August 2007

Wednesday 1^st August

This evening was one of low cloud and drizzle but it was good to get some fresh air. A couple of Robins seemed to be singing strongly again, presumable they are starting to establish their autumn territories.

Two Hares fed by Penarfynydd where a brood of Stonechats sat in the Bracken. The National Trust is planning to spray the Bracken on the mountain here in the near future to prevent it from encroaching on the heathland.

Sunday 5^th August

Monday 6th August

Today dawned bright and sunny with a light SW pushing some broken cumulus clouds along. A Green Woodpecker(s) called sporadically from around the house throughout the day, but the highlight was undoubtedly watching an exceptional flock of 38 Ravens this afternoon, spiralling up in a thermal over Pen-y-caerau, then dispersing in all directions. 

Tuesday 7th August

This evening the wind had dropped and the sun was shining - quite a rare combination this summer! - so I visited Porth Ysgo. On the walk down the resident Brown Hares were showing well, with a total of five seen, plus another three in different fields on the way home.

The tide was out when I reached the sea, and there was little bird activity apart from a single calling Common Sandpiper and a chattering flock of Swallows; some 60+ birds were hawking insects over the cliff edge prior to heading off to roost.