Ducks Deluxe...

For the first time in several weeks, I venture back into the New Forest to seek out the new-born foals, but again I draw a blank. I'm told (again) that it's still too early for the mares to have given birth, although opinions seem to vary. So, off to the secondary target in the hope that I will catch a glimpse of the Mandarin ducks (Aix galericulata) that live on Eyeworth pond, near Fritham, Hampshire. Having made several visits since last October that proved fruitless, today I was treated to the unexpected bonanza of several pairs that not only came into range to be photographed, but decided this was the time to mate. The waterfowl is not high on the birdwatchers conservation list because of its alien origins, and many regard it as "plastic", but few can deny the stunning plumage that the male of the species possesses.

© 2008

Boscombe seafront...

After several months of being plagued with a "gammy foot", last week's operation seems to have solved the problem, and now allows me unrestricted movement. Today, I decide to test my new found mobility with a 5 mile walk along the seafront, and suffered no adverse reactions. Of course, I had a camera with me, and took the opportunity to record the current progress of Boscombe Spa Village and the re-development of the Boscombe Overstrand, which is now in an advanced state (foreground).
The artificial surf reef construction, which has experienced several delays, is scheduled to begin in May, and will be completed by October.

© 2008

Groynes 27-33

The latest phase of replenishment was completed this morning between groynes 27-33 (Portman to Fisherman's Walk), Bournemouth, and is part of an annual top up to keep the beach volume high. Since the replenishment schemes began in 1970, the beach has now essentially become an artificial feature; the natural supply of sand and gravel being prevented since the construction of seawalls and groynes, designed to stop erosion so that houses could be built on the cliff tops. The work is funded 100% by Grant Aid from The Environment Agency, and two more top ups are planned over the next two years.

© 2008

Call that a storm?

The worst storm of the winter (words of the weather forecasters) came in during the early hours, today. With heavy rain, and wind gusts up to 80 mph predicted, I prepared my cameras for shooting in such conditions. However, by first light, the Dorset coast was bathed in sunshine with blue skies, and the gale force winds had dropped to breeze level. But all was not over, as a second front began to batter the coast by mid-morning. I decided that the exposed areas would give the best images, and headed for Hengistbury head, on the far eastern coast of the county. It was there that the wind off the heavy seas made the act of just standing upright a challenge. I shot a mere 8 frames before the weather got the better of me and my equipment, and I retreated to the shelter of the car. By early afternoon the skies had, once again, cleared.
Shooting under such conditions is at best, difficult. Keeping the front element of the lens dry, and the camera steady is a major effort, but you do get images that most people wouldn't bother attempting.

© 2008