Curlew Encounter

After yesterday’s waxwing experience, it’s off to RSPB Conwy today. The sun is shining, but the wind blowing off the river is brisk to say the least. I probably prefer the river flat-calm and mirror-like, but there’s something both refreshing and life affirming about walking along the estuary. G has walked on ahead - to be honest, I think he’s assumed I’ll only walk the inner circuit. But I’m feeling surprisingly energised, enjoying walking and feeling better than I have all year. Long may it last! 

Along the estuary, I come across a bird walking along the path some distance ahead of me. At first I think it may be a female pheasant, but as I get closer, I realise it’s a curlew - one of my favourite birds.  I slow down, taking shots from a distance, knowing he will fly off as soon as he spots me. He moves into the riverbank vegetation, pausing for a while and I take my shot  - my blip today (much better large). He then decides the high-tide covered mud banks offer nothing in terms of food, and flies off in search of better feeding grounds - probably the salt-marsh of Traeth Lafan. 

Thanks so much for your kindness shown towards yesterday’s waxwings - much appreciated!