My birding year: just two 'lifers', but many fabulous birds!

It's been a terrific year for me in so many ways: although I only added two species to the life list (Isabelline Wheatear and Purple Gallinule) I managed to photograph many of my favourite species, latterly with a newly acquired 300 prime lens.

The pictures below are in chronological order, but barely reflect the fantastic plants, animals and places that have appeared in my view-finder. In July, for example, Brian Tubby and I spent three days in Northumberland, enjoying delightful weather and catching up with every target species: we even met John and Gary Richardson on the boat out to the Farnes!

At least once a week Brian and I were joined by fellow 'Summer-winer' Norman Tottle: we enjoyed many terrific days out together with much expert advice from my two camera-experts in residence! I'm looking forward to many more outings in the future...

And, of course, Linda and I got out birding together on numerous occasions - sometimes alone, sometimes with our great friends Peter and Sue. This is, in many ways, a rehearsal for next year when Linda retires from her job as bursar of a large school.

In conclusion: many thanks to the 500 or so people who currently read my blog each day: Happy New Year to you all and to birders everywhere!