Set off on Tuesday in beautiful conditions. No wind, no rain and the sun was shining. Picked up Jeff in Cramlington but as we proceeded through Morpeth and northwards the light deteriorated as the cloud descended. Never mind, as far as i'm concerned strong or blustery winds make for the worst conditions when out walking.
We left the car in the parking area just past Lordenshaw and at the top of the first rise were greeted by the very seasonal tree in the first picture, mind it could have done with some nice lights.Despite the clouds the views were still cracking with a couple of Roe Deer and a Fox being the only mammals we saw. On the bird front, Red Grouse exploded into the air, whirred and glided regularly all the time we were walking. Apart from a few Crows and four Greylag Geese which passed overhead there was nothing to match the pair of Red Kites we had seen soaring in the Langlee valley last week.Oh yes there were some other birds i spotted, Swans, on Caistron lake, well as you can see in the pic it was quite distant and i'm not sure what type. You can see along with Caistron the meandering Coquet river also as it heads towards Rothbury passing Thropton on the way.
Due to the vast amounts of rain of late, underfoot conditions at times were treacherous and if not for my walking poles would have come a cropper on four occasions. If you are thinking about, or have just started doing any kind of "off path" walking get a pair of poles.
Note the use of Meandering....Davy Tee
Aye one of my favorite places John, I have had many a good Meander up on them yar hills. In fact my avatar on Bird forum is taken on top of Simonside.
ReplyDeleteCracking views Johnny
ReplyDeleteSome lovely scenic pics. They almost make me feel home sick. Still in Bali. Hope to see you out and about. I'll be the one looking like David Dickinson. Bobby Dazzler!
ReplyDeleteCheers guys
ReplyDeleteI may get some snowy shots on Wednesday.....heading up Alwinton way. Have been enjoying the postings from Bali.......you might be in for a shock weather wise when you get back to blighty. That tan might turn to rust quite quickly.
John