Morning and Evening

14 Nov - Admin work sandwich by 2 walks - first, Waterhay early morning, a lovely autumn start with The usual birds seen and calling, including Cetti's Warbler, Water Rail and Raven. Winter Thrushes also arriving. Late afternoon, a trip to Cow Down did not produce the Great Grey Shrike, but 17 Grey Partridges was the most I have seen for a while - 5 Red Kites roosted at the gallops where at least 2 Short-eared Owls were active well before dark, and gave good views through the scope, though not quite close enough for anything other than a record shot. I never tire of seeing these charismatic birds, and it potentially seems to be a good winter for them, with high numbers at some traditional sites. Photos JM.