Lockdown - Of sorts

Time is going fast and while we endure continued restrictions, there has been some easing. It hasn't changed my approach significantly - I'm enjoying the local area and staying put as much as possible (other than work commitments). While those who purport to impose authority over this land flout the very guidance they impose, my enduring attitude toward the pandemic remains steadfast. I don't want to catch the bastard virus and will do what I can to stay protected from it.

So while pondering these things, I gaze across the countryside and for a brief moment, all is well in the world.

There have been some impressive sunsets recently on warm evenings.

Flowers have now started to bloom - two species of poppy co-existing along the field margins providing a splash of spring colour.

The easing of lockdown restrictions effectively unlocked the gates for a return back to Broom Gravel Pits - having not visited for a couple of months, it was great to see some water again. It was relatively quiet during visits there on the 14th, 16th and 17th of May.

Notable sightings included Little Ringed Plover with four birds on the 17th, a pair of breeding Common Tern, up to six Lapwing, Cuckoo, an estimated count of 180 Swift over Peacocks on the 14th, both Sedge Warbler and Reed Warbler, up to three singing Willow Warbler, a couple of Yellow Wagtail, two Shoveler, two Oystercatcher (16th), two Hobby (16th), and a Lesser Whitethroat.

Birding from the balcony has been great too - watching Swift screaming over the town is a real joy.

There are days where raptors seem to be particularly active. While Buzzard are a common sighting here, eight overhead was unexpected (7th) and a new high count for the balcony. This was followed by my first Hobby of the year in a frenzied five minutes of activity.

It's been generally quiet locally. A male Wheatear on the airfield (9th) saw the end of a decent run of this species that had been ever present for around three weeks. Skylark, Corn Bunting, Meadow Pipit, and Yellowhammer are all present in encouraging numbers.

Three Mute Swan over on the 9th was a real surprise considering we are bereft of water bodies round here.

A cycle up to Wallington Church on the 15th revealed two Spotted Flycatcher there - am hoping they will stay to breed.

Work thankfully kicked back into gear and it's been a busy time - a relief that I've been able to get back on site again. Located close to Abberton Reservoir, I took the opportunity to head over to hear the Nightingale. There were at least four singing males there with one seen flying across the path.

It's such a mind-blowing song and to have them singing just yards away was really amazing.