A walk in Bradfield Dale

Today I'm sharing some of the photos I took recently during my walk by the local reservoir and the beck that runs through the lower part of Bradfield village.  This stream joins Agden reservoir with Damflask reservoir.  There were so many birds milling around in the specially-enclosed area for these domesticated birds it was hard to isolate a group or a single bird.  The ducks were quite amusing as they stood on the boulders at the edge of the beck. They would look at the flowing stream and then fly a little and then skim the water or dive straight in. The three geese were handsome birds.  I didn't get too close as they pecked at the seeds a villager had thrown on the ground. The one with the markings is possibly a goose/greylag cross breed.  Visitors are asked not to feed the birds, but as it's a popular spot for picnics in warmer weather there's no shortage of food and many birds are used to congregating there.

   

Agden Beck and Old School Bridge

It was a cold day and most people were either walking briskly about in the village, jogging or cycling.  Across the way are the old school rooms that have been converted into a cafe and also sells local produce.  We didn't go in for a hot drink on that day as we live so near home, but might take a look another time.

a muscovy drake

 some domestic geese and a male mallard duck

Agden Beck and Chapel Bridge

The former 1817 Weslyan Methodist Chapel is now the village parish offices.

Damflask Reservoir

Canada geese, mallards, gulls, a crow

a female mallard 

Practising new skills!

I enjoy taking photographs and have been inspired by the images produced by other enthusiasts.  I joined a photography course earlier in the year and had a lot of fun in the workshops.  I learnt some new skills with my small digital camera and was encouraged to look at a subject with an eye for an unusual composition.

I do admire photographers that can sit for hours waiting to take a few shots of an elusive animal and produce some stunning images as a result, so this is my latest challenge! However, plenty of time and patience are important when it comes to taking moving creatures!

Here are some photos of the foxgloves that have multiplied rapidly in the garden that were grown from seed. They were supposed to be mainly white, but it's not surprising that a lot of the ordinary pink ones took over instead.  However, they do create a certain 'cottage garden' look to the border.