The cold, murky weather and lack of sun has not been ideal for photography. However at least it hasn't been raining. Living in Alton, I have always felt so lucky to have such a variety of interesting and under-watched sites so close. For many years my focus has been on doing nature-on-foot-and-by-bike. All of the photos shown here are taken from walks or cycle rides from home without using the car at all.
Grey Wagtails have been regular at Alton Flood Meadows - but so dark and murky under the trees it was difficult to get a sharp shot. No sign of Water Rails there yet this winter - when present they tend to be most visible on a proper hard freeze.
Kingfishers have been seen at the Flood Meadows, Kings Pond, and along the Wey
Its been a good winter locally for wintering Stonechats - particularly on the Upper Greensand. Numbers had dropped off significantly after the run of very cold winters we had a few years ago but have now recovered. They like rough field edges and hedges. But this one had found a good supply of insects on a dung heap - along with Pied Wagtails and Meadow Pipits.
A very distant view of a Peregrine on a pylon in the murk.
