Back in Wiltshire at the weekend. On the local patch here , there are quite a few large flocks of Yellowhammers , Goldfinches and Linnets in the field margins . Also lots of nest building by the Rooks and pair bonding by the Ravens over the hills. Common Sandpipers doing the same thing over the watercress beds by Ludwell . I had some nice views of Grey Wagtails here too.
I checked up on the Barn Owls both adults sitting on the nest box now , so looks like they are ready for another successful year. Plenty of Tawny Owl activity still going on during the evening , but haven't seen or heard the Little Owls for a while now. There were also reports of Short Eared Owls on Win Green and a Hen Harrier.

Had a quick stroll around the local patch at Ickenham Marsh this afternoon. Seems to be an increase in the numbers of Redwing and Fieldfare these last few weeks. A good couple  hundred of both were gathering to roost in the scrub. Also a nice few of a Sparrowhawk being chased away from them by a couple of Carrion Crows.

Popped in after work to see if the Tawny Owl chicks are showing yet. No sign but a nice view of one of the parents. Won't be long .

A nice day weather wise but not the usual number of Winter ducks about as in previous years. Only saw a few golden Eye and 1 female Smew. Lovely view of a pair of Red Kites displaying made up for it though. Meet a fellow birder who told me a nasty rumour about some of the lakes along this area namely Broadwater Lake.

Apparently the HS2 may go right through here. Hope its not true.