Swallows are small birds. They are extremely agile in flight and spend most of their time in the air. They are widespread breeding birds in the Northern Hemisphere and migrate south in winter. This family has left their nest and is being fed in a tree. They were a joy to watch on today’s walk in the New Forest.
An adult swallow.
On Monday, we walked along a New Forest stream that we regularly visit. There is always something to see and enjoy, and on a bright, warm morning with few people about, you can enjoy nature fully without the distractions of everyday life and have a chance to get into the “zone.”
This old forestry house is a good mile or so off the road, reached by gravel tracks. It is a great place to watch House Martins, as many nest under its eaves. They get an easy meal of insects swooping over the stream. Not the easiest bird to get pictures of due to their size and speed!
As well as the Ponies on the forest, there are cattle these came down for a drink.
A few dragonflies that the House Martins missed.
Along the stream were several Spotted Flycatchers. They are mostly grey-brown in colour with paler streaks, particularly on the head and wings. They has a creamy white breast which is streaked with pale brown.
A small bird, measuring just 14cm in length and weighing in at a maximum of 19g. Adept at snatching flying insects. They visit the UK during the warmer months and are often seen in woodland edges and clearings.
On another walk this morning, orchids were abundant in the Heathland.
I believe these are Common Spotted Orchids.
The Meadow Pipit is a small, brown, and streaky bird; they look very much like a small song thrush.
Liverworts are small flowerless plants with leaf-like lobes called a thallus. There were large numbers growing along the stream we walked along.
Common Frog and tadpoles
Male Reed Bunting.
The main highlight of the walk was a family of Redstart.
1st pictures are the male bird, followed by the female, then finally the juvenile.
A Female Stonechat in the New Forest this morning. Looking at the photographs, you can see how well these birds blend into their environment. A cuckoo can be heard calling in the background of my YouTube post.
Distant Cuckoo.
Canada Geese with youngsters at Hatchet Pond New forest.
Male and female Stonechats on open moorland New Forest this morning.
The trees 🌳 are now developing their leaves. The cycle of life continues.
This test post was made from a smartphone.
Or for those in the USA – A splash of color .
Stonechat on Gorse and Magpie in an Apple Tree.
Mandarin Duck Cadmans Pool New Forest.
Another female Redstart. A beautiful bird, almost understated compared to the bright male bird.
Continued Reflections from my World. 