Saturday 24 April 2010

15:00 Sunny 19 o C. Wind S 10mph. Humidity 32%. Pressure 1016 mB. Visibility moderate. High tide today 20:01, 8.19m

A beautiful sunny and warm day, without the north wind which has kept the temperatures low for the last week or so.

The warmer weather has also brought the swallows. There are at least 8 roosting under the bridge, although the bridge acoustics make it sound more like 80. It is fascinating to watch them swooping, wheeling and diving around the bridge supports and under the bridge. It makes you wonder how there isn't a collision when there's a flock performing what looks like synchronised aerobatics.

The trees are blossoming, and the bees and wasps are out in force in sheltered spots.



The swallow is come! The swallow is come! O, fair are the seasons, and light
Are the days that she brings, With her dusky wings, And her bosom snowy white!
(Longfellow)

Monday 12 April 2010

16:00 Sunny intervals 16 o C. Wind ENE 6mph. Humidity 65%. Pressure 1031 mB. Visibility very good. High tide today 10:01, 8.57m

Dock gates closed.

The warm, sunny weather over the last few days has brought out the bumblebees. Let's hope we don't have a cold snap, which could have an effect on insect numbers. Lack of insects can be a big problem for nesting birds feeding themselves and their growing families.



In the dock basin
Blackheaded gull x 2
Lesser black backed gull x 1
Mallard duck x 3
Shelduck x 1

The poor quality photo below is the only one I have so far managed to get of the Greater Spotted Woodpecker which is a regular visitor to the garden feeders. It's taken, somewhat hastily, through double glazing, using a compact camera with automatic flash. If I'd tried opening the patio doors Woody would have scooted off.