Bits and Bobs from Last few days

Not too much happening lately and with the end of the False Spring and a spell of Northerlies, things will probably slow down further.  At the Old Vic the birding highlight was a flock of Fieldfare (rare this winter locally)  but otherwise very quiet. The Blackcaps, Bullfinches, Siskins, Brambling and most of the Redwings have gone and replaced only by a couple of Chiffchaffs so far (interesting that the wintering Blackcaps didn't stay to breed and will be replaced soon by birds that move in for the summer). Elsewhere on the Old Vic front the moth list has been creeping up slowly, the mini-farm is ticking over (put another raised bed in) and a few developments on the mini-zoo including some Aquarium dramas. 

I managed to get over Beddington Farmlands last week and met up with Zach (the first time this year). We've kicked the local election campaign off (more on this to follow). Spent the weekend recording the campaign song. We had the Hackbridge Neighbourhood Development Group AGM yesterday. Also completed on the new flat in Hackbridge last week and work commences tomorrow to get it ready for rental. 

Goldfinch collecting wool for nesting material from the Sheep Field

Brindled Beauty- NFY

Early Thorn (above) and Red-green Carpet (below)- both NFYs

Had a few of these caddisfly over last few days- hope to try and get a name on them as soon I can get a chance. It’s a stenophylax sp (but requires under carriage examination ). Possible Stenophylax permistus. 

Black-tailed Godwits at Beddington Farmlands last week. Also had Little Ringed Plover, Blackcaps and Green Sandpipers. 

Weekend at the studio with Harrison

At the Mini-zoo, the Madagascan Marbled Mantis (above) is doing well. Not so good in the Aquarium with the Angelfish, a Black-finned Cory, a Glowlight Tetra and a Platy all dying since we started a day night light cycle in the tank (as novices we'd had the light on 24 hours a day which can lead to problems). Presumably changing the cycle caused too much stress? We've ordered the new Paludarium tank with the plan to create a little bit of tropical swamp in the village.