Carlton Marsh

Phew its getting hot 18c and rising. New in this morning a singing Blackcap and there are now 18 singing Chiffchaffs. 5 Fieldfares flew north along with a steady trickle of Meadow Pipits, 20 were counted heading north. A Redshank went the same way after a brief stop. A 'band' of 8 Jays flew across the Western Meadow, an unusual number for this time of year. Grey Wagtail, Kingfisher (2) Water Rail, Buzzard and 2 Little owls were also present along with 5 singing Song Thrushes. Where have all the Swallows and Martins gone?

My thanks to Richard Laverack for these fine photos of Song Thrush, Great Spot Woodpecker, Jay and ringed Chiffchaff

This afternoon
Butterflies included Brimstone 7 males 1female, Peacock 107, Small Tortoiseshell 58, Comma 15 & Small White 2. (Chris Parkin)

Smithies
Ray Dye had a very early Holly Blue this afternoon in his garden!