I spent last week holdaying in Pembrokeshire, not birding specifically
but observing what was around me. The result was quite few birds that I
have not seen before. The first new bird was a gannet- several in fact
diving just off the beach at saundersfoot. I have wanted to see Gannets
for some time so that was a pleasant surpise, especially as I had not
expected them in such a touristy place.
A boat trip around ramsey island not only turned up some seals but
several shags – also a first. Plus a small colony of Fulmar  and a
peregrine overhead.
A little down the coast in Solva was a pair of  Rock Pipit hopping around the rocks and appearing very playful.
The following day at Boshterston lilly ponds – absolutlely gorgeous
place, throughly recommend a visit – I watched 3 flycatchers of some
type. They were too far away to be sure but I think they may have
been  the red breasted variety. I have been hoping for a
flycatcher this year and this was a bonus. I hope for a better view on
my next encounter.

These may not sound like spectacular birds but for a Hallow resident in
the land locked centre of the country these are all very pleasant
finds. You dont get them here.
Below is a photo of a Fulmar that I somehow captured from a rocky boat in the rain.

Last week produced a couple of interesting birds around Hallow, particularly in my local vicinity.The top bird was a hobby that streaked over my house yesterday. This is definitley the best bird seen from my garden even if the view was fleeting (syrpassing the kingfisher that zoomed past last year). Earlier in the week a pair of tawny owls were calling from trees and roof tops. There call was so loud it could be heard 20 miles away! ( my wife was on the phone and the other person could hear it). This takes my year tally to 3 types of owl with little owls being present  in Grimley and Barn owls along Shoulton lane.