I have the worst cold. But it was a beautiful day outside and I wondered if the Scarlets might be back. I've been photographing the same pair (in some woodlands only about 3km from my house) since 2015. So I had to go and see. Could they be back?
We don't know where they go during Spring / Summer. Some say they go to "the hills". I'd last seen them in July or August. When you can't find them you realise you've developed quite an attachment to the tiny insect eating birds. And I always hope to see them next year.
I usually find them by listening for the reassuring but subtle 'tick ticking' between them. I've never heard them call loudly. Often you'll only spot one when it drops from a tree onto an unsuspecting prey before quickly returning to the safety of a tree. Fortunately for photographers they prefer low branches. They're also far from shy. More than willing to work an area while I click away. Smart enough and self assured to assess risk, I reckon.
Well the great news is I found both of them safe and sound in exactly the area they've called home for Winter for (at least) four, maybe more, years. Here's a collection of the gorgeous pair taken over the last few years, beginning with one of each from this evening.
Mrs Scarlet: 7 April 2018: Oh, it's you again!
Mr Scarlet: 7 April 2018 : Surveying the world below
Mrs S : 2 July 2016 : At her most beautiful
Mr S : 25 April 2017 : In the mist!
Mrs S : 25 April 2016 : On the fence at sunset. Robins like fences so much.
Mr S : 27 April 2015 : So proud of his catch!
Mr S : 6 June 2015 : Almost adorable!