Snowy walk

I set off early on Sunday 06.04.08 in good snow flurries, with about an inch on the ground. I headed out towards Muggins Wood before taking the ridge path to Bush Wood and then returned via the golf course. Not too much to report on the birding front, with two red legged partridge being observed on the bean field adjacent to Acremore Street. Corvids of all types (rooks, crows, jackdaws, magpies and jays) were all evident as were the usual green woodpeckers. Again, no hoped for migrants were discovered sheltering from the weather, but the scenery was glorious, as depicted in the photos. Several plant species were also noted, particularly cowslip but yet to show at their best so no photo. Upon my return I was greeted with the sight of a brown rat on the bird table outside the kitchen window. Taking food from here, it disappeared under the shed. A minute later it returned for another mouthful, so may well have a nest locally. No more food on this table, although I suspect this will not stop them using such places for cover and breeding. A badger was also witnessed crossing the A120 near the Cradle End junction late on Monday afternoon. Two new mammals in 2 days. The top photo was taken early in Chapel Lane whilst the 2nd shows evidence of rabbits in the snow on Brick Kiln Hill. The large oak was also shot on the hill whilst the fourth is at the corner of Bush Wood looking north west. The final shot is from the bridge behind Lordship Farm heading towards the golf course. Shame the snow didn't last longer. A most peaceful and scenic walk.