A pictorial diary of my walks around the parks and wild areas of Leicestershire, and occasionally farther afield.

If you're new to my blog, you might like to have a look at the pictures in the older post as well (click on button at the bottom of the page).

I am also a writer, using the pen-name John Gwynant, and I'll occasionally announce my latest book release on the blog.

Saturday, April 12, 2014

Curiosity and the Red Deer - April 2014

Bradgate Park looked great in the spring sunshine, but initially there wasn't much wildlife about. So I decided to take some pics of the buildings and ruins.
1/1000 @ f6.3, iso 400, 100mm
I have been reliably informed that the picture above cannot be taken. But if you find the right place all three, as you can see are there. In the foreground is the ruin of Lady Jane Grey's family home. On the hill behind, with its arch clearly visible is Old John. It used to be thought of as a mill, but now the general opinion is that it was a folly.  On the ridge to the left is the war memorial.
1/1000 @ f6.3, iso 400, 400mm
As I rode my mobility scooter up the side of the ruined house, this group of Red Deer became curious and wandered over to have a look at me.
1/1000 @ f6.3, iso 400, 320mm
Some of them weren't shy about coming forward to have a look.
1/1000 @ f6.3, iso 400, 400mm
While others decided to stay with the protection of the bushes.
1/1000 @ f6.3, iso 400, 210mm
Then headed for the hills.
1/800 @ f6.3, iso 400, 210mm

All taken on Canon EOS 7D, EF 100 - 400mm L series Lens

Thursday, April 3, 2014

Up in the Air

Birds have bullies to, look at the body language in this picture, the belligerent Nuthatch really seems to have the blue tit worried. It was on the stump in Swithland Woods.

1/400 @ f6.3, iso 800, 400mm
This Coal Tit seems to have found an invisible perch.

1/400 @ f6.3, iso 800, 400mm
This Coal Tit just cannot find the invisible perch.

1/500 @ f6.3, iso 1600, 400mm
These three are more interested in the food

1/500 @ f6.3, iso 1600, 400mm
1/640 @ f6.3, iso 1600, 400mm
1/640 @ f6.3, iso 1600, 400mm

All taken on Canon EOS 7d, EF 100 - 400mm L series lens