October 25, 2007
morning migration and maladies
For a couple of weeks now mornings in Orsay have dawned crisp and sunny, just perfect weather for getting out and about. Unfortunately for me, I've been working non-stop writing a research grant, preparing for a job interview (in bonny Scotland) and to top it all off, I was diagnosed with tonsillitis a few days ago! French doctors don't leave things to chance, and I had a veritable shopping spree in the local pharmacy. All this for a sore throat!
In my carefree days a couple of weeks ago, I recorded the first Redwings (Grive mauvis) of the fall, while Coal Tits (Mesange noire - mostly a winter visitor locally) and Chaffinches (Pinson des arbres) increased in number on campus. Robins (Rougegorge familier) are ubiquitous.
Visible migration was in full swing on the plateau: lots of Skylarks (Alouette des champs), a smattering of Woodlarks (Alouette lulu), all three wagtails, the odd Yellowhammer (Bruant jaune)...
... and hordes of Meadow Pipits (Pipit farlouse)...
... amongst which were a good few Tree Pipits (Pipit des arbres).
Abundant finch flocks contained the odd Siskin (Tarin des aulnes), but only Greenfinch (Verdier) and Goldfinch (Chardonneret) posed for the camera.
Blue Tits (Mesange bleue) and blue sky.
The resident Marsh Tits (Mesange nonnette) have been making the most of windfall crab apples.
All four woodpeckers have been active and vocal recently. This Great Spotted Woodpecker (Pic epeiche) sat in the same treetop for about 10 minutes, making the most of the early morning sun.
This Grey Heron (Heron cendre) has been regularly visiting a pond on campus towards sunset.
Coming soon: tart's ticks and siskins galore in Brittany.
Posted by rjhall at October 25, 2007 9:30 PM