectacular he had seen and one to be enjoyed as new growth is now visible in the plants. Today Mr. Kite has a plan.
By nine thirty Mr. Kite and His Lady were on The Tube traveling to London Bridge. From the station they walked over London Bridge ot the memorial for The Great Fire of London designed by a Wren; not a small brown Jenny wren but Sir Christopher Wren. Today Sir Chris was not here so Mr. Kite could not put wren on his London list but walking back over the bridge cormorant and herring gull were added to the list. A slow stroll to The George Inn in Borough High Street was followed by a sit down looking at the galleried coach inn.
Mr. Kite and His lady then walked to the last remaining wall of Marshalsea Prison and sat in the garden by it: St. Georges Churchyard Garden. Now Mr. Kite had brought with him a bag of shite to feed the prisoners just in case they were hungry. But because there was only one wall the prisoners had left so Mr. Kite gave the bag of breadcrumbs to His Lady.
Now she had a good idea; feed the pigeoms instead. Looking around she spotted one feral pigeon walking on the path near Marshalsea prison wall so she threw it some breadcrumbs. Within seconds thousands of feral pigeons surrounded Mr. Kite and His Lady. "Crumbs", she cried as thousands of birds headed for Mr. Kite's bag of Shite'. So the feeding of The Five Thousand took place by the prison wall where those grateful feral pigeons descended to eat the morsels. Feral pigeons of every shade, tone and colour came to feed. As this was a Charles Dickens walk Mr. Kite thought that: "Dickens would be proud to see the feral city urchins fed by The Kites".
Mr. Kite and His lady walked around the part of London looking at buildings, sign, courtyards and Southwark Cathedral where the surrounding trees were full of starlings and a song thrush could be heard singing. By this time Mr. Kite was thirsty and went to The Barrowboy and Banker for a pint; bloody hell its closed.
Smelling beer nearby Mr. Kite and His Lady went to The Bunch of Grapes where they sat in the window. Mr Kite had tipples of Young's Bitter and Young's Special and His Lady a pot of tea. Looking out of the window Mr. Kite noticed two pied wagtails fly and perch on the roof of the building opposite. This is the way to watch birds; drinking beer and sitting in a great pub.
Mr. Kite and His Lady then returned to Hampstead where a female chaffinch was added to the list. Mr. Kite and His Lady had a great day and Mr. Kite had a few tipples of Fullers London Pride.
Mr. Kite looked out of The London Residence window into a dark December sky. The baubles on the London plane trees were siloutted against the sky as they moved in the breeze. Once again the birds were still asleep but the colourful berries and green foilage were just beginning to show their colours and shape as the dawn progressed.
As the dark December days drew to an end Mr. Kite was still amazed by this years display of flora; the most spectacular he had seen and one to be enjoyed as new growth is now visible in the plants. Today Mr. Kite has a plan.
By nine thirty Mr. Kite and His Lady were on The Tube traveling to London Bridge. From the station they walked over London Bridge ot the memorial for The Great Fire of London designed by a Wren; not a small brown Jenny wren but Sir Christopher Wren. Today Sir Chris was not here so Mr. Kite could not put wren on his London list but walking back over the bridge cormorant and herring gull were added to the list. A slow stroll to The George Inn in Borough High Street was followed by a sit down looking at the galleried coach inn.
Mr. Kite and His lady then walked to the last remaining wall of Marshalsea Prison and sat in the garden by it: St. Georges Churchyard Garden. Now Mr. Kite had brought with him a bag of shite to feed the prisoners just in case they were hungry. But because there was only one wall the prisoners had left so Mr. Kite gave the bag of breadcrumbs to His Lady.
Now she had a good idea; feed the pigeoms instead. Looking around she spotted one feral pigeon walking on the path near Marshalsea prison wall so she threw it some breadcrumbs. Within seconds thousands of feral pigeons surrounded Mr. Kite and His Lady. "Crumbs", she cried as thousands of birds headed for Mr. Kite's bag of Shite'. So the feeding of The Five Thousand took place by the prison wall where those grateful feral pigeons descended to eat the morsels. Feral pigeons of every shade, tone and colour came to feed. As this was a Charles Dickens walk Mr. Kite thought that: "Dickens would be proud to see the feral city urchins fed by The Kites".
Mr. Kite and His lady walked around the part of London looking at buildings, sign, courtyards and Southwark Cathedral where the surrounding trees were full of starlings and a song thrush could be heard singing. By this time Mr. Kite was thirsty and went to The Barrowboy and Banker for a pint; bloody hell its closed.
Smelling beer nearby Mr. Kite and His Lady went to The Bunch of Grapes where they sat in the window. Mr Kite had tipples of Young's Bitter and Young's Special and His Lady a pot of tea. Looking out of the window Mr. Kite noticed two pied wagtails fly and perch on the roof of the building opposite. This is the way to watch birds; drinking beer and sitting in a great pub.
Mr. Kite and His Lady then returned to Hampstead where a female chaffinch was added to the list. Mr. Kite and His Lady had a great day and Mr. Kite had a few tipples of Fullers London Pride.
Monday 26th December (Boxing Day Birding)
Mr. Kite looked out of The London Residence window to see hundreds of small round baubles on the London plane trees silouetted against the grey sky. This year Mr. Kite has not stopped marveling at the splendid colours, decorations and shapes of the trees.
In the morning Mr. Kite walked around the streets of Hampstead looking at the colourful display of berries and different shaped foliage in many shades of green. In one garden a variety of chery tree was showing its pink blossom. Once a gain the birds were scarce but did include great tit and long-tailed tit; a green woodpecker was heard but could not be seen.
So following a gentle stroll Mr. Kite had a tipple of Fullers London Pride. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of The London Residence window to see hundreds of small round baubles on the London plane trees silouetted against the grey sky. This year Mr. Kite has not stopped marveling at the splendid colours, decorations and shapes of the trees.
In the morning Mr. Kite walked around the streets of Hampstead looking at the colourful display of berries and different shaped foliage in many shades of green. In one garden a variety of chery tree was showing its pink blossom. Once a gain the birds were scarce but did include great tit and long-tailed tit; a green woodpecker was heard but could not be seen.
So following a gentle stroll Mr. Kite had a tipple of Fullers London Pride. Cheers.
Sunday 25 December 2011
Sunday 25th December (Happy Christmas to All Readers and All Birds, Bees and Bare Trees)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window of The London Residence into a grey and white thick cloudy day. This was Christmas Day 2011. Now Mr. Kite enjoys Christmas Day with family and friends but it is also another sad day of reflection and remembrance of those not present but whose memory will always be with us.
Three years ago Mr. Kite sat and enjoyed Christmas Day with His Lady on Loch Ness on a sunny cold fabulous December day. His family were in the far east traveling around seperately; both reading, writing and enjoying life. Today the one star is still traveling the world; the other star is only traveling in our minds.
In the London sky Mr. Kite watched two diver liked birds fly over the buildings. In the morning Mr. Kite had some time to watch birds but this Christmas morning only blackbirds could be seen eating orange berries in a low bush.
Later in the day Mr. Kite just ate and drank followd by more drinking and more drinking. However Mr. Kite did enjoy his tipple of Bengal Lancer. Cheers.
Mr. Kite wishes you all a very happy day of eating, drinking, talking, reading, laughing and watching nature.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window of The London Residence into a grey and white thick cloudy day. This was Christmas Day 2011. Now Mr. Kite enjoys Christmas Day with family and friends but it is also another sad day of reflection and remembrance of those not present but whose memory will always be with us.
Three years ago Mr. Kite sat and enjoyed Christmas Day with His Lady on Loch Ness on a sunny cold fabulous December day. His family were in the far east traveling around seperately; both reading, writing and enjoying life. Today the one star is still traveling the world; the other star is only traveling in our minds.
In the London sky Mr. Kite watched two diver liked birds fly over the buildings. In the morning Mr. Kite had some time to watch birds but this Christmas morning only blackbirds could be seen eating orange berries in a low bush.
Later in the day Mr. Kite just ate and drank followd by more drinking and more drinking. However Mr. Kite did enjoy his tipple of Bengal Lancer. Cheers.
Mr. Kite wishes you all a very happy day of eating, drinking, talking, reading, laughing and watching nature.
Friday 23 December 2011
Saturday 24th December (A Christmas Carol)
Mr. Kite looked out of the bedroom window of The London Residence into a dark morning where a gentle breeze blew a small bare bush. The surrounding building were stark and Mr. Kite looked for bird life. Natural flyers were still roosting or difficult to spot in thepre-dawn sky. But man made flyers screamed overhead with lights flashing as they climbed and banked over London on a journey from Heathrow. Today Mr. Kite had a plan.
At ten in the morning Mr. Kite set out to walk 'The Christmas Carol' walked based on the novel by Charles Dickens. Near The London Residence eight magpies squabbled in a plane trees amongst the baubles. Christmas cheer was not on their mind; only what the pairs will be in spring.
On the edge of Regents Parks Mr. Kite cam across a truly decorated plane tree. Not only had this tree 'fruit baubles about the size of golfballs' but had hundred of feral pigeons pretending to be baubles. This was the most Christmas tree in London and much better than a partridge in a pear tree.
Walking along Maryleborne Mr. Kite heard a robin singing; so he topped to listen and it was just by the statue of JFK. Looking into the tree just right of the statue Mr. Kite spotted the robin with a blue tit feeding nearby. After watching these Mr. Kite turned around to see the silhouette of an owl on a building over the road. Now this was not an ordinary owl but an artificial one.
To cut a long story Mr. Kite sat by a starling on London Bridge before strolling back through the streets of London with his London list on ten. But the baubling feral pigeons were the stars of the day. Mr. Kite then had a few tipples of Fullers London Pride in a pub. Cheers and a Happy Christmas to all those London birds.
Mr. Kite looked out of the bedroom window of The London Residence into a dark morning where a gentle breeze blew a small bare bush. The surrounding building were stark and Mr. Kite looked for bird life. Natural flyers were still roosting or difficult to spot in thepre-dawn sky. But man made flyers screamed overhead with lights flashing as they climbed and banked over London on a journey from Heathrow. Today Mr. Kite had a plan.
At ten in the morning Mr. Kite set out to walk 'The Christmas Carol' walked based on the novel by Charles Dickens. Near The London Residence eight magpies squabbled in a plane trees amongst the baubles. Christmas cheer was not on their mind; only what the pairs will be in spring.
On the edge of Regents Parks Mr. Kite cam across a truly decorated plane tree. Not only had this tree 'fruit baubles about the size of golfballs' but had hundred of feral pigeons pretending to be baubles. This was the most Christmas tree in London and much better than a partridge in a pear tree.
Walking along Maryleborne Mr. Kite heard a robin singing; so he topped to listen and it was just by the statue of JFK. Looking into the tree just right of the statue Mr. Kite spotted the robin with a blue tit feeding nearby. After watching these Mr. Kite turned around to see the silhouette of an owl on a building over the road. Now this was not an ordinary owl but an artificial one.
To cut a long story Mr. Kite sat by a starling on London Bridge before strolling back through the streets of London with his London list on ten. But the baubling feral pigeons were the stars of the day. Mr. Kite then had a few tipples of Fullers London Pride in a pub. Cheers and a Happy Christmas to all those London birds.
Thursday 22 December 2011
Friday 23rd December (Dark, Dank, December)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a dark, dank, December morning. The trees swayed gently lit up by the street lights. At this time of the morning the sun was still behind the horizon. Today Mr. Kite and His Lady are going to London.
Waiting for the coach Mr. Kite looked into a plane tree and thought that 'this is a good time to look at trees'. This tree had hundreds of round baubles hanging from the branches. At the turning of the year it is the time to study those naked trees to look at their shape and structure. In another tree sat two collared doves sitting side by side silhouetted against the grey sky.
Once the trip started Mr. Kite looked at trees with orange, red and yellow fruit; all pretty stunning. Another stunning site was three hares covorting around a field as if it was spring.
On reaching London Mr. Kite started his Winter Solstice bird list; a day later than planned because of that upset gut. Peering into the gloom of cloudy London Mr. Kite picked out black-headed gull, carrion crow, wood pigeon, feral pigeon, magpie and lesser black-backed gull. Lastly Mr. Kite watched a blackbird fly between bushes. This was not an ordinary male blackbird but one who had decorated his tail with white feathers just for Christmas. Nearby, this was on Finchley Road, sat more Christmas creatures including a goat and a sheep: the shepherds must be on their way to Bethlehem.
Now Mr. Kite had planned to reach the Thames to watch a few London ducks but as the clouds dropped their rain and the light faded Mr, Kite walked slowly along Oxford Street where he noticed a 'winged figure'. This was not quite a bird and not one to be listed but a Barbara Hepworth sculpture nailed to the side of a big shop.
Soon it was time for Mr. Kite to return to The London Residence to dry out. So Mr. Kite had seen some London birds and then enjoyed a few tipples of London Pride. Cheers to the bird, bees and beer of London.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a dark, dank, December morning. The trees swayed gently lit up by the street lights. At this time of the morning the sun was still behind the horizon. Today Mr. Kite and His Lady are going to London.
Waiting for the coach Mr. Kite looked into a plane tree and thought that 'this is a good time to look at trees'. This tree had hundreds of round baubles hanging from the branches. At the turning of the year it is the time to study those naked trees to look at their shape and structure. In another tree sat two collared doves sitting side by side silhouetted against the grey sky.
Once the trip started Mr. Kite looked at trees with orange, red and yellow fruit; all pretty stunning. Another stunning site was three hares covorting around a field as if it was spring.
On reaching London Mr. Kite started his Winter Solstice bird list; a day later than planned because of that upset gut. Peering into the gloom of cloudy London Mr. Kite picked out black-headed gull, carrion crow, wood pigeon, feral pigeon, magpie and lesser black-backed gull. Lastly Mr. Kite watched a blackbird fly between bushes. This was not an ordinary male blackbird but one who had decorated his tail with white feathers just for Christmas. Nearby, this was on Finchley Road, sat more Christmas creatures including a goat and a sheep: the shepherds must be on their way to Bethlehem.
Now Mr. Kite had planned to reach the Thames to watch a few London ducks but as the clouds dropped their rain and the light faded Mr, Kite walked slowly along Oxford Street where he noticed a 'winged figure'. This was not quite a bird and not one to be listed but a Barbara Hepworth sculpture nailed to the side of a big shop.
Soon it was time for Mr. Kite to return to The London Residence to dry out. So Mr. Kite had seen some London birds and then enjoyed a few tipples of London Pride. Cheers to the bird, bees and beer of London.
Thursday 22nd December (An Ill Wind Blew)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window on the first morning after the turning of the year. The sky was clear and the sun was rising. Today Mr. Kite should have traveled to London but he had an appointment with the doctor at eight in the morning.
Walking along the road Mr. Kite watched a large flock of wood pigeons fly over but feeling ill he did not see much more. So Mr. Kite slept all day today. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window on the first morning after the turning of the year. The sky was clear and the sun was rising. Today Mr. Kite should have traveled to London but he had an appointment with the doctor at eight in the morning.
Walking along the road Mr. Kite watched a large flock of wood pigeons fly over but feeling ill he did not see much more. So Mr. Kite slept all day today. Cheers.
Wednesday 21 December 2011
Wednesday 21st December (The Last Day of the Year)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a white and grey cloudy sky. The temperature was mild and this is the shortest day. Mr. Kite considers this the last day of the year. Walking into the town centre Mr. Kite watched fieldfare, redwings and blackbirds. Today the birds were singing very well. Song thrushes had started to sing. The year was turning from decay into growth.
Sadly Mr. Kite was ill today and could not go bird watching. Felling ill Mr. Kite did not have a tipple of anything but went to bed.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a white and grey cloudy sky. The temperature was mild and this is the shortest day. Mr. Kite considers this the last day of the year. Walking into the town centre Mr. Kite watched fieldfare, redwings and blackbirds. Today the birds were singing very well. Song thrushes had started to sing. The year was turning from decay into growth.
Sadly Mr. Kite was ill today and could not go bird watching. Felling ill Mr. Kite did not have a tipple of anything but went to bed.
Tuesday 20 December 2011
Tuesday 21st December (A Breezy December Dawn)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue and pink December dawn. The sun was just rising. Outside the natural world was preparing for the coming new year and then spring. The lime trees were bare; orange, red and black berries grew on the plants in the adjacent gardens. Pairs of wood pigeon were starting to court and in the garden robins and blackbirds were noisily marking their territory.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite took The Beast to Monkmoor Lagoon. As usual the hedgerows had great tits, dunnock and chaffinch with flocks of redwings and fieldfare enjoying the milder air. The most noticeable thing was the number of blackbirds that had congregated in the lane. At least ten blackbirds, mostly males, flew along the hedge dropping in here and popping in there. At the end one bright black male with an orange bill was bathing in some water.
When Mr. Kite returned the gathering of blackbirds were having a ceremony in the lane that included flying, chasing and teasing. Such a gathering of blackbirds is something that Mr. Kite has never seen before. Returning home Mr. Kite read about blackbirds and their behaviour whilst enjoying a tipple of Wychwood Hobgoblin. Cheers to those blackbirds.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue and pink December dawn. The sun was just rising. Outside the natural world was preparing for the coming new year and then spring. The lime trees were bare; orange, red and black berries grew on the plants in the adjacent gardens. Pairs of wood pigeon were starting to court and in the garden robins and blackbirds were noisily marking their territory.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite took The Beast to Monkmoor Lagoon. As usual the hedgerows had great tits, dunnock and chaffinch with flocks of redwings and fieldfare enjoying the milder air. The most noticeable thing was the number of blackbirds that had congregated in the lane. At least ten blackbirds, mostly males, flew along the hedge dropping in here and popping in there. At the end one bright black male with an orange bill was bathing in some water.
When Mr. Kite returned the gathering of blackbirds were having a ceremony in the lane that included flying, chasing and teasing. Such a gathering of blackbirds is something that Mr. Kite has never seen before. Returning home Mr. Kite read about blackbirds and their behaviour whilst enjoying a tipple of Wychwood Hobgoblin. Cheers to those blackbirds.
Monday 19 December 2011
Monday 19th December (Wettish and Wintryish)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky. A slight drizzle hung in the still air. The trees were bare but little bulbous shapes were now on the end of the twigs waiting for the warmth and sunlight so they could grow. Birds were scarce.
On this cold bleak winters day Mr. Kite watched wood pigeons, great tits and carrion crows from the comfort of his warm house. To end a quiet day Mr. Kite had a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky. A slight drizzle hung in the still air. The trees were bare but little bulbous shapes were now on the end of the twigs waiting for the warmth and sunlight so they could grow. Birds were scarce.
On this cold bleak winters day Mr. Kite watched wood pigeons, great tits and carrion crows from the comfort of his warm house. To end a quiet day Mr. Kite had a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Sunday 18 December 2011
Sunday 18th December (Nearly the Shortest Day)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into the grey cold sky. The distant hills were covered in snow. In the trees wood pigeons sat and looked around. Mr. Kite had a lazy morning watching sleet and rain fall onto the cold ground.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite went to the lagoon. The hedgerows on the lane leading to the lagoon had blackbirds, redwings, robins and wrens. Today the lagoon was desolate. Three mute swans fed and two mallards swam along courting. One moorhen popped out of the reeds for a short excursion.
The chilly breeze rippled the surface of the water making it look colder than it was. But not too cold for a colourful pair of goosander who dropped onto the water before hastily feeding under the surface. A grey heron flew in to feed near the reeds. Overhead flocks of redwing, stock doves and goldfinches flew around. But the cold wind was too much for Mr. Kite who then went home for a hot cup of Tetley tea. Cheers from a cold wintry Floreat Salopia.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into the grey cold sky. The distant hills were covered in snow. In the trees wood pigeons sat and looked around. Mr. Kite had a lazy morning watching sleet and rain fall onto the cold ground.
In the afternoon Mr. Kite went to the lagoon. The hedgerows on the lane leading to the lagoon had blackbirds, redwings, robins and wrens. Today the lagoon was desolate. Three mute swans fed and two mallards swam along courting. One moorhen popped out of the reeds for a short excursion.
The chilly breeze rippled the surface of the water making it look colder than it was. But not too cold for a colourful pair of goosander who dropped onto the water before hastily feeding under the surface. A grey heron flew in to feed near the reeds. Overhead flocks of redwing, stock doves and goldfinches flew around. But the cold wind was too much for Mr. Kite who then went home for a hot cup of Tetley tea. Cheers from a cold wintry Floreat Salopia.
Saturday 17 December 2011
Friday 16 December 2011
Friday 16th December (Snow is Forecast)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a dark cloudy sky. With snow forecast Mr. Kite looked carefully to see if the storm had started but it had not. Two plump wood pigeons flew from tree to tree and black-headed gulls flew over.
Just after midday some big flakes of snow fell and the temperature dropped quickly. In the garden the birds became scarce. Blackbirds and robins noisily marked their territory. Towards the end of the afternoon Mr. Kite had a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a dark cloudy sky. With snow forecast Mr. Kite looked carefully to see if the storm had started but it had not. Two plump wood pigeons flew from tree to tree and black-headed gulls flew over.
Just after midday some big flakes of snow fell and the temperature dropped quickly. In the garden the birds became scarce. Blackbirds and robins noisily marked their territory. Towards the end of the afternoon Mr. Kite had a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Thursday 15 December 2011
Thursday 15th December (The Changes are Lessening)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear blue sky. The sunlight shone from the east and this was a wonderful winter morning. In the sky a flock of wood pigeons headed towards the sun and a solitary starling flew jerkily over the house.
So Mr. Kite sat in his garden enjoying some winter sunshine when two great tits appeared. One of them flew to the same nesting box that was inspected by a similar bird yesterday. Sitting there this bird called and the other great tit went to inspect the outside of the box.
Hopefully this will be their temporary home next spring. Following a lazy day Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear blue sky. The sunlight shone from the east and this was a wonderful winter morning. In the sky a flock of wood pigeons headed towards the sun and a solitary starling flew jerkily over the house.
So Mr. Kite sat in his garden enjoying some winter sunshine when two great tits appeared. One of them flew to the same nesting box that was inspected by a similar bird yesterday. Sitting there this bird called and the other great tit went to inspect the outside of the box.
Hopefully this will be their temporary home next spring. Following a lazy day Mr. Kite enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Wednesday 14 December 2011
Wednesday 14th December (A Cold Clear Morning)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear blue sky where the bare trees moved gently in the slight breeze. One storm had passed but another one was on its way; this was the calm before the storm. Mr. Kite looked at the ten lime trees in front of his house and could not see one leaf; mind you Mr. Kite is bleary eyed first thing.
In the morning Mr. Kite was in the garden when a great tit called from a tree. Looking up Mr. Kite watched the bird as it flitted about the tree going from branch to branch until it landed on the perch of a bird box that was positioned in the tree. The great tit then looked inside and then flew away. In recent years mr. Kite was hopeful that these boxes would be used in the spring but he is still waiting; no bird has built a nest in any of them. This year could be different.
In the late afternoon Mr. Kite went to the supermarket to buy some beer. In the car park lots of pied wagtails flew between the trees and onto the supermarket roof. It was a winters end to the day; a clear sky with a frost beginning to form. This was the last week of the year and very special.
Mr. Kite returned home for an"Old Speckled Hen". Cheers to those pied wagtails that livened up the supermarket car park.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear blue sky where the bare trees moved gently in the slight breeze. One storm had passed but another one was on its way; this was the calm before the storm. Mr. Kite looked at the ten lime trees in front of his house and could not see one leaf; mind you Mr. Kite is bleary eyed first thing.
In the morning Mr. Kite was in the garden when a great tit called from a tree. Looking up Mr. Kite watched the bird as it flitted about the tree going from branch to branch until it landed on the perch of a bird box that was positioned in the tree. The great tit then looked inside and then flew away. In recent years mr. Kite was hopeful that these boxes would be used in the spring but he is still waiting; no bird has built a nest in any of them. This year could be different.
In the late afternoon Mr. Kite went to the supermarket to buy some beer. In the car park lots of pied wagtails flew between the trees and onto the supermarket roof. It was a winters end to the day; a clear sky with a frost beginning to form. This was the last week of the year and very special.
Mr. Kite returned home for an"Old Speckled Hen". Cheers to those pied wagtails that livened up the supermarket car park.
Tuesday 13 December 2011
Tuesday 13th December (A More Wintry Tale)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear sky where the last remnants of the yesterdays storm were going east. Outside there was a scattering of small white hailstones. Winter was here and had progressed in the chilly blast.
Today two starling sat in the top of a lime tree and a carrion crow flew quickly in the cold air. The clear sky began to change quickly to a cold white wintry morning with a sprinkling of snow looking likely. Later in the morning Mr. Kite watched a magpie feeding under the eaves of a Chinese take-a-away whilst holding onto a telephone cable. The food that the bird pecked looked noodle shaped and could have been crispy Chinese noodles but they were probably insect hibernating in a sheltered place.
In the late afternoon Mr. Kite went to Monkmoor Lagoon. The lane leading to the lagoon had flocks of redwing and fieldfare that seemed to spend much of their time flying. On the water a single barnacle goose enjoyed the company of a flock of canada geese.
With darkness approaching and dark grey clouds moving in Mr. Kite went home to a warm fire and enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear sky where the last remnants of the yesterdays storm were going east. Outside there was a scattering of small white hailstones. Winter was here and had progressed in the chilly blast.
Today two starling sat in the top of a lime tree and a carrion crow flew quickly in the cold air. The clear sky began to change quickly to a cold white wintry morning with a sprinkling of snow looking likely. Later in the morning Mr. Kite watched a magpie feeding under the eaves of a Chinese take-a-away whilst holding onto a telephone cable. The food that the bird pecked looked noodle shaped and could have been crispy Chinese noodles but they were probably insect hibernating in a sheltered place.
In the late afternoon Mr. Kite went to Monkmoor Lagoon. The lane leading to the lagoon had flocks of redwing and fieldfare that seemed to spend much of their time flying. On the water a single barnacle goose enjoyed the company of a flock of canada geese.
With darkness approaching and dark grey clouds moving in Mr. Kite went home to a warm fire and enjoyed a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Monday 12 December 2011
Monday 12th December (A Winters Tale)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a cold frosty winters morning. The sun was rising and a two clouds drifted along with pink tinges on the edges. In a lime tree a wood pigeon sat looking onto the road. To keep warm this pigeon had puffed out it's feathers and could only be described as a plump, peaceful pigeon. Mr. Kite thought that the pigeon was very wise not to fly about using energy on this cold morning.
When the sun rose a little higher in the sky and rays of sunshine lit parts of the trees the wood pigeon 'cooed' and this attracted the attention of another pigeon who came to flirt. So then there were two flirting wood pigeons.
Mr. Kite had a day inside cutting wood and did not see any other birds. In the evening Mr. Kite had a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a cold frosty winters morning. The sun was rising and a two clouds drifted along with pink tinges on the edges. In a lime tree a wood pigeon sat looking onto the road. To keep warm this pigeon had puffed out it's feathers and could only be described as a plump, peaceful pigeon. Mr. Kite thought that the pigeon was very wise not to fly about using energy on this cold morning.
When the sun rose a little higher in the sky and rays of sunshine lit parts of the trees the wood pigeon 'cooed' and this attracted the attention of another pigeon who came to flirt. So then there were two flirting wood pigeons.
Mr. Kite had a day inside cutting wood and did not see any other birds. In the evening Mr. Kite had a tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Sunday 11 December 2011
Sunday 11th December (Another Sunday and Another Day to Remember)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky. From the lime trees opposite a wood pigeon cooed and on the roof a carrion crow cawed. At last some birds making a noise.
Today Mr. Kite enjoyed the sound of the birds but today is another sad anniversary. Three years ago today at seven in the morning Mr. Kite said, "Good bye", to his youngest son at Heathrow Airport. Sadly that was the last time he saw him alive. The Star went to Cambodia and made many friends.
On this sad day Mr. Kite and His lady went to Home Farm for the afternoon. In the surrounding fields rooks, jackdaws, pheasants and carrion crows fed. Overhead flocks of redwing and fieldfare flew. Now this is an English organic farm with sheep, pigs, cows and horses. However in one farm building Mr. Kite watched colourful cockatiels flying in a cage. In a Dutch barn peacocks from India sheltered from the rain. Mr. Kite fails to understand why these birds are here although they are very pretty.
After a pleasant afternoon Mr. Kite returned home for a Wychwood Wychcraft. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a grey cloudy sky. From the lime trees opposite a wood pigeon cooed and on the roof a carrion crow cawed. At last some birds making a noise.
Today Mr. Kite enjoyed the sound of the birds but today is another sad anniversary. Three years ago today at seven in the morning Mr. Kite said, "Good bye", to his youngest son at Heathrow Airport. Sadly that was the last time he saw him alive. The Star went to Cambodia and made many friends.
On this sad day Mr. Kite and His lady went to Home Farm for the afternoon. In the surrounding fields rooks, jackdaws, pheasants and carrion crows fed. Overhead flocks of redwing and fieldfare flew. Now this is an English organic farm with sheep, pigs, cows and horses. However in one farm building Mr. Kite watched colourful cockatiels flying in a cage. In a Dutch barn peacocks from India sheltered from the rain. Mr. Kite fails to understand why these birds are here although they are very pretty.
After a pleasant afternoon Mr. Kite returned home for a Wychwood Wychcraft. Cheers.
Saturday 10 December 2011
Friday 9 December 2011
Friday 9th December (The Wind has Blown Away)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear blue sky against which the silhouette of the lime trees swayed gently. However the road and pavements were littered with the debris of yesterdays stormy wind. Branches, twigs and leaves were strewn everywhere.
Soon Mr. Kite was cycling to collect some goods. Cycling along the river Mr. Kite watched black-headed gulls flying just above the water level of the swollen river. A robin bobbed around in a holly bush. Now when Mr. Kite returned to the road he was overtaken by a 'white jackdaw'; this was not a feathery white jackdaw but a white van with jackdaw written all over it.
In the late afternoon Mr. Kite took The Beast to Monkmoor Lagoon as the temperature plummeted towards zero. Bullfinches flew along the lane with redwings overhead. The lagoon had mute swans, mallards, canada geese and a cormorant. As the light faded a blue flash flew around the circumference of the water and then landed five metres away from the hide window. A colourful kingfisher then perched itself on a branch looking as though it was going to fish. Mr. Kite watched carefully wondering whether it was possible to fish in the fading light. However it then flew away.
Today as the light faded the lagoon became silent and the residents settled down for a night on the water. Mr. Kite cycled home to enjoy a tipple of Wychwood Brewery Wychcraft Blonde Beer. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear blue sky against which the silhouette of the lime trees swayed gently. However the road and pavements were littered with the debris of yesterdays stormy wind. Branches, twigs and leaves were strewn everywhere.
Soon Mr. Kite was cycling to collect some goods. Cycling along the river Mr. Kite watched black-headed gulls flying just above the water level of the swollen river. A robin bobbed around in a holly bush. Now when Mr. Kite returned to the road he was overtaken by a 'white jackdaw'; this was not a feathery white jackdaw but a white van with jackdaw written all over it.
In the late afternoon Mr. Kite took The Beast to Monkmoor Lagoon as the temperature plummeted towards zero. Bullfinches flew along the lane with redwings overhead. The lagoon had mute swans, mallards, canada geese and a cormorant. As the light faded a blue flash flew around the circumference of the water and then landed five metres away from the hide window. A colourful kingfisher then perched itself on a branch looking as though it was going to fish. Mr. Kite watched carefully wondering whether it was possible to fish in the fading light. However it then flew away.
Today as the light faded the lagoon became silent and the residents settled down for a night on the water. Mr. Kite cycled home to enjoy a tipple of Wychwood Brewery Wychcraft Blonde Beer. Cheers.
Thursday 8 December 2011
Thursday 8th December (The Trees are Swaying)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a white cloudy sky where the silhouettes of the trees swayed from side to side. The wind was strong and only a black-headed gull was determined enough to fly.
As the morning progressed the wind speed increase sending leaves, branches and birds down the road very quickly. Two wood pigeons changed into a missile shape and approached the speed of sound as they headed towards a tree and out of sight.
By noon the wind was gusting at 50 m.p.h. At this point Mr. Kite and His Lady went for lunch with family at a local pub. Mr. Kite planned a lunch time list but today nothing was flying and bird watching was abandoned. So Mr. Kite had tipples of Greene King I.P.A. and ate too much. Cheers from a windy Floreat Salopia.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a white cloudy sky where the silhouettes of the trees swayed from side to side. The wind was strong and only a black-headed gull was determined enough to fly.
As the morning progressed the wind speed increase sending leaves, branches and birds down the road very quickly. Two wood pigeons changed into a missile shape and approached the speed of sound as they headed towards a tree and out of sight.
By noon the wind was gusting at 50 m.p.h. At this point Mr. Kite and His Lady went for lunch with family at a local pub. Mr. Kite planned a lunch time list but today nothing was flying and bird watching was abandoned. So Mr. Kite had tipples of Greene King I.P.A. and ate too much. Cheers from a windy Floreat Salopia.
Wednesday 7 December 2011
Wednesday 7th December (Too Windy to Fly)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue sunny sky with the branches on the trees being blown about.
Today Mr. Kite and his birding companion had a short trip planned. By ten thirty The Incapacitants were heading towards The Wrekin. Passing the river at Atcham they noticed it was higher than normal and on the river banks canada geese, mallards and goosander sat being buffeted in the strong wind.
To cut along story short it was so windy on The Wrekin that only the normal things were spotted and in this wind they struggled to fly and keep in control of their direction. The Incapacitants were blown around on the hill and had to lean at acute angles to stay on their feet.
One highlight was a clump of trees that had chaffinch, blue tits, marsh tits and goldcrest. Two hours later The Incapacitants returned home where the competition was a draw. Soon Mr. Kite was sipping warm Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a blue sunny sky with the branches on the trees being blown about.
Today Mr. Kite and his birding companion had a short trip planned. By ten thirty The Incapacitants were heading towards The Wrekin. Passing the river at Atcham they noticed it was higher than normal and on the river banks canada geese, mallards and goosander sat being buffeted in the strong wind.
To cut along story short it was so windy on The Wrekin that only the normal things were spotted and in this wind they struggled to fly and keep in control of their direction. The Incapacitants were blown around on the hill and had to lean at acute angles to stay on their feet.
One highlight was a clump of trees that had chaffinch, blue tits, marsh tits and goldcrest. Two hours later The Incapacitants returned home where the competition was a draw. Soon Mr. Kite was sipping warm Tetley tea. Cheers.
Tuesday 6 December 2011
Tuesday 6th December (A Cool Blast from the North)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a white cloudy sky. In the words used by T.S. Eliot, 'Since golden October declined into sombre November', we are now in cold December waiting for the New Year that will start in two weeks.
At this time of year Mr. Kite likes sitting in front of a warm flaming fire. So in the morning he did just that. Thinking of the cool blast from the north Mr. Kite thought about the warm breeze that had recently blown from the south; the cold blast blew in a tundra bean goose to Floreat Salopia and the breeze from the south blew in a female desert wheatear.
If Mr. Kite was a determined twitcher he would have twitched today but being a bird watcher he watched more common birds in common places. However in the afternoon Mr. Kite went to a church hall that is used by a variety of groups. So this afternoon Mr. Kite sat listening to a discussion about morals whilst observing robins in holly bushes with red berries, blackbirds picking through golden dead leaves, wood pigeons in the green ivy laden with black berries, wrens flying between low green plants and carrion crows sitting near clumps of mistle toe with white berries.
Now that November has merged into December and autumn has turned to winter and as the old year heads towards the new year Mr. Kite watched a winters scene that on darkening days that will eventually show the signs that spring will return. A common scene with common birds and a common seasonal scene but worth every second of viewing.
Mr. Kite returned for a warm cup of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a white cloudy sky. In the words used by T.S. Eliot, 'Since golden October declined into sombre November', we are now in cold December waiting for the New Year that will start in two weeks.
At this time of year Mr. Kite likes sitting in front of a warm flaming fire. So in the morning he did just that. Thinking of the cool blast from the north Mr. Kite thought about the warm breeze that had recently blown from the south; the cold blast blew in a tundra bean goose to Floreat Salopia and the breeze from the south blew in a female desert wheatear.
If Mr. Kite was a determined twitcher he would have twitched today but being a bird watcher he watched more common birds in common places. However in the afternoon Mr. Kite went to a church hall that is used by a variety of groups. So this afternoon Mr. Kite sat listening to a discussion about morals whilst observing robins in holly bushes with red berries, blackbirds picking through golden dead leaves, wood pigeons in the green ivy laden with black berries, wrens flying between low green plants and carrion crows sitting near clumps of mistle toe with white berries.
Now that November has merged into December and autumn has turned to winter and as the old year heads towards the new year Mr. Kite watched a winters scene that on darkening days that will eventually show the signs that spring will return. A common scene with common birds and a common seasonal scene but worth every second of viewing.
Mr. Kite returned for a warm cup of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Monday 5 December 2011
Monday 5th December (Cold, Wet and Wintry)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a cold wet and wintry morning. The road was quiet, the birds were scarce and the people few. So Mr. Kite read some bird poems and periodically looked out of the living room window to see what was flying around.
In the late afternoon Mr. Kite took The Beast from the shed and cycled to Monkmoor Lagoon to watch the sunset and birds fly in to roost. In the air wood pigeons, stock doves and magpies circled before heading to the surrounding trees. Carrion crows and jackdaws flew towards Haughmond Hill. Then lastly mallards dropped onto the water in a neat formation, a flock of canada geese flew in from the east bringing a barnacle goose for good measure. Once on the water they stirred back into life when two grey herons flew across the lagoon.
With a half moon shining and a planet nearby Mr. Kite looked over the dark cold water before cycling home for a warming tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a cold wet and wintry morning. The road was quiet, the birds were scarce and the people few. So Mr. Kite read some bird poems and periodically looked out of the living room window to see what was flying around.
In the late afternoon Mr. Kite took The Beast from the shed and cycled to Monkmoor Lagoon to watch the sunset and birds fly in to roost. In the air wood pigeons, stock doves and magpies circled before heading to the surrounding trees. Carrion crows and jackdaws flew towards Haughmond Hill. Then lastly mallards dropped onto the water in a neat formation, a flock of canada geese flew in from the east bringing a barnacle goose for good measure. Once on the water they stirred back into life when two grey herons flew across the lagoon.
With a half moon shining and a planet nearby Mr. Kite looked over the dark cold water before cycling home for a warming tipple of Tetley tea. Cheers.
Sunday 4 December 2011
Sunday 4th December (Cool December and a Clear Sky with Crab Colours)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear December winter sky. The sun was peering over the horizon lighting up a pink crab coloured ray of light. Mr. Kite thought, 'never mind the birds, look at that fabulous coloured sunrise'. This was a winter December morning and magic.
The only bird note to write about was that in Mr. Kite's garden is a box of beer that is cooling off outside in the cold air. A wood pigeon came down and sat on the edge of the box inspecting the "Old Speckled Hen", the Tangle Foot and Courage Best Bitter.
Luckily the bird could only look and not remove a crown cork for a short slurp. However Mr. Kite could so he opened an "Old Speckled Hen" and had a tipple. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear December winter sky. The sun was peering over the horizon lighting up a pink crab coloured ray of light. Mr. Kite thought, 'never mind the birds, look at that fabulous coloured sunrise'. This was a winter December morning and magic.
The only bird note to write about was that in Mr. Kite's garden is a box of beer that is cooling off outside in the cold air. A wood pigeon came down and sat on the edge of the box inspecting the "Old Speckled Hen", the Tangle Foot and Courage Best Bitter.
Luckily the bird could only look and not remove a crown cork for a short slurp. However Mr. Kite could so he opened an "Old Speckled Hen" and had a tipple. Cheers.
Saturday 3 December 2011
Saturday 3rd December (A Welsh Walk)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a cloudy sky. After yesterday party and gallons of beer Mr. Kite was still unstable and not in a fit state but soon he was being driven towards Dolgellau for a walk along a ridge and a days bird watching.
To cut a long story short the drive to Cader Idris produced the usual sightings; magpies, carrion crows etc. The spectacular views on the ridge over the Mawddach estuary towards Barmouth produced herrings gulls and plenty of ravens. In the strong winds a few birds came into view and then suddenly far away. Towards the end of the walk a brownish bird, about the same size as a wheatear, with dark legs and a black tail was briefly spotted. In the strong wind it was difficult to focus steadily on it and it remained unidentified.
The final part of the walk was completely under the cover of darkness. Mr. Kite returned home for a tipple of Morland "Old Speckled Hen". Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a cloudy sky. After yesterday party and gallons of beer Mr. Kite was still unstable and not in a fit state but soon he was being driven towards Dolgellau for a walk along a ridge and a days bird watching.
To cut a long story short the drive to Cader Idris produced the usual sightings; magpies, carrion crows etc. The spectacular views on the ridge over the Mawddach estuary towards Barmouth produced herrings gulls and plenty of ravens. In the strong winds a few birds came into view and then suddenly far away. Towards the end of the walk a brownish bird, about the same size as a wheatear, with dark legs and a black tail was briefly spotted. In the strong wind it was difficult to focus steadily on it and it remained unidentified.
The final part of the walk was completely under the cover of darkness. Mr. Kite returned home for a tipple of Morland "Old Speckled Hen". Cheers.
Thursday 1 December 2011
Friday 2nd December (Mr. Kite Lasts Another Year)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear sky, bare trees and an air temperature slightly above freezing. Today it is Mr. Kite's birthday so he will make a birthday list although for most of the day he will be eating, drinking, talking and taking life easy and watching some birds.
Sitting in The Residence Mr. Kite watched eight wood pigeons fly randomly across the sky then he noticed eight starling sitting on a t.v. aerial. Considering that there are many aerials around here Mr. Kite wondered why they chose to sit on that particular one. Was it the shape of it? Were the metal poles just the right size for a starlings foot to grasp? Then Mr. Kite noticed a wisp of smoke coming from one of the chimney pots; so Mr. Kite thought probably the starling were warming themselves.
As the day progressed the birthday list progressed with black-headed gull, carrion crow, jackdaw, house sparrow and pied wagtail. Later in the morning Mr Kite was given a present for his birthday a book with Twelve Poems about Birds. So Mr. Kite will write one down and here it is.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear sky, bare trees and an air temperature slightly above freezing. Today it is Mr. Kite's birthday so he will make a birthday list although for most of the day he will be eating, drinking, talking and taking life easy and watching some birds.
Sitting in The Residence Mr. Kite watched eight wood pigeons fly randomly across the sky then he noticed eight starling sitting on a t.v. aerial. Considering that there are many aerials around here Mr. Kite wondered why they chose to sit on that particular one. Was it the shape of it? Were the metal poles just the right size for a starlings foot to grasp? Then Mr. Kite noticed a wisp of smoke coming from one of the chimney pots; so Mr. Kite thought probably the starling were warming themselves.
As the day progressed the birthday list progressed with black-headed gull, carrion crow, jackdaw, house sparrow and pied wagtail. Later in the morning Mr Kite was given a present for his birthday a book with Twelve Poems about Birds. So Mr. Kite will write one down and here it is.
The Ptarmigan
The Ptarmigan is strange,
As strange as he can be;
Never sits on ptelephone poles
Or roosts upon a ptree.
And the way he ptakes pto spelling
Is the strangest thing pto me.
Anon.
Now Mr. Kite is celebrating today so it is time for a birdie drink of Morland "Old Speckled Hen". Cheers. Happy Birthday Mr. Kite.
Thursday 1st December (December)
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear sky without any clouds. Hints of pink were creeping over the horizon from the east. This was a winter sky. Now Mr. Kite is not a Druid but with the end of the year drawing near, and with the shortest day looming, this is an exciting time of the year.
Today Mr. Kite had some repairs to do on The Residence so only had a brief spell watching birds in the garden. To cut a long story short Mr. Kite has not much to write about but he did enjoy a tipple of Leffe Tripel. Cheers.
Mr. Kite looked out of his bedroom window into a clear sky without any clouds. Hints of pink were creeping over the horizon from the east. This was a winter sky. Now Mr. Kite is not a Druid but with the end of the year drawing near, and with the shortest day looming, this is an exciting time of the year.
Today Mr. Kite had some repairs to do on The Residence so only had a brief spell watching birds in the garden. To cut a long story short Mr. Kite has not much to write about but he did enjoy a tipple of Leffe Tripel. Cheers.
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