Going Going Gone...

 So yesterday I shared some pictures of a Common Crossbill, the first time I have been able to photograph these interesting birds.

Today I have shared a short sequence to show how the bird uses its unique bill shape to get hold of its food and how it twists its neck round while keeping its body almost completely still. I am not sure what it was eating but it obviously went down well. It also went down very quickly, in a matter of seconds in fact.

Feeding Time for Mini Beast

Walking through the grounds at Vaux le Vicomte on a hot day in May I wasn't too surprised to spot one or two common lizards basking in the sun . What I didn't expect was to see one having lunch.  I was slightly disappointed to have missed the moment when this little chap caught his prey but it was so cool to watch as he tried to devour it. 

As I approached with my camera I could see that he was becoming increasingly wary in case I was after his meal. In the first shot you can see from his pose that he is standing guard over his meal. 

I am not entirely sure what it is but I think it is a large cricket or similar insect. I was impressed to watch as the lizard dragged it around given its size relative to the lizard. I don't think it looks too appetising but the lizard seemed quite satisfied.

Marvelous Monarch

Walking around the Mission Marsh conservation area on afternoon we spotted this magnificent male Monarch Butterfly feeding on the Golden Rod (along side a couple of honey bees).

These really are amazing insects. Did you know that the monarch is unique among butterflies in that rather than hibernate they migrate to a warmer climate with the changing seasons. For those that spend the summer months in Ontario it means a 6,000 km commute to Mexico. I find that really amazing, they look so fragile but they can travel such enormous distances. It is no wonder they spend such a long time feeding up on the sweet nectar that nature provides. 

Fill your boots

This male Chaffinch was certainly filling his boots at the bird feeding station in Royden Parks' walled garden. He didn't actually stop for very long and so getting these shots was very satisfying. I love the striking colours on this beautiful bird, from the blue grey on its head and beak to the pinks in his cheeks and his brown back and then the bold pattern on his wings.

He really is a beautiful little bird.