Wolves Wild

Mallard drakes are usually the very model of feckless fathers, heading off even before the ducklings are hatched. But this mallard family on the canal near the Wildside Centre is the second one I’ve seen this year where the drake is still around, playing an active role in protecting the young ones. The other was in West Park. Just after these pictures were taken, another drake swam close to the family. The resident drake immediately went into full-blown aggressive mode. The intruder was already beginning to flee before the female also joined in.

With the dissected edges of their wings, the first generation of commas are one of the most recognisable buterflies of spring. This one was resting on an ivy leaf while warming itself for the morning.

Female flower or catkin on a pussy willow, smaller and less showy than the male catkins which are peeping in at the edge of the frame.

The two greylag goose families in West Park – three and two goslings respectively – out for early morning meals on the grass and daisies near the lake.

This starling was on the other side of the Penk at Perton, with a beak full of food gathered in the grassy area. Possibly busy feeding chicks on the nest.

Bluebells in the woods by the drive to Wrottesley Hall and golf course.