Half a dozen different broods of mallard ducklings seen on the stretch of the canal between Newbridge and the water bridge on a couple of days last weekend. Actually, one of the mothers was some sort of mallard cross, with very dark plumage replicated in the ducklings’ dwon.
Flowers from the blackthorn hedge at the edge of the Barley Field as they were going over. Previous posts when the flowers were mainly buds, then when they were at their height.
Young heron which seemed to be looking out for fish in the canal by Castlecroft Bridge, seemingly oblivious to an angler just the other side of the bridge. Eventually the bird was disturbed by the approach of a still-distant cyclist. It took flight, circled round, and headed for the less disturbed Smestow.
Holly blue butterfly on towpath at Castlecroft. These small butterflies seem to like the path as a place to rest as they get warm ready to fly in the mornings.
Buds and flowers half-open and completely open on red campions growing in the same patch in the hedgerow between Compton and Wightwick.
After the gull had had its fill of the carp, tow magpies approached, checked carefully that the larger bird wasn’t watching, then began to eat enthusiastically. Other magpies soon joined in