Ideal Weather

[Regan]

Yesterday I went to a new venue, for me, College Lake in Bulbourne near Tring. I love going to new places especially when they don't disappoint. It's not a large venue but was packed with birds. There is a large lake, wet meadows and marshes, plus adjoining farmland. I saw lots of birds on the water; Mute swans, canadian & greylag geese, mallards, gadwall, teal, tufted duck, wigeon, pochard, coot and moorhen. All swimming with their partners, giving me a good chance to nail the differences between the females. What made this special for me though was the lack of people and the weather. Although it was cold there was no wind, and a very bright low sun shining across the still water. The light seemed to pick out every colour and shade in the feathers, making even the most ordinary of birds seem very special. Marvellous!!!

[bcurrie]

Thanks for the report, Regan. It are days like you had that make birding just exquisite.

[Andrew]

I'd love a birding day out with very few people there like you had especially dog walkers. But not if I had a mega rarity cos no one would belive me would they? I also love it when all the plumage details seem sharp and true.