Sunday, August 15, 2010
The Downs
I set off from Bury Down car park intending to do one of our Saturday routes. But on the bridle path to West Ilsley I heard that fatal "hoo-eet" that signals the presence of a redstart from hawthorns on the narrow sheep field. So I sat on the bank and waited.
When a willow warbler finally emerged I thought I'd made a mistake - but eventually another bird flew from the top of one tree to another, its tail a gorgeous flame of orange. It was distant but I was thrilled to see one here again - fourth year running.
It being then too late to continue on a long walk I drove to Compton and did a round walk there. This yellow wagtail landed on the road in front of me.
In fact, it was a walk of yellow birds. The bushes along Churn Road held at least three very yellow willow warblers and a yellowhammer carrying food was on the wires. (One was seen at Bury Down carrying a large grasshopper. Must still have young, I suppose.) // posted by Christine @ 10:46 AM 
