2013 retrospective

It is traditional at this time of year to take something of a look back at the year gone, and perhaps make some plans for the year to come. For today I will concentrate on the year gone before worrying too much about making plans for the year to come. Without further ado here are ten of my favourites from 2013.
Click on any of the photos to enlarge

No.10 Fieldfare
This bird was part of a large mixed flock of Thrush which gradually came towards me as they worked a local field.

No.9 Wren
Wrens are packed full of character flitting about proclaiming their territory with a range of whistles, rattles and staccato clicks. The mossy tree trunk seems so fitting here.

No.8 Bluebell Woods
Is there a more archetypal Lakeland scene than a Bluebell Wood, only enhanced by a waft of the wonderful scent these flowers give off.

No.7 Coot displaying
Although not scarce, Coot are wonderful value, always displaying, chasing each other or fighting over something or other. This display pose immediately preceded such a chase and fight.

No.6 Goldfinch
A frequent visitor to my garden, Goldfinch are a bird I always enjoy seeing.

No.5 Chaffinch
This particular Chaffinch was collecting insects along the banks of the River Kent, presumably to feed a nearby brood. It was also surprisingly confiding, often coming so close that I could not focus on it as it worked its way along the river.

No.4 Pied Wagtail
I always think these are rather smart and dapper little birds. On this occasion very much in its environment.

No.3 Red Squirrel
Red Squirrel are always going to score high on cute alone, this one is no exception.


No.2 Coot
The light reflecting off the water was illuminating this Coot beautifully when a gust of wind put it off balance and ruffled its feathers - literally.


No.1 Red Squirrel
My number one for 2013 is another Red Squirrel, again full on cute, but this time scurrying up a tree trunk. Just a Squirrel doing what Squirrels do.