Views in the Marsh Lane LNR. Above, a pool in the carr, and below, the river Blythe as seen from Packhorse Bridge.
The bridge itself, which dates back to the middle ages, when a laden mule or horse was the normal form of overland transport for goods.
This reed-fringed pool is on the edge of the reserve north of the river.
Badgers are fascinating but frustrating subjects to try to photograph. The best time to see them is around midsummer, when the young are getting big enough to play. The family come out some time before sunset, and this year’s litter indulge in some rough and tumble.
It needs a bright evening when its possible to be sure of getting down-wind of them. Keep far enough away to avoid disturbing them, so a long lens is needed. The shade means a high ISO is needed, and probably a tripod. And having sought out the most peaceful conditions, every time the shutter fires the sound threatens to spook them.
These were the best views I got a couple of nights ago. There are two individuals here – I think one of the parents and one of the cubs.
The coot had been standing on the bank of the Birmingham canal ever since I caught sight of it. Just before I reached it, it stood up and started to move its wings from one uncomfortable looking position to another. As I passed, it settled back down.
This cranesbill was growing directly out of the trunk of one of the trees by the path through Hawthorn Wood in the Smestow Valley LNR.
Unlike the males with their bright blue bodies, the females are green. Perhaps I find them harder to spot because they are better camouflaged.
The mottled pattern near the apex of the cap may be the remnants of a veil. The radial corrugated stripes are unusual. This mushroom was growing unnoticed in one of the large plant boxes on the platform of Birmingham International railway station.