Afternoon Walk - 6th January

 A beautiful afternoon at Asylum Lake. 

One of my favourite views down by the point where the beavers were really busy last year. Once upon a time there were several trees on the strip of land, but most were taken down in 2021 by the beavers. 

From the lake I walked up along the trail and instead of going through the woods continued on the main path. I like this view through this arched tree. 

Just beyond this tree I heard some birds and looked up to see some lovely bluebirds. They really are such beautiful birds, especially in winter when everything can be rather dull. 

These are male bluebirds. They are more colourful and a brighter blue colour. They can be seen most of the year round at the lake - you just have to look for them! The one in the top photo found a nice bit of green and berries to feast on.

As I walked along I was delighted to see lots of other birds out enjoying the sunshine and finding what food they could. Late last year several non-native berry bushes were cut down. I understand the reason behind cutting them down, but it has left the birds with fewer berries to feast on.

Cedar Waxwing. 

Red-Bellied Woodpecker in a crab apple tree. 

Robin. There have been a lot of these around this year. Usually, I see a few in the winter but not as many as I have this year!

As I was watching these birds I caught sight of some deer enjoying the sunshine too, bedded down in the snow. 

A fantastic day to see some of the winter residents of the lake. 

On my way back to my car I was delighted to catch sight of this wonderful Hermit Thrush hiding beneath some bushes. A treat! I can't remember seeing on in winter before.