Friday 1st January

Hadn't intended to anything taxing today, but with weather closing in again, decided to day was the best day to get out on the bike.

Did a quick tour round the Caerlaverock loop. Saw a couple of buzzards, one of which was being mobbed by 30-50 rooks.  There was a jay fussing around a couple of dead trees, and on riding back up the Nith, several hundreds of barnacle geese feeding in the soaking fields.

Last of all I was overflown by a couple of small groups of whooper swans, honking away as they flew.

There was remarkably little sign of flood damage riding up into Dumfries, but a lot of flooded fields and natural debris showing how high the water had been.

Wednesday 14th January

Took advantage of another bike ride to Caerlaverock in the hope of seeing the egret. Nothing at first sight and a bit cold to hang around.  Tide was out, which may have made some difference.  Did however sight a raven flying and calling over the grounds at Caerlaverock.