A friend and I arranged a three day visit to West Yorkshire beginning Monday 12th May and a half day afternoon session in a hide provided by Leeds Wildlife Hides. I would not often say this but the weather was bright and sunny and proved to be a major disadvantage for this session.

When we arrived, part of the viewing area was already in deep shade and this worsened as the day wore on. One main attraction was a Sparrowhawk visiting but, unfortulately, no sign for a couple of days.Making the best of it, the first species to attract attention were a few Collared Doves that at least gave the opportunity for some flight shots to start off.

At least one Jay visited on and off, collecting food for a nearby nest.

as did a Song Thrush

and even an unusual shot.

A pair of Bullfinches visited but always kept to the shady area which was a disappointing as Bullfinches need sunlight on their plumage to really show off the colouration.

Two brief visitors - a juvenile Robin

and a Great Spotted Woodpecker.

Mid-afternnon, the Collared Doves were replaced by several Stock Doves

with one displaying.

But the star of the show, beginning late afternoon was a male Cuckoo with frequent visits.

and often flying around.

and some form of display activity too.

Final summing up of the session - some good results but would have been much better in the morning with the sun behind the hide or, dare I say it, a cloudy bright day with no shadows!!!