Glorious weather, great company - and some gorgeous birds......... all adds up to a wonderful day in and around the forests and rivers of North Yorkshire with
Yorkshire Coast Nature.
Starting at the raptor viewpoint - and my first self found Goshawk!! record shot only of one of the four or five that we saw but who cares. Seeing one battle with a Sparrowhawk, Buzzards enjoying the thermals and the sun on ones back.......... worth the early (well for me) morning start.
Next stop and another 'viewpoint' and Whooper Swans flying over, Wagtail on the river.
We walked though the forest with a target of Great Grey Shrike but despite best efforts it wasn't to be found - maybe a few days of good weather had made the decision to fly north, or maybe just hiding?? HOWEVER we did have Peacock, Brimstone and other Flutter-bys and still only March!!
Lunch stop was in the forest, with Tree Creeper creeping and Chiff Chaff - well you know what they sound like!! Finally a walk to the meadow and looking out over Ellerburn - with a quick (joke!!) stop with Crossbills!!!!! So close and so noisy - amazing to actually hear them biting into the pine cones!!! We did find a lizard enjoying the weather, violets and wonderful views over the valley - but no Adders - for which I cannot say I am sorry!!
The peace of the forest, the amazing views and a glow from a day out in the sun....
A great day!!
