Urban Ouzel

Made the short but hectic journey around Staines this morning, after giving in to the report of a male Ring Ouzel kicking about at Staines Moor for its fourth day running; no doubt on a quick fuel stop before continuing its migration further north.

Upon arrival, I was greeted by a break in the clouds, and it wasn't long before a 'funny looking Blackbird' flew across the path into a hawthorn bush, hopping down to feed on worms amongst the many anthills.

As far as Ring Ouzels go, this was a pretty confiding bird, and showed very well at times in the presence of Linnets and Meadow Pipits, with the scenic backdrop of the M25, and the calming sound of jumbo jets overhead. I'm starting to feel the effect of lugging 3.5 kg of camera equipment around the moor for 3 hours, so I'm going to shut up now, but the photos haven't come out too badly...

Crouching low to the ground, as a pair of Buzzards circled above...

And hopping back down to feed again...

There was a nice supporting cast, including a distant Red Kite, and my first Sand Martins of the year.

This Chiffchaff was sporting a silver ring on its right leg-- pat on the back for whoever can read the code...

Grey Wagtail...

A soggy Linnet...

Sand Martin, fresh in from Africa...