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David

Starling

Starling

A starling hanging from a bird feeder, and showing a little of the multi-coloured splendour that the normally black portions of its plumage can take on in the right light.

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David

House spider

House spider

These house spiders are normally seen in late summer and autumn, when the males go off in search of females, fall into a bath or sink, and are unable to get out unaided.

This one managed to get itself into the same difficulty in March.

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David

Blackbird

Blackbird

This bird was feeding on the ground.

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David

Wood pigeon egg

Wood pigeon egg

This wood pigeon’s egg had fallen out of a tree, or perhaps it was knocked by whatever ate most of the contents.

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David

Pussy willow catkins

Pussy willow catkins

The furry-looking catkins of the pussy willow.

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David

Bluetit

Bluetit

A bluetit taking a pause while eating from a peanut feeder.

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David

Velvet shrank fungus

Velvet shank fungus

One of the few fungi which carries on growing even in the cold season. It grows directly from the trunks of deciduous trees, here a horse chestnut.

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David

Frogs and spawn

Frogs spawning

These frogs and frogspawn were in a corner of the pool in Wightwick Manor garden.

The one below seemed to be trying to have a staring contest with me.

Frog

There were a lot of frogs, and lots of spawn.

Frogspawn

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David

Lesser celandine

Lesser celandine

Now some of the lesser celandines have fully opened up.

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David

Magpies

Magpie

At this time of year magpies gather into large groups and socialise.

Magpie

Whatever they are up to, it involves lively interactions between them.

Magpie

They fly about frequently to make an impression.

In bright light to becomes possible to see that the black in their plumage can appear as other brilliant colours.

Magpie

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David

Larch buds

Larch buds

Another tree preparing fresh growth for the new year.

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David

Daisy

Daisy

Another sign yet of spring – daisies are now coming into bloom.