Every spring most birdwatchers look forward to reacquainting themselves with certain species which have been absent during the winter months. The first Chiffchaff, the first Swallow heralds the sunnier months and longer days to come.
For me personally my favourite herald is the Wheatear. A fairly common passage migrant along our now out of bounds coastline, they are much harder to find in inland areas. Walking to the castle carefully scanning the surrounding fields finally paid off with a sighting of 2 male Wheatears. The large size, bold upright stance and richly coloured underparts all pointed to them being of the Greenland race. I spent some time drinking in the views of these lovely birds.
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| A Greenland Wheatear (picture from Collins Bird Guide) |
The name Wheatear has nothing to do with wheat or indeed ears. It is actually a corruption of the old English 'whit ers' or white arse which refers to the prominent colouring of the bird's rump and tail feathers.
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| Curled fern frond |
Other notable sightings on the walk included: Sand martin x14, Blackcap x2, Common whitethroat x4, Mistle thrush and a Red admiral butterfly.
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| Red admiral |
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