Lesley's Nature Watch - They Flew in from the Cold!

These hardy Lapwings have come here for the winter to escape far worse weather in the North, so a 'Wintery Shower' of hail & sleet has little effect on them. Here, they can still find food in the fields & this is why you will see many huge flocks of Lapwings, or Peewits as they are affectionately named because of their call, feeding on farmland or reeling in flocks in the sky above. Already this winter, I've enjoyed the sight & sounds of many such flocks, one of my many favorite winter spectacles. Imagine my shock therefore, when last night on television, many eminent british bird experts lamented the loss of such flocks, over recent years, from the British countryside.

November....and beyond

We only have one walk a month from November to March, partly because weather conditions tend to deteriorate (although December has been better for walking than August in recent years) and hence places with reliable paths are harder to find. It's a good idea to make use of the Green Ways (old railway tracks and canal towpaths) in winter, as well as the coastal path, where rocky terrain is often preferable to trawling through the deep mud of rural lanes. There's an article on Winter Walking on the Brittany Walks website (http://www.brittanywalks.com/) if you are looking for a bit of exercise, or buy the new Red Dog guide to the Green Ways for some inspiration.
Join us for a walk on December 7 at St Rivoal, or for a day in Rennes on December 14th.

Hot, sunny walk - honestly!

We had a great walk in warm sunshine yesterday afternoon, quite unexpected after heavy rain and lowering skies in the morning. It was a really lovely occasion with new French friends joining us and drinks afterwards at Ty Grean. Thanks to everyone who participated. And THANK YOU DAVE for the photos!

Walk at Ty Grean, Tues 9th November

Our walk on Tuesday, 9th November starts at 2pm from the large parking area at Ty Grean, on the main road (D785) between Pleyber-Christ and Plouneour-Menez. There's a well-signed café/bar there. It's a very pleasant rural route, mostly very easy, but be prepared for mud in places after rainy weather. Some uphill stretches, but nothing too strenous, and not too long (about 7kms). Look forward to seeing you there!

Lesley's Nature Watch. AUTUMN................

...............SPEAKS FOR ITSELF. Go out there & enjoy!