Today I had a late morning stroll through the park, and after a month recuperating from my op it was lovely to be back. I certainly have missed it.
With glorious sunshine the butterflies were very active. Speckled Woods, Commas, Red Admirals, Small Whites, Meadow Browns, Gatekeepers, Small Skippers, and Holly Blues danced in the summer air. Down by the River Len Banded Demoiselles fluttered above the water, and by the Marsh and Lake edge Common Darters and Southern Hawkers hunted.
Several singing Chiff Chaffs together with the soft cooing of the Woodpigeons provided a pleasant soundtrack to my visit. Views of a pair of Wren busily supplying their youngsters with big fat caterpillars was a nice treat, a few Great Spotted Woodpeckers called, 2 Water Rails screeched from the middle of the Marsh, numerous mixed feeding flocks moved through the woods and hedges, and whilst watching the antics of a family of Grey Wagtails by the Waterfall, a Blackcap decided to burst into song.
A few of the first ripe blackberries of the year provided a juicy snack, and a chat with a birder gave me the helpful knowledge that the local Spotted Flycatchers are now out and about. Fantastic.
Hi, my name is Simon. My local patch is Mote Park, one of Kent’s largest parks and right on the edge of Maidstone, the county town of Kent. It is a former country estate, and records of the Park date back since before the 14th century. The park has a variety of habitats and this blog will note all the wildlife that I encounter in them.
3 comments:
Hi Simon
Glad you're back on your feet!
I'm an interested photographer, who's yet to get any Wren shots! Any chance of giving me an idea where in the Moat they are please?
Thanks
Andrew
Yes. If you enter Mote Park from the Willington Street entrance opposite Downswood, after about five minutes you will cross over a bridge. If you wait patiently you will be able to get some good photos. This bridge is also the best place for getting some decent shots of Kingfishers as they move up and down the River Len. Also, if luck is on your side, you may also view a Lesser Spotted Woodpecker feeding up in the Alders.
All the best.
Thanks Simon, much appreciated!
Andrew
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