Charlecote

I had a wander to Charlecote Park a tudor house where the young Shakespeare is alleged to have poached deer.

As its the school holidays there were lots of activities for children and it was also noticeable how parched some of the grass was. 

I had a wander around the house (which was only partially open due to repairs) and spent both of the day wandering the deer park and reading! 

The ducks are not happy!

Well it has turned a tadge nippy. Both the Coalport and New Hall ponds have ice.

Coalport 

The Mallards hang about as they get fed. I know you aren't meant to feed them bread but people often bring children and if that breeds a liking for wildlife...

The Newhall pond, just a bit of water left. The big white duck vanished before the cold snap. I wonder if he left with the geese,

I keep hoping for some winter finches or whisper it Waxwings... 

As Wessex Reiver said maybe a duck will pop up. It was nice to read that there are Smew back at Amwell this winter after a break. 

I'm just about to read the 7th of Jack McDevitt's Academy series. The 8th is not available on ereader or in paperback in the UK so I've had to order a second hand copy.