Friday 10th April

Last night went to the cinema, so not a planned nature trip at all.

You can't see the otter - it's under the water

On the way out happened to notice that the Devorgilla Bridge was looking quite picturesque ans decided to attempt a photo.  As I made ready there was quite a large splash just by the near upstream bank - I assumed it was a decent-sized trout.

Walking further up the bank, I noticed two further spashes, after which an otter poked it's head above the surface and swam along for a bit, just allowing a view of it's white front.

This isn't by any means the first time otters have appeareared in the Nith in Dumfries. One of the more amusing times was when an Australian lad, over here to play cricket, was out fishing in the river and reported that he had seen a seal!

Today went to pick up new trekking bike from Castle Douglas.  Riding it home my thoughts were mainly devoted towards testing its speed and climbing ability, but still found time to spot a couple of red kites and a song thrush.

16th June

Walberswick Common drew my attention as possible area for dartford warbler and green woodpecker.  Fortunate enough to meet a woman from Natural England awaiting a school group, who gave me a map and some directions so I could plan activities around the anticipated rainstorm, which lasted nearly three hours while I read in the car.

The main targets were not co-operating, even in spite of combing the woodland and getting a little lost right in the middle of dartford warbler heathland.  But two very pleasant walks led to jay, reed warbler, bearded tit (including a close-up of a female this time), marsh harrier, buzzard (not so common in Suffolk), cetti's warbler and several rather cocky reed buntings who absolutely refused to leave their favourite bushes when I walked right underneath them.  There were also some otter tracks near the old mill.