Friday 16 December 2011

Sri Lanka - December

I have just returned from a working trip to the beautiful country of Sri Lanka, I shall be a UK based Tour Operative for a newly fledged travel company that is being launched shortly. Had an amazing time, so many wonderful experiences, I climbed a mountain side in flip flops, rode through a forest on a motorbike with flowers in my hair, had songs sang to me and was fed so well, had 2 constant companions, two local boys(senior tour leaders within the company) who were my bodyguards, chauffeurs, guides as well as being my best friends and great all round guys, just wonderful. I was treated with respect, care and full attention at all times. The wildlife/birds never failed to amaze, I just loved every minute and was sad to leave. I shall be visiting Sri Lanka regurlarly, we shall have an office in Colombo in due course and will be working from there at times as well as here in the UK. The trip was a complete success and a personal challenge as I travelled alone, my first solo long haul, quite an acheivement and one which Im very proud of :)
I also am compiling a birding article for use by one of the top hotels there, it shall be used as an  informative brochure for use by guests. I stayed at the hotel for 3 nights during my stay, what a gorgeous place :), I would recommend this place for any one who wants a bit of luxury, perfect for a honeymoon or similar, the link is as follows :- http://www.brook.lk/

Cant wait to go back :), My new company will shortly be launching their website, I have written articles for it as well as providing photographs. Its all very exciting and Im proud to be part of it all

Before returning there I am presently organising a trip to Nepal, probably in Feb. I will be teaming up with the top ornithologist/bird guide there, lots of birding and also projects that involve teaching conservation in local schools etc, a very appealing project and one which Im so pleased to be doing. I have longed to visit Nepal for many years :)

Photos from Sri Lanka will shortly be on my Flickr site as well as my Zenfolio one.

Saturday 3 December 2011

A visit to Waters Edge CP 2-12-11

Lesser Redpoll
I set off in glorious sunshine but after half an hour , the weather closed in, dark clouds gathered and the temperature dropped :( I stayed an hour or so and caught up with a few Lesser Redpoll and 100+ Goldfinch. A presumed over-wintering Chiffchaff was a nice find at the entrance to the small wood and 4 Bullfinch were noted also. A few Wrens and a couple of Robins were seen too.