South of the Sahara to here

I’m in Oxfordshire, and a photograph of a Greater Whitethroat in deep pink cherry blossom is my aim. Especially if I can get one with a beautiful blue sky behind.

I’m standing what I think is a respectful distance away from the tree, dressed in camouflage and making no unnecessary movements. The movements I make when people’s dogs come and sniff my genitals as I stand here are entirely necessary, given the size of their incisors.

I haven’t seen the Whitethroat in this tree, so I’m choosing to take a risk. I’ve selected the background and the environment first, and am waiting for the Whitethroat to come and play in it. The tree is relatively short and the male Whitethroat tends to like to sing from the taller trees. I might be wasting my time being out in nature, in beautiful weather, surrounded by bird song and with a beautiful flowering tree to appreciate. On the other hand, what better way is there to spend your life?

The Greater Whitethroat comes into the tree at the back, obscured by branches, and then flies off again. That’s frustrating.

It takes a few hours, and multiple dog experiences, before a Greater Whitethroat comes and sits amongst the blossom.

Greater Whitethroat - The Hall of Einar - photograph © David Bailey (not the)

Lovely.

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Mrs Christine Noble
on Blonde Bombshell
I live in Yeovil South Somerset and I saw one of these blonde bees for the first time in my garden . It is only a small garden but for the last few years I...
Colin
on 260,000 territories
The Wren has an interesting name, here in Germany: "Zaunkönig" (Fence-King)!
David @ the HALL of EINAR
on 260,000 territories
Thanks so much Colin - much appreciated. Yes, many small birds are very loud - although I think the Wren should hold the record for decibels per gramme.
Colin
on 260,000 territories
Great pictures- thanks! Never heard of Sedge Warblers... A lot of Willow Warblers around here. Never ceases to amaze me how such a small bird can produce so many decibels!
David @ the HALL of EINAR
on Marsh Harrier overhead
Yes, they're stunners, Elisabeth. I hope you will see one in the future
Elisabeth Sidler
on Marsh Harrier overhead
What a beautiful bird! It does not breed here in Switzerland, but it does pass through. I have never seen one - I didn't even know it existed.
David @ the HALL of EINAR
on Song Thrush
Thanks Colin - yes, they're very attractive birds. I love the cascade of upside-down hearts on their chests, too.
David @ the HALL of EINAR
on Tinkling Goldfinch
Thanks so much Elisabeth - much appreciated!
Elisabeth Sidler
on Tinkling Goldfinch
The pictures do the birds credit!

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