Trout

The little stream that borders the wood, is running quite high but very clear at the moment. I was delighted this morning to see a trout in one of the slower moving sections of water. Not large, probably no more than 8 inches, it was nevertheless a very welcome sight. I have previously seen larger specimens  upstream of this point where the stream still flows through the sluices of a now defunct water mill, but none previously in this wooded section. As I also saw the Little Egret again, it appears that the stream offers a great deal of Crustacea and small fish to provide food for these predators.
The stream has some holes in its banks very reminiscent of the holes made by water voles. I have yet to see one here and it appears to be a most unprepossessing environment for these creatures. I have only previously come across them where running water flows through open ground and, in the wood, there is little opportunity for rushes and the like to grow. Although the voles can be quite catholic in their food tastes, there is little at all here on offer for them. Near the mill stream, there is reputedly a small population of voles, though I have yet to see one there. I shall continue to keep a watch out for them. The usual indication of their presence is when you here a 'plop' as they submerge. So, I shall keep my eyes and ears open.