Hotel Hobbies - Marillion

Another special end to yesterday as 7 of us celebrated Daryl's birthday (for about the 6th time) at the splendid

TERRAVINA HOTEL RESTAURANT

on the edge of the NEW FOREST.

 Unfortunately, Sam was cut out of this group shot but we will
make amends in a moment. From left Hugh, Cath, HRH,
Daryl, Janet and Gavin.

 Sam was guarding the impressive cellar.

 Here's to you ALL!

 Queen Scallops
Wasn't that a dainty dish to set before the King?

A delightful bottle of Hungarian Red.

A good job that an early start was made today as by noon the heavy rain showers and high wind had once again set in. Only c2 Moths in the trap this morning, both Beaded Chestnut, but not that I was going very far just the 15 minutes drive to Blashford in Hampshire where things were a bit quiet on the wildlife front but there's always SOMETHING to see!.

Not as much 'Leaf Fall' as one might imagine for the time of year.

The reports have been of Goosander, Ruddy Duck, Bittern and
Marsh Tit being on the reserve in recent days, but unfortunately I
was not to see any of these. Things did start well with at least one

COAL TIT

after which I was happy to snap away at just about anything and

present here as things were seen.

NUTHATCH

seemingly another COAL TIT

BLUE TIT

and Dragonflies still on the wing, most unexpected.

NUTHATCH

'horned' PHEASANT

along with 'dehorned' PHEASANT

BANK VOLE

COAL TIT again

GOLDFINCH

and then a welcome surprise the 'long staying'

GREAT WHITE EGRET
appeared briefly from the bushes,

 

had a short scuffle with this GREY HERON, disappearing as
quickly as it had appeared.

It seemed strange to see 'Dragonflies' around as late as November

but these COMMON DARTER

were not simply flying around but also ovipositing (laying eggs).

NUTHATCH returning to the nut feeders.

DUNNOCK

CHAFFINCH

WIGEON

this male already in splendid full 'winter plumage',

while this male continues the 'moult'.

female WIGEON

No difficulty getting close to the ROBIN here.

and finally, out it came again as in a farewell fly-past.

GREAT WHITE EGRET

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