My Life Outside blog

Flycatching in Mid Wales

It was while watching the new series of the BBC’s Springwatch (which is turning out to be one of the best yet in my opinion), that I had the dawning realisation that I was rapidly running out of time to go and watch Pied Flycatchers at their best. These summer Read more…

My Life Outside blog

Easter Adventures in Dorset

In a perfectly timed piece of choreography a Purple Heron turned up at Kenfig NNR on Friday, almost as if it knew that the local birding fraternity would need something to keep themselves occupied with over the long weekend. I would have been there in a flash if not for Read more…

My Life Outside blog

RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch

Sunday was our day of choice to take part in the annual RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, and it also represented the first time that we have done so in the new house. This annual voluntary survey of the state of our garden birds continues to go from strength to strength Read more…

My Life Outside blog

Just Ticking Over

After the splurge of outings that characterised the first few weeks of this year, the past seven days have been relatively quiet. Saturday was spent out in the garden putting up some Christsmas presents including a bat box and several new bird feeders. A Raven spent much of the day Read more…

My Life Outside blog

RSPB Gwenffrwd-Dinas

After the sun and heat of Saturday we woke to find Sunday somewhat of a disappointment. For the first time since the Easter bank holidays rain was falling and the other side of the valley was obscured from view by cloud and mist. Never ones to be beaten by a Read more…

My Life Outside blog

RSPB Ynys Hir

This weekend I took a visit up to the RSPB reserve at Ynys-Hir for the first time in at least 18 months. The reserve is located about 10 miles inland from Aberystwyth and incorporates a range of habitats including mature woodland, estuary and peat bogs. I have never visited before Read more…