Holmethorpe Smew


Even though I don't 'year list' I do still get caught up with the madness that inflicts birders during the first few days of the year - that being the rabid need to get out into the field and see as many species as possible.

And so I went to Holmethorpe SPs this morning, to pay my respects to the redhead Smew that are wintering on Mercer's Lake. The two birds present had become three overnight, and if you squint hard enough you may just about be able to see them in the amateur photographic offering above.

It was more pleasing to meet up once again with Gordon Hay and Ian Kehl, who, like the Ravens at the Tower of London, preside over their domain with a steadfast devotion which instils comfort for us visitors.

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