It's very near the end of 2009 and I've decided to try to keep a diary for next year of the walks I do in and around Edinburgh. I'm interested in all aspects of natural history and try to get out a few times a week, either around my local patch near the Union Canal in south west Edinburgh, about 3 miles from the city centre, or further afield if I can. Luckily I have Craiglockhart and Colinton dells and the Water of Leith nearby, all excellent areas for wildlife observation.
As in many places, we've had snow cover for the past fortnight. It's brought some interesting birds into the garden - many of these winter visitors from northern Europe. I've had Fieldfares feeding on my windfall apples and have seen Redwing around too. Brambling have been reported but I've not see them yet.
Despite the weather, I can hear some birds - particularly Great and Blue Tits - starting up with territorial calls suggesting they know the days are lengthening.
Have been looking at animal tracks in the snow and fairly sure I had a fox in the garden a few days ago.....
