Slow Worm in Spinach Patch

First time I have seen a Slow Worm (a legless Lizard rather than 'worm) in the garden in Toft. Amazing feeling body as it wraps around your hand and the tongue that flicks out is quite fat compared to a snakes. Meredith loved handling it but accepted that it needed to be returned to the wild as soon as we had photographed it. The tongue flicks in and out and is a strong forked structure looking as if it is made of metal..

Powerstock reptiles etc

 Another session at Powerstock Common produced some great reptiles- Common Lizards including black form (juvenile) and a Slow worm (a legless lizard not a snake). The Scorpion Fly wanted to get in on the act.

Newport Wetlands Centre

Visited Newport Wetlands Centre, which is run by the RSPB, in the company of Steph who I reckon I haven't seen for about 20 years but didn't look any different. It is a very large area of reed beds under the shadow of the Severn Power Station. There were several Cetti's Warblers singing but not a lot of birds to see as the tide was low. Still many butterflies on the wing in the warm sunshine. We also disturbed a grass snake - as I didn't have a suitable macro lens, tried the fush eye and quite pleased to have captured snake, Steph and her delightful dog.

In the Garden

We spent a very enjoyable day among the sildlife in Colin's garden. Lots of insects, a toad, grass snake, birds, mice and voles all lined up to have their portraits done - well here's wishing but some good shots were recorded by the party.