Friday 6th March - Winter Shrike

Went for a walk on Iping Common this morning. A cool wind and grey skies suggested Winter isn't giving up easily. The Great Grey Shrike which has been on the common all Winter showed again on the walk . Each time (this had been my third visit this winter) the view has improved, from fleeting, to distant, to this time when it was slightly nearer and more co-operative even though the wind and grey skies made a good photo elusive - If it's still there in a month I might be able to stroke it .

A brief view of a Dartford Warbler and Stonechat, a singing Yellowhammer and the distant calls of Woodlark were the only other activity.

The Iping Great Grey Shrike

.... and off again

Cows employed to graze the heathland at Stedham