Let me know when that tide's coming in won't you

Let me know when that tide's coming in won't you

Friday 28 May 2021

Dartford Warbler on the Heath

A long awaited trip to see my parents after seven long months, took me to Norfolk once again. At this time of year the Dartford Warblers are busy nesting. Never the easiest bird to find, as they like to secrete themselves among the gorse and heather. They are a particularly shy bird, unless the male comes out to sing, or they are caught looking for insects and spiders. They do enjoy the sun though, and especially after a cold night. This can bring them higher up the bushes to where you may see them soaking up the warmth.

A lot of waiting is involved when looking for this species. Being able to spot any movement from the corner of your eye is also helpful. I have had many long mornings with nothing to show for my efforts. I have learnt to pick my time of year carefully now, and the reward is great. I would normally have been to look for them a month or so earlier but lockdown rules dictated otherwise, so I was a bit unsure as whether they would be as obliging. A long wait was still involved and the few minutes and seconds I got to see them was well worth it. The difference in time spent waiting and seeing is never fairly distributed, but a fair price to pay for such a fantastic looking bird, and one that we are privileged to have.

The male Dartford Warbler in typical pose.


The slightly duller female soaking up the early morning warmth of the sun.









13 comments:

  1. Any wait was worth it. It would be no fun at all if you could be assured that the bird would simply show up on cue. And you managed some great pictures.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Wonderful shots of this charismatic species.

    ReplyDelete
  3. What a relief to be able to visit your parents again. And three cheers to the Dartfords for making you feel extra welcome. They are lovely birds!

    ReplyDelete
  4. What a wonderful series of photos of this beautiful bird species.
    I've never seen this one and I don't know if it can be seen in the Netherlands either.
    I enjoyed your photos.
    I wish you a nice weekend.
    Greetings Irma

    ReplyDelete
  5. What a pretty bird, I love it's eyes and colors. Great photos.
    Thank you for linking up and sharing your post. Take care, have a happy weekend.

    ReplyDelete
  6. Hello.
    What a beautiful bird. I have never seen a dartfor warbler. It does not occur in Finland.
    Great serie of photos.

    ReplyDelete
  7. What a cute little bird . I have never seen one before thanks for sharing .
    Nice clicks !

    Saun in Ohio

    ReplyDelete
  8. What a cutie! Never seen before. Your shots captured it perfectly.

    ReplyDelete
  9. It is a very alert looking bird. Great shots!

    ReplyDelete
  10. Perfect shots! I have never seen that bird.

    ReplyDelete
  11. What an adorable little fellow!
    Thanks for sharing at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2021/05/remember-those-who-serve-our-country.html

    ReplyDelete
  12. What a beautiful bird with its red eyes.
    Great photos. Thank you for sharing the Dartford Warblers as they
    soak up the morning sun.

    ReplyDelete

I enjoy reading your comments as much as I enjoy taking the pictures. Thank you for taking the time to comment on my post.