Stonechat 4 October In late September and into October we heard stonechat on our coastal walks, and saw flocks of linnet sweep over the shore and disappear into the stubble of autumn fields. Then came a magical half hour above the cliffs at Pigeon Stream, on the Marine Drive beyond Douglas. Our vehicle served as a hide and a family of stonechat flitted about gorse and on the stout fence about the cliff-top car park. A flock of linnet were about and one settled on the fence. Then came another visitor!
The flocks of small birds attracted a raptor. A kestrel appeared on the fence. Not sure who was more startled. The place fell silent and the birds were gone.
A charming interlude. Seen close, the detail on stonechat and linnet is striking. I love the disposition of claws as they perch on the wooden fence, the eye-ring, the warm colour and subtleties of plumage.
A charming interlude. Seen close, the detail on stonechat and linnet is striking. I love the disposition of claws as they perch on the wooden fence, the eye-ring, the warm colour and subtleties of plumage.
The pier at Ramsey was a good place to see birds. This flock of linnet foraged on seeding flowers on the shore and perched on the harbour wall. Out to sea there were gannet.
The Three Legs of Man is a national emblem and appears everywhere, with a difference. The symbol dates back to 13th century so the legs are clad in armour. Sometimes the heels have rowel spurs, sometimes not. We saw the Maughold cross which bears this same symbol.
The Three Legs of Man is a national emblem and appears everywhere, with a difference. The symbol dates back to 13th century so the legs are clad in armour. Sometimes the heels have rowel spurs, sometimes not. We saw the Maughold cross which bears this same symbol.
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