British and American names

Went out today, around the Kiskunsag region, with 2 guys from the USA. First up were 17 Great Bustards, great views in good light. Later a couple of Rough-legged Buzzards (Rough-legged Hawks to the Americans), a few superb male Hen Harriers (Northern Harriers to the Americans), then Great Grey Shrikes (Northern Shrikes to the Americans), Great White Egrets (Great Egrets to the Americans) and so on. What did Churchill say? Two nations separated by a common language?

This year's achievement!

This was another good year. In fact, 2011 was the year that I achieved another personal goal. I saw my 7th, and final, species in the Dryocopus genus... Andaman Woodpecker. 

Feeding Birds

It's cold, zero C, but there are very few birds coming to the garden to take the various seed and bird-cake I have placed out. A few Great Tits nip in and take the black sunflower seed, but that's more or less it. Maybe it has to get really cold, really tough and food supplies elsewhere to run out ?  

A Successful Trip!

So I have done my 4 talks (Woodpeckers of Europe) in the NW of the UK. Seems to have gone well. Thanks to everyone who came along!

3 done, 1 new one to go !

So 3 talks in the UK done, and an extra one in Leigh, near Manchester, has come up. I am standing in for someone who cannot make it on Friday... last minute, different subject, but good for everyone.

One Talk Done... 2 to go

Seems my talk WOODPECKERS OF EUROPE was a success in Liverpool last night. So, on to Wigan !

3 talks in the UK

I am giving 3 talks in the UK at RSPB local groups this week. I will be at Liverpool (Dec 12th), Wigan (Dec 13th) and North Staffs, Stoke (Dec 14th). Title of my illustrated lecture is Woodpeckers of Europe. If you are in those areas on those dates then see you there!