A hint of Spring

There was a hint of Spring today in Willsbridge Valley this morning (24th February). Crocuses were on display in the wildlife garden and on the slope near the barn, and were visited by honey bees.

Until the rain clouds rolled in that is...

Where have the frogs got to?

February

February has a hint of spring with hazel catkins appearing almost overnight and snowdrops rising from the woodland leaf litter. Food for birds is still scarce however and robins are at their boldest at this time of year when offered seeds or mealworms.

Robins are Britain's favourite wild bird. They are an easy photographic subject with even modest cameras. The spot at the north-eastern end of the reserve at Willsbridge is a favourite territory for at least one robin. Just drop some food on a couple of the old fence posts there and wait for a few minutes about six feet away. Then snap away as the current resident tucks in. Catch him away from the food for a more natural looking shot.

Hazel catkins are appearing now. The "lamb's tails" are the male flower that disperses pollen on the wind. The female flowers are red and much smaller.

Snowdrops are the first ground based flowers to appear in the woodland. These were snapped in Catscliff Wood near the cottage bird feeders.

Robins always make delightful photographs and are an easy photographic subject because they are surprisingly bold at this time of the year. Tempt them close with seed or mealworms.