We’re just back in from a very, very cold trip up to Alnwick. Along the side of the A1, Buzzards perched immobile – perhaps frozen to their perches by the -3C temperature of midday. Bizarrely, the overcast gloom and sub-zero temperatures were accompanied by no frost whatsoever. A wander round Hulne Park was intended to clear the system. Red Squirrels could be seen raiding the feeders at the entrance, and a host of woodland birds clammered around. Buzzards could be heard with their eerie mewing but the gloomy conditions precluded a view. As we strolled through the park and the woodland gave way to pasture flocks of birds were the definite theme: wood pigeons, starlings, jackdaws and partridges were all gathered with their friends and relatives; just the thing for New Year’s Eve.
As the icy air chilled our bones we headed off for a hearty lunch in a warming inn, passing flocks of starlings and redwings on our way. Warmed, watered and fed we made our way back home, pondering on what 2009 might bring.
We wish all of you very warm wishes for the New Year and enjoy your celebrations, whatever they may be!