A commotion up on a high branch drew the attention of several Sunday afternoon walkers on the footpath along the leat. An imposing large, presumably female, Peregrine was objecting to the attempts of a Magpie to steal some of her dinner. The prey looked like a feral pigeon, but was headless. The Magpie tried approaching from different directions and, despite all the mantling and angry calling, managed to nip in and steal at least a feather before the Peregrine flew off towards the hospital with her takeaway.
Many thanks to Peter Howe et al for their work on making the reserve accessible and putting in the new footbridge. The circular walk from town is proving very popular and I think it has been a godsend for many locals during the firebreak.