On the line

I used to annoy my Mum by hanging bird feeders on the washing line at home, but here I don't mind if birds want to sit on the line.

Especially if they're Spotted Flycatchers

These young Swallows have been teetering on the skinny washing line this morning. There are swarms of youngsters about at the moment, so I think I might try to find a thicker line so they can perch in comfort...

photos taken with Canon EOS 30D, EF 300mm f/4L IS USM + kitchen window

Big 'un

First, some shots with the big camera

Bees can't get enough of Cranesbill

Spotted Flycatcher in next-door's garden. Closer inspection has revealed this bird is collecting insects, presumably for a brood of chicks somewhere...

Flowers at The Lodge

Red-eyed Damselfly

photos taken with Canon EOS 30D, EF 300mm f/4L IS USM

Catching flies

This Spotted Flycatcher has been around the garden for three days now. I've seen it occasionally perching on the washing line post (favoured by the woodpeckers), my runner bean poles and the fence (above), from where it swoops down towards the lawn to grab insects.

Hopefully I'll be able to get some better photos before it clears off.

photos taken with Canon EOS 30D, EF 300mm f/4L IS USM + kitchen window