Over all April was a pretty poor month regarding the weather …. it was pretty miserable and cold too!! Instead of April showers we had April deluges … despite that we did have a few butterflies and eventually the Summer migrants did start to arrive.
5th April ….I had a drive down to Westgate Carr this evening … it was dry for once but we still can’t get rid of those cold Northerlies!!! However despite the cold winds I had great views of Barn Owl hunting tonight. Luckily a small hedge gave me cover and I watched it hunting, after it caught a vole I stood perfectly still as it flew past; it was completely focused on hunting for food and my presence did not disturb it …. Its wings never made a sound as it flew by … Amazing!!
8th April……Heard my first Blackcaps today brilliant!! What a gorgeous song … tried for ages to get a photo’ … not even a sniff … singing constantly from deep cover. Photographing warblers is so frustrating!! However the local Chiff -chaffs were really showing off and singing in full voice too. It was also interesting to see Great Tits having a real squabble presumably over territory .. or males fighting over a female.
12th April…….Weather still poor … but nonetheless less had a nice walk round Scampston hall .. just east of Rillington … very quiet bird wise but there were some nice Spring flowers including; fritillaries, snowdrops and cowslips.However, not a sign of any early Dragonflies ..such as 4 Spotted Chasers.
13th April….Spring has officially arrived …!!! Heard my first Willow Warblers today as I had a very early 5a.m. walk this morning must be mad!! Also I saw some very nice Orange Tips today; really brightens the day up when you see these little beauties flying about!!
25th April…..Headed down to Wales to see relatives today … based just outside Tenby for the next few days … but weather still grim … just a constant run of showers/ heavy rain with a chilly Northerly breeze!!
26th April……Despite the weather had another welcome spring migrant today … a very vocal Garden Warbler … but getting a decent photograph …. not a chance!!! However, still great to hear and another sign that Spring is gradually spreading its influences through our natural world.
27th April…… Things are looking up … heard Redstart today and had a walk along the coastal path near Penally Golf course … pretty quiet .. probably due to the grim weather … but Stonechats, and Linnets nice to see … but top billing must go to the Choughs !! About 8 in one flock.. giving their characteristic calls .. so evocative !!!
31st April …..Well the Welsh part of the journey is over… off to Somerset now! Hopefully, some migrants will put in an appearance!!
