Diary Of A Wild Country Garden

I went out this morning to fill up the bird feeders and to add a new one. It has been so cold here lately and we have had hard frosts and snow and high winds I am concerned for the birds. It was really cold so I did not intend to stay out long, although I was well wrapped up.  However, I walked back up to the house I was struck by the most beautiful bird song. I saw the robin high up on one of the shrubs clearly and proudly singing his little heart out. No doubt starting to re-establish his territory. I heard other birds, sparrows I think, a blackbird, a coo of a wood pigeon. As I stood still and silent I began to hear more and it was the most wonderful orchestra of birdsong. I thought people would pay to go sit in theatres to hear this most stunning of music and here it is all around me.  As I stood there silent and perfectly still I noticed a large male blackbird nearby. He was intent on kicking up the leaves and searching for food underneath. He looked at me but ...

Even though we are in early January, walking around our garden today I can see signs of life. Winter is well and truly here and bare branches are everywhere on the trees but look closely, look for longer and you can see the promise...    This year so far we have not had snow just fierce winds and storms and rain and tidal surges but no snow so its easier to see the tiny signs.  The elephant's ears are starting to bloom one is out in full pink bloom a welcome sight on a cold dull day.  There are a few shoots peeping up from the bulbs I planted in the autumn. The Camillia is laden quite heavy with tightly closed buds I sense waiting for warmer weather and is doing very well despite being somewhat battered by the destructive winds we have had.  Our large Magnolia from a distance looks in the depths of winter but upon closer inspection, I can see the buds all there just waiting to bide their time before they burst forth in gorgeous creamy white blossom. O...