A plethora of pigeons

We've always had wood pigeons in our garden, but when we first moved here fifteen years ago there were usually one or two pairs at the most. We've seen a dramatic increase in the number of wood pigeons in recent years, and this morning counted thirteen, either feeding on the lawn amongst the sprinkling of snow or sitting in the surrounding trees. This is in line with a national increase - it's estimated that the UK population doubled between 2008 and 2009.

Although a lot of people don't like wood pigeons (and if I was a farmer trying to grow brassicas, I certainly wouldn't like them) they are very beautiful birds. In large you can really see the lovely purplish and greenish tones surrounding the white neck patch. Though I enjoy watching them, we are now unable to grow any leafy greens unless they are protected.

It's been a busy but very positive day, with little time for photography. This morning I was at a meeting where we finally got the go ahead to plant a new hedge along the boundary of an ancient woodland that has been absorbed into an urban area. This should screen it from the adjacent dual carriageway, providing shelter for wildlife and reducing the impact of traffic noise for the residents who walk in the wood.

This afternoon there was another meeting to discuss the setting up of a local biological recording group. There was a reasonable turn out and we agreed some priorities, both species and habitats. It looks like the group should be up and running for next season - all quite exciting!

Having slithered into and back from the city along ice-coated streets, I'm now going to have a lazy evening - perhaps with a glass of relaxing red wine. Cheers everybody!