We have not had any regular visits from the cock pheasants who usually frequent the garden at this time of the year - but if you go down to the area we call 'the dump' (glamorous name, isn't it?), where we keep compost bins and debris for burning or chipping, you can easily see into the field next door but remain fairly hidden - as you can if you hide amongst the bushes bordering the herb garden.
I lurk about there with my camera - later in the year I intend to build a proper hide from which to photograph the wildlife which comes to visit. It's relatively quiet in the field at the moment, but I did catch a bevy of female pheasants last week - working their way up and down the hedge - their natural environment, though now boundaried further by expensive fencing to keep in even more expensive horses.
The fence does, however, have the bonus of not giving 'The Girls' an easy escape route and thus gives me more time to capture them on camera. Here they are - mooching about along the hedge line; I've started to feed them regularly now, so I'm hoping that their beaus might come and join them soon. The males have a much more 'showy' plumage - but look closely at how lovely even the female feathering is.
Tootling back up the field, on their way to the one next door - no chance through that fence - they have to go the long way round!
I'm just hoping they all keep their heads down from the too-prevalent guns which also lurk around here in these winter months. Fly over to Autumn Cottage garden, my friends - you will all be safe in here!
What beautiful muted ladies they are. A treat to see and glad you are feeding them as they look healthy and contented. The males will come - just takes a little time. Thanks for sharing them with us.
Posted by: Ardi | Thursday, January 29, 2015 at 14:52
Oh, what a treat! Thank you for sharing them.
Posted by: carol | Friday, January 30, 2015 at 01:15
Adorable. You've made me look at pheasants afresh.
Posted by: Mad Englishwoman and Dog | Friday, January 30, 2015 at 10:21
I like the new header.
Posted by: Mad Englishwoman and Dog | Friday, January 30, 2015 at 10:21
Please, its been awhile - how is Pip? You said you would update us and I haven't seen any update. I pray he is well and home with you.
Posted by: Patricia | Saturday, January 31, 2015 at 16:55