Over the past few days things have been ticking over. The paddock seems alive with Pheasants at the moment. Redwings and a few Fieldfares have been in the scrubby fields in front of Happy Valley. Still no Waxwings but I might be hoping for a lot there!!. Hen Harriers were in the valley with a pair interacting with each other across the hillsides. Later we had a single bird attempt to quarter the hill and paddock but was set upon by a hoodie and thought better of it. The Redpolls continue to circulate around the valley. I have now seen them in Russadale quarry Happy Valley and around the house. They were around here twice today, first light and later when I got in at last light. The last visit was the best so far I managed to get within five feet and take a snap. I ran inside and dragged the wife out for a close view and managed another close approach. It was excellent to watch as they moved through the hedge devouring insects in an acrobatic manner. So that’s about it ,chuck in Sparrow hawk, Kestrel and Peregrine action and yet another flyover by a woodcock its not been a bad couple of days….I really must get out and do some birding some time tho….