Bird ringing

Today I went to Woolley Firs (BBOWT) near Maidehead to watch the Runnymede Ringing Group in action.  Carl Hunter Roach explained the process.  I was very fortunate to get to hold and release a blue tit.  The wonderful site with an arboretum and surrounding fields is home to many species of birds.  During the ringing session I saw dunnock, coal tit, goldcrest, blue tit, great tit and long tailed tits.  We could hear the call of a greater spotted woodpecker and there was a mistle thrush high up in the trees.  Next we went on a walk with Dan (of BBOWT) and Brian, a local bird expert.  Sightings included buzzards, lapwings, redkites, goldfinch, redwing and greenfinch.  We also heard sky larks.  It was a great way to spend a morning!