Just back from Malawi

Ten days in Malawi has convinced me that this must be the best bird watching destination in the world. Not only are there an amazing variety of birds to be seen (some of them endemic) but it is so relatively easy to get up close to many of the birds. In addition, whilst watching the birds, I saw a herd of forty five elephants and too many hippo to count. The light was fantastic so have amassed hundreds of photos some of which should prove to be very good.

Red Kite in Kent

Saw my first red kite in Kent. It was flying over the fields between the M20 and M26 motorways. Did not appear to be in any hurry to move on, but suspect it is a late bird on migration. Hope it is one that is staying around and finds a mate.

First Swallows

Saw my first swallows of the year today. A flock of around twenty were taking flies from near the surface of the Hotel lake. Sedge warblers could also be heard in the reedbeds whilst the first young coots of the year were venturing around the fringes. A canada goose stood guard near a nest in which eggs were visible though I could see only the one bird.

Spectacular Spring Flowers

I don't think I have ever seen so many spring flowers as this year. The woods are full of wood anemonies, and blue bells are just breaking. The violets are outstanding in their various forms, whilst the embankments are covered in either primroses or cowslips.
If this what we might expect from global warming, with its mild winters, then it does indeed offer some compensation.

Breeding Kingfishers

The stream that winds its way along the edge of the wood, is only small. Just too wide to easily jump across, but today, whilst watching a trout (a rare sighting); a kingfisher swept passed with a small fish in it beak. The bird was either taking this to a nest with young or to its mate. I have yet to find a nesting hole and suspect that it is further up stream on a section that is unaccessible to the public.

Violets/Greenfinches

This is the time of year I love the best. There are violets everywhere  and it is astonishing to see the range of varieties that grow in this area. At one spot, there is a beautiful combination of white and blue violets. Most spring flowers tend to be yellow so to have such dark beauties to admire adds a different dimension to a walk in the countryside.
I am pleased to see a pronounced increase in the number of greenfinches around. Having been recently decimated by disease, it is clear to see that they are quite resilient and quick to recolonise deserted areas.

3 Different Butterflies

Seeing three different types of butterfly this morning has convinced me that spring is truly here. Brimstone was followed by a cabbage white and then a peacock.
Also saw a kingfisher, the first seen on the little stream for some weeks, could they be breeding here? The mystery is where they could have their nesting hole.