Woodcock

 A woodcock flew over the house at dusk last evening. It is a first for this area, though with all the rain that we have had, there is plenty of soft ground for them to feed in and nearby woods offer plenty of daytime cover. I just hope this was not a one off and that there is a breeding pair this summer.

Jackdaws

 The jackdaws are roosting in a nearby wood. They gather in their hundreds on the fields grabbing a final meal in the murk. On an impulse, they noisily fly in groups to the wood. Here they can be heard communicating with each other before settling for the night. I am surprised to see them roosting in the tops of the trees. You would think that they would perch lower where there is more protection from the wind.

More winter migrants have arrived, with plentiful redwings feeding on the pastures. A visit to the Ashdown Forest revealed fieldfares feasting on holly berries. The female trees were heavily laden with fruit.