Starry Starry Night

Last full day, boooo!

A wildlife and sun day was decided on as we headed for the Brière natural park in the hope of seeing some Bluethroats. A frustrating day all-told, as the Bluethroats could be heard in many places, but not making themselves seen (at least I don't think so, I've got some shots that might be females or juveniles). Add into that the French habits that we've encountered in many places, with signs to places appearing and disappearing, never really sure if you're in the right place, and all of the places to stop being geared towards taking canal barge trips and horse-carriage rides, instead of walking (the proponents of the two former activities well catered for with cabins and, importantly, price boards; walkers given no indication of where they can even begin their visit).

Still, it was a beautiful place when you did get into it; and I got a first ever Marsh Harrier.

Oh, and an obstinate horse....

With the sun setting on the holiday we got back to the cottage in darkness and started the packing, before standing out staring at the stars. It's only really the last two nights that the skies have been clear at night, and the rurality of this place makes itself known with cracking views of the Milky Way (which is in the shot above); but also of rising planets, like Jupiter.

And done. Pah.