Formby & Crosby

We headed up to Formby to see how the Squirrels are doing these days. We expected a struggle to see any but we had one pointed out in a feeding station before we'd even passed through the gate. We saw many red (and almost black) squirrels, although mostly at a distance and in the gloom under the canopy. Most of the shots are from one area that had less canopy cover. A tripod will be useful next time, holding heavy lenses is tricky when you're pointing straight up.

Red Squirrel

Red Squirrel

Red Squirrel

Red Squirrel

Red Squirrel

 There were also some birds around, making the most of the nuts, including a pair of Jays although they were more wary than the squirrels.

Magpie

Woodpigeon

Magpie

Carrion Crow

Walkers on Formby beach

As there was some time left before having to go home we called in at Anthony Gormley's Other Place. There were lots of waders out by the shore but as we didn't have any wellies with us we had to make do with the statues.

Other Place

Other Place

Organic and Inorganic paddlers

Another Place

Another Place

Helsby Hill

A muddy squidge around Helsby Hill. We've been before and there wasn't much around, and this theme continued. Still very wet in places. We did see Goldcrests and a Grey Wagtail on the way round, but not close enough for decent pictures.

Helsby route

Helsby elevation profile

Robin

Galls with exit holes

Mad staring cat (not pictured, the even madder staring cat sitting behind)

Robin

Squirrel!

Sinking into the quagmire