Monday, 31 December 2018
Sunday, 30 December 2018
NEW APPROACH TO RAPTOR PERSECUTION
Time for a new approach to tackling RAPTOR PERSECUTION in England & Wales
We can expect significant changes in the way raptor persecution is tackled in England & Wales, if Police Supt Nick Lyall has his way.
Nick is the new Chair of the Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group (RPPDG), which is tasked with the ‘delivery’ of action against the raptor killers (in Scotland the ‘delivery’ group is the PAW Raptor Group).
The RPPDG was established in 2011, a so-called ‘partnership’ between the police, representatives from the game-shooting industry (e.g. National Gamekeepers Organisation, Moorland Association, BASC, Countryside Alliance etc), and representatives from the raptor conservation community (RSPB, Northern England Raptor Forum), along with some government agency reps from Natural England, DEFRA, Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and the Welsh Government.
It would be fair to say we’ve been highly critical of the RPPDG over the years, and justifiably so. This is a partnership in name only, which has been useful for certain organisations and DEFRA Ministers to hide behind on the pretence of tackling illegal raptor persecution but the stark reality is that the RPPDG has contributed absolutely nothing of value towards the conservation of UK raptors in all the years it’s been operating.
It did manage to produce some raptor persecution maps last year but these were shockingly inadequate and two of the RPPDG members were quick to distance themselves from the results (NERF here; RSPB here).
The RPPDG has been secretive, unaccountable and has suffered from a chronic lack of leadership, as evidenced just two days ago when we blogged about how the group had deliberately produced apparently inaccurate and contested minutes relating to the Moorland Association’s interest in obtaining licences to kill Marsh harriers to stop these birds ‘disrupting’ shoot days where hundreds of thousands of red grouse are shot for entertainment.
The raptor conservation community has lost all faith in the ability of the RPPDG to deliver anything except platitudes and a heavy blanket of cover for the criminal raptor killers, but from what we heard today, we’re cautiously optimistic for change.
Not cautious about Nick and his drive, ambition and determination – these qualities have been clear to see since he took on this role in September – but understandably cautious because we’re all too familiar with the influence and power of the game-shooting industry and the lengths that industry will go to maintain the status quo.
Nick is keen to hit the ground running in advance of the first RPPDG meeting he’ll chair in January so today he hosted two workshops at DEFRA’s London offices to brainstorm ideas for his planned Tactical Delivery Plan, a horribly jargonistic name but an important document to frame the work of the RPPDG in the coming years.
[An unusually open door at DEFRA]
Sensibly, he split the workshops in to two groups – the conservationists and enforcers in the morning and the shooting industry reps in the afternoon. He did this to encourage open dialogue that wouldn’t get mired in the usual arguments. We attended the morning workshop along with a number of other organisations who haven’t previously had any formal dealings with the RPPDG and there was good representation from groups such as the North Pennines AONB, Birders Against Wildlife Crime, National Trust and a couple of Wildlife Trusts, as well as the usual representatives from NERF, RSPB, Yorkshire Dales National Park, North Yorkshire Police Rural Task Force, Welsh Government, DEFRA and the National Wildlife Crime Unit.
There was no shortage of ideas for Nick to consider for his Tactical Plan – some well rehearsed but plenty of innovation, too. He told us he would be considering these ideas, coupled with any he received from the afternoon workshop, and intended to start drafting the plan on the train home!
We don’t intend to comment on the details until his plan is published (and he said it would be available in the public domain) but the word ‘accountability’ was heard a lot in reference to ALL members of the RPPDG having to contribute towards the RPPDG’s aims of tackling illegal raptor persecution as a non-negotiable requirement of retaining their place at the table. It was acknowledged and accepted that the RPPDG could not continue as it has.
We’re prepared to give Nick Lyall a chance. We think he ‘get’s it’, and he certainly doesn’t underestimate the difficulty of the challenge ahead, but he’s willing to give it his best shot. We also heard some pretty determined words today from Chief Inspector Lou Hubble, the new head of the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU) who is working closely with Nick and is making her own mark in the world of wildlife crime, again in sharp contrast to some of her predecessors. There is definitely cause for (cautious) optimism but time will tell.
As we left the DEFRA offices we were met with a squadron of police vans and officers. Nothing to do with the arrival of the game-shooting industry reps though – it seems campaigners from the Extinction Rebellion (@ExtinctionR) had targeted the DEFRA building with some (easy-to-wash-off) graffitti as part of their build up to a day of civil disobedience on Saturday.
Advertisements
We can expect significant changes in the way raptor persecution is tackled in England & Wales, if Police Supt Nick Lyall has his way.
Nick is the new Chair of the Raptor Persecution Priority Delivery Group (RPPDG), which is tasked with the ‘delivery’ of action against the raptor killers (in Scotland the ‘delivery’ group is the PAW Raptor Group).
The RPPDG was established in 2011, a so-called ‘partnership’ between the police, representatives from the game-shooting industry (e.g. National Gamekeepers Organisation, Moorland Association, BASC, Countryside Alliance etc), and representatives from the raptor conservation community (RSPB, Northern England Raptor Forum), along with some government agency reps from Natural England, DEFRA, Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority and the Welsh Government.
It would be fair to say we’ve been highly critical of the RPPDG over the years, and justifiably so. This is a partnership in name only, which has been useful for certain organisations and DEFRA Ministers to hide behind on the pretence of tackling illegal raptor persecution but the stark reality is that the RPPDG has contributed absolutely nothing of value towards the conservation of UK raptors in all the years it’s been operating.
It did manage to produce some raptor persecution maps last year but these were shockingly inadequate and two of the RPPDG members were quick to distance themselves from the results (NERF here; RSPB here).
The RPPDG has been secretive, unaccountable and has suffered from a chronic lack of leadership, as evidenced just two days ago when we blogged about how the group had deliberately produced apparently inaccurate and contested minutes relating to the Moorland Association’s interest in obtaining licences to kill Marsh harriers to stop these birds ‘disrupting’ shoot days where hundreds of thousands of red grouse are shot for entertainment.
The raptor conservation community has lost all faith in the ability of the RPPDG to deliver anything except platitudes and a heavy blanket of cover for the criminal raptor killers, but from what we heard today, we’re cautiously optimistic for change.
Not cautious about Nick and his drive, ambition and determination – these qualities have been clear to see since he took on this role in September – but understandably cautious because we’re all too familiar with the influence and power of the game-shooting industry and the lengths that industry will go to maintain the status quo.
Nick is keen to hit the ground running in advance of the first RPPDG meeting he’ll chair in January so today he hosted two workshops at DEFRA’s London offices to brainstorm ideas for his planned Tactical Delivery Plan, a horribly jargonistic name but an important document to frame the work of the RPPDG in the coming years.
[An unusually open door at DEFRA]
Sensibly, he split the workshops in to two groups – the conservationists and enforcers in the morning and the shooting industry reps in the afternoon. He did this to encourage open dialogue that wouldn’t get mired in the usual arguments. We attended the morning workshop along with a number of other organisations who haven’t previously had any formal dealings with the RPPDG and there was good representation from groups such as the North Pennines AONB, Birders Against Wildlife Crime, National Trust and a couple of Wildlife Trusts, as well as the usual representatives from NERF, RSPB, Yorkshire Dales National Park, North Yorkshire Police Rural Task Force, Welsh Government, DEFRA and the National Wildlife Crime Unit.
There was no shortage of ideas for Nick to consider for his Tactical Plan – some well rehearsed but plenty of innovation, too. He told us he would be considering these ideas, coupled with any he received from the afternoon workshop, and intended to start drafting the plan on the train home!
We don’t intend to comment on the details until his plan is published (and he said it would be available in the public domain) but the word ‘accountability’ was heard a lot in reference to ALL members of the RPPDG having to contribute towards the RPPDG’s aims of tackling illegal raptor persecution as a non-negotiable requirement of retaining their place at the table. It was acknowledged and accepted that the RPPDG could not continue as it has.
We’re prepared to give Nick Lyall a chance. We think he ‘get’s it’, and he certainly doesn’t underestimate the difficulty of the challenge ahead, but he’s willing to give it his best shot. We also heard some pretty determined words today from Chief Inspector Lou Hubble, the new head of the National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU) who is working closely with Nick and is making her own mark in the world of wildlife crime, again in sharp contrast to some of her predecessors. There is definitely cause for (cautious) optimism but time will tell.
As we left the DEFRA offices we were met with a squadron of police vans and officers. Nothing to do with the arrival of the game-shooting industry reps though – it seems campaigners from the Extinction Rebellion (@ExtinctionR) had targeted the DEFRA building with some (easy-to-wash-off) graffitti as part of their build up to a day of civil disobedience on Saturday.
Advertisements
BOOK REVIEW WHOSE BODY? BY DOROTHY L SAYER
BOOK REVIEW FOR THE YEAR END
I have been reading Crime novels all year and also paying attention to all the killing of our wildlife and so reading a book of this kind takes my mind away from the bad things; from the bad people out there!
It refreshed me to read a crime story written in 1920’s. In fact I loved it and it was interesting too. Dorothy L Sayers created the affected, even whimsical character, of Lord Peter Wimsey who is a frustrated detective. However, he is well connected and has social and some political clout, and his power has even infiltrated the dusty corridors of the ‘old’, but then new, New Scotland Yard. Peter Parker his is mole and a very active detective operating from an office close to the iconic river side turreted gates.
Whose Body?, with an introduction by Laura Wilson, is the one with the body in a location that was unusual. The race was on between the unrespected Detective Inspector Suggs, and our Lord and his official Scotland Yard aide.
There is lots in the story to admire and it is woven around the things that were going in the 1920’s and with reference to medical research and dissecting students. And, of course, there is the aristocracy allowing into their ‘caste’ new money. Oh dear! The prejudice of it all.
Then there is the conclusion and who did it and why. That's the important bit for me together with the detail. It was absorbing.
Dorothy L Sayers is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers of The Golden Age of British crime fiction. It is good to read a story other than, and with no disrespect to modern authors, one who was of that Golden Age. And there are eleven books in all and my next one is Clouds Witness.
I have been reading Crime novels all year and also paying attention to all the killing of our wildlife and so reading a book of this kind takes my mind away from the bad things; from the bad people out there!
It refreshed me to read a crime story written in 1920’s. In fact I loved it and it was interesting too. Dorothy L Sayers created the affected, even whimsical character, of Lord Peter Wimsey who is a frustrated detective. However, he is well connected and has social and some political clout, and his power has even infiltrated the dusty corridors of the ‘old’, but then new, New Scotland Yard. Peter Parker his is mole and a very active detective operating from an office close to the iconic river side turreted gates.
Whose Body?, with an introduction by Laura Wilson, is the one with the body in a location that was unusual. The race was on between the unrespected Detective Inspector Suggs, and our Lord and his official Scotland Yard aide.
There is lots in the story to admire and it is woven around the things that were going in the 1920’s and with reference to medical research and dissecting students. And, of course, there is the aristocracy allowing into their ‘caste’ new money. Oh dear! The prejudice of it all.
Then there is the conclusion and who did it and why. That's the important bit for me together with the detail. It was absorbing.
Dorothy L Sayers is widely regarded as one of the greatest writers of The Golden Age of British crime fiction. It is good to read a story other than, and with no disrespect to modern authors, one who was of that Golden Age. And there are eleven books in all and my next one is Clouds Witness.
BBOK REVIEW. COCKSHUTT WOOD BY JOHN LEWIS-STEMPEL
John Lewis-Stempel is the twice winner of the Wainwright Prize for Nature Writing and my interest was increased by the wood. Cockshutt Wood is situated in the south-west of Herefordshire which is the county of my birth. It is a daily account of how he managed the wood from December to December. It is a particular wood, but one which can stand as an exemplar for all the small woods in England. It is only has three and half acres of both deciduous and coniferous trees, and the only standing water is a small pond.
Our countryside is ‘managed’ and that is why we can see the patchwork quilt effect when we view our farmland. It has been changed to an amazing degree from the days of the ‘forest’ and less regard is placed on natural habitats. And this wood has been managed too, for the benefit of the owners and populace. But back to this book as there are so many issues that are environmental.
It is a story that is the opposite of the one contained in Isabel Tree’s book, Rewilding because this one has been controlled and still is. The writer’s view is that when he managed it, he was free to avail myself of its resources. He carried a shot gun and used it. A cock pheasant for dinner and a Grey Squirrels dray blasted because the occupiers are capable of taking nestlings. That's the way in the ‘wild’. I can see the logic, but do we have the right to interfere like that.
Yes, I am being critical and there are answers out there that we have yet to provide. I loved his descriptions of the inhabitants and his love for it showed through many times. I learned from it and to what we can garner from the fruits, the leaves and also from the fungi. It made me want to live in a wood similar to that and make it part of me; part of my life. The sounds, the smells and the bird and the animal life would be terrific to be that close to my existence.
I started to read it when I acquired it in July and so I am reading it as the current weeks go by. The author is a skillful writer and his lines are poetic.
Thank you John Lewis-Stempel for The Wood: The Life and Times of Cockshutt Wood.
Our countryside is ‘managed’ and that is why we can see the patchwork quilt effect when we view our farmland. It has been changed to an amazing degree from the days of the ‘forest’ and less regard is placed on natural habitats. And this wood has been managed too, for the benefit of the owners and populace. But back to this book as there are so many issues that are environmental.
It is a story that is the opposite of the one contained in Isabel Tree’s book, Rewilding because this one has been controlled and still is. The writer’s view is that when he managed it, he was free to avail myself of its resources. He carried a shot gun and used it. A cock pheasant for dinner and a Grey Squirrels dray blasted because the occupiers are capable of taking nestlings. That's the way in the ‘wild’. I can see the logic, but do we have the right to interfere like that.
Yes, I am being critical and there are answers out there that we have yet to provide. I loved his descriptions of the inhabitants and his love for it showed through many times. I learned from it and to what we can garner from the fruits, the leaves and also from the fungi. It made me want to live in a wood similar to that and make it part of me; part of my life. The sounds, the smells and the bird and the animal life would be terrific to be that close to my existence.
I started to read it when I acquired it in July and so I am reading it as the current weeks go by. The author is a skillful writer and his lines are poetic.
Thank you John Lewis-Stempel for The Wood: The Life and Times of Cockshutt Wood.
ON THE SAME WAY BUT DIFFERENT TO STOP THE KILLING
An urgent appeal from author and presenter Simon Reeve | View in browser
Dear John,
Our seas are being poisoned by plastic and we urgently need to #STOPthePlasticTide. I’m supporting the work of the Marine Conservation Society – please will you join me?
A few years ago, I saw the colossal plastic problem first-hand when I visited a remote island in Hawaii. The beach was covered in plastic rubbish and when we dug into the sand there was just more and more of it.
Donate now
This is an environmental emergency and it’s a direct result of our throwaway society.
90% of seabirds, 56% of whales and dolphins, and 50% of turtles have been found to have plastic in their stomachs. Perhaps most frightening of all, because it’s right on our doorstep, 33% of fish caught in the UK have been found to contain plastic. It’s enough to make your stomach turn.
Our oceans are vast and it’s sometimes hard to see how we, as individuals, can make a difference.
By helping the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) use its evidence and expertise to change the UK’s mindset on plastic – you can be part of the solution.
As an Ocean Ambassador for MCS, I know how they have been leading the way in making single–use plastic a thing of the past. But they need your help to get there.
The 5p carrier bag charge, a ban on microbeads in personal care products and legislation promising reverse vending machines for drinks cans and bottles have all been pushed for and carried forward by the charity.
Donate now
A donation of just £30 will help MCS continue this vital work.
Please help MCS #STOPthePlasticTide by making a donation today.
Thank you so very much,
Simon Reeve
Author, TV presenter
Marine Conservation Society Ocean Ambassador
The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is the UK charity dedicated to protecting our seas, shores and wildlife.
Marine Conservation Society | Company Limited by Guarantee (England and Wales) No. 2550966
Registered Charity No. England and Wales No. 1004005 |
Scotland No. SC037480
VAT No. 489 1505 17
Registered Office:
Overross House, Ross Park, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 7US.
Scottish Office:
Suite 7, CBC House, 24 Canning Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8EG.
Unsubscribe
Dear John,
Our seas are being poisoned by plastic and we urgently need to #STOPthePlasticTide. I’m supporting the work of the Marine Conservation Society – please will you join me?
A few years ago, I saw the colossal plastic problem first-hand when I visited a remote island in Hawaii. The beach was covered in plastic rubbish and when we dug into the sand there was just more and more of it.
Donate now
This is an environmental emergency and it’s a direct result of our throwaway society.
90% of seabirds, 56% of whales and dolphins, and 50% of turtles have been found to have plastic in their stomachs. Perhaps most frightening of all, because it’s right on our doorstep, 33% of fish caught in the UK have been found to contain plastic. It’s enough to make your stomach turn.
Our oceans are vast and it’s sometimes hard to see how we, as individuals, can make a difference.
By helping the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) use its evidence and expertise to change the UK’s mindset on plastic – you can be part of the solution.
As an Ocean Ambassador for MCS, I know how they have been leading the way in making single–use plastic a thing of the past. But they need your help to get there.
The 5p carrier bag charge, a ban on microbeads in personal care products and legislation promising reverse vending machines for drinks cans and bottles have all been pushed for and carried forward by the charity.
Donate now
A donation of just £30 will help MCS continue this vital work.
Please help MCS #STOPthePlasticTide by making a donation today.
Thank you so very much,
Simon Reeve
Author, TV presenter
Marine Conservation Society Ocean Ambassador
The Marine Conservation Society (MCS) is the UK charity dedicated to protecting our seas, shores and wildlife.
Marine Conservation Society | Company Limited by Guarantee (England and Wales) No. 2550966
Registered Charity No. England and Wales No. 1004005 |
Scotland No. SC037480
VAT No. 489 1505 17
Registered Office:
Overross House, Ross Park, Ross-on-Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 7US.
Scottish Office:
Suite 7, CBC House, 24 Canning Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8EG.
Unsubscribe
LEAGUE AGAINST CRUEL SPORTS - BAN THE HUNTING
NINETY SIX PERCENT OF PEOPLE HAVE MOT BEEN HUNTING
96% of rural people have never been hunting
Are you surprised? No, neither are we!
Dear John,
People living in the countryside have overwhelmingly rejected the idea that hunting with dogs reflects their values and spend far more time watching wildlife rather than killing it, new polling figures released today reveal.
Polling carried out by Survation and commissioned by the League Against Cruel Sports found that over nine out of ten (91%) rural residents think that observing nature reflects countryside values, while only one in six (16%) believe hunting with dogs reflects countryside values.
It found that very few people living in the countryside took part in the hunting of foxes, deer and hare with packs of hounds. The polling found that other countryside activities were far more popular:
• 63% who observe wildlife at least once a month
• 59% who take part in walking or hiking at least once a month
• 52% who visit pubs at least once a month
• 39% who participate in running, cycling or horse riding at least once a month
• only 4% said they ever participate in hunting
This year over 113,000 of you signed our petition calling to ‘Stop the Killing of Animals by Hunts’, which was handed in to No. 10 Downing Street by CEO Andy Knott and our president Bill Oddie last week. We couldn’t have done it without you. If you haven’t yet signed, the petition is still open.
The ‘traditional’ Boxing Day meets of the hunts gloss over the otherwise murky world of animal cruelty in which packs of hounds still literally tear apart their quarry of British wildlife – but the tide is turning and the hunts themselves are now an increasingly isolated and out of touch minority within the countryside.
Hunting is claimed by a minority to be a cornerstone of country life, yet it is revealing that people living in the countryside get far more enjoyment from watching wildlife rather than killing it.
Modern day countryside values are based around respect for nature, not the abuse of nature for entertainment. This polling confirms that we are a nation of animal lovers and that hunting needs to be consigned to history.
And with your help, together we are doing just that.
CHRIS PACKHAM IS AWARDED
MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS to Chris Packham who has been appointed CBE in the New Year’s Honours for services to nature conservation.
The irony of this recognition from ‘The Establishment’ won’t be lost on him, but neither will the opportunities it will provide for him to expand his outstanding campaigning efforts against illegal raptor persecution, fox hunting and badger killing. Perhaps he’ll wear his ‘Never mind the bollocks – where’s the hen harriers?’ t-shirt when he rocks up at the Palace for his investiture.
On hearing the news, Chris said:
The irony of this recognition from ‘The Establishment’ won’t be lost on him, but neither will the opportunities it will provide for him to expand his outstanding campaigning efforts against illegal raptor persecution, fox hunting and badger killing. Perhaps he’ll wear his ‘Never mind the bollocks – where’s the hen harriers?’ t-shirt when he rocks up at the Palace for his investiture.
On hearing the news, Chris said:
Thursday, 20 December 2018
SANTA ÁGUEDA AND RAPTORS
On Thursday 20th December I returned to Santa Águeda to see if the flooded field of Monday still contained water. It did not and it was devoid of birds. It would have been nice to see the Water Pipits again. We carried on and our luck changed. From the nearest hide we watched a total of five Marsh Harriers fly around. A Kestrel hovered in the distance and pale morph Booted Eagle flew over. From a tree emerged a (Greater) Spotted Eagle that then flew into the tree by the pylon where we continued to have good views of it. The scope also picked up a flying male Hen Harrier that I had seen about ten minutes previously. Two great birds within minutes of each other.
In and around the muddy puddles White Wagtails fed competing with Blue Throat. The Temminck's Stint emerged to fly away. A Robin was in a nearby bush and a male Stonechat perched.
Beware of the hide as some of the wood is rotten and some pieces are now missing. However the steps appear to be safe.
In and around the muddy puddles White Wagtails fed competing with Blue Throat. The Temminck's Stint emerged to fly away. A Robin was in a nearby bush and a male Stonechat perched.
Beware of the hide as some of the wood is rotten and some pieces are now missing. However the steps appear to be safe.
ANOTHER BEAUTIFUL BIRD DEAD
FROM RAREBIRDALERT UK
Guess the 40+ million non-native Pheasants released each year just isn't enough for those who like to kill to get their kicks, they have to kill an Amber listed species which declined 87% in 25 years! PATHETIC
‘Wonderful’ picture of a gun dog with a Snipe in its mouth. Shot and dead. As reported in the Shooting Times. PATHETIC could sum it up, but I prefer CRIMINAL
Guess the 40+ million non-native Pheasants released each year just isn't enough for those who like to kill to get their kicks, they have to kill an Amber listed species which declined 87% in 25 years! PATHETIC
‘Wonderful’ picture of a gun dog with a Snipe in its mouth. Shot and dead. As reported in the Shooting Times. PATHETIC could sum it up, but I prefer CRIMINAL
Wednesday, 19 December 2018
LITANY OF WILDLIFE ABUSE
I AM SWAMPED WITH INFORMATION AND DEATH THANKS TO THE RAPTOR PERSECUTION SITE
DECEMBER
4th A Hobby killed
4th Private Eye carried an article on ‘The Angry Brigade’ and White Tailed Eagles
4th A Buzzard found poisoned in south of Scotland
7th Peak District National Park Short Eared Owl shot
11th. Report of mass slaughter of Ravens in Scotland
11th A report of inertia by representatives of the Grouse Shooting Industry regarding illegal persecution of raptors. Two Short Eared and a Tawny Owl.
12th Nature England and RSPB involved in litigation over ‘brood meddling’ with Hen Harriers
13th RSPB report of ongoing slaughter of raptors on Scottish Grouse Moors.
18th Buzzard shot in Northampton.
IS IT BECAUSE PEOPLE LIKE TO KILL?
DECEMBER
4th A Hobby killed
4th Private Eye carried an article on ‘The Angry Brigade’ and White Tailed Eagles
4th A Buzzard found poisoned in south of Scotland
7th Peak District National Park Short Eared Owl shot
11th. Report of mass slaughter of Ravens in Scotland
11th A report of inertia by representatives of the Grouse Shooting Industry regarding illegal persecution of raptors. Two Short Eared and a Tawny Owl.
12th Nature England and RSPB involved in litigation over ‘brood meddling’ with Hen Harriers
13th RSPB report of ongoing slaughter of raptors on Scottish Grouse Moors.
18th Buzzard shot in Northampton.
IS IT BECAUSE PEOPLE LIKE TO KILL?
PMQS AND 'THAT BLOODY WOMAN'
PMQS AND THAT ‘BLOODY WOMAN’
Now a change of subject. It is Wednesday and I deliberately missed PMQs. I am tired of the tribal rhetoric and the toing and froing re Brexit. It is going forward (somewhere) and seemingly more backward every day. It is so bloody tribal in that chamber.
But today the media are on Jeremy’s case regarding what he mouthed after the PM sat down. It has been denied and that he is supposed to have mouthed ‘silly people’ and if that is the case then my lips work in a different way to his. It looked to me like ‘silly woman’ and if everyone thinks that he did say that and a spokesman has denied it then this could run and run for days. It s on the media channels and if he denies it he can easily be viewed as a liar.
I am watching Sky News and most of the people asked to comment have been female. That's fine specifically where two of them have also been called, possibly as an aside, a stupid women and one those was the Speaker. In fairness to Sky the female presenter did ask what would the comments be if someone was called a ‘stupid man’? I wonder if the words ‘stupid man’ was muttered would that person be chastised for it.
There were strong words from others in the chamber and one member uttered the word ‘ ‘Misoginyst’. Mr Speaker will not come out of this well because he wanted to deal with it quickly and then Margaret Becket accused him presiding over a riot. And he has used those words - stupid woman - himself. I quote, of course.
Now what is the most important point in all of this. Well, for me, honesty matters, but for some there is an issue over being honest. Also would it not be good for the media say what they think was said. It didn't happen. Perhaps it is not there job.
And, more importantly, the issue of running the country should be seen as more important.
Now a change of subject. It is Wednesday and I deliberately missed PMQs. I am tired of the tribal rhetoric and the toing and froing re Brexit. It is going forward (somewhere) and seemingly more backward every day. It is so bloody tribal in that chamber.
But today the media are on Jeremy’s case regarding what he mouthed after the PM sat down. It has been denied and that he is supposed to have mouthed ‘silly people’ and if that is the case then my lips work in a different way to his. It looked to me like ‘silly woman’ and if everyone thinks that he did say that and a spokesman has denied it then this could run and run for days. It s on the media channels and if he denies it he can easily be viewed as a liar.
I am watching Sky News and most of the people asked to comment have been female. That's fine specifically where two of them have also been called, possibly as an aside, a stupid women and one those was the Speaker. In fairness to Sky the female presenter did ask what would the comments be if someone was called a ‘stupid man’? I wonder if the words ‘stupid man’ was muttered would that person be chastised for it.
There were strong words from others in the chamber and one member uttered the word ‘ ‘Misoginyst’. Mr Speaker will not come out of this well because he wanted to deal with it quickly and then Margaret Becket accused him presiding over a riot. And he has used those words - stupid woman - himself. I quote, of course.
Now what is the most important point in all of this. Well, for me, honesty matters, but for some there is an issue over being honest. Also would it not be good for the media say what they think was said. It didn't happen. Perhaps it is not there job.
And, more importantly, the issue of running the country should be seen as more important.
FOX HUNTING AS A SPORT
BOXING DAY MASSACRE SHOULD BE HISTORY
I have clear memories of the hunt meeting in Ledbury with their redcoats, smart horses and the Fox Hounds being friendly and polite. It can be said that it is in the name of tradition or another view could be that it is propaganda. It brings people out on Boxing Day Morning and it is a ‘spectacle’. And the purpose is for only one thing. And it is not pleasant or necessary.
The ‘spectacle’ is the nice bit and all jolly and festive. I have nothing against the hounds or the horses and the question I ask what really is the purpose of killing foxes? Farmers have always considered them a pest and, as such, should be dealt with as vermin and the countryside verse always gave the fox a bad name. Killing for fun as it slaughtered a chicken roost, it has been said.
But shouldn't we move on. Chasing over the fields with the hounds and riders only intent on one thing - to kill a wild animal. That's not sport.
Please read the following:
This appeal came to me from The League Against Cruel Sports.
A Boxing Day massacre is fast approaching...
JOHN, WILDLIFE NEEDS YOUR HELP TODAY.
As you read this email, the hunting season is well underway. Active fox, hare and deer hunts are terrorising wildlife across the length and breadth of our country.
What’s more, the infamous Boxing Day hunts are just 15 days away. We desperately need your help today to help protect our wildlife.
This year, our Animal Crimewatch public reporting service has received the most calls, emails and online reports on our records.
To combat this, we’re working around the clock to monitor wildlife crime, campaign for stronger animal welfare laws, and safeguard wildlife on our sanctuaries.
But all this vital work can only continue thanks to the support of caring individuals like you.
My view is it is time for a change ‘our’ wildlife needs protecting and I could say much more, but this is the end of this blog.
A SMALL FLOODED FIELD AND A MUDDY CORNER MADE OUR DAY EVEN BETTER
On Monday 17th December I travelled to Gran Alacant with the temperature around 12 degrees. Bryan and I decided to stay local and visit our usual places and our first stop was in the Salinas opposite the turning for Playa Lisa. The water level on the non-saline side was high and there was nothing of note on it. On the Salinas side there were the usual collection of Gulls with two Lesser Black Backed amongst them.
At the Salt Tower a Spoonbill flew towards us, and around, before settling behind the nearest bank. In the far distance there were a gathering of about 35 with a smaller group of four easily visible. A Redshank called and flew over and two Turnstones flew up. Flamingos had good numbers. The pools opposite the lay-by did contain water, but no birds. A winter plumage Black Headed Gull perched close by. (You can see for yourself in the photo)
At the next pull-in we could easily see the Spoonbills. Little Egrets were numerous and we saw four Great Egrets and over the reeds two Marsh Harriers hunted. A pair of Stonechats were obvious. We carried on to El Pinet and it was disappointing. Against the far bank were a good number of Black Tailed Godwits. We quickly went to the beach in search of wintering seabirds, but all that we saw were Auduoin’s Gulls and Meadow Pipits searched and flew around in the dunes. An Iberian Green Woodpecker called from the pines. A Robin flew across the road.
Auduoin´s Gull
Next we visited the mouth of the Rio Segura. Dartford Warblers called and flew. There were rafts of Gulls with both Black Headed and Mediterranean in very good numbers. Slender Bills were further up the river. Disappointing in some respects with no Kingfishers and nothing more except a lone Jay flew into the pines.
Apart from the flying Spoonbill which was a very good sighting our morning, so far, was not exceptional.
We now headed in the general direction of Santa Águeda and on the way we had a flying male Marsh Harrier and our first Booted Eagle of the day. We counted five Common Kestrels in various locations. There were plenty of small birds around and then we got lucky.
We came upon a flooded field that resembled a lagoon. 75 Glossy Ibis and 50 Cattle Egrets fed.
The photos say it all with a leg ring obvious and readable and what about the colours? This was a great sight and flying in and around were numerous White Wagtails and raucous Jackdaws called from the side. Bryan really got busy here as the Ibis fed close to us and so did several Black Winged Stilts.
Glossy Ibis
Black Winged Stilt
In the corner of the field small birds hopped about and flew in and out of cover. We had to be patient and it was not until our return on passing this field that we had outstanding views of three Water Pipits. And then the camera was busy again.
Water Pipit
A female Black Redstart perched in front of the car. They are beautiful birds. And I can add Chaffinches and Greenfinches to our sightings. And then just one Grey Wagtail flew into a tree and away.
There is now water at Santa Águeda with the scrubby area having pools in it too. We paid attention and there close by was a solitary Temminck’s Stint sharing the mud with a Blue Throat with others of it’s kind flying in an out of the bushes. There is no photo of either of these as Bryan did not have the long lens.
A lone birder drove in, saw us and drove out. I thought there was camaraderie amongst people with the same interests! That’s a pity.
We will never be satisfied, but our opinion of 2018 was that we had some tremendous days and birds seen. And some firsts! We both have several independent trips planned, but together we will be doing more of the same next year. And we will research more and formulate our ideas.
It is so good to be able to share an interest (or even an obsession!) like wildlife.
Today the sun shone from a clear sky and there was only a light wind and hopefully we will get many more of them in 2019. A great morning out. It's so liberating.
At the Salt Tower a Spoonbill flew towards us, and around, before settling behind the nearest bank. In the far distance there were a gathering of about 35 with a smaller group of four easily visible. A Redshank called and flew over and two Turnstones flew up. Flamingos had good numbers. The pools opposite the lay-by did contain water, but no birds. A winter plumage Black Headed Gull perched close by. (You can see for yourself in the photo)
At the next pull-in we could easily see the Spoonbills. Little Egrets were numerous and we saw four Great Egrets and over the reeds two Marsh Harriers hunted. A pair of Stonechats were obvious. We carried on to El Pinet and it was disappointing. Against the far bank were a good number of Black Tailed Godwits. We quickly went to the beach in search of wintering seabirds, but all that we saw were Auduoin’s Gulls and Meadow Pipits searched and flew around in the dunes. An Iberian Green Woodpecker called from the pines. A Robin flew across the road.
Auduoin´s GullNext we visited the mouth of the Rio Segura. Dartford Warblers called and flew. There were rafts of Gulls with both Black Headed and Mediterranean in very good numbers. Slender Bills were further up the river. Disappointing in some respects with no Kingfishers and nothing more except a lone Jay flew into the pines.
Apart from the flying Spoonbill which was a very good sighting our morning, so far, was not exceptional.
We now headed in the general direction of Santa Águeda and on the way we had a flying male Marsh Harrier and our first Booted Eagle of the day. We counted five Common Kestrels in various locations. There were plenty of small birds around and then we got lucky.
We came upon a flooded field that resembled a lagoon. 75 Glossy Ibis and 50 Cattle Egrets fed.
The photos say it all with a leg ring obvious and readable and what about the colours? This was a great sight and flying in and around were numerous White Wagtails and raucous Jackdaws called from the side. Bryan really got busy here as the Ibis fed close to us and so did several Black Winged Stilts.
Glossy Ibis
Black Winged StiltIn the corner of the field small birds hopped about and flew in and out of cover. We had to be patient and it was not until our return on passing this field that we had outstanding views of three Water Pipits. And then the camera was busy again.
Water PipitA female Black Redstart perched in front of the car. They are beautiful birds. And I can add Chaffinches and Greenfinches to our sightings. And then just one Grey Wagtail flew into a tree and away.
There is now water at Santa Águeda with the scrubby area having pools in it too. We paid attention and there close by was a solitary Temminck’s Stint sharing the mud with a Blue Throat with others of it’s kind flying in an out of the bushes. There is no photo of either of these as Bryan did not have the long lens.
A lone birder drove in, saw us and drove out. I thought there was camaraderie amongst people with the same interests! That’s a pity.
We will never be satisfied, but our opinion of 2018 was that we had some tremendous days and birds seen. And some firsts! We both have several independent trips planned, but together we will be doing more of the same next year. And we will research more and formulate our ideas.
It is so good to be able to share an interest (or even an obsession!) like wildlife.
Today the sun shone from a clear sky and there was only a light wind and hopefully we will get many more of them in 2019. A great morning out. It's so liberating.
Friday, 14 December 2018
THE FILM - ROBIN HOOD (but not as we know it)
ROBIN HOOD
Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, Men in Tights and all that hype. This is all about another film and the title is about as close as I can get, with hindsight, to the story. It definitely is an enhanced version!
I was not enthused until I found that the critics had not been kind and then I thought that I would decide for myself and we saw it.
Having got over the fact that Alan Rickman is no longer the Sheriff of Nottingham, and he has been replaced by a good substitute, I enjoyed it. It was fun and very different. Nottingham has been moved. It is no longer landlocked and it is a port! The architecture has changed and we have wooden structures being raced over by horses and wagons. Add to that some soldiers that seemed to have escaped from Star Wars. So much action with sword fights and a lot of leaping about.
It kept moving all the time and there is a serious side to it. For example, a new take on historic mines disputes with the working class being treated as definitely lower class oikes. They rebel, of course, because that what's they did in history and because they are subject to taxes that are forcibly ripped from them. The script writers ramped up the rhetoric even more and added religion into it - in name only of course. They had the audacity to introduce ambitious, scheming, controlling clergy high office as stake holders of the treasury. The scumbags - not Church of England - and there is more. What did they plan to do with all the wealth robbed from the poor?
The clue, maybe, is that this film is set around the time of the Crusades, but it is not that simple.
I enjoyed it, but I was outnumbered three to one. Perhaps I was the only one to hear the script clearly.
Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves, Men in Tights and all that hype. This is all about another film and the title is about as close as I can get, with hindsight, to the story. It definitely is an enhanced version!
I was not enthused until I found that the critics had not been kind and then I thought that I would decide for myself and we saw it.
Having got over the fact that Alan Rickman is no longer the Sheriff of Nottingham, and he has been replaced by a good substitute, I enjoyed it. It was fun and very different. Nottingham has been moved. It is no longer landlocked and it is a port! The architecture has changed and we have wooden structures being raced over by horses and wagons. Add to that some soldiers that seemed to have escaped from Star Wars. So much action with sword fights and a lot of leaping about.
It kept moving all the time and there is a serious side to it. For example, a new take on historic mines disputes with the working class being treated as definitely lower class oikes. They rebel, of course, because that what's they did in history and because they are subject to taxes that are forcibly ripped from them. The script writers ramped up the rhetoric even more and added religion into it - in name only of course. They had the audacity to introduce ambitious, scheming, controlling clergy high office as stake holders of the treasury. The scumbags - not Church of England - and there is more. What did they plan to do with all the wealth robbed from the poor?
The clue, maybe, is that this film is set around the time of the Crusades, but it is not that simple.
I enjoyed it, but I was outnumbered three to one. Perhaps I was the only one to hear the script clearly.
ALL THAT REMAINS BY PROFESSOR DAME SUE BLACK
BOOK REVIEW - PROFESSOR DAME SUE BLACK and ‘all that remains’.
I heard her speak when she was being interviewed at Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate by Val McDermid. Sometimes it is the book that draws the thoughts and a decision to read it, but in this instance it was the speaker and her subject, forensic anthropology. I discovered her words in ‘life after death’ are written in such a manner that the explanation around death becomes words that I wanted to absorb; to understand more and in a personal way come to terms with it.
There is much respect for the cadaver; once a person, now a subject for research and investigation and then it was the students to study along with their manuals. Never morbid and she addresses our much used terms for ‘the loss’ and calls death ‘she’ which I thought was a tad strange. Emphasis is carefully made for those who wish to donate their bodies and there is a designated person to deal, with understanding, for applicants.
There is one chapter, ‘death in the family’ when it becomes personal. There are lines in there that I feel should only be read in the quiet, and with reverence. They are ones that caused me to reflect when my paternal grandfather died. In those days people died in their own bed and it was a family matter and death was a fact of life. But that manner of dying at home is not necessarily the case to day.
In my view the first three chapters of this book should be in the school curriculum. That would have some leaping for the ‘no’ button!
She has investigated mass graves in extreme circumstances, dealt with the discovery of bodies and given evidence in British courts and all of that done with respect, consideration and professionalism. She is to be applauded.
A concept of using ‘rooms’ where having dealt with a victim she can move on by leaving that room, locking the door behind her and moving into a family room for example. And then insisting upon no discussion. I think that can work for me too. Section life up into parts and move onto the next one.
This is a serious read and an essential one. I took my time to absorb the content and shared my reading time with two novels, both crime of course! So just get out of your comfort zone (if you are in one) and read it. It was an absorbing book and I could have said a lot more.
Ian Rankin has posted on FB and Sue Black’s is one of his highlights for 2018. It must be a tribal thing!
I heard her speak when she was being interviewed at Theakston Old Peculier Crime Writing Festival in Harrogate by Val McDermid. Sometimes it is the book that draws the thoughts and a decision to read it, but in this instance it was the speaker and her subject, forensic anthropology. I discovered her words in ‘life after death’ are written in such a manner that the explanation around death becomes words that I wanted to absorb; to understand more and in a personal way come to terms with it.
There is much respect for the cadaver; once a person, now a subject for research and investigation and then it was the students to study along with their manuals. Never morbid and she addresses our much used terms for ‘the loss’ and calls death ‘she’ which I thought was a tad strange. Emphasis is carefully made for those who wish to donate their bodies and there is a designated person to deal, with understanding, for applicants.
There is one chapter, ‘death in the family’ when it becomes personal. There are lines in there that I feel should only be read in the quiet, and with reverence. They are ones that caused me to reflect when my paternal grandfather died. In those days people died in their own bed and it was a family matter and death was a fact of life. But that manner of dying at home is not necessarily the case to day.
In my view the first three chapters of this book should be in the school curriculum. That would have some leaping for the ‘no’ button!
She has investigated mass graves in extreme circumstances, dealt with the discovery of bodies and given evidence in British courts and all of that done with respect, consideration and professionalism. She is to be applauded.
A concept of using ‘rooms’ where having dealt with a victim she can move on by leaving that room, locking the door behind her and moving into a family room for example. And then insisting upon no discussion. I think that can work for me too. Section life up into parts and move onto the next one.
This is a serious read and an essential one. I took my time to absorb the content and shared my reading time with two novels, both crime of course! So just get out of your comfort zone (if you are in one) and read it. It was an absorbing book and I could have said a lot more.
Ian Rankin has posted on FB and Sue Black’s is one of his highlights for 2018. It must be a tribal thing!
Wednesday, 5 December 2018
WIDOWS - A SORT OF 'HEIST' FILM
Widows by Steve McQueen and co-scripted by Gillian Flynn of Gone Girl fame has had plenty of ‘hype’ via TV and other mediums. Linda La Plante’s 1980 UK TV series has been uprooted and plonked into Chicago and changed. It was advertised as an ‘heist’ by the widows of gangsters, but that part was overshadowed by many things. That included men being portrayed as the ‘baddies’ and the women as the ‘good guys’ and, of course, all in current vogue. And none of this is because the original idea was not good, but because of everything else that was thrown into the script. There were corrupt white politicians both young and old, male ‘machos abusing’ their partners, black gangsters hoping to get elected and never becoming respectable and, of course, a preacher too. So much with so many good things running through, but all messed up. It was slow even ponderous at times. If you just wanted action then watch this film. The same goes for death and destruction and all well done too. Some of the camera shots were great especially at the end with two of the heroine’s faces reflected in mirrors. I liked that.
Viola Davis played the lead and was incredibly well supported particularly by Cynthia Erivo. I enjoyed their acting strength in the way they took on their roles. Great to see.
Oh, I almost forgot Liam Neeson was in it too and he was kissing a black women in bed!Absolutely okay for me, but I wondered how many racists would have squirmed in their seats?
Yes, it had an ending, and even showed good over evil. So it can't be that bad, can it?
After Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri and Bohemian Rhapsody, Widows is low on my scale of applause.
Viola Davis played the lead and was incredibly well supported particularly by Cynthia Erivo. I enjoyed their acting strength in the way they took on their roles. Great to see.
Oh, I almost forgot Liam Neeson was in it too and he was kissing a black women in bed!Absolutely okay for me, but I wondered how many racists would have squirmed in their seats?
Yes, it had an ending, and even showed good over evil. So it can't be that bad, can it?
After Three Billboards Outside Ebbing Missouri and Bohemian Rhapsody, Widows is low on my scale of applause.
Wednesday, 21 November 2018
ROBERT GALBRAITH AND LETHAL WHITE
LETHAL WHITE BY ROBERT GALBRAITH
These are my thoughts on JK Rowling’s fourth book, Lethal White, in the Cormoran Strike series written under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith. Having finished it a word that comes very easily to mind is ‘complex’ and it is.
Okay, the story follows on from the first three book and my advice is to read them in order they were published in. I like the two main characters, Strike and Robin. I like the way that JK writes about them and you may have seen the TV vision of them and I think they nailed them bang on too.
The main characters are not perfect and their ‘foibles’ are exploited which makes them have sharp edges. I liked that. The other participants all have depth and bring so much more to this book. These characters and the locations she uses are what drives the weaving of her threads. It is most certainly about people and which thread will be the most interesting. A question I asked when I was only a quarter way through.
The locations should be familiar to many with Parliament, Lancaster House, Soho but maybe not so, some salubrious streets included in the text. I enjoyed knowing where the detectives actually were, but having no knowledge of London does not detract from the telling.
Corm’s stump and the prosthetic is a recurring problem for him as he tends to do as much with one good leg as most people would contemplate doing with two. It is frequently mentioned and although it is mildly irritating it fits with the man and his past. Of course, it is topical to.
Lethal White ís a tome and consequently it is long in the telling. In 647 pages there are descriptions of places and incidents and it still moves forward at a pace. It is not a book to casually pick up, to put it down for a while and carry on again. It is one helluva read.
It is wrapped up very neatly in the end, but attention is required as it is complex.
These are my thoughts on JK Rowling’s fourth book, Lethal White, in the Cormoran Strike series written under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith. Having finished it a word that comes very easily to mind is ‘complex’ and it is.
Okay, the story follows on from the first three book and my advice is to read them in order they were published in. I like the two main characters, Strike and Robin. I like the way that JK writes about them and you may have seen the TV vision of them and I think they nailed them bang on too.
The main characters are not perfect and their ‘foibles’ are exploited which makes them have sharp edges. I liked that. The other participants all have depth and bring so much more to this book. These characters and the locations she uses are what drives the weaving of her threads. It is most certainly about people and which thread will be the most interesting. A question I asked when I was only a quarter way through.
The locations should be familiar to many with Parliament, Lancaster House, Soho but maybe not so, some salubrious streets included in the text. I enjoyed knowing where the detectives actually were, but having no knowledge of London does not detract from the telling.
Corm’s stump and the prosthetic is a recurring problem for him as he tends to do as much with one good leg as most people would contemplate doing with two. It is frequently mentioned and although it is mildly irritating it fits with the man and his past. Of course, it is topical to.
Lethal White ís a tome and consequently it is long in the telling. In 647 pages there are descriptions of places and incidents and it still moves forward at a pace. It is not a book to casually pick up, to put it down for a while and carry on again. It is one helluva read.
It is wrapped up very neatly in the end, but attention is required as it is complex.
Tuesday, 20 November 2018
Higueruela, Corral Rubio & Bonete again
After heavy rain and high winds prior to Tuesday 20th we saw a gap in the weather to allow us to explore Higueruela, Bonete and Corral Rubio again. Temperature at the coast would only get as high as 17, but the forecast inland was a high of only 9 so it was going to be cool. We arrived just after 9am with a clear sky and sun which was to give way to cloud and a strengthening wind by mid afternoon.
We stopped at the service station prior to leaving A31 and here we viewed an adjacent field that revealed a flock of Corn Buntings. There were other birds mixed in, but difficult to identify. At the Higueruela turn off, we took a circuitous route along the caminos before ending up at the corner by the railway line. We had explored this area before and again we encountered flocks of finches and other small birds. We had a clear view of a perched Meadow Pipit. There, both species of Starlings, perched on the wires and flying. Common Buzzards were seen and we had a good view of a flying Sparrow Hawk and that was the second one of the day as we had passed one on route. Later in the afternoon we had a third bird that could have been a juvenile.
Our target birds for this area were both Great & Little Bustards and although we worked hard we were not successful. However, something good generally turns up, and this time it was a flying Peregrine that perched on a distant pylon. We paid attention to all the Larks that we saw and both Crested & Thekla’s were identified. There was a lot of activity in several locations and these included Sky Larks, both flying and settling on the ground. Calandra Larks were so numerous and we saw several flocks of them with good numbers. Somewhere along one of these rural roads a Water Pipit was seen. Here also we saw Buzzard again, Common Kestrel and Marsh Harrier.
We moved on and took the direct route back towards A31 and then on the bridge across the railway we scoped the water. Here there were numerous ducks that included two Ferruginous, Shovellers, Common Pochard and Mallard, but no waders. Over the reeds Buzzard and Marsh Harriers flew. Then a Golden Eagle flew into view, disappeared into a distant tree, but emerged again to be identified and showing clearly white plumage. We were able to watch it for several minutes. A Lesser Kestrel was also identified.
The wind had now picked up necessitating warm clothing and, again, Lagunas de Petrola was even more devoid of birds this time. There were no Flamingos, not one ubiquitous Black Winged Stilt and only a good number of Mallard and a flying Black Headed Gull. That's sad!
Leaving there we headed for open countryside with good vistas. We were still surprised by the lack of standing water and although there had been heavy rain the causeway into Corral Rubio was dry. Just before this we had great views of a young Sparrow Hawk.
We now headed for where we have seen Great Bustards and our diligence found a strung-out- group of about 30 birds. They are always good to see and we would have been disappointed if we had not found them.
The water on route to Montealegre del Castillo held some ducks and other water birds, but the variety was disappointing. The weather had now turned with a cold strong wind and rain. To our surprise six large birds were flying in the distance. Sadly not Bustards but they had to be geese - and possible Greylag and that seemed to be the best option. We will persevere with this location and we suspect that it could be very good when the weather turns warmer.
Bryan did not take one photograph and so none will be posted here and I have not listed all our sightings, but whatever is mentioned above we saw with some very good views. It was great to be out again.
We stopped at the service station prior to leaving A31 and here we viewed an adjacent field that revealed a flock of Corn Buntings. There were other birds mixed in, but difficult to identify. At the Higueruela turn off, we took a circuitous route along the caminos before ending up at the corner by the railway line. We had explored this area before and again we encountered flocks of finches and other small birds. We had a clear view of a perched Meadow Pipit. There, both species of Starlings, perched on the wires and flying. Common Buzzards were seen and we had a good view of a flying Sparrow Hawk and that was the second one of the day as we had passed one on route. Later in the afternoon we had a third bird that could have been a juvenile.
Our target birds for this area were both Great & Little Bustards and although we worked hard we were not successful. However, something good generally turns up, and this time it was a flying Peregrine that perched on a distant pylon. We paid attention to all the Larks that we saw and both Crested & Thekla’s were identified. There was a lot of activity in several locations and these included Sky Larks, both flying and settling on the ground. Calandra Larks were so numerous and we saw several flocks of them with good numbers. Somewhere along one of these rural roads a Water Pipit was seen. Here also we saw Buzzard again, Common Kestrel and Marsh Harrier.
We moved on and took the direct route back towards A31 and then on the bridge across the railway we scoped the water. Here there were numerous ducks that included two Ferruginous, Shovellers, Common Pochard and Mallard, but no waders. Over the reeds Buzzard and Marsh Harriers flew. Then a Golden Eagle flew into view, disappeared into a distant tree, but emerged again to be identified and showing clearly white plumage. We were able to watch it for several minutes. A Lesser Kestrel was also identified.
The wind had now picked up necessitating warm clothing and, again, Lagunas de Petrola was even more devoid of birds this time. There were no Flamingos, not one ubiquitous Black Winged Stilt and only a good number of Mallard and a flying Black Headed Gull. That's sad!
Leaving there we headed for open countryside with good vistas. We were still surprised by the lack of standing water and although there had been heavy rain the causeway into Corral Rubio was dry. Just before this we had great views of a young Sparrow Hawk.
We now headed for where we have seen Great Bustards and our diligence found a strung-out- group of about 30 birds. They are always good to see and we would have been disappointed if we had not found them.
The water on route to Montealegre del Castillo held some ducks and other water birds, but the variety was disappointing. The weather had now turned with a cold strong wind and rain. To our surprise six large birds were flying in the distance. Sadly not Bustards but they had to be geese - and possible Greylag and that seemed to be the best option. We will persevere with this location and we suspect that it could be very good when the weather turns warmer.
Bryan did not take one photograph and so none will be posted here and I have not listed all our sightings, but whatever is mentioned above we saw with some very good views. It was great to be out again.
Friday, 2 November 2018
CABO DE GATA - BIRD LIST
This is my first blog for November and the copied pages below are the list from Monday to Wednesday evening. It is Trev's list one of the 'Birding Costa Blanca Birding Buddies'
MONDAY 29th
TUESDAY 30TH
WEDNESDAY 31ST
MONDAY 29th
TUESDAY 30TH
WEDNESDAY 31ST
Wednesday, 31 October 2018
CABO DE GATA - DAY THREE
Wednesday 31st October started chilly, full sun, but winds of over 40km. We had a storm overnight and we guessed that some of the tracks would be muddy.
We were after a target bird and we visited the SEO site for Dupont’s Lark which is reported to be a resident. We gave this area a good once over with absolutely no sightings at all. The location is on Page 267 and is located off the Retamar Road leading from San José. An easy area to search.
We used Garcia and Paterson Where to Watch Birds in Southern and Western Spain for most of our information. All the facts are easy enough to plan with although not all the information is current. After the past two days and our real lack of success we decided to go further south beyond Almeria. The target area was the Salinas, Punta Entinas and Roquettas de Mar and also Salinas de Carrillo. Stating the obvious Spain is a very large country and the areas that we were searching in are expansive and extensive. We worked hard and checked out everywhere that we could.
We expected to see Ducks, but apart from Mallard and Shelduck that was it. The wind was fierce and most birds were tucked out of the wind. On one of the disused Salinas there was a large number of Gulls, probably exceeding 400, where the greater proportion were Lesser Black Backed Gulls with some Audouin’s, only a few Yellow Legged and and one Med. Gull positively Id’d. Close by were Little Stint, Sanderling, and three Spotted Redshank. Also bobbing on the water were Great Crested Grebes and a juvenile swam close by fighting against the waves being driven by the wind. We saw nothing exceptional and driving through we dodged the water filled holes and had a slow, but circuitous journey. It is a massive area and many things are distant. But who knows what will pop up.
We returned to San José calling again at the Salinas on the coast road to the Light House. The hides along this road are useable and offer closer views than the hide on the other road. The hides are basic with no screens to prevent the wind blowing through. Here we saw two Ravens on the beach side. Our target again was the lighthouse area where we searched diligently for Trumpeter Finches. And again no result. We searched Salinas again and our first good bird of the afternoon was a Grey Plover. Later we had a Black Kite flying over. Our photographer, Bryan, only took one bird shot! That probably sums up our assessment of a birding trip. I am told that the total species seen only stands at 71. But, what the hell, we got away from the normal routine and we did see birds and somewhere different.
There is some fantastic scenery around here, but that is when you ignore all the acres/hectares of plastic. Everything growing is under it. It is ugly. The upside is that is saves energy, grows crops as cheaply as possible, but what does to do the soil and the natural world. Chemicals must have to be used and what does that do to the taste of what they grow. And what about all that bloody plastic!
Make no mistake this a tourist area and the prices do reflect that. It is more expensive than San Miguel de Salinas! However, out of season the accommodation is very reasonably priced and where we stayed was very good.
We were after a target bird and we visited the SEO site for Dupont’s Lark which is reported to be a resident. We gave this area a good once over with absolutely no sightings at all. The location is on Page 267 and is located off the Retamar Road leading from San José. An easy area to search.
We used Garcia and Paterson Where to Watch Birds in Southern and Western Spain for most of our information. All the facts are easy enough to plan with although not all the information is current. After the past two days and our real lack of success we decided to go further south beyond Almeria. The target area was the Salinas, Punta Entinas and Roquettas de Mar and also Salinas de Carrillo. Stating the obvious Spain is a very large country and the areas that we were searching in are expansive and extensive. We worked hard and checked out everywhere that we could.
We expected to see Ducks, but apart from Mallard and Shelduck that was it. The wind was fierce and most birds were tucked out of the wind. On one of the disused Salinas there was a large number of Gulls, probably exceeding 400, where the greater proportion were Lesser Black Backed Gulls with some Audouin’s, only a few Yellow Legged and and one Med. Gull positively Id’d. Close by were Little Stint, Sanderling, and three Spotted Redshank. Also bobbing on the water were Great Crested Grebes and a juvenile swam close by fighting against the waves being driven by the wind. We saw nothing exceptional and driving through we dodged the water filled holes and had a slow, but circuitous journey. It is a massive area and many things are distant. But who knows what will pop up.
We returned to San José calling again at the Salinas on the coast road to the Light House. The hides along this road are useable and offer closer views than the hide on the other road. The hides are basic with no screens to prevent the wind blowing through. Here we saw two Ravens on the beach side. Our target again was the lighthouse area where we searched diligently for Trumpeter Finches. And again no result. We searched Salinas again and our first good bird of the afternoon was a Grey Plover. Later we had a Black Kite flying over. Our photographer, Bryan, only took one bird shot! That probably sums up our assessment of a birding trip. I am told that the total species seen only stands at 71. But, what the hell, we got away from the normal routine and we did see birds and somewhere different.
There is some fantastic scenery around here, but that is when you ignore all the acres/hectares of plastic. Everything growing is under it. It is ugly. The upside is that is saves energy, grows crops as cheaply as possible, but what does to do the soil and the natural world. Chemicals must have to be used and what does that do to the taste of what they grow. And what about all that bloody plastic!
Make no mistake this a tourist area and the prices do reflect that. It is more expensive than San Miguel de Salinas! However, out of season the accommodation is very reasonably priced and where we stayed was very good.
Tuesday, 30 October 2018
BIRDING COSTA BLANCA CABO DE GATA DAY TWO
On Tuesday 30th we were out at 7am and after yesterday we were targeting two species. Trumpeter Finch and Dupont’s Lark. The day was cloudy with some rain and the wind strong. Not ideal.
We were staying in San José and we retraced our steps of yesterday afternoon to check on The Salinas again. There was less wind this morning and there were birds there. We carried on towards Cabo de Gata, to the lighthouse area and the road beyond. On the way Guardia Civil drove along the beach and as a result about 30 Curlew flew up and settled back down making it the most number of this species we have seen together in Spain.
Before then a Short-Toed Eagle flew up and holding in the wind. We had good views of it as it circled although it was raining and the light was poor. The camera made it a certain ID.
Around the lighthouse we saw easily several Black Wheatears and our tally for the day of this species became at least a dozen. Black Redstart were everywhere, Crested Larks too and Dartford Warblers called and popped up. A Cormorant perched on a rock, Gannets were seen over the water and we had a flypast of Baleárico/Mediterranean Shearwaters.
It was raining steadily as we took the mountain road past the lighthouse. We hoped to get all the way back to San José, but the road was chained off. There are holes to avoid and it is not for the nervous. Yes, we saw birds, but not either of our target birds.
We returned the way we had come and made a thorough search of The Salinas. The problem here is the distance between us and the birds. In the far distance were 7 Spoonbill, two Great White and one Little Egret. A Grey Heron too and also Curlew, but no Whimbrel. Thirty Dunlin flew around, Little Stint, and one Ringed Plover was spotted. The only Ducks were Mallard. This is a very good spot, except for the distance and on another day we could have had a ‘mega’ bird. It's all a matter of luck!
The weather was improving and the decision was made to go inland to the desert area of Tabernas. We had the co-ordinates and we got to the correct spot slap back by the service station just off A92. This is a strange area, but it was cold, rainy, and we had no luck. We looked for the Trumpeters, again with no luck and apart from a Black Wheatear, a Stonechat, two Thekla’s Larks we saw nothing else.
We made the decision to take an alternative route via a mountain road via Turrillas, Lucainena de las Torres. and then through Níjar . Geologically it was interesting and the road is definitely not for the nervous, but we did it. Okay we had more finches and seven Corn Buntings perched in a tree. It could have been much better. We returned to San José, and then it rained with thunder. Who cares it was beer time!
I seldom mention all the birds that we have seen and for this trip I will post Trev’s list and that will cover our days together.
We were staying in San José and we retraced our steps of yesterday afternoon to check on The Salinas again. There was less wind this morning and there were birds there. We carried on towards Cabo de Gata, to the lighthouse area and the road beyond. On the way Guardia Civil drove along the beach and as a result about 30 Curlew flew up and settled back down making it the most number of this species we have seen together in Spain.
Before then a Short-Toed Eagle flew up and holding in the wind. We had good views of it as it circled although it was raining and the light was poor. The camera made it a certain ID.
Around the lighthouse we saw easily several Black Wheatears and our tally for the day of this species became at least a dozen. Black Redstart were everywhere, Crested Larks too and Dartford Warblers called and popped up. A Cormorant perched on a rock, Gannets were seen over the water and we had a flypast of Baleárico/Mediterranean Shearwaters.
It was raining steadily as we took the mountain road past the lighthouse. We hoped to get all the way back to San José, but the road was chained off. There are holes to avoid and it is not for the nervous. Yes, we saw birds, but not either of our target birds.
We returned the way we had come and made a thorough search of The Salinas. The problem here is the distance between us and the birds. In the far distance were 7 Spoonbill, two Great White and one Little Egret. A Grey Heron too and also Curlew, but no Whimbrel. Thirty Dunlin flew around, Little Stint, and one Ringed Plover was spotted. The only Ducks were Mallard. This is a very good spot, except for the distance and on another day we could have had a ‘mega’ bird. It's all a matter of luck!
The weather was improving and the decision was made to go inland to the desert area of Tabernas. We had the co-ordinates and we got to the correct spot slap back by the service station just off A92. This is a strange area, but it was cold, rainy, and we had no luck. We looked for the Trumpeters, again with no luck and apart from a Black Wheatear, a Stonechat, two Thekla’s Larks we saw nothing else.
We made the decision to take an alternative route via a mountain road via Turrillas, Lucainena de las Torres. and then through Níjar . Geologically it was interesting and the road is definitely not for the nervous, but we did it. Okay we had more finches and seven Corn Buntings perched in a tree. It could have been much better. We returned to San José, and then it rained with thunder. Who cares it was beer time!
I seldom mention all the birds that we have seen and for this trip I will post Trev’s list and that will cover our days together.
Monday, 29 October 2018
BIRDING COSTA BLANCA BIRDING AROUND CABO DE GATA
Bryans says have you seen the lamp over the bed is a bit low! And that could sum up our day, but it didn't. It was an early start and that is the way we do our birding.
On Monday 29th October the four of us headed for Cabo de Gata with the temperatures absolutely low at 11 degrees and a strong blustery wind. It was not the best time to be there.
However, we always work hard and we did see birds. We checked out the steppes and came across a small flock of Skylarks that settled, flew and then settled away from us. We headed towards the Salinas and everything was distant.
On the Salinas away from the working end we viewed ten different species that included the following:
Lesser Black Backed Gulls.
Slender Billed Gulls
Yellow Legged Gulls
Cormorants
Avocet
Flamingos
Shelduck
Black Necked Grebes
Kentish Plovers
Sandwich Terns
Another flock of small birds were six Greenfinch. We were looking for something more, but that will have to wait for another day. However, unexpectedly at least seventy to a hundred Griffon Vultures were seen circling, but upon reflection we are in a short distance to the snow topped Sierra Nevadas.
Okay it was a disappointing day, but with the wind and the cold what could we expect. I have not listened everything but Stonechats were everywhere and some Black Redstarts. Today is another day.
On Monday 29th October the four of us headed for Cabo de Gata with the temperatures absolutely low at 11 degrees and a strong blustery wind. It was not the best time to be there.
However, we always work hard and we did see birds. We checked out the steppes and came across a small flock of Skylarks that settled, flew and then settled away from us. We headed towards the Salinas and everything was distant.
On the Salinas away from the working end we viewed ten different species that included the following:
Lesser Black Backed Gulls.
Slender Billed Gulls
Yellow Legged Gulls
Cormorants
Avocet
Flamingos
Shelduck
Black Necked Grebes
Kentish Plovers
Sandwich Terns
Another flock of small birds were six Greenfinch. We were looking for something more, but that will have to wait for another day. However, unexpectedly at least seventy to a hundred Griffon Vultures were seen circling, but upon reflection we are in a short distance to the snow topped Sierra Nevadas.
Okay it was a disappointing day, but with the wind and the cold what could we expect. I have not listened everything but Stonechats were everywhere and some Black Redstarts. Today is another day.
Saturday, 27 October 2018
BIRDING IN ESTEPAS DE YECLA
There we were at again with a quickly arranged morning out to one of our favourite places, the Estepas de Yecla, as we had two friends visiting. So on Saturday 26th we came in from the Caudette end in poor light, a sky full of cloud and a chill breeze that became stronger as the morning wore on.
It was very quiet with nary a sound so we circumnavigated the valley. On reaching the road between Yecla to Almansa we turned right towards the uncultivated fields that have produced Sandgrouse in the past. But not today. We spotted a Common Buzzard on a wire and eating a kill. While drinking our mugs of tea Bryan saw two large birds over a ridge and in the distance. They circled around and dipped below the ridge line, several times, but clearly they were two Golden Eagles. We stayed in that location for around forty minutes hoping for a closer view which did not come. The ID. was a positive one with one being a sub-adult. By this time the wind had turned cold.
We moved on and across the Yecla road towards the pine ridge. Again it was still and quiet but in the far distance a group of Great Bustards. We tried to get closer to them and even though we circle their location we failed. They are known to winter here, but this is a large area and it can be difficult. This is also a very good area for Sandgrouse, but not even a sound today. Again a Buzzard was located.
We saw flocks of Linnets, Goldfinches, some Chaffinches and Greenfinches and about sixty flying and ground feeding Skylarks . Properly identified by sound and sight. So good to see. Crested Larks were seen, but a fly past of Calandra was really worth watching. We also had a murmuration of Starlings. Little Owl added one more to Trev’s holiday list and so did Chough, Mistle Thrushes, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Black Wheatears and an odd Chiff or two.
However, the bird of the day was a close by flying male Hen Harrier. So clearly seen with those mainly white wings with black tips. It did what harriers often do and flew low and away. But for me those Skylarks were great too. Okay, lots of absentees, but with good company and just being out there was good for me and anything that we see adds to the pleasure.
It was very quiet with nary a sound so we circumnavigated the valley. On reaching the road between Yecla to Almansa we turned right towards the uncultivated fields that have produced Sandgrouse in the past. But not today. We spotted a Common Buzzard on a wire and eating a kill. While drinking our mugs of tea Bryan saw two large birds over a ridge and in the distance. They circled around and dipped below the ridge line, several times, but clearly they were two Golden Eagles. We stayed in that location for around forty minutes hoping for a closer view which did not come. The ID. was a positive one with one being a sub-adult. By this time the wind had turned cold.
We moved on and across the Yecla road towards the pine ridge. Again it was still and quiet but in the far distance a group of Great Bustards. We tried to get closer to them and even though we circle their location we failed. They are known to winter here, but this is a large area and it can be difficult. This is also a very good area for Sandgrouse, but not even a sound today. Again a Buzzard was located.
We saw flocks of Linnets, Goldfinches, some Chaffinches and Greenfinches and about sixty flying and ground feeding Skylarks . Properly identified by sound and sight. So good to see. Crested Larks were seen, but a fly past of Calandra was really worth watching. We also had a murmuration of Starlings. Little Owl added one more to Trev’s holiday list and so did Chough, Mistle Thrushes, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Black Wheatears and an odd Chiff or two.
However, the bird of the day was a close by flying male Hen Harrier. So clearly seen with those mainly white wings with black tips. It did what harriers often do and flew low and away. But for me those Skylarks were great too. Okay, lots of absentees, but with good company and just being out there was good for me and anything that we see adds to the pleasure.
GUADALENTIN VALLEY & SIERRA DE ESPUÑA
On Thursday 25th the main ingredients of ‘The Birding Costa Blanca Birders’ (namely Michelle & John, Bryan & Trev met at 8am at Santamera Services on the Alicante - Murcia border with some specific targets in mind. It was a cool morning with a light breeze and a promise of sun all day. In fact shorts and Tee’s were sufficient for the whole time and this is supposed to be the back-end of Autumn.
The fields of vegetables in the Guadalentin Valley hold some significant species and our major thought was to locate Little Bustards. We have had very good days here and some poor ones. We searched and we saw a lot of activity. People were hunters around, people picking crops, tractors were working the ground and spraying. I comment only to say that we keep putting poison into the soil. In an ‘unused’ field with natural growth we easily locate Spectacled Warblers.
That's no surprise as they are resident here, and okay we saw Stonechats, but to be frank not a lot else. And no bloody Bustards!
Before mid-day we moved on and headed for Sierra de Espuńa hoping to see Ring Ouzels, maybe even a Brambling or two and other birds that could have come south. Would we be too early to see them as this autumn has only just arrived here? We went anyway and on the way we did see Crossbill, Crested Tit, Jay, and Robin and not much else, but always remembering that woodland birds are difficult to see.
We carried on up to the ‘ice-caves’ area which has been good previously. There is normally a water source here, but this was dry and that could be a reason why we saw no birds flying in and around. Okay we had flocks of Goldfinches, Chaffinches and the odd Mistle Thrush and that was it except for a female Black Redstart, and the odd fleeting sight off a Chough. We were about to leave the mountain top when up to and possible more than thirty Griffon Vultures flew high.
Back at the car Ravens called and flew and we headed for home. It was along day with many kilometers travelled and it does take 40 minutes to get down again again. Well, very disappointingly not one target bird seen and Bryan said ‘I am not going to blog about nothing’. Will there be a next time?. Maybe!
After Michelle and I had descended downwards Bryan and Trev stayed on and saw the following:
Short-Toed Eagle
A Golden, but far away
Long-Tailed Tit
Goldcrest
Coal Tit
That's good for Trev as he has travelled over for a week or so.
For the record Michelle and I were wearing our People's Walk for Wildlife Tee's and also I wore my other souvenir of that day saying that ‘I Walked for Wildlife’. Chris Packham will be sent the photos and they will be on this blog too. It was beautiful up there with a blue sky, wonderful scented vegetation under our feet and so peaceful. It's a ‘mind-healer’ and that is what is so good about being outside with like minded people.
Not seeing what we wanted to see is something where we can always say ‘ well there is always another day, but not for some? SkyNews carried the story that a female - yes a female - trophy hunter had been allowed to shoot a goat in Scotland. Why? It is on social media where this US huntress posed with her ‘trophy’ and with other ‘trophies’ and boasted it was ‘such a fun hunt’. A bit one sided I would think, a lethal weapon, against an animal. Isn't that killing because you can.
Dominic Dyer, wildlife advocate, spoke freely against this when interviewed on Sky News. Of course we heard the other side of the story supporting this sort of behavior. There's killing everywhere. It's appalling. The League Against Cruel Sports have responded and I will post their blog next.
Thursday, 25 October 2018
League Against Cruel Sports Blog reply to triophy killing
Posted 25th October, 2018
Author: Nick Weston - Head of Campaigns
It’s the old adage isn’t it? Ask a convict what he did wrong, he won’t say he broke the law, he’ll say he got caught.
Well, that seems to be the British Association for Shooting and Conservation’s (BASC) approach to dealing with the recent outrage following professional “huntress” (is that a thing?) Larysa Switlyk’s killing of a goat in Scotland.
When I heard that BASC had condemned this incident, for a brief moment I naively believed that maybe even the shooting industry has a line you shouldn’t cross. Which it turns out is true, after a fashion, just not in the way I briefly hoped.
It is as follows:
“By choosing to use social media to tell the word about her exploits hunting goats and other animals on the small Scottish island of Islay, [Switlyk] has found herself thrust onto the news pages of ... a host of other papers and websites. And it doesn’t make pleasant reading.
“All our hard work and good intentions can be undone in an instant on social media.”
“It has the power to educate and inform. It also has the power to alienate vast swathes of the population, the very people we need to get onside - and keep onside - if shooting is to survive the challenges ahead.”
So just to be clear, the only thing she did wrong is post the picture on social media? Not the unnecessary slaughter of a sentient being? Not revelling in the death of another animal? No, just that she got herself caught.
It tells you everything that you need to know doesn’t it? They haven’t even attempted to defend the killing of animals. Haven’t even bothered to pretend that it has anything to do with wildlife management (it doesn’t). Haven’t attempted to understand why the world is out raged. She did something far worse than kill an animal: she got caught doing it.
And by doing so she exposed the shooting community for what they really are. SHAMELESS KILLERS.
Author: Nick Weston - Head of Campaigns
It’s the old adage isn’t it? Ask a convict what he did wrong, he won’t say he broke the law, he’ll say he got caught.
Well, that seems to be the British Association for Shooting and Conservation’s (BASC) approach to dealing with the recent outrage following professional “huntress” (is that a thing?) Larysa Switlyk’s killing of a goat in Scotland.
When I heard that BASC had condemned this incident, for a brief moment I naively believed that maybe even the shooting industry has a line you shouldn’t cross. Which it turns out is true, after a fashion, just not in the way I briefly hoped.
It is as follows:
“By choosing to use social media to tell the word about her exploits hunting goats and other animals on the small Scottish island of Islay, [Switlyk] has found herself thrust onto the news pages of ... a host of other papers and websites. And it doesn’t make pleasant reading.
“All our hard work and good intentions can be undone in an instant on social media.”
“It has the power to educate and inform. It also has the power to alienate vast swathes of the population, the very people we need to get onside - and keep onside - if shooting is to survive the challenges ahead.”
So just to be clear, the only thing she did wrong is post the picture on social media? Not the unnecessary slaughter of a sentient being? Not revelling in the death of another animal? No, just that she got herself caught.
It tells you everything that you need to know doesn’t it? They haven’t even attempted to defend the killing of animals. Haven’t even bothered to pretend that it has anything to do with wildlife management (it doesn’t). Haven’t attempted to understand why the world is out raged. She did something far worse than kill an animal: she got caught doing it.
And by doing so she exposed the shooting community for what they really are. SHAMELESS KILLERS.
Monday, 22 October 2018
CARNAGE BY SHOT GUN & POTENTIAL FURTHER LOSS OF HABITAT
Morning john I just came across this looking at birding site the first on below is about build ing one the salt pans of la Mata the other one is about how many ducks the shoot in El Hondo is photos I used google translate
cheers
Bryan
This past summer the Service of Management of Natural Spaces of the Generalitat Valenciana issued a favourable report for the construction of almost 7,500 homes in the vicinity of the La Mata and Torrevieja lagoons. According to the Association of Friends of the Wetlands of the South of Alicante (AHSA), autonomous Administration, with this administrative act, consummates a shameful process of speculation protected by an environmental legislation, giving free access to a mega-urban project that worsens the environment even more and the hydrological basin of both lagoons and that will have a negative impact on the environmental values of these natural spaces.
Last April the Association of Friends of the Wetlands of the South of Alicante (AHSA) went to the Territorial Management of Alicante of the Ministry of Environment requesting information on the number and species of aquatic birds authorized to be killed in the preserves of hunting of the Natural Park of the Hondo, during the season 2017-18, as well as the censuses in which they have been based for their elaboration. In addition to the number and result of the inspections carried out by the environmental agents, in the hunting grounds of this natural area, for the control of the runs in the 2017-18 season, in compliance with the provisions of the Master Plan for Use and Management (PRUG).
This article also included a photograph of all the 'bodies' laid out in rows. Throphy rows no doubt and it just sickens me. This is just shooting for fun and has very little, if anything, to do with providing food for the table.
Such wonderful people boasting of their tally in a photo and so proud. It is a pity that their faces are obscured on the photo.
cheers
Bryan
This past summer the Service of Management of Natural Spaces of the Generalitat Valenciana issued a favourable report for the construction of almost 7,500 homes in the vicinity of the La Mata and Torrevieja lagoons. According to the Association of Friends of the Wetlands of the South of Alicante (AHSA), autonomous Administration, with this administrative act, consummates a shameful process of speculation protected by an environmental legislation, giving free access to a mega-urban project that worsens the environment even more and the hydrological basin of both lagoons and that will have a negative impact on the environmental values of these natural spaces.
Last April the Association of Friends of the Wetlands of the South of Alicante (AHSA) went to the Territorial Management of Alicante of the Ministry of Environment requesting information on the number and species of aquatic birds authorized to be killed in the preserves of hunting of the Natural Park of the Hondo, during the season 2017-18, as well as the censuses in which they have been based for their elaboration. In addition to the number and result of the inspections carried out by the environmental agents, in the hunting grounds of this natural area, for the control of the runs in the 2017-18 season, in compliance with the provisions of the Master Plan for Use and Management (PRUG).
This article also included a photograph of all the 'bodies' laid out in rows. Throphy rows no doubt and it just sickens me. This is just shooting for fun and has very little, if anything, to do with providing food for the table.
Such wonderful people boasting of their tally in a photo and so proud. It is a pity that their faces are obscured on the photo.
REVIVE & THE SCOTTISH GROUSE MOORS
REVIVE is a coalition of like minded organisations working for grouse moor reform in Scotland.
An exciting new partnership will be launched in Scotland in early November – Revive: the coalition for grouse moor reform.
The Revive coalition is an unusual alliance of campaigners, scientists and policy advocates from the fields of social justice, conservation, animal welfare and environmental protection, coming together to present the case for the reform of Scottish grouse moors.
The coalition includes Common Weal, Friends of the Earth Scotland, The League Against Cruel Sports Scotland, OneKind, and Raptor Persecution UK.
ThTHERE ARE GOOD PEOPLE OUT THERE AND THINGS CAN HAPPEN, BUT IT WILL REQUIRE EFFORT.
An exciting new partnership will be launched in Scotland in early November – Revive: the coalition for grouse moor reform.
The Revive coalition is an unusual alliance of campaigners, scientists and policy advocates from the fields of social justice, conservation, animal welfare and environmental protection, coming together to present the case for the reform of Scottish grouse moors.
The coalition includes Common Weal, Friends of the Earth Scotland, The League Against Cruel Sports Scotland, OneKind, and Raptor Persecution UK.
ThTHERE ARE GOOD PEOPLE OUT THERE AND THINGS CAN HAPPEN, BUT IT WILL REQUIRE EFFORT.
WADER BIRDS IN DECLINE AND THE GOVERNMENTS RESPONSE
Petition
Introduce a moratorium on the hunting of critically declining wading birds
Woodcock, Snipe and Golden Plover are shot in the UK despite serious, ongoing population declines. A moratorium should be imposed to allow the impact of shooting to be established by independent scientific investigation and any necessary regulations introduced to ensure that shooting is sustainable.
More details
BTO, JNCC and RSPB Bird Trends data report a 76% decline in Woodcock in the last 25 years. Although the wintering population is increased by migrants, BTO and GWCT studies of shot birds report that 17% are UK residents. It is Red Listed. In the same period Snipe (Amber listed) have declined by 89%. Between '93 and '13 Golden Plover decreased by 17% in England and 25% in Scotland. Continuing to harvest species in such steep decline is perilous and counterproductive to conservation practices.
THE REPLY
It is unlikely that hunting has had a significant impact on recent population trends for woodcock, snipe and golden plover; trends are likely to be influenced more by the quality and extent of habitat
MY COMMENTS ON THE ABOVE FIVE LINES AND THE USUAL OFFICIAL COMMENTS IN ITALICS:
It seems that only small proportion of people care about what a minority can do. It seems that killing is rife when certain individuals kill wildlife in the name of ‘sport’. Apart from game keepers influenced by wealthy and therefore powerful landowners and many others who lawfully are allowed to carry a gun the killing is allowed. Okay there are restrictions, but why is an ancient practice - often seen as a right - be allowed to continue? There are other reasons why we are losing numbers in species and deliberate killing by shooters we should stop. There are many of us, although relatively small in number if one includes ‘the don't knows’ and those who couldn't care less - who love our wildlife and will support Chris Packhams initiative when he launched his manifesto in September with THE PEOPLES WALK FOR WILDLIFE.
Below is the reply in full.
All wild birds are protected in accordance with the provisions set out in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, however, some species of birds (as listed in Schedule 2 of the Act) may be killed or taken outside the close season. Woodcock, snipe and golden plover are amongst those species that may be taken. In England and Wales the dates for woodcock are 1 October to 31 January; common snipe 12 August to 31 January; golden plover 1 September to 31 January.
Shooting is a legitimate activity and in addition to providing jobs and investment in some of our most remote areas, it can offer important benefits for wildlife and habitat conservation. The Government’s manifesto commits to protect shooting for the benefits it brings to individuals, the environment and the rural economy.
Recent data shows that the woodcock has a breeding population or around 78,000 pairs; common snipe 76,000 and golden plover between 38,000 and 59,000. Overwintering populations increase their numbers to approximately 1.4 million (woodcock), 1 million (common snipe) and 400,000 (golden plover). The numbers in winter are greatly increased as a result of birds arriving from Scandinavia, the Baltic States and Russia and many of our breeding birds (and their offspring) leave the country in winter.
For all three species, the numbers of birds hunted is small compared with the population present in the country during the open season.
When combined with the fact that many of our breeding birds winter abroad, it is unlikely that hunting pressure in this country has played a significant role in the recent downwards trends in the size and range of GB breeding populations of either woodcock or snipe. There is little evidence that the golden plover is currently in decline in GB as a whole.
The reasons for any declines are complex and include habitat loss as a result of land drainage, the drying out of natural woodlands, declining woodland management, the maturation of new plantations, overgrazing by deer, recreational disturbance and reductions in prey availability. The woodcock is currently red-listed due to breeding range decline in the past 25 years.
Measures have been taken to improve habitats through Environmental Land Management schemes such as the Countryside Stewardship Scheme, where grassland breeding waders have been specifically targeted. The woodcock will have benefited from Woodland Grant Schemes, some of which specifically target management for declining woodland birds.
The Government is not persuaded that the current level of hunting has a significant detrimental impact on the numbers of woodcock, common snipe and golden plover. A number of English estates have already instigated their own voluntary bans on the shooting of woodcock. Any moratorium in the rest of the UK is a matter for the devolved administrations.
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Introduce a moratorium on the hunting of critically declining wading birds
Woodcock, Snipe and Golden Plover are shot in the UK despite serious, ongoing population declines. A moratorium should be imposed to allow the impact of shooting to be established by independent scientific investigation and any necessary regulations introduced to ensure that shooting is sustainable.
More details
BTO, JNCC and RSPB Bird Trends data report a 76% decline in Woodcock in the last 25 years. Although the wintering population is increased by migrants, BTO and GWCT studies of shot birds report that 17% are UK residents. It is Red Listed. In the same period Snipe (Amber listed) have declined by 89%. Between '93 and '13 Golden Plover decreased by 17% in England and 25% in Scotland. Continuing to harvest species in such steep decline is perilous and counterproductive to conservation practices.
THE REPLY
It is unlikely that hunting has had a significant impact on recent population trends for woodcock, snipe and golden plover; trends are likely to be influenced more by the quality and extent of habitat
MY COMMENTS ON THE ABOVE FIVE LINES AND THE USUAL OFFICIAL COMMENTS IN ITALICS:
It seems that only small proportion of people care about what a minority can do. It seems that killing is rife when certain individuals kill wildlife in the name of ‘sport’. Apart from game keepers influenced by wealthy and therefore powerful landowners and many others who lawfully are allowed to carry a gun the killing is allowed. Okay there are restrictions, but why is an ancient practice - often seen as a right - be allowed to continue? There are other reasons why we are losing numbers in species and deliberate killing by shooters we should stop. There are many of us, although relatively small in number if one includes ‘the don't knows’ and those who couldn't care less - who love our wildlife and will support Chris Packhams initiative when he launched his manifesto in September with THE PEOPLES WALK FOR WILDLIFE.
Below is the reply in full.
All wild birds are protected in accordance with the provisions set out in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, however, some species of birds (as listed in Schedule 2 of the Act) may be killed or taken outside the close season. Woodcock, snipe and golden plover are amongst those species that may be taken. In England and Wales the dates for woodcock are 1 October to 31 January; common snipe 12 August to 31 January; golden plover 1 September to 31 January.
Shooting is a legitimate activity and in addition to providing jobs and investment in some of our most remote areas, it can offer important benefits for wildlife and habitat conservation. The Government’s manifesto commits to protect shooting for the benefits it brings to individuals, the environment and the rural economy.
Recent data shows that the woodcock has a breeding population or around 78,000 pairs; common snipe 76,000 and golden plover between 38,000 and 59,000. Overwintering populations increase their numbers to approximately 1.4 million (woodcock), 1 million (common snipe) and 400,000 (golden plover). The numbers in winter are greatly increased as a result of birds arriving from Scandinavia, the Baltic States and Russia and many of our breeding birds (and their offspring) leave the country in winter.
For all three species, the numbers of birds hunted is small compared with the population present in the country during the open season.
When combined with the fact that many of our breeding birds winter abroad, it is unlikely that hunting pressure in this country has played a significant role in the recent downwards trends in the size and range of GB breeding populations of either woodcock or snipe. There is little evidence that the golden plover is currently in decline in GB as a whole.
The reasons for any declines are complex and include habitat loss as a result of land drainage, the drying out of natural woodlands, declining woodland management, the maturation of new plantations, overgrazing by deer, recreational disturbance and reductions in prey availability. The woodcock is currently red-listed due to breeding range decline in the past 25 years.
Measures have been taken to improve habitats through Environmental Land Management schemes such as the Countryside Stewardship Scheme, where grassland breeding waders have been specifically targeted. The woodcock will have benefited from Woodland Grant Schemes, some of which specifically target management for declining woodland birds.
The Government is not persuaded that the current level of hunting has a significant detrimental impact on the numbers of woodcock, common snipe and golden plover. A number of English estates have already instigated their own voluntary bans on the shooting of woodcock. Any moratorium in the rest of the UK is a matter for the devolved administrations.
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Saturday, 20 October 2018
PARAJE NATURAL DEL CLOT DE GALVANY, GRAN ALACANT.
On Friday 19th in light rain and seventeen degrees I left San Miguel and headed north towards Gran Alacant. There was no doubt in my mind that my target birds were going to be a pair of Ferruginous Ducks. Other birders had seen and photographed this pair, had passed on the information for the benefit of other birders and now I wanted to see them for myself.
Bryan and I sat in the hide and there they were. They did several swim pasts, dived, perched on a stone or log and preened. At one stage they were only meters away. They are smart birds and I enjoyed watching them. We even saw the male throw back his head as he swam past. They were great, but will they over-winter here or go south?
Female Ferruginous Duck
Male Ferruginous Duck
On the water there was an abundance of other ducks. Some Mallard (including hybrids) Common Pochard, Shovellers, Green-winged Teal and one White-headed Duck. Also many Moorhen, Coot and Little Grebe played around on the water. Overhead Swallows were flying over. While all this was going on Cetti's kept calling and Robins were heard, but remained hidden. A Reed Warbler flitted around with a Chiff and then later, the Warbler, perched in full view, quite close, on an horizontal reed just asking to be photographed and it was. A superb view of this bird.
To the right of the hide, between the water’s edge and between the fence a (White-Spot) Blue Throat hopped around, feeding amongst the detritus and natural vegetation. It reappeared several times and was seen by other birders too.
This was a day of close up views of birds behaving naturally in a great environment.
What a privilege to see all this and all from a hide. It's so easy! It is good to be out there seeing beautiful things and in good company.
But on the reverse side and I quote "Bryan is not feeling positive about San Felipe." He has commented on his own blog and you can see that here. https://birdingcostablanca.blogspot.com
Bryan and I sat in the hide and there they were. They did several swim pasts, dived, perched on a stone or log and preened. At one stage they were only meters away. They are smart birds and I enjoyed watching them. We even saw the male throw back his head as he swam past. They were great, but will they over-winter here or go south?
Female Ferruginous Duck
Male Ferruginous DuckOn the water there was an abundance of other ducks. Some Mallard (including hybrids) Common Pochard, Shovellers, Green-winged Teal and one White-headed Duck. Also many Moorhen, Coot and Little Grebe played around on the water. Overhead Swallows were flying over. While all this was going on Cetti's kept calling and Robins were heard, but remained hidden. A Reed Warbler flitted around with a Chiff and then later, the Warbler, perched in full view, quite close, on an horizontal reed just asking to be photographed and it was. A superb view of this bird.
To the right of the hide, between the water’s edge and between the fence a (White-Spot) Blue Throat hopped around, feeding amongst the detritus and natural vegetation. It reappeared several times and was seen by other birders too.
This was a day of close up views of birds behaving naturally in a great environment.
What a privilege to see all this and all from a hide. It's so easy! It is good to be out there seeing beautiful things and in good company.
But on the reverse side and I quote "Bryan is not feeling positive about San Felipe." He has commented on his own blog and you can see that here. https://birdingcostablanca.blogspot.com
Sunday, 14 October 2018
HIGUERUELA AND MONTEALEGRE DEL CASTILLO (near ALMANSA)
YES, WE HEADED OUT TO THOSE BIG OPEN SPACES AGAIN
On Friday 12th October we made our second trip since the end of the summer, to Higueruela and it proved to be very good for the first part. Having had another excellent coffee at our usual ‘pit stop’ on the edge of the motorway we turned right towards Higueruela, but we did not go direct towards the pig farm this time and took the second camino on our left. On turning, I spotted a flock of flying birds in the distance that showed white plumage. They were so faraway and they soon dropped from view; but could they have been Little Bustards?
A beautiful female Stonechat perched, very close to me, on a pole. Such wonderful colours.
We are always prepared to work hard with the intention of searching out species. But at the same time content ‘to take what comes’ and this morning was no different. We both hoped to be able to find Little Bustards and maybe a wintering bird or two, like Dotterel, or even a Brambling hiding with Chaffinches. It was not to be. But the search was on and the following paragraphs contain some of what we got up to.
We had seen Great Bustards around the general area previously and we made the decision for an approach from a different direction. It payed off. We firstly encountered a group of up to seventeen as we drove down a track. They seemed oblivious to the tractors towing bulky trailers to and from the pig farm and they only moved slowly away from us as we watched from the car. Each and everyone provided a good view. We followed the track heading towards the railway and on the other side of it there was another group of Bustards - about the same in number.. We checked them out hoping to find a Little Bustard, but they were all of the bigger variety.
We were now at the station corner and to our delight there were around 20 Stone Curlews feeding in the field next to us.
On the sunny grassy bank butterflies were active and Bryan got busy. The photographs should provide the detail.
Clouded Yellow
Long Tailed Blue
Along our new route we encountered flocks of Goldfinches, Serin, and Linnets. This was in a very mixed habitat that included natural verges, vines, corn stubble and ‘resting’ ground. On a post a Great Tit sat. Tree Sparrows were in abundance too and this is new location for them. Spotless Starlings were easily seen and one occasion, on a wire, about eighty of the northern type.
The sound of Calandra Larks surrounded us and we had both excellent views of them flying and on the ground. A Thekla Lark perched long enough to be photographed.
We moved on towards Higueruela to discover that a usually good spot, under the pines, was devoid of species.
Lagunas de Petrola was again disappointing because the usually marshy areas were as dry as a bone and the main water provided little of note. Two Marsh Harriers circled over. On leaving, Bryan spotted seven Yellow Wagtails by the farm buildings. I was hoping to see a blue head on Iberiae, it was not so. Great to be able to see them and they lessened the disappointment slightly.
Heading towards Corral Rubio we saw nothing of interest and again many areas were dry. It has rained, but more rainfall is needed. Now, in the early afternoon we went to Montealegre del Castillo, where we knew we would find water. On earlier visits this was teeming with water birds, but today very little. This may have been due to the day being a ‘Red Day’ and the hunters were around. On our next trip we will make this water our first objective and also research the areas around it.
There is one bird that I sometimes mention and it never poses long enough to be photographed, but with a powerful lens this one was captured!
I have not mentioned every species that we saw, only ones that create more of an interest. It is a vast area with big wide open vistas. I find that it is good to be out there seeing beautiful things and today with the sun and vegetation played host to several species of butterflies we did have beauty. Many kilometers covered and it could have ended much better - that's for next time!
Photographs by Bryan Thomas Copyright 2018
On Friday 12th October we made our second trip since the end of the summer, to Higueruela and it proved to be very good for the first part. Having had another excellent coffee at our usual ‘pit stop’ on the edge of the motorway we turned right towards Higueruela, but we did not go direct towards the pig farm this time and took the second camino on our left. On turning, I spotted a flock of flying birds in the distance that showed white plumage. They were so faraway and they soon dropped from view; but could they have been Little Bustards?
A beautiful female Stonechat perched, very close to me, on a pole. Such wonderful colours.
We are always prepared to work hard with the intention of searching out species. But at the same time content ‘to take what comes’ and this morning was no different. We both hoped to be able to find Little Bustards and maybe a wintering bird or two, like Dotterel, or even a Brambling hiding with Chaffinches. It was not to be. But the search was on and the following paragraphs contain some of what we got up to.
We had seen Great Bustards around the general area previously and we made the decision for an approach from a different direction. It payed off. We firstly encountered a group of up to seventeen as we drove down a track. They seemed oblivious to the tractors towing bulky trailers to and from the pig farm and they only moved slowly away from us as we watched from the car. Each and everyone provided a good view. We followed the track heading towards the railway and on the other side of it there was another group of Bustards - about the same in number.. We checked them out hoping to find a Little Bustard, but they were all of the bigger variety.
We were now at the station corner and to our delight there were around 20 Stone Curlews feeding in the field next to us.
On the sunny grassy bank butterflies were active and Bryan got busy. The photographs should provide the detail.
Clouded Yellow
Long Tailed BlueAlong our new route we encountered flocks of Goldfinches, Serin, and Linnets. This was in a very mixed habitat that included natural verges, vines, corn stubble and ‘resting’ ground. On a post a Great Tit sat. Tree Sparrows were in abundance too and this is new location for them. Spotless Starlings were easily seen and one occasion, on a wire, about eighty of the northern type.
The sound of Calandra Larks surrounded us and we had both excellent views of them flying and on the ground. A Thekla Lark perched long enough to be photographed.
We moved on towards Higueruela to discover that a usually good spot, under the pines, was devoid of species.
Lagunas de Petrola was again disappointing because the usually marshy areas were as dry as a bone and the main water provided little of note. Two Marsh Harriers circled over. On leaving, Bryan spotted seven Yellow Wagtails by the farm buildings. I was hoping to see a blue head on Iberiae, it was not so. Great to be able to see them and they lessened the disappointment slightly.
Heading towards Corral Rubio we saw nothing of interest and again many areas were dry. It has rained, but more rainfall is needed. Now, in the early afternoon we went to Montealegre del Castillo, where we knew we would find water. On earlier visits this was teeming with water birds, but today very little. This may have been due to the day being a ‘Red Day’ and the hunters were around. On our next trip we will make this water our first objective and also research the areas around it.
There is one bird that I sometimes mention and it never poses long enough to be photographed, but with a powerful lens this one was captured!
I have not mentioned every species that we saw, only ones that create more of an interest. It is a vast area with big wide open vistas. I find that it is good to be out there seeing beautiful things and today with the sun and vegetation played host to several species of butterflies we did have beauty. Many kilometers covered and it could have ended much better - that's for next time!
Photographs by Bryan Thomas Copyright 2018
Tuesday, 9 October 2018
Donald J Trump and Fear by Bob Woodward and Ultimatum by Frank Gardner
TWO BOOKS: FEAR and ULTIMATUM
FEAR, more specifically heralded as ‘Trump in the White House’ by Bob Woodward.
This man has incredible track record with The Washington Post, and specifically with his reporting of President Nixon with Vietnam and Watergate; It marks him out as a man of note. An investigative journalist who should be feared! The film, The Post, with Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep is a cinema version of his work.
ULTIMATUM by Frank Gardner of ‘war reporting renown’ is a novel where he has used his knowledge of conflict and everything else he has gleaned about the military and ‘spooks’.
I read both books by turning over a few chapters of each and I decided to comment upon each in one piece of writing.
FEAR is a book about the political activities elucidate through numerous interviews that Woodward has made with people who are part of the power set within the White House and the current President, Donald J Trump. Personally, I can't stand the sight of him!
In an interview with Trump on March 31st, 2016 and included on a page of its own these words “Real power is——I don't even want to use the word ——fear.”
The words ‘power’ and ‘fear’ are two words that we should be afraid of. The reported shambles and chaos within the seat of American power is astonishing. And it is current. To add to the ‘fear’ and I quote “ Within the intelligence and military world there exists …….. ‘our deep secrets.’ These are matters so sensitive……., that only a handful of people including the president …..know about them.”
Both books dovetail into each other as they are are involved with intrigue, subterfuge, lies and deceit. Indeed, I needed some escapism after reading tracks from Fear. Being more specific Ultimatum hops from Vauxhall in London to a nasty place in The Middle East. It is a story of spying and the hero Luke Carlton has it all to do. Will he survive and how will that ‘ultimatum’ go? Frank Gardner writes with feeling and the scenes that he creates have that human touch. On a couple of occasions I was able to assume some happenings, but will you be correct? It would be difficult for any potential reader not to know something about Trump, but with Ultimatum I will give nothing more away. The last eighty pages flew by and we had to get to that conclusion. I suppose with any super hero his survival is paramount, but does this one do it?
To emphasize more on 4th October, at a press conference in The Hague it was revealed the intrusive activities of Russia’s GRU. Not just condemnation but revelations of six different hacking operations. There is danger out there, active and real, that can also be exposed by books. But the real ‘fear’ reading more of Woodward's words is China. Frank Gardner’s book is escapism at its best, but can the world escape from Trump’s erraticism?
FEAR, more specifically heralded as ‘Trump in the White House’ by Bob Woodward.
This man has incredible track record with The Washington Post, and specifically with his reporting of President Nixon with Vietnam and Watergate; It marks him out as a man of note. An investigative journalist who should be feared! The film, The Post, with Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep is a cinema version of his work.
ULTIMATUM by Frank Gardner of ‘war reporting renown’ is a novel where he has used his knowledge of conflict and everything else he has gleaned about the military and ‘spooks’.
I read both books by turning over a few chapters of each and I decided to comment upon each in one piece of writing.
FEAR is a book about the political activities elucidate through numerous interviews that Woodward has made with people who are part of the power set within the White House and the current President, Donald J Trump. Personally, I can't stand the sight of him!
In an interview with Trump on March 31st, 2016 and included on a page of its own these words “Real power is——I don't even want to use the word ——fear.”
The words ‘power’ and ‘fear’ are two words that we should be afraid of. The reported shambles and chaos within the seat of American power is astonishing. And it is current. To add to the ‘fear’ and I quote “ Within the intelligence and military world there exists …….. ‘our deep secrets.’ These are matters so sensitive……., that only a handful of people including the president …..know about them.”
Both books dovetail into each other as they are are involved with intrigue, subterfuge, lies and deceit. Indeed, I needed some escapism after reading tracks from Fear. Being more specific Ultimatum hops from Vauxhall in London to a nasty place in The Middle East. It is a story of spying and the hero Luke Carlton has it all to do. Will he survive and how will that ‘ultimatum’ go? Frank Gardner writes with feeling and the scenes that he creates have that human touch. On a couple of occasions I was able to assume some happenings, but will you be correct? It would be difficult for any potential reader not to know something about Trump, but with Ultimatum I will give nothing more away. The last eighty pages flew by and we had to get to that conclusion. I suppose with any super hero his survival is paramount, but does this one do it?
To emphasize more on 4th October, at a press conference in The Hague it was revealed the intrusive activities of Russia’s GRU. Not just condemnation but revelations of six different hacking operations. There is danger out there, active and real, that can also be exposed by books. But the real ‘fear’ reading more of Woodward's words is China. Frank Gardner’s book is escapism at its best, but can the world escape from Trump’s erraticism?
Monday, 8 October 2018
Poetry Workshops for Women Only!
LEDBURY POETRY FESTIVAL AND A WOMEN ONLY WORKSHOP
The Women Only Workshop came to my attention via Ledbury Poetry Festival Face Book. I have seen them advertising workshops before where one section of the population is not invited. The question I am going to ask them have they, or even will they offer a men only one? I have emailed.
I am pleased to see any workshop that can promote writing and any form of community activity. It is what makes us bond together.
I am not going to presume that there are 'Men Only Workshops' or that there are not. But are there? I am going to email Ledbury and ask them whether there is the same option for men.
I believe in being equal and that we should all be equal.
I know that the world is not perfect, but if you exclude one half of the population, what can happen? Maybe exclusion will promote prejudice!
You can see below what is on offer and I wish that these opportunities were available, geographically speaking to me, they are not.
I am for equality and will not entertain a restrictive offering unless there is fairness.
Community Poetry Workshops!
Feeling inspired? Feel like to learning to express yourself better? Time to get your poetry muscles flexing at these wonderful events, ALL of them are FREE to attend so that income is no barrier to taking part. EVERYBODY is encouraged to attend. Just drop in – no need to book!
1. Poetry workshops at Herefordshire MIND, 130 Widemarsh St, Hereford, HR4 9HN, as part of Ledbury Poetry Festival’s Community Programme, Wednesdays 10am – 12pm, next one on Wednesday 17 October. FREE. Poetry is powerful, it shows us the world in new ways; it heals, teaches and celebrates. More info Ledbury Poetry Festival 01531-634156, Hfds MIND 01432-372404 Further sessions on 21st Nov. Hear the Festival event podcasts “The Power of Words – 21st Century Mental Health”, and the “Community Showcase” here
2. Women’s Poetry Writing Workshop . FREE. Join this supportive writing atmosphere just for women. Wednesday 10 October 10.30 – 12.30, Church House, St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Close, Hereford HR1 2DL. Refreshment making facilities are available here. Further sessions on 14th November
3.“Seen and Heard” Poetry Workshops at Grange Court, Leominster, HR6 8NL. FREE. We hope to resume these sessions after the summer break. More info: info@grangecourt.org, 01568 737980, or manager of the Festival – see below.
4. The next Segments workshop is on Wednesday 24 October 10am – 12pm at The Museum Resource and Learning Centre, 58 Friars Street, Hereford HR4 0AS, 5 minutes walk from Hereford Cathedral. Poetry and heritage meet in this treasure trove of art, archaeology, costumes, social history and natural science collections. Explore, be inspired and write poetry in this rich environment with poet Sara Jane Arbury. Further sessions on 28th November
If you have any enquiries about these groups, please contact manager@poetry-festival.co.uk, 01531 636232
Further information on the Festival’s Community Programme can be found here
The Women Only Workshop came to my attention via Ledbury Poetry Festival Face Book. I have seen them advertising workshops before where one section of the population is not invited. The question I am going to ask them have they, or even will they offer a men only one? I have emailed.
I am pleased to see any workshop that can promote writing and any form of community activity. It is what makes us bond together.
I am not going to presume that there are 'Men Only Workshops' or that there are not. But are there? I am going to email Ledbury and ask them whether there is the same option for men.
I believe in being equal and that we should all be equal.
I know that the world is not perfect, but if you exclude one half of the population, what can happen? Maybe exclusion will promote prejudice!
You can see below what is on offer and I wish that these opportunities were available, geographically speaking to me, they are not.
I am for equality and will not entertain a restrictive offering unless there is fairness.
Community Poetry Workshops!
Feeling inspired? Feel like to learning to express yourself better? Time to get your poetry muscles flexing at these wonderful events, ALL of them are FREE to attend so that income is no barrier to taking part. EVERYBODY is encouraged to attend. Just drop in – no need to book!
1. Poetry workshops at Herefordshire MIND, 130 Widemarsh St, Hereford, HR4 9HN, as part of Ledbury Poetry Festival’s Community Programme, Wednesdays 10am – 12pm, next one on Wednesday 17 October. FREE. Poetry is powerful, it shows us the world in new ways; it heals, teaches and celebrates. More info Ledbury Poetry Festival 01531-634156, Hfds MIND 01432-372404 Further sessions on 21st Nov. Hear the Festival event podcasts “The Power of Words – 21st Century Mental Health”, and the “Community Showcase” here
2. Women’s Poetry Writing Workshop . FREE. Join this supportive writing atmosphere just for women. Wednesday 10 October 10.30 – 12.30, Church House, St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Close, Hereford HR1 2DL. Refreshment making facilities are available here. Further sessions on 14th November
3.“Seen and Heard” Poetry Workshops at Grange Court, Leominster, HR6 8NL. FREE. We hope to resume these sessions after the summer break. More info: info@grangecourt.org, 01568 737980, or manager of the Festival – see below.
4. The next Segments workshop is on Wednesday 24 October 10am – 12pm at The Museum Resource and Learning Centre, 58 Friars Street, Hereford HR4 0AS, 5 minutes walk from Hereford Cathedral. Poetry and heritage meet in this treasure trove of art, archaeology, costumes, social history and natural science collections. Explore, be inspired and write poetry in this rich environment with poet Sara Jane Arbury. Further sessions on 28th November
If you have any enquiries about these groups, please contact manager@poetry-festival.co.uk, 01531 636232
Further information on the Festival’s Community Programme can be found here
ESTEPAS DE YECLA AGAIN
What another terrific morning we had in Estepas de Yecla. It is one of our ‘must-go-to-places’ and we have had some wonderful sightings in that valley. Bryan decided that we should go there again and we did on Saturday 6th October.
The blogger smiling with the weather!
The temperatures have dropped and when we left Gran Alacant it was a mere 16 degrees and it went down to12 degrees in the valley. We arrived at 8am in a mist that was only gradually worn away by the sun and so we stayed to the east of the ridge having entered from Caudette. We were soon bathed in sun and we were surrounded by birds and their songs. Two hundred Wood Pigeons occupied a high wire and a mixed flock of Goldfinches and Linnets flew from off the fields. In one small bush a dozen Goldies perched and we coined the term ‘ a charm in a bush’. Towards the ridge and over the farm buildings Choughs called and flew. Indeed we heard them for most of the morning. Other Corvids flew too with regular sightings of Jackdaws, Crows and Magpies, but no Ravens today.
We were delighted to see passing through swarms of Barn Swallows and they were visible all morning too. Sad to see them go, but that is the way it is. Northern Wheatears posed well and we must have seen over a dozen individual birds.
Somewhere Stonechats called, but remained invisible. You don't always see what you are looking for!
The ubiquitous Created Larks showed well and eventually we had a clear view of a Thekla and were happy with the identification. A male Rock Bunting gave us our first sighting of this species here.
One Corn Bunting, one Meadow Pipit and one Chiff was seen with a large caterpillar in its mouth.
Chiffchaff
Meadow Pipit
Around us were fields of vetches with some being harvested. Two Hoopoes showed well and on an earthen bank were Rock Sparrows. We spent over and hour and half at this Caudette end before moving along our normal route where the mist had begun to clear. Red Legged Partridges ran all over.
Heading towards the Yecla end of the valley we heard Buzzards calling and at one time there were four of them circling on the thermals. However before then Bryan spotted a Golden Eagle in the distance and this obliged us by coming closer and we could see the white rump. We were happy with that ID. We counted at least six individual Little Owls as we passed through and in the ‘wine area’ we had excellent views of both Tree and House Sparrows where the comparison with theq two species could be seen.
Tree Sparrow
Both sorts of Starlings were around too with many White Wagtails feeding.
Moving on towards the ridge with pines a ‘falcon’ was spotted in a field, but in the distance. We were not sure what it could be and we worked our way along the ridge using the trees as cover, but still it was difficult to be really sure of the detail. We eventually came to a conclusion that the bird was a female Lesser Kestrel. However, I saw a white patch on a cheek, a light or yellow bill and dark plumage on the back and on part of the sides. There was no rufus/red or grey as in the case of an adult Red-footed Falcon, but it could have been a juvenile. However the consensus of opinion is that it was probably a female Lesser Kestrel. We never claim that we have seen a species unless we are sure. Anyway, here is hoping that I can identify a Red-footed Falcon as I have now done the research.
A female Lesser also flew and I reassured myself that they still frequent this valley. A little later another Kestrel flew and again the photo proved that it was male Lesser ‘holding in the wind’ and not as perceived - hovering!
We heard Sandgrouse but they stayed out of sight. We noticed some butterflies, but all fast flying and difficult to see in the breeze. They are a Bath White, a Common Blue, and what we originally thought was an Orange Tip, upon examination of a photo, it is a fresh Clouded Yellow.
There were some absentees with Raven, Black Wheatears, and Calandra Larks being the more obvious ones.
What an excellent few hours and the most productive was the early ones as the sun came up and the mist cleared. It is lovely to be out there.
The blogger smiling with the weather!The temperatures have dropped and when we left Gran Alacant it was a mere 16 degrees and it went down to12 degrees in the valley. We arrived at 8am in a mist that was only gradually worn away by the sun and so we stayed to the east of the ridge having entered from Caudette. We were soon bathed in sun and we were surrounded by birds and their songs. Two hundred Wood Pigeons occupied a high wire and a mixed flock of Goldfinches and Linnets flew from off the fields. In one small bush a dozen Goldies perched and we coined the term ‘ a charm in a bush’. Towards the ridge and over the farm buildings Choughs called and flew. Indeed we heard them for most of the morning. Other Corvids flew too with regular sightings of Jackdaws, Crows and Magpies, but no Ravens today.
We were delighted to see passing through swarms of Barn Swallows and they were visible all morning too. Sad to see them go, but that is the way it is. Northern Wheatears posed well and we must have seen over a dozen individual birds.
Somewhere Stonechats called, but remained invisible. You don't always see what you are looking for!
The ubiquitous Created Larks showed well and eventually we had a clear view of a Thekla and were happy with the identification. A male Rock Bunting gave us our first sighting of this species here.
One Corn Bunting, one Meadow Pipit and one Chiff was seen with a large caterpillar in its mouth.
Chiffchaff
Meadow PipitAround us were fields of vetches with some being harvested. Two Hoopoes showed well and on an earthen bank were Rock Sparrows. We spent over and hour and half at this Caudette end before moving along our normal route where the mist had begun to clear. Red Legged Partridges ran all over.
Heading towards the Yecla end of the valley we heard Buzzards calling and at one time there were four of them circling on the thermals. However before then Bryan spotted a Golden Eagle in the distance and this obliged us by coming closer and we could see the white rump. We were happy with that ID. We counted at least six individual Little Owls as we passed through and in the ‘wine area’ we had excellent views of both Tree and House Sparrows where the comparison with theq two species could be seen.
Tree SparrowBoth sorts of Starlings were around too with many White Wagtails feeding.
Moving on towards the ridge with pines a ‘falcon’ was spotted in a field, but in the distance. We were not sure what it could be and we worked our way along the ridge using the trees as cover, but still it was difficult to be really sure of the detail. We eventually came to a conclusion that the bird was a female Lesser Kestrel. However, I saw a white patch on a cheek, a light or yellow bill and dark plumage on the back and on part of the sides. There was no rufus/red or grey as in the case of an adult Red-footed Falcon, but it could have been a juvenile. However the consensus of opinion is that it was probably a female Lesser Kestrel. We never claim that we have seen a species unless we are sure. Anyway, here is hoping that I can identify a Red-footed Falcon as I have now done the research.
A female Lesser also flew and I reassured myself that they still frequent this valley. A little later another Kestrel flew and again the photo proved that it was male Lesser ‘holding in the wind’ and not as perceived - hovering!
We heard Sandgrouse but they stayed out of sight. We noticed some butterflies, but all fast flying and difficult to see in the breeze. They are a Bath White, a Common Blue, and what we originally thought was an Orange Tip, upon examination of a photo, it is a fresh Clouded Yellow.
There were some absentees with Raven, Black Wheatears, and Calandra Larks being the more obvious ones.
What an excellent few hours and the most productive was the early ones as the sun came up and the mist cleared. It is lovely to be out there.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)