One of the disappointments of moving to this area close to the South Downs is that I anticipated re-acquainting myself with one of the most iconic animals in the UK but have not done so. I am referring on this Boxing Day to the hare.
Everything about the topography and the ecology of this area would suggest that it would support a healthy population of hares. They do apparently occur a few miles away in a similar location, but, despite two years of close observation, I have yet to see one.
Having in other places observed the 'boxing' matches between hares, now known to be the sparring of a male and female, and therefore, knowing it to be one of the truly magical sights of nature, I live in hope that this creature has either prove to be extremely elusive, or, that it will one day soon re-populate the area.
Watched a little egret catch a fish in the swollen stream today. It moved with a remarkable swiftness to secure its prey.
What I presume to have been a pair of mistle thrushes appeared to be engaged in a courtship ritual.
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