Just a short walk

Today my house guest had a visit elsewhere during the latter end of the morning so I nipped over to the Hampton Court area - mostly around the Palace Gardens. I was interested to see whether the crocuses and daffodils were in bloom.

Well the crocuses were but, as anticipated, it's still a little too early for the daffs!

As I went out to the car, a couple of buff-tailed bumble bees were enjoying the heather in the front garden.

Having parked the car, I was about to cross over Hampton Court Bridge. Last time I was here the River Thames was really full and swollen at this point. In fact it was covering the seating area of this hotel!

Now it has subsided considerably and you can see the seat and quayside!

I then crossed over the bridge and went into Hampton Court Palace. This area is know as "The Wilderness" and although obviously cultured and managed, still has a more "natural" look to it.

Crocuses in flower around the trees

As were these miniature Iris

Around in the Palace's "back garden" and the more formal area, carpets of Crocus were looking very attractive


and underneath the formal fountains, a Coot was enjoying a shower!
and a fly past by an Egyptian Goose

Then on the way back to the car, these two Mallards were having a rest on their boat - rather aptly named!

Later this afternoon, about 4.00 p.m. we had a quick walk around Bushey Park. Dreadful light and although my camera was with me, the light was too poor for any pics. BUT, a small flock of Long-tailed Tits entertained in the Woodland Gardens; and a small herd of both Red and Fallow deer were seen. A Green Woodpecker was heard waffling and then one flew into the tree; in the Woodland Garden the young red deer hind still managed to enjoy a tasty meal. On the way a Great Spotted Woodpecker flew over our heads into a nearby tree whilst a Song Thrush trilled its merry song. Leaving at about 5.00 the sun was just beginning to set, and by the time I was home the sky had turned to a wonderful deep red glow.

(And about 6 frogs were enjoying the air in the garden pond - shush......)

And perhaps tomorrow there could be some sun?......... or better light?..... or both?...... or am I being greedy?.........