Sunday 27th August 2017

Claiming a nest site

​Hello friends and family
I had a wonderful holiday with the family and got to spend time with all my grandkids. I am very proud of them all. The trip to Christchurch was easy, no wind – which should have given me a clue – the airport was closed the next morning due to fog and so my flight to New Plymouth was delayed by 10 hours. This meant I spent time with Hamish and we went to the Brighton pier.

Daniel on the summit

​In New Plymouth, I took Olivia swimming and was treated to some fine dining and great company. Then to Tauranga where I caught up with Melissa and saw Daniel score the winning goal in his last basketball game of the season. 

Home after the slips

​I arrived home on Wednesday evening and Chris and Hiltrun arrived for 2 days work on Thursday night. We did a trap round and had to move carefully to avoid any penguins that stayed home. Their behaviour has changed and the males are claiming nest sites with all birds returning early to socialise, including juveniles who think they are proper penguins!

winter glory in the garden

​The weather is mild and other species are feeling like it is spring too. Once again, the Spotted Shags are spectacular in their breeding plumage.

In his best finery

Have a great week!
Rosalie
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