Ravens at Houghton Hall

While we were following the Chadwick sculpture trail at Houghton Hall, a family group of four Ravens flew past, 'cronking' loudly. Unfortunately I only had an 18 - 135 mm lens on my camera, so not terrific images...

Lynn Chadwick at Houghton Hall

Linda and I joined friends Sue, Peter and Margaret for a thoroughly enjoyable day at Houghton Hall, walking six miles around the hall and park to view 32 pieces by artist Lynn Chadwick. There are works by numerous other sculptors, including three by a favourite of mine, Antony Gormley. A great day out, with plenty of coffee and cakes that finished with a terrific Indian meal at our local restaurant, the Tamarind. Here are just a few images...

Lunar 'X' and 'Y'

Last night's waxing first quarter Moon was a beautiful object just above the southern horizon: the famous clair-obscur features that resemble the letters X and Y (or V if you prefer!) were plainly visible on the terminator.

Red-backed Shrike and other goodies!

Norman picked up Brian and me at 07.00 for a morning's tour around a couple of Broadland hotspots. First stop was Hickling, where an adult male Red-backed Shrike eventually posed somewhat distantly for photos: we were kept entertained by 18+ Cranes, lots of Whitethroats (Greater and Lesser) and a male Stonechat. A stop at the viewing platform added Green Sandpiper and Great White Egret to the day list.

After coffee and scone at Potter Heigham we decided to head home via Ranworth, parking by the Church and walking out to the Reserve Centre. On the way we enjoyed seeing half a dozen Swallowtail caterpillars, as well as an enormous Longhorn Beetle (Musk?) From the boat stage at the centre we could pick out the comings and goings of the Ospreys as they fed their now-fledged youngster, while another Great White and a Spoonbill side by side were noteworthy.

A stop at the hide on the walk back to the car gave us fleeting views of a male Kingfisher, while yet another Hummer was good to see by the Church cafe.

Hummingbird Hawkmoth

Two of these delightful creatures visited our Buddleia today: always a thrill to see them this well!

Wildlife survey at Hemblington All Saints Church

That time again! Linda, Sue, Sue, Peter and I met at 09.00 - earlier than usual, because the south meadow was being mowed later. Despite the dry conditions there was still plenty to see, although we didn't find any Brown Argus or Purple Hairstreaks this year...