Wot no gull

Had a visit to QE2 today in the hope of seeing an Iceland Gull , but it was gone.
So I decided to do a bit of sketching with so many others about,

I seem to have recorded a couple of shapes which dont yet appear in Collins Bird Guide, but never mind I'll keep at it.
A wander around part of the lake provided the opportunity to see Siskin, Goldcrest and Bullfinch.

Killy Smew

Got over to Killingworth this morning to see the Smew on the small lake. I was surprised just how close the bird came to the edge of the lake.

Alert

I like the way the feeding geese flocks always have at least one member on the look out for danger.

Songthrush

As well as a Mistle Thrush seen regularly around the garden I have had several views of a Song Thrush .
Always nice to see.

Spuggies

This winter I have been surprised at the number of House Sparrows coming to the feed. Over recent years the numbers have always been less than ten, but currently there seems to be 14-16. Nice to see a flock coming and going.

Mistle Thrush

Have been favoured recently by regular views of this cracker from the window.

One down

This afternoon's news that  Philip Dilley the Environment Agency Chair has left his position was positive.
Remember all the bad reports regarding Hen Harrrier losses in Forest of Bowland last year ?
Check this out
https://anewnatureblog.wordpress.com/2016/01/08/the-flood-the-environment-agency-chair-and-the-grouse-moor/

No doubt there will be another similar in place quite soon.