Pantmaenog (Weds evening) - cuckoo very active, initially calling from the block of conifers above the quarry then flew up the track to smaller conifers and then into the two tall pines before heading further up the track. Last heard calling NW of Pantmaenog House. A few active pairs of stonechat, females carrying food back to nest sites with males on lookout. A few red damselflies and a larger dragonfly on the wing. Great spotted woodpecker drumming. Male kestrel repeatedly dropping down to pick items from the ground. Two pairs of wheatear on the top.
Ty Rhyg (Thurs evening) - gate open so didn't venture into the woods in case of felling. Whilst watching 3 crossbills (female and two young) noticed a fox heading in my direction. Came out on the opposite side of the track less than 20feet away had a dig, then curled up in a sunny spot and had a good old scratch and nibbled away at his hind quarters. He must have sat there for 10-15minutes, before his ears pricked up and he walked off slowly from where he'd come, not once did he glance in my direction. Now that beats footie on the telly!
