Tuesday 15 October – Swinford

A windless and reasonably warm morning with a clear blue sky saw 21 birders assemble at the Swan Inn. After a slight delay, while lunch orders were taken, we set off with a spring in our steps and were soon walking dew-fresh paths to one of the many viewpoints in the area, noting Jackdaws, Crows, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Raven, Song Thrush and Pied Wagtail on the way. A refreshment stop in a churchyard was accompanied by the music of strimmers as a gardens team cut back the grass around the stones of my namesake. Later, on the Bristol – Bath cycle path and footway, we noted Green Woodpecker, Goldcrest, Jay, Grey Wagtail and three Goldfinches but the star birds were Kingfisher, Grey Heron and two Buzzards as we walked beside the River Avon on the way back to the pub, ably led by Duncan Gill. A total count of 25 species was recorded.