With the clocks moving forward an hour and the lighter evenings, what's not to like about spring time? The recent warm, sunny spell of weather seems to have accelerated the appearance of many of nature’s wonderful creatures and plant life.
Long-tailed Tits have been flitting about in the apple trees. Back are the days of waking up to the tuneful sound of Robin, Chaffinch and Blackcap outside the window. Such a natural way of regaining consciousness after a nights slumber and so much better than the buzz of an alarm clock. Strangely, I actually feel that these birds are calling to me to get up and get outside so that I can enjoy the beautiful spring morning. It would be rude not to!
A lot less effort is required to get out into nature at this time of the year, the countryside is so much more alive with lots to see, hear and smell. I still enjoy those early morning excursions and they are a good way to get your mental health into the right place for the rest of the day. Over the years I have made a concerted effort to learn as many bird songs as I can. I will quite often sit in the woods, lean up against a tree and just listen to the early morning performance. I find it quite incredible how many different species sing along together in harmony. It is quite a good way to tell that certain migrant birds have returned too.
The orchard is just starting to come to life and on the sunny days, butterflies can be seen again fluttering around. It is mainly Common Brimstones - feeding on Berberis in the photo - but I did spot a Peacock only a few days ago. To my delight, the two nesting boxes I put up have attracted the attention of two pairs of Blue tits. They have been in and out for several days now so I have to assume they are nest building. I will attempt to get photos or some video footage to include in my next blog. The Stonechats have also returned and I was lucky enough to watch male and female chasing each other through the hedgerows recently. I am hopeful that they will also nest close by and I will be able to monitor their progress and get to see some juveniles.
Like many of you, I am deeply saddened by the conflict in Ukraine. I cannot begin to imagine what life must be like for the people there. War does not produce any winners and I pray for a speedy route to a peaceful solution. It is at times like this when I realise how fortunate I am. When I go out into the countryside I am able to hear the beautiful sounds. I don’t have to listen to the noise of gunfire and artillery, or fighter jets overhead. When this pointless war is over, I sincerely hope that nature returns to its habitats, so that the Ukrainian people can reconnect to it and begin to heal from their trauma.
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