Hindhede 12-14Jan08

From Danny

Short update for Hindhede, a single OH Thrush and a family of 4 RL Crakes are back at the usual haunts as per last year - still a little shy, maybe 2 weeks more before they just hop in front of you.

The Laced WP and other local birds are showing signs of courtship and nest building - breeding season akan datang.

Laced Woodpecker making a nest, but dunno if it's a keeper or if he will abandon it ©Con Foley

From GC

Date: 13 Jan 08
Time 1000-1100
Weather: Cloudy

Arrived at Hindhede to the sound of a large group of people having team building activities. Looked around and located the beautiful OHT (which betrayed its presence with its singing) on the ground. Moving about on the ground, it sang for about 10 minutes, foraged a bit, sang a bit more, then settled to preen. It flew 3 or 4 times, some of which were to avoid foraging squirrels/treeshrews. Its flight is swift and direct. During 1 flight, it flew onto a branch at eye level. and preened itself a bit. Even when the big group of people moved near, the OHT doesn't seem too concerned.

Date: 14 Jan 08
Time: 1600-1700
Weather: Partly cloudy, then sunny

Quiet today, very few people. OHT did not sing today. Foraging on the ground, it 'poped' across the openings in the vegetation every now and then allowing for unblocked views. As I thought about its behaviour, the day before and today, I get this feeling that as it foraged nonchalantly, it was also curious and was observing me as much as I was observing it!