David

Wood anemones seem to have thrived this year, once spring weather finally arrived. The ones by Berry Brook on Northycote Farm (above) were so abundant I guess they are genuinely wild.

In Wightwick Manor gardens they are concentrated in the edge of the woodland nearest the house, suggesting they have been planted.

Jackdaw out so early on May Day morning that there was still a frost. It was taking leaves from a pile gathered for composting, and using them for its nest.

Song thrush singing on a hedge near Wightwick Mill Lock.

Compare the plumage with the larger mistlethrush.

Garden bush – this one in the detached part of Wightwick Manor’s garden which is accessed by the wooden footbridge across Wightwick Bank.

Water forget-me-nots, growing by a pool in the garden at Wightwick Manor.

Another of the rare breeds stock at Northycote Farm; this time a hen (cock?) with a comb which seems to be covering its eyes.