Arsefoot Fishing

The great crested grebe gets its scientific name Podiceps cristatus from the fact that its legs are set very far back on its body near its vent. Hence the name arsefoot. They are wonderful swimmers and divers but the position of their legs makes walking difficult. 

Another name for them is satin bird on account of their beautiful, soft, fur-like plumage. Emily Williamson of The Plumage League and Eliza Phillips of the Fur, Fin and Feather Group amalgamated to form the RSPB in Victorian times against killing birds for their feathers to trim hats and undergarments. The RSPB was originally an all-woman organisation mocked by men.

Ollie dog and I enjoyed walking in the rain at Amwell Nature Reserve and meeting some friendly dogs. :)