BIRDWATCH

An unusual event! Ian awoke and found a Snipe happily feeding on his lawn in Maple Gardens. It stayed for about an hour completely ignoring any activity in the house! I have occasionally surprised one in the woods. They do not usually stay around but fly off rapidly in a zig zag manner.

The Swallows departed early in September and a pair of Jays settled in the Sharnbrook Road area where they have remained ever since. There were not the usual number of Gulls following the village ploughing but I have had reports of large flocks around Swineshead. The Buzzards have become quite a common sight. Michael saw one swoop upon a young hare. It was unable to lift it off the ground and took a long time to complete the kill.

Now that the waste grain has been dumped, small flocks of Yellow Hammers and Chaffinches have congregated for winter food, warmth and safety. Also the Green Woodpeckers are plentiful. Listen for the harsh shriek and note the cigar shape in their undulating flight.

John saw the Fieldfares arrive on October 28th and I saw them the following day. They have settled in their usual haunts near the Knotting Lane and will hopefully remain around the village until Spring. After the miserable wet weather we had a brighter day. I saw what I thought was a Buzzard, being harassed by three crows. As it soared up into the blue sky the russet v-shaped tail and white under-wing patches confirmed that the Kite was back. He then gave a ten minute aerobatic display. Gliding, swooping, somersaulting, in sheer delight at being in the sunshine again. I fully appreciated the Kite's feelings and was privileged and uplifted to have witnessed this exhibition. l had a call telling me he was still in the village two hours later.

I have been unable to cover the area as I used too, and so rely more on my friends for information. lf you see any interesting birds, please phone me on 709083. Finally, many thanks to John Clelland for the photographs with which he enhances our website.

Happy Christmas.

"ROAMER"