STEVE ASHTON'S WILDLIFE GALLERY

January 2008

Stodmarsh this afternoon.

Due to work commitments this morning, I did not get out until 2.30 this afternoon, and although chilly, the bright Wintry sun helped decide my venue. I decided to try and photograph the incoming Harriers, that roost on the Stodmarsh reserve. I made my way to the Marsh hide, between Stodmarsh and Grove ferry, which with the slippery conditions due to yesterday’s rain, was a feat in itself. Stopping to try and photograph a Jay, which was unsuccessful, but with better results from a flock of Long-tailed tits, I eventually arrived at the Marsh hide, to find that half of Thanet had the same idea as me. Dylan Wrathall, along with Gadget, and Mick Schroepfer were hogging the hide windows, with their new Christmas presents polished and ready for action. Respectability was represented in the shape of Sue Morton, and together we waited for the expected arrival of the Harriers. There was a Little Egret on the pool in front of the hide, with several Water Pipits, and 21 were counted, as a passing Sparrow-hawk put them into the air. A Grey Heron was seen flying over, and several Fieldfares were working there way along the tree line to the back of the pool. The 1st Harrier arriving was a Ring-tailed Hen Harrier, and enticed by Dylan’s calling, was near enough for some record shots, although the light was fast diminishing. Several Marsh Harriers were seen, with at least 2 Hen Harriers, but as the light left us, my attention turned from the Harriers to the Wild Horses grazing on the meadows, which I found due to their inactiveness, was a far easier photograph to take. A great 2 hours of sociable banter, which is my excuse for the lack of photo’s I took, but there is always next week.