Its been a number of years since I have observed a Stonechat (Saxicola torquata) in the local area and it was not for the want of trying. I have seen them at Portland Bill in Dorset on a number of occasions (where they will almost come up and ask you to take a photograph of them.)
Recently I had received reports from local birding colleagues of one male being observed on a particular section of the local Parkland walk. So this week, as on previous recent weeks, I checked out the area in question. The Stonechat (as I have observed them) likes open ground with low vegetation particularly along the water's edge. The area I found this male was just such a location. They are quite accommodating birds and will not fly far from where you find them, in fact they tend to stake their ground and whatever the disturbance will stay close by.
NB. This was one of five species that I would term quality species, that I actually photographed on the same day in the Parkland where I regularly walk. So I will post them in turn shortly.
Hello Roy
ReplyDeleteQuelle belle que Saxicola torquata, même sur les barbelés, un petit trésor !
Très jolie série :)
Thanks Nathalie.
DeleteI'm glad that you finally caught up with this cracking little bird on your local patch Roy, they're always a pleasure to see, and he posed well for you too...[;o)
ReplyDeleteThanks Trevor, yes a lovely little bird to observe.
DeleteI'm glad you got to see your Stonechat and thus were able to show us.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beauty, brilliant photos! And thanks ever so for your very sweet comments on my anniversary post Roy, appreciated them very much.
ReplyDeleteHello Roy,
ReplyDeleteWell you got luckier than me!!
It seems I can never get close enough to one to take a decent pic!
Great series, lovely to admire this gorgeous looking guy here :)
Keep well!
Thanks Noushka.
DeleteI love Stonechats, I see these at Morden Bog in the summer months. Lovely set of pictures of this bird :-)
ReplyDeleteThanks Lyn.
DeleteYes its Dorset that I normally see these.
What a cute little bird! I am glad you were able to find him and photograph him.
ReplyDeleteI've looked at all your bird posts and your photography is superb. I especially love the first two here, and the flying egret. Well done! Also envious of all the interesting species. :-)
ReplyDeleteThanks Mandy.
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