I had a superb few hours out last weekend. Up with the Larks, as the saying goes, and out to my favourite Spring/Summer location in the fine Cheshire countryside, which covered ancient woodlands, rivers, reservoirs, moorland and quarries.
I'd found a pair of Pied Flycatchers a few weeks ago. On my return visit I located them again. This time they were busy taking food to a nest site. I suspected they were close to a nest site so was pleased to see that they were successfully feeding young.
Not far away was a male Redstart, singing as they do right at the top of a nearby tree. They never make it easy to see them.
A very good looking male Pied Flycatcher with a small caterpillar for his young ones.
Male Common Redstart.
I'm very lucky to be able to see Ring Ouzels each year. These upland birds like rocky slopes for their nesting habitat and arrive in April time. Once again there is at least one pair that are feeding young, and the male put on a nice show in between his food collections. The sun was shining and he looked in very good shape.
I look forward to days like these all year. April and May are my favourite birding months. When the countryside is alive with our migrant birds and the sun is shining and I just happen to be in my favourite peaceful place. It's what I long for, and when I get days like this I just feel so content.
The Spotted Flycatchers were also still around, and I hope to catch up with their young in future weeks.
Hello. Great photos of Ring Ouzels. Here they can only be seen during the migration period. Spring is the best time for birding - I love spring - and birding. Take care!
ReplyDeleteI love the Pied Flycatcher! Maybe he will deliver us from the oak processionary caterpillar! I'm so allergic to it!
ReplyDeleteWhat impressive photos, these are really beautiful scenes! Oh yes, I love that time too and you would only like to spend time in nature.
ReplyDeleteHave a beautiful Weekend, Elke
Hello, they are all beautiful birds and lovely captures. I especially love the Pied Flycatcher and the Ring Ouzel. Thank you for linking up and sharing your post. Enjoy your day, wishing you a happy weekend!
ReplyDeleteThey are all lovely. The Ring Ouzel is a beauty!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos of beautiful birds. I never saw them.
ReplyDeleteTerrific photos. I love the little guy singing his heart out!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful birds like I've never seen before! I agree...I look forward to these early summer days all year long! Feels so great to get outside with our cameras! Happy weekend!
ReplyDeleteAwesome photos! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDelete..I must say that I generally hear the birds more than I see them. Your images wonderful to watch!
ReplyDeleteAll of this is quite wonderful, Adam, but the Ring Ouzel would be the prize for me. I have only ever seen this species once, and even then for the briefest of moments. And it was in foul weather too!
ReplyDeletewhat fun
ReplyDeleteThat's a fine set of birds Adam. Ring Ouzels can be very difficult to find and as you point out. they occupy a very distinct niche in the uplands.
ReplyDeleteI love your photos.
ReplyDeleteThe singing bird is really great, these species do not occur in the Netherlands.
Best regards Irma
Beautiful shots. I really like that singing bird, it's cute.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful birds, wonderful photo compositions. But, what you wrote...that was the best reading for me today...feeling peaceful & content, birding!
ReplyDeleteTaking time from your day to share this post is appreciated at I'd Rather B Birdin this week...thanks!
Beautiful birds! I am especially happy when migrant birds come through here, too. Gives me a chance to see more birds without traveling.
ReplyDeleteHave a blessed day!
Wishing you many more of your favorite days.
ReplyDeleteThe Ring Ouzel seems to acting a bit cocky. I read the word moorland, I wonder if a family surname of Moreland came from an association with that. - Margy
ReplyDeleteThe Ring Ouzel seems like he's belting out an opera. I bet it is an amazing story with magical music. Birding is very relaxing. Hope you're having a wonderful weekend as well.
ReplyDeleteYou are lucky. I have only seen the Ring Ouzels once and that was too far away. I got one shot where it is visible so I have "proof" I have seen it :)
ReplyDeleteSome wonderful captures here Adam. Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteI love these shots, and, like you, I love watching the birds. I didn't become an enthusiast until I was into my 60's, and I realize I'll never live long enough to learn all that I'd like to about them!
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing at https://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2020/06/more-quarantine-baking.html
I love all the birds shown here. Fantastic scenes.
ReplyDeleteStay healthy and well.
Handsome feathered friends and excellent photography ~ thanks, ^_^
ReplyDeleteBe Safe, Be Well,
A ShutterBug Explores,
aka (A Creative Harbor)
Such lovely birds. I am doing a lot of #BalconyBirding from home and loving it.
ReplyDeleteThe sight of these feathered friends gives immense joy!
You've had some wonderful finds. That male redstart is a stunner.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for stopping by my blog!
WoW!!! you really captured some beautiful images. i too look forward to days like this all the time!!!
ReplyDeleteFantastic pics Adam, thank you!
ReplyDelete