2nd May
Squirrel trap set in Pit Wood. Paul bucked John off twice. John knows this was his own fault, having disregarded advice that he was using an unsuitable saddle which was causing Paul discomfort. The resulting injuries, including to pride, and especially to the fingers of his right hand, meant wearing a splint for two months and a severe reduction in working capacity. Clare was not amused.
6th May
Wildflower survey, tawny owl out in Pit Wood.
7th - 14th May
Time spent clearing spilt gravel from top grazing and setting up two new hive stands in apiary.
15th May
Bird box survey: 13/33 in use.
14th May - 28th June
Paths strimmed in Top Strip, Orchard to Pit Wood and Orchard to meadow; Thistles cut on Top Grazing (27th June); 3 Willows planted (from Sylvia) on Wetland in area of main pond; Rush released by digger all removed from Top Grazing and holes filled; arena strimmed.
19th May
Bird survey - John and Keith.
17th June
Rails for enclosing sheds area bought at Mart Sale.
20th June
One of the bee colonies swarmed into the middle of a Hawthorn and Clare and Barry faced the challenge of collecting it. Happily the bees are enjoying their new home with Barry.
23rd June
Trail camera placed S edge of Pit Wood; deer filmed 4.31am.
24th June
Violas and Scarlet Pimpernel planted on spoil heaps near Meadow; Field Poppy planted in Meadow.
John apparently enjoying the Bird Cherry blossom however that squirrel trap suggests he might have deadlier things in mind
The swarm is the dark patch in the top of the hawthorn
For your further education, these are roe deer droppings