Brian's Wild Lamorna

Blogger boob.

2010-09-28T09:40:00.002+01:00

This is not a new blogg as such.

Anybody who has read my previous effort would notice the title,( Jacdaws evicted) but would find nothing relating to the subject.

The fault is all mine, so now we,ll try to bring some sense to it.

On Saturday Warwick came up to borrow my ladder to clear the Jackdaws nest from the village hall roof and he and I went over to do same, we cleared the outside then went to do the same in the hall.

Getting the ladder up to the trap we then discovered, ( not unexpectedly ) that the nest material extended over the trap which was part lifted with some difficulty to give us access and we proceeded to remove it until warwick could gain access to the roof space and complete the task, amongst much dust and debris.

The rubbish removed filled 5/6 barrowloads and was removed to the garden area, this rubbish consisting of mainly very dry sticks could have become a fire hazard in time.

I then came home and proceeded to do my blogg giving it as I thought an appropriate title, got to the end, posted it then found I had written nothing about it. Senior moment!!!!!., Will try to do better in future.

Evicting Jackdaws.

2010-09-26T15:45:00.002+01:00

6/8/10.

Sitting quietly today having a rest when there was a smack on the ground in front of my feet followed by a Blue Tit which took one look at me and promptly departed leaving behind a Lime Hawk Moth caterpillar, I dont know what the Tit thought it was going to do with it as it was nearly as big as him , a couple of inches long with a long hook on the back, quite a mouthfull!.

7/8/10.

A Curlew flew over Morrisons car park this morning, the first I have seen since the spring.

8/8/10.

A Curlew calling over the valley today.

9/8/10.

Two young Song Thrushes and A Chiff Chaff in the garden at lunchtime.

14/8/10.

A Heron flew up the valley this morning. later two Long Tailed Tits on the feeder.

15/8/10.

Green and Gt Spotted Woodpeckers calling today, many Swallows(high) and a Peregrine over the garden mid afternoon.

19/8/10.

Walked over the downs to Kemyel today, Blackcaps in the blackthorn.

20/8/10.

Reports of an Otter by the bridge below the mill shop, unconfirmed.

29/8/10.

A Tawny Owl roosting in a Larch tree today, seen on our Sunday walk.

31/8/10.

Several Long Tailed Tits on the feeders today, but did not stay.

9/9/10.

Walked to Carn Barges, a Kestrel and a possible Merlin, a Pheasant exploded from cover almost beneath my feet, Gannets offshore and a Seal in the cove.

12/9/10.

Porthgwarra. A late Swift and a Kestrel, Gannets, Shag, Gulls, a Seal in the cove.

14/9/10.

A Sparrow Hawk over Treverven.

17/9/10.

A Heron flew down the valley early morning.

19/9/10.

A Green Woodpecker on the back lawn feeding on ants, Common Sandpiper along foreshore near Carn Barges.

26/9/10.

Walked to Carn Barges and back to the cove, Gannets, Cormorant Oystercatchers ,one being harassed by a raptor, probably a Sparrowhawk. Rock Pippits and several Grey Wagtails including one in the garden when I got Home, A Dipper by the bridge the first i,ve seen for some time.

A quiet time of year

2010-08-05T14:37:00.002+01:00

Not a lot to report as I have not been out much, been doing some work on the Landrover and also clearing parts of the garden, hope that things will begin to pick up now that autumn is approaching.
26/6/10.
A Heron flew down the valley early this morning, heard it calling and then it emerged from the mist. A family of Blue Tits in the garden, the adults being kept very busy feeding their young.
30/6/10.
Today I watched a life and death drama in my garden, a predator had caught its prey which was doing its utmost to escape and at one stage actually did so only to be seized again and dragged off to the predators lair, had this been on the African veldt it would have been the subject of a wildlife documentary and shown to millions but this took place in the corner of a window in an outhouse between a spider about a half inch across (including legs!) and what I believe was a predatory wasp approx three quarters of an inch long, the spider won !.
1/7/10.
A flock 0f young Goldfinches in the back garden this morning, looking tatty as they are moulting into adult plumage.
18/7/10.
Today was the first of our sunday walks 16 people in total and they seemed to enjoy it, not a lot to see but Manx Shearwaters in good numbers off Kemyel Point.
20/7/10.
A female Wolf spider carrying its egg case on the rear of its body seen in the grass this morning.
23/7/10.
I watched a Swallow today playing with a feather, for about ten minutes it kept taking it high in the air and releasing it and chasing it down until it caught it just above the ground and then repeating the operation many times, Swift and House Martins also on the wing.
25/7/10.
14 people on the walk the only thing of real interest was a mixed flock of Gannets and Manx Shearwaters feeding off Carn Barges, people seem to be more interested in the plants which we see, good thing ! as they dont fly away.
1/8/10.
A wet misty day 6 people on the walk, 2 Common Sandpipers off Carn Barges and a juvenile Whitethroat on the way back to the cove.
3/8/10.
Another very wet misty start to the day,I was out and close to a Buddleia bush in full bloom and suprised at the lack of butterflies, until the rain stopped and within minutes it was smothered,Red Admirals were the most numerous with Painted Ladies and Whites and also many bees.

Summer.

2010-07-01T14:07:00.003+01:00

2/6/10.

On the way to Penzance this morning I saw a Kestrel over the fields between Sheffield and the Ring and Thimble, this was the first sighting I have had for some time as it seems they have abandoned their usual nest site in the NE quarry.

8/6/10.

I saw a Skylark this morning between the Maidens and St Buryan turn but have not heard any singing, this used to be frequent when I was younger but sadly this is no longer so.

A small party of Bullfinches between between Treveren and Sparnon cross, also today I found a Blue Tits nest in an old iron cooking pot hanging on a fence.

13/6/10.

Walked to carn Barges today, nothing to report on the bird front but Honeysuckle and Elder are coming into flower as are Stonecrop,Pennywort, Sea Beet and Bittersweet.

18/6/10.

A Greenwoodpecker in the garden today, a Tawny Owl calling at 10.15 in the morning at Boskenna, also at Boskenna a Swallow took exception to my presence and proceeded to dive bomb me as I was walking through a particular area, presume it had a nest nearby.

21/6/10.

walked to Carn Barges, Goldfinches, Long Tailed Tits, Linnets a flock of Guillemot 15/20 strong a long way offshore. Royal Fern leafing up.

22/6/10.

3 Gt Spotted Woodpeckers on one feeder in the garden !! a tight fit.

Buzzards

2010-06-01T11:09:00.002+01:00

18/5/10.
While at Treverven today I watched 2 Buzzards displaying, they started high up and tumbled over and over at times locking talons, they fell almost to the ground and then headed off.
20/5/10.
The Sparrows are still visiting the feeders but no sign of any young.
Did my usual walk today not a lot happening but Orange Tip butterfly on the wing and Yellow Flag Irises in flower. Off Lamorna Point Gannets were feeding.
21/5/10.
Toad tadpoles in the ornamental pond a Boskenna gathered along the water line feeding on algae. We have a young Robin who comes visiting most days, getting very bold feeding from Jo,s hand and sitting on her knee.
24/5/10.
Walked to Carn Barges ,along the coast path and back up through the woods.
Hawthorns now coming into flower, also called May, it is said to be unlucky to bring it into the house, Foxgloves starting to bloom and Honeysuckle showing colour on the buds.
The Buzzard at the nest on the cliffs was showing but difficult to see saw my first House Martins of the year , they seem to be scarce here this year, Swallows, Linnets and a possible Sedge Warbler, audible only. May bugs in the garden.
28/5/10.
Clearing some growth in a damp area at Boskenna found 1 adult and 2 young Frogs, 2 young Toads and numerous common Newts, pictures will be on Piccassa.
30/5/10.
Walking today to Carn Barges Linnets, Willow Warblers, Chiff Chaff, Blackcap, Song Thrush, Goldfinch and Whitethroats.A flock of around a hundred Gannet were feeding very close in off Carn Barges, so close you could see the bubble trails as they were diving underwater but could not see what they were feeding on .
The Buzzard on the nest was showing well today, it appears to be a well fledged young bird almost ready to fly. As I was walking back to the cove I came over a small rise close to the cross and almost stepped on a young Raven, I not sure who was the most suprised !!.
In a wet place found Water Forget Me Not in flower and along the cliff path Scabious are showing colour.

Pheasant.

2010-05-17T14:44:00.002+01:00

4/5/10.
Today at Treverven I saw my first Swift this year.
9/5/10.
The Apple trees that grow along the path to Carn Barges and on the cliffs are now coming into flower, they produce very little fruit as they live in harsh conditions.
Bugle,Dog Daises,Kidney vetch and the first threads of Dodder are appearing.
On the bird front a Mallard drake, Moorhen, Blackcap, Linnet and Willow Warbler, there are young Robins in the garden.
11/5/10.
Two duck flew over the valley early this morning, probably Mallard, I had to take the Landrover for its MOT today and I always put my bike in the back and ride home along the sea wall from Marazion to Penzance and today I had the company of Swallows flying along at my side.
17/5/10.
Walked to Carn Barges this morning and saw Mallard (2), Willow Warbler, Chiff Chaff and a Buzzard at the nest site on the cliffs, on the path a Pheasant chick appeared at my feet and I managed to catch it, while in my hand it let out a loud cheep and the mother came out of the undergrowth and proceeded to put on her broken wing act and led me off along the path until she was satisfied her brood were safe. A small lizard ran across the path on the way back to the cove. Counted 19 Purple Orchids in flower.

White Bluebells

2010-05-02T15:13:00.006+01:00

White Bluebell

13/4/10.
Today I walked to Carn Barges and there were Willow Warblers in the Willow carr also Chiff Chaff and Goldfinches.
More Bluebells in flower.
A f ew weeks ago spotted what I thought might be a Buzzards nest on the cliffs and this morning there were 2 birds at the site but early days yet they could still decide to go elsewhere.
Gannets over the sea and a Raven and a Sparrowhawk along the cliff path, a Pheasant calling.
15/4/10.
A report of a possible Red Backed Shrike in the Lamorna area today, the person who saw it took some pictures, photos to follow ( hopefully)!. A pair of Goldcrests in the garden today.
18/4/10.
At Marazion today a pair of Mallard with 15 young
23/4/10.
Found a Blackbirds nest today with 2 eggs.
24/4/10.
A Sparrowhawk over the garden early this morning.
25/4/10.
Did a walk through Tregurno, Rosemodress and Tregiffian then back via the Maidens and Rocky lane, very little to see just the usual. On the road bv the maidens we saw Eric Care driving his pony and trap.
29/4/10.
Today a young Robin flew into our lounge window but no damage done flew off with an adult.
1/5/10.
St Marks flies on the wing, Im not sure about their correct name can never find them in a guide but this is their local name, the fishermen say the fishing is good when they are about.
2/5/10.
Sparrows and Goldfinches in the garden this morning, Swallows over Chygurno and along the cliffs. Bluebells now numerous on the path to Carn Barges and on the cliffs also Spring Squill,
Foxgloves in bud, Bladder and Sea Campion flowering 1 white Bluebell and a lot of Thrift.
Three Cornered Leek everywhere, I know its a nuisance in the garden but I like it.
The Whitethroats have now returned and are busy on the cliffs,a male Blackcap singing, 1 Moorhen heard but not seen 1 Canada Goose.
On the way back through the woods Early Purple orchids (7) Garlic Mustard also known as Jack by the Hedge and Pendulous Sedge, the various species of ferns are now coming into leaf ,the new growth looking like Bishops Croziers .
Along the lane by home Shining Cranesbill and in the back garden Ladies Mantle also known as Cuckoo flower.

Sunday walk.

2010-04-18T14:59:00.002+01:00

7/4/10.

Two Swallows over Huers this morning and later along the cliffs above coast path, Pheasants calling along the path from Huers to Carn Barges also Chiff Chaffs a drake Mallard and a Canada Goose.

Along the coast path Song Thrush, Goldfinches and 3 Linnets, a Cormorant perched unusually high on the rocks above the cove, 12 Fulmar on the ledges.

Stitchwort in flower and Blackthorn just starting, first Bluebells below Carn Barges(3) a male Blackcap singing by the Mill Shop.

Sparrows are visiting regularly, a Goldcrest in the garden at lunchtime was the first I have seen for sometime I thought perhaps the cold had killed them off, also a Chiff Chaff in the garden

Banded Snails in good numbers on the cliff path and 3 Slugs.

Alexanders blooming in the more sheltered places.

Swallows at Boskenna and a Sycamore in almost full leaf.

11/4/10.

Led a walk today through the Kemyel farms and back along the coast path, 11 of us and 1 Jack Russell ,still muddy in places and birds scarce Swallows and Chiffs, we had a young girl with us and when we reached the woods at the Crease a Robin came to feed from her hand, Bladder Campion in flower.

12/4/10.

Tawny Owls calling at first light also a Pheasant across the valley, Song Thrush, Chiff Chaff and a Green Woodpecker

Swallows.

2010-04-06T15:17:00.003+01:00

30/3/10.
Made a rough count of the Rooks nests today 115 but there may be more to come,Long Tailed Tits and Chiff Chaff around the garden and Jays in the woods.
31/3/10.
On the way to Carn Barges Chiff Chaff are now more often seen and heard, 5 Moorhen.
Gannets offshore and a Seal in the cove.
2/4/10.
I have had two reports of Hoopoe in the last couple of days, one at Tregiffian and another in the Bottalack area, unfortunately this one died.
3/4/10.
Returning from Penzance this morning a flock of 20/30 Swallows between Red House and Trevelloe Carn and 2 over Bossava early afternoon.
4/4/10.
Two Swallows flew over the valley this morning also a Sparrow Hawk high over the downs.

2010-04-02T15:58:00.001+01:00

Cowslips.

2010-03-25T15:37:00.003Z

11/3/10

The Gt Spotted Woodpeckers are drumming often and the Greens are calling most mornings.

13/3/10.on the road

On the way to town this morning picked up a dead badger on the road at Chywoonne Grove and put it over the hedge.

15/3/10.

A lot of birdsong this morning, Chaffinch,Greenfinch,Goldfinch, Songthrush, Robin, Blackbird and Dunnock. On the way to Carn Barges this morning 6/8 Moorhen 1 Grey Heron, Ravens 15 Fulmar, Celandine and Scurvy Grass blooming, possible Buzzards nest.

16/3/10.

Gt Spotted and Green Woodpeckers, R00ks have young in the nest, have found discarded shell under the trees.

20/3/10.

Marazion, Swallows and Sand Martins over the marsh, good numbers of Snipe.

A pair of Heron are nesting just off the road and are easily seen, little Egret, Stonechat, Long Tailed Tits. A Black Tailed Godwit in full breeding plumage was a nice sight.

21/3/10.

There is a Magpies nest up Well lane by the lane leading to Tregurno, on the way to Carn BargesI watched a Fox come across the fields from Rosemodress through the cattle who took no notice of him at all. Moorhens, Greenfinch, Chaffinch and Goldfinch, a female Stonechat.

A Song thrush singing and a Chiff Chaff calling 11 Fulmar below the cross.

The Bluebells are growing very fast now and the first of the Wood Sorrel are in flower also found Cowslips in flower.

22/3/10.

A Wasp on the wing today.

25/3/10.

Chiff Chaff calling on the way to Carn Barges, Moorhen and Ravens (2), the Sparrows are still coming to the feeders.

Sparrow Hawk.

2010-03-10T15:50:00.002Z

1/3/10.
A Sparrow Hawk over the valley this morning as I was walking to Carn Barges.
A cock Pheasant calling along the path from Huers, while walking this section I noticed a patch of colour on top of one of the hedges and about to check what it was with my binoculars when it suddenly uncurled into a Fox, he was obviously asleep in the early morning sun and must have sensed something.
He sat up very straight and sat looking at me but was unafraid and watched me for several minutes then decided I was very boring and quietly moved away.
Farther on 1 Moorhen, 1 Grey Heron and 2 Mallard drakes.
Along the cliff path Scurvy Grass showing flower buds, a Dolphin off Carn Dhu and a Seal in the cove. I have had 2 reports of a large shoal of Mullet in the cove but have not seen them myself.
2/3/10.
Sparrows 1 male 1female on the bird table these are regular visitors.
On the cliff path a Buzzard and a male Stonechat, offshore Guillemots from 2-3 upto flocks of 30+.
A large Bumble bee on the wing, the first of several in the last few days.
4/3/10.
Sparrows again,4 Moorhen, Gannets feeding off the cove a small number of Goldfinches.
10/3/10.
Moorhens 5,4 Auks far off ID uncertain, a Cormorant on the rocks to the right of Carn Barges in full breeding plumage, Scurvy Grass in flower in sheltered areas.

House Sparrows.

2010-02-28T14:56:00.002Z

Three House Sparrows have appeared on the feeders this morning, 2 cocks and 1 hen almost the same time as last year(1/3/09).
A Song Thrush singing in the evening.
25/2/10.
Sparrows again today, 1 cock 1 hen, on the way to Carn Barges 4 Moorhen and a Grey heron. Tawny Owls (males) calling early this morning at least 4.
A flock of Lapwing over Moorcroft.
28/2/10.
Sparrows again yesterday and today, a Grey heron over the valley this morning being
harassed by Rooks and Herring Gulls.
For those who follow my blog regularly you will see I have included some bird pictures, these I have taken with a new camera which I am still getting used to so please excuse if bthe quality is not perfect.

Rooks.

2010-02-22T11:36:00.002Z

10/2/10.
A small flock of Snipe in the dip at Shefield this morning c 30,a group of Snipe is known as a Wisp, very apt as when they are on the wing they can look like smoke.
14/2/10.
On the way to Carn Barges 1 Curlew, Long Tailed Tits and 4 Mallard 2 male 2 female.
Offshore Gannets , Razorbills 3,Dolphins at least 4 working an area off the cove and appeared to be feeding, Fulmars 18 on the ledges where they will nest later on in the year.Black Redstart in the cove and Pied Wagtails Buzzards in the woods on the way home.I forgot 2 Moorhen as well.
15/2/10.
Goldfinches on feeders in the garden this morning.
16/2/10.
Gt Spotted Woodpeckers drumming most days now and Song Thrushes singing, Stonechats in cove 2 ,1male 1 female, Gannets offshore.
19/2/10.
A Song Thrush in the garden this morning, bathing in the bird bath and having a great time
21/2/10.
Green Woodpecker laughing up the valley this morning and a Gt Spotted on a feeder at home.
Walked out towards the Maidens this morning via Rocky Lane and in the fields opposite Borah Chapel were many Blackbirds, several Song Thrushes and close to 100 Redwings these were all feeding where dung spreading had taken place, later in the walk another large flock of Redwings (200+) in fields at Bosskena Home Farm.
Buzzards soaring and Goldfinch in the hedges.
22/2/10.
Evidence that the Rooks are starting to nest ,they are dropping twigs all over our garden.
Another sign of spring I found buds on the Marsh Marigolds today.

Signs of spring.

2010-02-10T11:23:00.002Z

3/2/10.
On the Morrisons roundabout this morning there was a Black Headed Gull with a full black hood this is their breeding plumage so an early sign of spring also in the same area in the scrub behind the garage a Song Thrush was singing its heart out.
On the way home catkins were appearing on the Hazels, particularly by the Lamorna Pottery.Later in the day I walked down to the cove and a long way offshore there were Gannets and Auks flying SW, the Auks were probably Guillemot but too far off to be sure.
In the cove there were Pied Wagtail,Stonechat and a Black Redstart,coming back over the downs in the Daffodil fields behind Estelles house a mole had been busy throwing up hills, in some parts of the country these used to be known as " Tumps"!.
5/2/10.
A large flock of Redwings at Boskenna home farm early morning.
6/2/10.
A Grey Heron in the valley this morning by Vow Cave studio,a Song Thrush feeding on Ivy berries by the town side entrance to Morrab gardens.
7/2/10.
Gannets and Guillemots offshore, 15 Fulmar on the ledges by the cross,2 Ravens displaying over Huers.
9/2/10.
Walked to Castallack, signs of Badger along the verges where they had been digging,small flock of Lapwing over Castallack moor also c 20 Golden Plover, a large flock of Redwing on the high fields.
On the way home stopped and had a chat to James Searle who was cultivating the land at the top of Oakhill ready for planting out using his tractor and James Fox,s old cultivator, its nice to see old tools still in use and doing a good job, 2 Pied Wagtails were taking advantage of the turned earth to feed.

A quiet week.

2010-02-01T14:10:00.004Z

25/1/10.
A small party of Long Tailed Tits on peanut feeders.
Walked to Castallack and on to Castallack moor, Redwings on the fields on the way to Castallack moor, Lapwings (97) over Castallack moor. A Goldfinch at Oakhill.
27/1/10.
Mallard (7)Gannets, Guillemot c 30,Fulmar 11 Grey & Pied Wagtails.
28/1/10.
Gt Spotted Woodpecker drumming.
1/2/10.
Tawny Owls calling,Woodpeckers Drumming,Moorhen (2) Gannets, Long Tailed Tits, Fulmar(13),Black Redstart in cove by cafe.

Wildfowl.

2010-01-24T10:37:00.002Z

11/1/10.
A large raft of Teal off the cove over the last few days and an exceptional number today c200, difficult to get an exact count as they are constantly on the move.
Along the cliff on the SW side a Black Redstart.
13/1/10.
Tawny owls calling early evening.
14/1/10.
Walked back from Sheffield this morning via Castallack, many Redwings and Fieldfares a flock of Lapwing in excess of 100 and a few Curlew.Grey Heron in the valley late morning, Woodpecker drumming.
16/1/10.
A Gt Spotted Woodpecker drumming on a telegraph pole, they seem to like these particulary the caps on the tops, depending on how tightly they are fixed they produce different notes, there was one bird a few years ago which liked the angle iron crossbars which made a very distinctive sound, could have been a recipe for a headache!.
17/1/10.
Led a walk today at Warwicks request( and he made it!) ten people including me walked from the village hall to Tregurnow fm then to Rosmodress on to Tregiffian and out to the Maidens back home via Rocky lane.
Redwings, Lapwings,Snipe (6) a Buzzard, a Woodcock ( heard but not seen) and Meadow Pippits in the Maidens field.
18/1/10.
Songthrushes singing, Woodpeckers drumming and Tawny Owls calling in the woods in the evening. A Fox by Trethinick, another at Lamorna pottery.
19/1/10.
Snowdrops in flower at Treverven.
20/1/10.
Long Tailed Tits on feeders this morning, a Grey Wagtail on the triangle, Buzzard over the valley.
Walked out to Carn Barges and back along the coast path, Moorhen, Teal 2, Gadwall 8/10 Mallard 2.Black Redstart SW side of cove, Pied and Grey Wagtails, Rock Pippits in cove.
Brief sighting of a Swan at midday.
22/1/10.
The first Snowdrops in our woods, I always look forward to these.
23/1/10.
Tawny Owls calling in our wood this morning, a Grey Wagtail on the roof.
At lunchtime a Grey Heron over Roslucombe fm.

Into the new year.

2010-01-10T14:33:00.003Z

30/12/09.
Walking to Carn Barges,c50 Teal, Mallard c24, Moorhen 2,Song Thrush,Pied and Grey Wagtails.2 Raven over Carn Barges.
2 Buzzards over the quarry on the NE side, one flying with a Buzzard and having and having an aerial manoeuvre competition.
2/1/10.
A Fox in the garden at 6.10 this morning, Grey Heron in the Spruces by the road.
3/1/10.
Two Ravens over Huers.Teal 60+ Mallard 12, Moorhen 2.Teal out over the sea difficult
to get an accurate count due to their flight patterns.
A very brief sighting of a Dolphin and allthough I kept searching no further sighting.
Small Seal in the cove SW side, photographed Goose Barnacles on a piece of boating equipment on the rocks by the stream.
When I got back home Jo had seen a Sparrowhawk in the garden.
4/1/10..
A Woodpecker drumming in the woods and later on another feeding on fat in the garden.
A Song Thrush and a Chiff Chaff in the cove
6/1/10.
Snow this morning around 2" deep, Teal 10, Mallard 16, Moorhen heard but not seen.
While standing quietly in cover I sensed movement to my right and glancing down found a small Fox( probably a vixen) coming toward me,it got within three feet before realising I was there and then turned and walked quietly away.
Oystercatchers, Grey and Pied Wagtails and two Stonechat along the coast path, a Dipper on the stream a Jay in the woods and a Green Woodpecker laughing.
On the way into town Lapwings in the Sheffield area.
7/1/10.
Fieldfares and Snipe beyond Moorcroft and at Boleigh also later in the day in the NE quarry and at Kemyel, large numbers of Redwing feeding along the stream margins through the woods, Woodpecker drumming.
8/1/10.
At Boskenna Redwings, Fieldfares and Lapwing in good numbers.
9/1/10.
A Grey Wagtail in the garden this morning also Redwings, Redwings and Fieldfares along the road to town this morning.
Teal 15, Mallard 12 and Snipe over Tregurno farm.
Many Redwings along the coast all heading NE also Lapwings out over the sea, small number of Golden Plover on the rocks along the foreshore.
10/1/10.
Walked to Castallack and Sheffield then back along the main road to Trevelloe then towards Kerris Vean and through the woods to Lamorna pottery and home, Blackbirds, Redwings and Fieldfares in large numbers all the way, Snipe at several locations the greatest number 20+ at Trevelloe. Lapwings in Small numbers and scattered.

Christmas week.

2009-12-29T15:03:00.006Z

13/12/09.
Mixed flock of duck, Mallard and Teal, two Moorhen one Pochard one Snipe, possible flock of Golden Plover but far off so no definite ID. Two Stonechat one male one female.
A Song Thrush singing across the valley this morning.
16/12/09.

A flock of Long Tailed Tits in Christine and Kieth,s garden.
20/12/09.
Song Thrush singing and a Gt Spotted Woodpecker drumming today.
21/12/09.
Driving Beverley and the girls back to Newlyn we saw three Foxes between the Red House and the top of Chywoone hill.
23/12/09.
Long Tailed Tits on feeders in the garden, flock of duck off the cove, by their behavior and flight I would say they were Teal.
24/12/09.
Mid morning walk, Song Thrushes, Redwings and Blackbirds a Buzzard flocks of Tits and Finches.
A Fox early morning in the Sheffield area.
28/12/09.
One Moorhen, two Mallard drakes, two Teal,Gannets Guillemots thirteen Fulmar below cross. Pied And Grey Wagtails in cove.
29/12/09.
Long Tailed Tit on feeder, Song Thrush singing.A Bullfinch by Chygurnow first i,ve seen for a long time.

Wildfowl.

2009-12-16T14:20:00.001Z

9/12/09.

At present the majority of interest is around wildfowl which come here to escape the worst of the weather up country,there are currently a mixture of Mallard and Teal in the area which can sometimes be seen flying over the Tregurno area and also over the sea, there are about thirty individual birds with Teal in the majority but I have seen one Pochard among them.

Other wetland birds seen have been Moorhen and the occasional Snipe.

Offshore there have been small groups of Guillemots and the odd Fulmar.

First Daffodils.

2009-12-06T14:18:00.002Z

29/11/09.

Walked to Carn Barges and back to the cove, four Moorhen, three Mallard two male one female and two Teal. Grey and Pied Wagtails, Robins, Wrens, Rock Pippits and Dunnock feeding along the shoreline.

30/11/09.

Goldfinches feeding on Evening Primrose seeds, also later in the week.

2/12/09.

Walked back from Sheffield this morning, a Buzzard on a fence post, one Curlew and several small flocks of Starlings. In the twenty five years I have lived here I have never seen so much water lying in the fields and running out of the hedges onto the roads.

4/12/09.

A flock of duck overhead on the way to Carn Barges c24 mixed Teal and Mallard.

5/12/09.

Driving along Wharfside this morning a Gt Northern Diver in the harbour, first I,ve seen this winter.

6/12/09.

Winter Heliotrope coming into flower, also known in Cornwall as Coltsfoot, this is not the Coltsfoot that country people used to use as a tobacco, that plant has yellow flowers in the spring which come before the leaves.
Talking of the spring there are already signs that it is on the wayI was looking the other day at a Purple Filbert tree, this is a member of the Hazel family and the catkins and the female flowers were there to see allthough still dormant I will try to get some pictures of it when it flowers as the catkins are bright pink and it is quite a sight when in full flower.
With the recent bad weather it has been interesting to see the way that birds will adapt to it, on the roundabout by Morrisons garage Black Headed Gulls and Oystercatchers were happily feeding in the worst of the weather ,it may have been reshaped and manicured but the attitude seemed to be it,s our field and always will be.
I,ve given this a title and have,nt mentioned the reason ,the first Daffodil in our garden is in flower I do have a photograph of it which hopefully will appear in due course.
,
,

.

First Viola.

2009-11-29T14:39:00.002Z

23/11/09.

A Grey Heron this morning flying up the valley. A small group of Long Tailed Tits in the garden at lunchtime.

24/11/09.

The first Viola has bloomed along the downs path, these are probably the descendants of the flowers that were grown comercially.

ead25/11/09.

A small flock of Lapwings in the Sheffield area this morning. Gannets far out at sea, Black Headed, Herring and Great Black Backed Gulls in the cove also Shag, Cormorant and Oystercatchers. One Cormorant was in the garden of Gilly Cottage, the combination of short legs set far back and large feet plus long grass made its progress difficult but it eventually made it to one arm of the stream which it entered and promptly started searching for food, however it soon tired of this area and climbing out proceeded to clamber through the dead stems of the Gunnera to gain access to the next part of the stream where it again started to search for food.
29/11/09.
Walked over the top to Carn Barges today, four Moorhen, three Mallard two males one female,two Teal. In the cove Grey and Pied Wagtails, Robins, Wrens, Rock Pippits and Dunnock
feeding along the shoreline 0n the cast up weed.

Woodcock.

2009-11-22T14:32:00.003Z

16/11/09.
Green Woodpecker Tregurno cliff, Water Rail seen and heard on way to Carn Barges also two Moorhen and six Teal. Grey and Pied Wagtails, Rock Pippits and a Black Redstart in the cove.Jay on way up through the woods. A Woodcock on the way to Carn Barges, first of the winter
17/11/09.
A Red Admiral at Treverven.
19/11/09.
A Peregrine on the way on the way to St Buryan this morning, Moorhen, Oystercatcher,Gannet.
Kelvin saw a Swallow over the valley this morning.
Small flock of Goldfinches in the garden.
22/11/09.
Went for a walk this morning, a Stonechat between Carn Barges and Lamorna point and a seal in the cove.

Riders of the storm

2009-11-14T15:37:00.003Z

11/11/09.

Large flocks of Woodpigeon 1st light, in the high hundreds! maybe as many as a thousand.

Curlew at Sheffield.

13/11/09.

A Grey Heron over the valley this morning, in the vicinity of the Merry Maidens a flock of Woodpigeon over a thousand strong.

Black Redstarts.

2009-11-08T15:16:00.002Z

2/11/09.
A Song Thrush in the garden this morning feeding on Myrtle berries.
5/11/09.
Large flocks of Redwings and Fieldfares at first light this morning passing through the valley also between shefield and Castallack, a male Black Redstart at Castallack.
7/11/09.
A Sparrowhawk over the harbour car park early morning and another down in the cove mid morning.
8/11/09.
On the way to Carn Barges this morning two Moorhen twenty + Teal and approximately 200 Woodpigeon, a Song Thrush along the coast path and in the cove several Rock Pippits, Robins, Pied Wagtails and two Black Redstarts. A male Seal in the cove below the cross.
Coming up through the woods a Grey Wagtail on the stream and a Redwing overhead as I was approaching home.

Golden Plover.

2009-11-01T15:14:00.002Z

25/10/09.
Out early this morning, a Song thrush on the way to perch Cottage and a small flock (30+) of Golden Plover between Perch Cottage and Tregurno fm.
Pied Wagtails around the new lagoon at Rosemodress fm and Sparrows on the road Meadow Pippits on the way to Tregiffian.
Between Boscawen fm and St Buryan turn two Ravens, a Buzzard large flocks of mixed finches and small groups of Starlings.
A solitary Redwing by the Maidens was my first definite sighting for this Autumn.
A Kestrel and a Sparowhawk in the cove around midday.
27/10/09.
On the way to Carn Barges A Moorhen And a Water Rail ,heard but not seen also a Kestrel and A Sparrowhawk.
31/10/09.
Song Thrushes in the garden this morning feeding on Pyracantha berries.
1/11/09.
Large numbers of Redwings passing through the valley early morning.

Swallows

2009-10-21T15:48:00.002+01:00

16/10/09.

A very quiet week so far, Swallows over Boskenna late afternoon.

17/10/09.

Went to Morrisons this morning for the weekly shop and as we were leaving a Sparrowhawk flew over and plunged into the shrubbery on the central reservation between the carriageways hunting for lunch?.

18/10/09.

Robins and Blackbirds are now appearing in greater numbers, possibly migrants from the continent.

Guillemots,Gannets and Oystercatchers along the coast path and a Sparrowhawk, a Heron by the bridge at Edmunds.

20/10/09.

A very light coloured well grown Frog at Treverven.

Possible sighting of Redwings (4) as the light was failing dropped into the trees across the valley.
21/10/09.
A bright and breezy day, male Kestrel, Pied Wagtails, Grey Wagtails, Gannets, Rock and Meadow Pippits along coast path. Two Swallows over the downs on the way home.

Rain.

2009-10-11T14:26:00.003+01:00

5/10/09
First significant rain since early September, a Heron was on the telegraph pole outside our house around mid-day, looked most peculiar balancing on such a small area. Then flew into one of our trees.
7/10/09
A very wet day!,continued almost all of the daylight hours, a sign of things to come?.
8/10/09.
What a change! brilliant blue sky and hot sun with a light E/NE breeze so went for a walk, Buzzards on the thermals wherever you looked, a Kestrel by Huers.
A possible Glaucous Gull between Huers and Carn Barges, this is a very large gull, Gt Black Backed in size but very pale coloured looking almost pure white at a distance, no positive ID as it was at some distance and I could not see the bill colour etc.
200+ Herring Gulls along the shore line between Carn Barges and the stream along with 10 Oystercatchers.
A female Stonechat along the coastpath and small flocks of Swallows overhead moving E along the higher ground , a Grey Wagtail in the cove and a Dipper near the bridge at Edmund,s house.
A large flock of Swallows moved through the valley at teatime heading out towards Kemyel.Butterflies! still some Speckled Woods around but very few Red Admirals, normally at this time of year when the Ivy is in flower it can be covered with them perhaps the bad weather in July and August interfered with their breeding.
9/10/09.
Large flocks of Swallows again this morning.
At Boskenna today around lunchtime I heard a Heron calling and 2 flew over to be followed by another 5 heading in a SE direction possibly going to Marazion.
10/10/09.
Two ravens in the Roselucumbe area at mid-day one doing wingovers.
11/10/09.
A large Tit flock in the Willow carr on the way to Carn Barges this morning, Gt, Blue and Long Tailed along with Chaffinch and Robins, a Pheasant heard but not seen.
Many small flocks of Gannets heading SW, now is a good time to look at these as you can see a lot of the plumage differences from the very white adults to the black of this years young birds.
Flying among them were 2 Guillemots and 2 Oystercatchers.
Male and female Stonechats along the coast path and Rock Pippits among the rocks also in the cove.
Walking back through the woods there was a Jay and a Dipper on the stream.
Now that the breeding season is over the Rooks And Jackdaws and any body else who wants to join in are putting on their ariel displays morning and evening when with a lot of noise they all rise from the trees and do circuits around the valley purely for the fun of it , it seems.

Autum

2009-10-01T14:44:00.002+01:00

Autumn is now with us and the leaves are falling I love the woods at this time that lovely rustle and crunch of the dead leaves.
The Ivy is coming into flower and the scent is everywhere bringing in the insects to feed, Ivy is very important at this time being one of the few plants that blooms in such profusion at this time and with the promise of the berries to come to feed many birds through the winter, the downside to this are the black sticky droppings that decorate the cars and anything else they choose to poop on.
23/9/09
Short walk today. Kestrel and Oystercatcher in the Carn Barges area.
24/9/09
Tawny Owls both male and female calling in the woods early this morning, they always seem to become more vocal at this time or perhaps with the shortening days we coincide more.
26/9/09
Walked through the woods and up to the quarry then back over the downs, very quiet on the bird front but was struck by the amount of berries etc everything has produced a lot of fruit this year. Coming back over the downs there were Violets along the path.
27/9/09
Two Herons flew up the valley this m0rning and a small flock of Swallows appeared late afternoon, did,nt stay long.
29/9/09
More Swallows at Treverven today.
1/10/09.
T00k my usual walk today out to Carn Barges good numbers of Herring Gull roosting along the shore also Oystercatcher, male and female Stonechats along the coast path and a bull seal making his way out of the cove.

Swallows.

2009-09-20T14:50:00.003+01:00

13/9/09.
Large flocks of Swallows building up all over the area, will soon be joining together to fly south.
A Whitethroat along the coast path another species which will soon be on its way to Africa.
14/9/09.
Flocks of Swallows even bigger today, a Peregrine flew down the valley this morning.
15/9/09.
Treverven, more Swallows plus a Whitethroat on the way there this morning, a Newt in the garden.
16/9/09.
Took a walk today up past the hotel and over the moors to the coast path, at Chygurno picked up a male Slowworm off the road and moved it to safety in the hedge.
A Green Woodpecker by Sara,s bungalow probably feeding on Ants in the short grass.
Common Lizard on the coast path between Carn Barges and the stream, to quick to get a photo.
2 Ravens flying along the coast in the same area.
Walking back through the woods there was a Gray Wagtail on the stream and by the bridge near Edmund,s house a Dipper flew up the river.
17/9/09.
A grey Heron flew up the valley this morning probably trying to get down to the stream to catch a Trout or two, they have some difficulty getting down through the trees until the leaves have fallen sufficiently to give them clear access.
19/9/09
Today a Kestrel along the coast path was a welcome sight as I have,nt seen one for some time and they did,nt nest in the quarry this year, male Stonechat near Tremellyn.
20/9/09,
After a long time without a sighting of a Kestrel another one flew over the garden around midday
Goldcrest in the garden also a young Goldfinch.

Grey Herons.

2009-09-12T15:34:00.002+01:00

7/9/09.
A strange call in the spruce trees in the garden this afternoon made me look further, could see a large bird high up but could not make positive ID, got a pair of binoculars and spotted a Grey Heron, I went out into the road for a better view but a noisy vehicle flushed it, it flew out only to be followed by another which I had,nt even seen.
8/9/09.
Another Heron flew down the valley early this morning.
Went for a walk today very misty and damp but this showed up all the spider webs makes you realise just how many there are, according to my wife they,ve all taken up residence with us.
Good numbers of flowers still out, Bindweed,Pink Campion, Bramble,Selfheal,Foxglove,Honeysuckle,Yarrow,Goldenrod,Hawkweed and what I believe to be Wild Angelica but have got to research that more.
10/9/09
Went to the NE quarry to pick blackberries, got just over two and a half pounds in a little over half an hour.While there a Peregrine flew over in close company with five Ravens and many Swallows overhead.
On the way back up through the woods a Dipper on the stream was a welcome sight as I had,nt seen one for some time and was begining to think they had deserted us, Jays also in the woods.
11/9/09
A female Tawny Owl was calling in the woods early this morning.Large numbers of young Swallows at Boskenna.
12/9/09
A Wheatear at Roselucumbe around midday. A male Slowworm in the garden when I got home and while moving a logpile a large Toad was evicted.

Update.

2009-09-06T15:18:00.002+01:00

An item that I missed out when reporting on our walk on the 30/8/09, Emily found a small dead Adder on the coast path approx 9" long , it was the object of much interest particularly on how soft the skin was almost like velvet, Josh wanted to take it home, vetoed by dad !.
3/9/09
Autumn migration is now getting underway, there were severall Chiffchaffs in the garden today at midday.
5/9/09
A beautifull moon last night, lit up the whole valley and the Tawny Owls seemed to like it, much calling going on. A young Frog in the garden today was a nice sight, they do not seem to be as common as the Toads.

Hawk kill.

2009-08-30T15:13:00.002+01:00

28/8/09.
Jo saw a hawk in the garden today, it was on the ground with its wings outstretched and had something white underneath it, she went out to see what was happening and found it was on top of a Collared Dove.
She tried to scare it off but it flew off with its prey.
From her description i would guess it was a female Sparrow Hawk.

30/8/09.
Took a walk today at the request of Warwick , those present were Warwick and Josh, Nicky and Emily and John and Molly+me (obviously!).
Started at the village hall with a demonstration of the spore dispersal of Earthstars, these are a fungus which occurs in the woods here, there is a picture on the blog and I believe Warwick videod it.
Walked up past the hotel with the children collecting seeds,flowers and leaves of various plants and trees. Showed them the galls on the Oak tree, three different types, and explained that they are all caused by different types of wasp.
Josh sampled a Sloe was not impressed, he said they made his teeth go dry , everybody else thought it was hillarious.
Went over the moors to Carn Barges looking a various things on the way but visibility was not good due to the mist and light rain so not much on the bird front.
At Carn Barges there were a lot of Gannets going by and a Shag on the rocks below, then Warwick spotted a Basking Shark and everyone was concentrating on that, it was moving roughly parrallel to the shore and gave some good views as we moved towards the cove .
We made our way up through the woods and so home.

Wildlife walk 16/8/09.

2009-08-19T14:30:00.004+01:00

There was very little to be seen in the way of birdlife on this walk, just a few Gannets far offshore one Grey Wagtail by the stream and a couple of Rock Pippits on the way back to the cove. One item of interest was a small Oak with an infestation of Artichoke galls which are caused by a small wasp. We also found a Burying beetle along the coast path attempting to carry off a dead Bumble bee.

18/8/09 Treverven.
A Sparrowhawk flew over at lunchtime, several Buzzards at various times throughout the day,
a large number of assorted butterflies on Budleia and Hemp Agrimony.
19/08/09

A short walk around midday, Gannets offshore but not much else. The thing that is now very noticeable is that Autumn is not far off, vegetation is dying back and seed is being dropped ready for next year, Ivy is coming into flower which will feed the late insects and the berries are important food for birds in the winter. There are Sloes on the Blackthorn and the Hawthorn berries are ripening, Blackberries are ripening so will be collecting some soon for jam to go with the Apples in the garden.

Rain Damage.

2009-08-10T16:01:00.002+01:00

9/8/09.

Jays in trees by village hall this morning (5) a family group.
Finches now starting to form flocks for the winter , a mixed flock of Greenfinches & Chaffinches by Chygurnow.
Gannets in good numbers off Carn Barges, adults & young of various ages, also a brief sighting of a Dolphin.
There are no young Fulmars on the nest ledges again this year ,down on one of the nest sites so there has been a chick but may have been predated, Gt Black Back ?.
Two Grey Wagtails along shoreline on the way back to the cove also Rock Pippits.
There has been a big build up of sand in the cove unlike last year when there was almost none.
Walked up through the woods and was struck by the number of branches broken off the trees
probably by the weight of rain.

Toads.

2009-07-11T15:05:00.002+01:00

5/7/09.

Young Toad on path to Carn Barges, more of these later.
8/7/09.
Walked over to the Maidens, not an awfull lot about but a Kestrel over the Maidens field.
Large dragonflies now on the wing, emperor and southern Aeshna hawking for prey along the path to Carn Barges also Ringlet, Meadow Brown and Speckled Wood butterflies.
Over the sea two flights of Scoter one of 10/15 birds the other 25+.
Linnets with young along cliff path.
Comma butterfly in garden.
10/7/09
Going back to the Toads I picked up four in the garden this morning none of which were larger than a 5 pence piece they seem to have had a good breeding season.
11/7/09
A family of Jays were in the woods across from our house this morning at least 4 individuals.

Basking Sharks.

2009-07-05T14:46:00.002+01:00

25/6/09.
Basking Shark between Lamorna Point and Carn Barges,Yarrow in flower, large green leaf beetle.
Manx Shearwaters and Kittiwakes offshore.
27/6/09.
Two Basking Sharks in the cove, divers in the water with them estimated one at around 8-9metres the other around 4-5.

Otters.

2009-06-24T14:39:00.002+01:00

13/6/09.
Had a phone call from Liz Wilkin yesterday she has a problem with a nest of Blue Tits, they built at the bottom of a pipe and her daughters were concerned how they were going to get out.
Went up and met John this afternoon and after much discussion decided the best plan was to dig around the bottom of the pipe until we could lean the pipe at an increasing angle so the young ones could scramble out.
The pipe had been one end of a clothes line and was bedded in concrete and the nest was approx 50" down, we dug around until we had it loose and then laid it over a few degrees and I told John to increase the angle a little each day.
On Wednesday Liz phoned to say they had flown.
The only casualty in this was John , during the digging a piece of the pipe broke off and hit him on the head luckily no great damage was done
14/6/09
Grey Heron over the valley, they often come down at this time of year but with all the leaf cover they have difficulty getting down to the river.
18/6/09
Flock of Long Tailed Tits by Huers ,at least 12, Gannets & Kittiwakes of Carn Barges.
A sequel to a story that started around a year ago, you may remember that a baby Otter was found in the valley which was taken to Paradise Park and then transferred to a sanctuary in Hampshire.
She was raised to adulthood and given the name Lottie and has now returned to the valley with another female called Avon, they have been kept in a private location for some weeks in a man made holt inside a large pen and fed every day but without human contact .
They have now reached the stage where they can be released but in a controlled way, the gate to the pen will be left open so they can come and go as they please but there will be food left until they no longer need it.
As a follow up to this the sanctuary in Hampshire has other Otters which need release areas so we may get some more in due course.
I have been lucky enough to see them on a couple of occasions the last time was around half nine last night 23/6/09.

Foxes & Gt Spotted Woodpeckers.

2009-06-13T15:49:00.002+01:00

8/6/09
Returning from town early monday evening with my fish & chips a fox crossed the road in front of the car by Bodriggy.
11/6/09
A fox at Roselucombe farm mid morning killed all of Helen Moines chickens (50) thus depriving her of a part of her income, I like to see foxes but theres no doubt they are very efficient killers.
12/6/09
We have been receiving regular visits from a family of Gt Spotted Woodpeckers, they come to
the feeders and the young birds are learning to feed themselves with help from the adults.

Grey Heron& Painted Ladies.

2009-06-08T14:13:00.003+01:00

20/5/09

GreyHeron over the footpath to Carn Barges, Speckled Wood and Orange Tip butterflies along the coast path also a Six Spot Burnet moth on a Hawkweed flower.

31/5/09

Willow Warbler singing in the Willow carr along the footpath to Carn Barges, a male Kestrel hunting along the coast path back to the cove.
On the wildflower front Scabious, Yarrow also know as Millfoil and Dog Daisies are blooming on the cliffs and on the footpath from the cove to the quarry is a small group of white Campion.
Painted Ladies, there has been a very large influx of this species this year which has been reported in the press and also featured in the BBC program Springwatch, this reputedly runs into millions of individuals.

5/6/09
Between the Menwinion turn and Boleigh farm a half grown Fox cub ran across the road in the middle of the afternoon.

peggys wildlife walk

2009-05-13T16:50:00.003+01:00

week ending 10/5/09.

Monday 6 Wheatear near Lamorna Point, Painted Lady butterfly on the wing Jay top of the lane.

Tuesday, Swift at Treverven first i have seen this year.

Sunday, today was the day for the walk to help Peggy raise money for her ride to Paris raising funds for the Cornish hospices. The weather was good and around 20 people walked from The Wink carpark to Carn Barges and back along the coast path to the cove and then up through the woods. Not a lot seen on the birdfront just the usual things for the time of year but 1 Whimbrel was welcome. A Seal was seen along the rocks.

The wildflowers were on the whole at their best but some are now begining to go over.
The walk lasted around 2 hours and everybody seemed to enjoy it.

If you want to find out more or make a donation then go to Peggy's blog.

Willow Warblers

2009-04-27T15:22:00.002+01:00

Week ending 26/4/09

Monday

Swallows over Chygurno and Huers/ Pendulous Sedge and Ladys Mantle in flower the latter of these also known as Cuckoo flower as it usually coincides with the arrival of this bird, unfortunately I havent heard a Cuckoo here for some years.

Tuesday

The first Willow Warblers seen and heard this year, Swallows in the valley in the afternoon.

Wednesday

Jo found a newly emerged Angle Shades moth in the hall this morning a common species but always nice too see.

Thursday
Willow Warblers singing along the path to Carn Barges.
Offshore around 50 Manx Shearwaters heading SW, Birds Foot Trefoil and Purple Vetch in flower.

Friday.
A Fox at Boskenna today, ran along the path towards me then realised that was not a good move and ran off into the woods.

Sunday
Gt Northern Diver far out over the sea also Manx Shearwaters and Gannets all heading SW.
First Whitethroats I,ve seen this year towards Carn Barges and at that location a Rock Pippit carrying food items, feeding young ?.

Dawn,s wig.

2009-04-20T14:12:00.003+01:00

Sunday 12th April

A pair of Mallard flying over Tregurnow cliff, Linnets along the coast path.
Beeflies in the cove!, these are flies that look a lot like bees but are also like small humming birds they resemble Humming bird hawk moths but their proboscis is permanently extended.
First sighting of Purple Orchids, should you come across any of these do not be tempted to pick them as having any part of these plants in your possesion carries very severe penalties under protection of wildlife legislation.

Tuesday 14th April.

Swallows are now appearing, several @ Treverven today, two @Boskenna on friday, three along the path from Huers to Carn Barges on saturday and Linnets along the coastpath.

Monday20th April.
Swallows over Chygurnow and Huers, a pair of Mallard over Tregurnow.

To finish a little humour!.

Our next door neighbour Dawn has recently been acting as an extra in a film being made locally ,she is playing the part of an old servant/ housekeeper and for this has to wear a grey wig.

As she had been wearing this a lot she figured it could do with freshening up, now these are made from a viscose material and as such cannot be washed.
The best thing she could think of doing was to hang it out in the fresh air which she duly did,
a little later she looked out to check it was ok and while she was doing this a large Rook swooped down and flew off with it. I now have a picture in my mind of young Rooks snuggling down in it or alternatively pulling it over themselves like a duvet.

But alls well , she managed to find another at a car boot sale.

Rooks & Goldfinches.

2009-04-11T15:28:00.002+01:00

sunday 29/3/09.

at approximately 6.20 this morning a goose flew up the valley, probably a canada given that there have been a pair around recently. A fox laying in the sunny corner of a field at Castalack.

Young Rooks are now heard calling in their nests and I have been finding eggshells on the ground beneath the trees where they are nesting.

A flock of Goldfinches around 24 in number in the Newtown area, flocks like this are known as charms! a very apt name I always think

Cow Parsley, called Kek in some parts of the midlands, is coming into flower in some of the more sheltered roadside places, a much nicer name (I think ) for this plant is Queen Annes Lace.

Another member of the carrot family is also showing colour ,Alexanders is a tall leafy plant which has a large head of yellowish flowers and reputedly was introduced by the Romans as a culinary plant.

Wednesday 1/4/09.

As I walked up the hill by Chygurno this morning a Peregrine Falcon flew down the valley also 2 buzzards hanging on the wind nearby,Found a small group of Cowslips in bloom and took a photograph of them.

In the recent sunny spells I have had fleeting glimpses of Lizards sunning themselves on

prominent stones,along the coast path below Carn Barges a colony of miner bees are digging their tunnels in the vertical side of the path.

Sunday 5/4/09.

A Blackcap warbler was singing this morning in the Willow carr on the way to Carn Barges.

In the mid afternoon I saw a Comma butterfly, this is one of the species that overwinter as mature adults.

Tuesday 7/4/09

Today I went for a walk around Marazion marsh, there were a small number of Sand Martins flying over the marsh ,there are also some young Herons in a nest that can be seen from the road,1 Little Egret and a couple of Cetti,s warblers calling in the scrub around long rock pool.

Finally may I apologise for the delay in posting this blog, I have had no internet for the best part of a week.

Blackthorn & Pussy Willow.

2009-03-28T15:56:00.002Z

Blackthorn is now coming into flower and as often happens at this time of year it has turned colder, the older country folk always used to call this Blackthorn winter.
The Pussy Willow is also starting to show and in one or two well sheltered places is already turning yellow.
Bladder campion & Sea Campion are also flowering on the cliffs along with Herb Robert& Kidney Vetch and the first Thrift.
On monday there was a male Blackcap on my bird table and on tuesday a Long Tailed Tit on a peanut feeder.
Wednesday down in the cove there was a Black Redstart on the rocks on the NE side .

A Cock Pheasant was along the path from Huers to Carn Barges on thursday & 2 Canada Geese & 3 Moorhen close by

Between Carn Barges & Lamorna Point 1 Shag, 1 Cormorant ,5 Oystercatchers Gannets in groups of 1to 5 flying SW.

Bull Seal between the stream and Lamorna Point.

garden & walk sightings.

2009-03-26T16:13:00.002Z

Monday 23/3/09.

Blackcap Warbler in garden on bird table.

Tuesday, Long tailed Tit on feeder.

Wednesday, Black Redstart in the cove.

Thursday, Cock Pheasant on path to Carn Barges, Canada Geese (2) & Moorhen (2) close by.

Between Carn Barges & Lamorna Point, 1 Shag 1Cormorant 5 Oyster Catchers.

Gannets flying SW in groups of 1 to 5.

Seal just to the NE of the stream,bottling!.

Beetles & bluebells

2009-03-22T15:23:00.005Z

Butterflies now starting to appear on sunny days, peacocks & red admirals these will be overwintering individuals.Sparrows still coming to the feeders, chiff chaffs are calling in the old quarries, goldcrests there as well.

Black redstart at treverven on tuesday,blackcap warbler in the garden on wednesday and 4 ravens flew over the valley, a male wheatear on the cliffs between tremelyn and the stream.

A violet ground beetle emerging from its burrow on wednesday,I think! not to hot on insects and it seems difficult to get a really good guide book.

First bluebell on sunday on the path over the downs.

Bird updates & new flower pictures

2009-03-15T17:31:00.000Z

Further to the item about the House Sparrows,the original bird is still around and on saturday appeared with another cock bird and also a hen,so there was a lot of posing and posturing to impress her so with luck there may be some young ones in time

I counted the rooks nests at the begining of the week and came up with a total of 90,there may be more to come yet!

Walking up through the woods on saturday afternoon I put up a moorhen along the river bank. The Canada Geese are still around and could possibly be looking to nest.Sand Martins have been reported from several locations and Swallows have been seen on Scilly.Spring Squill is coming in to flower below Carn Barges and the first Stitchwort flowers have appeared. Four Ravens flew down the valley this morning.

Some futher wildlife sightings.

2009-03-08T15:07:00.000Z

After last weeks sighting of a House Sparrow this week has seen a Starling around my garden. Again not a rare bird but unusual in the valley. Between Huers and Carn Barges I saw 2 Canada Geese,first sighting of this species I have had here. Spring flowers are starting to appear i.e Scurvy Grass on the cliffs and Wood Sorrel in the woods.

House Sparrow seen in Lamorna

2009-03-01T23:51:00.000Z

Sighting of a House Sparrow may not seem particularly interesting but is unusual as in the 25 yrs i have lived here I can count the number of sightings on one hand.

Red status, means endangered and in need of special attention.