Hawfinches at Sizergh Castle, Cumbria

March 27, 2012:
Hawfinches have recently been reported to be showing well at one of their best-known Cumbria locations at the castle car-park. Hornbeam and beech fruits normally provide their food here but at this stage of late winter it has been supplemented by a human agency with additonal seed. It is rare to get such good, close views of Hawfinches and at least five birds were present today. However, an early start is necessary to be sure of seeing them before the car-park reverts to its normal use.















Bullfinches, Greenfinches, a Jackdaw and a Blackbird also joined in the free meal

Another view through the window

December 26-28, 2010:
Continued hard weather brought more new birds to the garden. A single Redwing was the first one seen here since last winter......


............but wasn't made welcome by the more aggressive of the sixteen resident Blackbirds.


Perhaps the greatest surprise was the Waxwing attracted by the apples.





A fine male Bullfinch paid a short visit to seed put out under the protection of the feeder cage



In addition there was a large number of House Sparrows, several Starlings, three Robins, three Collared Doves, a Wood Pigeon, the usual three Tit species, several Chaffinches, a Jackdaw and, yet an other surprise...four Pheasants.