Fire and Snow

Having only ever seen one Firecrest prior to this year, yesterday I took a half day at work and headed over to Swanbourne Lake, Arundel where I had heard reports that there were some birds in the area; however, I never expected what I was about to witness. As soon as I arrived I picked up one bird on the floor near the lake's edge (close to the red metal gate/Yew in South-west corner), feeding amongst the leaf litter. I quickly took a few snaps but as it was still early and fairly grey, there was little light available below the trees. I then lost the bird and spent the next 30-45 minutes trying to re-locate it. Richard Ives arrived and after a while we both had good views of another (or the same bird) near the wooden gate. Richard soon departed but with the opportunity of getting very close to some Firecrest, I decided to stay on. My luck was in. For the next few hours, I was afforded the most incredible close-up views of at least three Firecrests (plus supporting cast of three Goldcrests). Most of the time they were actively feeding on the ground, amongst the leaf litter and at times, even under my feet! Whilst the light was challenging, I was rewarded for my patience, when one bird hopped up on to the fence (in full light!). I quickly snapped away and managed to get a few good pics. At one point, I nearly got a shot of the bird with a moth (or another insect) in its beak - now that would have been good! They are truly beautiful birds - some photos below. Other birds seen, included Grey Wagtail, Treecreeper, Nuthatch, a drumming Great Spotted Woodpecker, Chaffinch, Wren, Robin, Song Thrush, Gadwall, Moorhen, Coot, Black-headed Gull, Great, Blue and Long-tailed Tit, and Buzzard.