Early Morning Ouzel

An early walk down to the Leas from the Monument car park revealed a fairly cooperative Ring Ouzel. This highland version of the Blackbird calls in on the way to the moors of Northern England and Scotland. Often the first clue is its call, which is rather like an old fashioned football rattle.

When I approached too close he hopped up onto the gate leading from the road to the Lees. The scaly flanks and pale edges to the wing feathers show well. More pictures here.