All things must pass...

...and that includes the Bramblehall Wood Hawfinch extravaganza. I last visited on April 1st, when there were still 200 present. I had toyed with the idea of not going again, to preserve the memory of the largest ever UK flock, but as the week wore on decided that seeing as I was present at the birth I ought to be around for the demise. So this morning, in chilly, drizzly and misty conditions, a (possibly) last Hawfinch-induced trudge along the muddy footpath was taken. I stood at the favoured viewing point for two hours and saw three birds. It had to end. In some ways it was a bit of a relief, as I've spent too much time here over the past 10 weeks, but it has been time well spent, observing a never-to-be repeated (at least not in my lifetime) ornithological happening. I'd like to thank each and every Hawfinch for the thrills, joy and wonder that they've brought, but that just sounds plain stupid.

I also checked the nearby woods and valleys that have, at times, been dripping with Hawfinches. Not one. Not even a single call. They really have moved on.

Comments

Simon Douglas Thompson said…
The nature of the seasons. On a smaller scale the egrets and goosander that decorated the town pond have gone
9 April 2018 at 21:43
Steve Gale said…
To be replaced by a host of other migrants Simon. The joys of nature.
10 April 2018 at 07:13
Derek Faulkner said…
First 2 Sedge Warblers this morning on The Swale NNR.
10 April 2018 at 10:32
Steve Gale said…
They're coming...
10 April 2018 at 12:23
Factor said…
Gulp... I never got to see the huge flocks but at least I got to witness some of the Hawfinch in that area. About 50, I reckon, one morning. One Hawfinch is still a sight to behold though.
14 April 2018 at 21:29
Steve Gale said…
May never be repeated Neil...
15 April 2018 at 13:33
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