I mentioned earlier today about the experience of seeing a Redstart yesterday but like I said it wasn't just a Redstart, it seems that the particular hawthorn bush was quite an attraction to all kinds of birds. When the Redstart arrived I had already photographed a really lovely Tree Pipit that perched for an age at the top of the bush. This is a very nice species that could esily be confused with a Meadow Pipit. You need to look out for the flank markings which are just thin slashes in a Tree Pipit but broad and bold in the Meadow, the look of the beak is subtley different with the Meadow Pipits beak being a little bit finer. Its my impression that there is a much more distinct pattern on the wing coverts as well.
The Willow Warbler was a young bird. I speak from experience when I tell you that female and juvenile Willow Warblers are much more yellow than adult males. Willow Warbler a smart little bird, they have flesh coloured legs whereas the very closely related Chiffchaff has dark legs. This spot was a really good site to photograph from with a glorious backdrop and even though it was overcast, was quite good.
So, that was four different species so far and just in this little bush with the top at my eye level. My main reason for being there was to photograph the Stonechats, the day previously I had taken some really pleasing photos of the male flying in and here they are.
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