A visit to RSPB Old Moor
The weather's starting to change - we've dropped from 30 degrees to the mid-teens overnight and I for one don't feel ready for Autumn yet! But it looks like Summer has left the party without telling anyone and we've got to get on board.
Autumn in nature is always full of colour, and the trees and bushes are laden with fruits and berries. Old Moor was no exception, and sitting in their Garden Birds Hide was a wonderful way to spend a Sunday morning. As you know, I love to take the camera and share who I met with you.
So here's a juvenile Robin who came incredibly close. I love when their red feathers start to show through their baby plumage which is still on his sweet little head.
Next is the beautiful Willow Warbler - I often hear their beautiful songs whilst out walking - I always think that "Warbler" isn't a fair name given their song skills!
Speaking of lovely songs, here's a little Dunnock. I don't think these sweet little birds get the credit they deserve. I love their bright orange little leggies and they have the most beautiful song.
A wonderfully plumped-up Great Tit.
And a smaller Tit - the Blue Tit - always a joy to see.
Hidden in the leaves of the apple tree is the beautiful exotic-looking Greenfinch. These are a rare treat for me to see since I stopped seeing them in the garden.
Also in the apple tree is a lovely Chaffinch.
and a male Bullfinch too! I think Bullfinches have the most beautiful eyes.
There were plenty of juvenile Goldfinches too.
One of my favourites - the Long Tailed Tit.
A juvenile Blue Tit - I love their colours when they're this age as you can really see the greeny blues.
A Robin having a preen.
Further out on the reserve I spotted a Migrant Hawker Dragonfly! They're so difficult to photograph but thankfully this one landed so I managed to get a shot. The blue and bronze colours are stunning, and I always think dragonflies look like they're wearing racing helmets.
I've yet to figure out how to make one that I'm happy with but I'll keep trying!
Last but certainly not least, I loved the feathery cap on the Heron who was patiently stood watching the world go by.