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!!!