iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Atlantic Birding @atlanticbirding.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

🪶 Good Morning and Happy Thursday Everyone! Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #Black&White; any shot in black and white Alt. is #Vivid; any bird with bright colours - A close up, B&W shot of a Common Raven in Flight #birds #ECK #birdphotography #birdsofbluesky #naturephotography #ThursJay

2434158

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

Good morning folks, I'm covering Alan BOTD. @alan678.bsky.social theme for #BirdOfTheDay is #EFG, birds beginning with any of those letters (1st name). The Alt theme is #Paridae, any of the species. #birds #ECK #CanonR5mkii @rspb.bsky.social #ukbirding #birdphotography #BirdLife #naturephotography

3227746

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Atlantic Birding @atlanticbirding.bsky.social · 29/09/2026

🪶 Rob has chosen #EFG as #BirdOfTheDay theme; birds beginning with any of those letters (1st name) Alt. is #Paridae; any tits, titmice or chickadees - A Blue Tit looking at the camera with its crest up in the sunshine #birdphotography #ECK #birds #photography #birdsofbluesky #ColorADay #BlueTue

A Blue Tit perched on a bare branch in the bright sunshine. The bird is slightly left of centre of the frame, perched on a thin, horizontal branch with its body facing to the right so its right side is visible. Its head is turned towards the camera and its crest is up.
The bird has a bright blue crown, white cheeks split by dark eye stripe and a dark patch under its small thin beak. Its back is green and its wings and tail are blue. Its underside is a lemon yellow and its legs are a bluish grey.
The bird is on a thin branch running along the bottom of the shot. A larger, lichen covered branch is behind it, travelling from the bottom left of the shot to almost the centre of the top. Another branch crosses the top right corner.
The background is out focus, lightly coloured to the left of the shot and dark on the right.

1628849

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Fishburgler (Andy) @fishburgler.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Thank you to Atlantic Birding for the #BirdOfTheDay themes which are #Raptors. A couple of eagles White-tailed and Golden... #EastCoastKin #birds #photography #wildlife #nature #Canon

4798

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Atlantic Birding @atlanticbirding.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

🪶 Alan has chosen #LightAndShadow as today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme; any bird capture with both Alternative is #FallBirds, and Autumn/Fall bird captures A Stonechat on bramble in the winter sunset. #birdphotography #ECK #birds #photography #birdsofbluesky #goldnehour

A Stonechat perched on old bramble stems in the winter sunset. The bird is right of centre of frame, facing the camera with its head turned to the left so the left side of its face is visible.
The bird has a thin beak, black head, off colour a little in the off season, a white half collar on the sides of the neck and an orange-red breast. The bottom of its black tail can be seen behind it.
The sunset is shining in from the right and lighting up the back of the birds head, left side of its chest and dark legs. The right side is in light shadow.
The bird is perched on an arch of old bramble stem, which is in the bottom right of the frame along with two other stems. They are illuminated with the golden light of sunset. Another bramble stem, out of focus, travel from the left of the shot almost all the way along the bottom.
The background is an out of focus white sky with a line of out of focus green at the bottom

1224537

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 21/09/2026

Hi birders, I’ll be back on Wednesday to annoy everyone again. The #BirdOfTheDay theme today is #LightAndShadow, any bird capture that has both. The alt is #FallBirds, any Autumn/ Fall bird captures. Sorry can’t respond to comments. 🙏🏼🤗 Goldcrest #birds #photography #ECK

A tiny Goldcrest perched on a slender branch, surrounded by lush green leaves. The bird’s delicate greyish-buff plumage is softly illuminated, with a vivid yellow-orange crown stripe catching the light. Its fine, pointed bill and large dark eye are clearly visible as it looks upward, while its fine feathers glow against the darker, softly blurred woodland background. The natural shadows create a beautiful, intimate woodland portrait.

3143175

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Good morning folks. Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #Mamas&Papas, male & female of the same species in the same photo. The Alt theme is #Robins, any of the Robin Species. #birds #ECK #ForJanet #photography #ukbirding #CanonR5mkii @rspb.bsky.social #birdphotography #NatureTherapy #BirdLife #wildlife

3933861

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Helen Bennett 🌿 @helenbennett.bsky.social · 08/09/2026

Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme challenge is #BirdBuddies ! Can you find two 'different' bird species sharing the same space!? Here's a lovely Dunnock and Wren perched together on a bramble stem 📷 🪶 🤎 Alt. #BirdsInGreen Any shade of green on a birds plumage 😊 Happy Tuesday everyone 🕊️👋 #Birds #ECK

4545682

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Atlantic Birding @atlanticbirding.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

Morning, Happy Thursday Everyone! Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #Contrast; light birds against dark backgrounds or vice versa Alt. is #Thrushes; any bird from the thrush family - Flamingo against a dark wall - Song Thrush on a sunny day #birds #ECK #birdphotography #naturephotography

A Song thrush perched on a dead tree branch in the bright sunshine. The bird is left of centre of the shot, facing right so that its right side is visible. The branch it is on travels from the bottom centre of frame, towards the camera to the top left. There are two vertical branches along the right hand side of the frame and several small branches in the background; one of which passes behind the birds head.
The bird has a brown head, back and wings, with a broken line of cream along the wing feathers. Its underside is a deep cream, turning to white towards the feet and covered in prominent arrow shaped spots.
The background is a uniform, out of focus green

3327658

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 25/08/2026

Good morning birders and buddies. The #BirdOfTheDay theme today: #RecentGardenBirds, most recent capture/s of a bird/s in your garden. Alt #ReflectionsAndShadows, any capture of a bird with an accompanying reflection/ shadow. Song Thrush in my garden, few days ago. #birds #photography #ECK

A Song Thrush perched upright on a diagonal branch, its long tail extending downward. The bird has warm brown upperparts and a pale cream breast densely marked with bold, dark spots. Its dark eye and pointed bill are sharply defined, while a slender twig and small green leaves partially cross its body. The background is filled with softly blurred green foliage and reddish berry clusters, creating a natural woodland setting.

5245269

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 21/08/2026

Good morning birders. Level is easy today. The #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #RainyDayBirds, any bird captured in the rain or that has wet plumage. Alt is #SunnyDayBirds, birds captured on a sunny day. Female Mallard taken yesterday. #birds #photography #ECK

A close-up portrait of a female Mallard duck resting on the water, showing her intricately patterned brown plumage, orange-brown bill and dark eye. Tiny droplets of water cling to her feathers, highlighting the fine detail and texture of her plumage. The softly blurred water in the background creates a calm, natural setting.

4641869

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

Good morning folks. It's @helenbennett.bsky.social turn to host #BirdOfTheDay and her themes are #AwesomeOwls, any Owl from the 2 Owl families. The Alt theme is #BirdNameG, any bird whose common name starts with G. #birds #ECK @rspb.bsky.social #CanonR5mkii #ukbirding #BirdLife #photography

Gary Green Woodpecker was surprised to see the paparazzi walk round the corner, with their lenses primed and ready to take his photo before he'd brushed his plumage.
So he shouted at them to wait until he was ready, but those damned paparazzi never listen because that doesn't get them their stories.
So Gary didn't hang around long because he doesn't like those who don't listen to him, sorry but not sorry Gary 😂

Captured at Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

Gary & Gloria Goosander were drifting past each other like ships in the night, and that was because Gary didn't listen to Gloria about what she wanted from the beauty parlour.
Meaning Gary came home with all the wrong beauty products that Gloria didn't ask for, and what made it worse was Gary turned and said "well you should have gone yourself" which really annoyed Gloria.
I'm sure most males have been there Gary, and she will get over it eventually.

Captured at Yarrow Valley Country Park.

Gary Goldcrest was flirting from branch to branch looking for a mate, but he wasn't having much luck.
And he tried blaming that on the paparazzi following him around, but the paparazzi weren't having none of that and told him to look in the mirror.
But not knowing why Gary said "have you", to which they said "yes" and we don't have food all down us, which makes you look like a tramp, Gary.... with a smile on their face.

Captured at Yarrow Valley Country Park.

Sammy Short Eared Owl was flying over the fields on the prowl for food, while also watching out for those sneaky paparazzi.
Which he hadn't spotted already snapping away as he banked to his left, in the direction where he spotted some movement in the low cut grass in the field beside the road.
Sadly for Sammy it wasn't something he could eat as it was some rubbish moving in the grass due to the moderate winds, which made Sammy and the paparazzi angry because people should take their rubbish home with them or at least bin it.

Captured up in the North East.

2423534

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Helen Bennett 🌿 @helenbennett.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

Hello 👋 I adore Owls so today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #AwesomeOwls 😊🦉 Any owl from the two owl families. Here's a gorgeous Long-eared owl that I was fortunate enough to see 🤎 📷 🪶 Alt: #BirdNameG any bird whose common name starts with the letter G! Happy Thursday 🕊️ #Nature #Photography #ECK

A photograph showing a long-eared owl that is perched at an angle on a textured tree branch, facing right against a blurred green background. The owl features a prominent facial disc with a white, vertical stripe between its vivid orange eyes, a black beak, and long, dark ear tufts which are flattened against its head. Its plumage is a dense mix of brown, black, grey, and tan feathers, with a warm rufous coloration visible on its chest. The owl's talons are gripped firmly onto the rough bark of the vertical branch, and its lower wings are partially extended downward, showing a barred pattern of tan and dark brown bands. The owl had been hunting in the adjacent fields just before dusk and its feathers underneath are slightly wet. His gaze is fixed intently in to the distance ready to launch in flight again.

59566102

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Helen Bennett 🌿 @helenbennett.bsky.social · 16/08/2026

Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #UnusualPlaces any bird that turns up in a place where you wouldn't normally expect to see it! For me it was this Reed Bunting way out on a beach! (more in Alt text) 🪶📷 Alt: #SereneBirdScene bird images that have a peaceful and calm mood. Happy Sunday! 🕊️ #birds #ECK

2631748

B.R. Crichton @brcrichton.bsky.social · 15/08/2026

From @atlanticbirding.bsky.social "Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #50ShadesOfGrey; birds with grey plumage Alt. is #Fledglings; any newly fledged bird" A Crowned Crane with some lovely, grey neck plumage.

4214

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Atlantic Birding @atlanticbirding.bsky.social · 15/08/2026

Good Morning & Happy Saturday Everybody! Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #50ShadesOfGrey; birds with grey plumage Alt. is #Fledglings; any newly fledged bird - a juvenile Spotted Flycatcher in the forest - a very fluffy looking young BullFinch #birds #ECK #birdphotography #naturephotography

A juvenile Bullfinch sitting on a bare, lichen covered, tree top. The bird is right of frame on a horizontal branch with two vertical branches in front of its head. Its left side is showing. It’s head is a reddish brown, with no black cap seen in the adults, this colouration continues down its shoulders and chest, turning to a whitish colour as it’s gets to the rump and underbelly. The bird’s feathers have a downy texture giving it a fluffy appearance.
A single, upright, willow stem is behind the bird, giving some fresh green colour. The background is a bright white sky.

2723144

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 15/08/2026

Hi birders, AB @atlanticbirding.bsky.social has said today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #50ShadesOfGrey; birds with grey plumage Alt. is #Fledglings; any newly fledged bird Black-tailed Godwit #birds #photography #ECK

A Black-tailed Godwit stands in shallow blue water, its long, straight, slightly upturned pink-and-black bill pointing to the left. Its warm brown, intricately patterned plumage contrasts with its pale belly, while its long dark legs create gentle ripples around its feet. The calm water provides a striking, almost mirror-like reflection of the bird, stretching down beneath it and adding a lovely sense of symmetry to the photograph.

Interesting facts: Black-tailed Godwits are remarkable long-distance migrants, with some travelling thousands of kilometres between their breeding and wintering grounds. Their exceptionally long bills are perfectly adapted for probing deep into mud and soft ground for worms, insects and other invertebrates. They also have a distinctive black-and-white tail pattern, which gives them their name. In the UK and Ireland, they are particularly associated with wetlands, estuaries and coastal mudflats.

2234337

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 14/08/2026

Good morning folks. Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #Warblers, any of the Warbler Species. The Alt theme is #Ducklings, any Duckling will do. Sadly no time for stories today. #birds #naturephotography #ECK #CanonR5mkii #photography #ukbirding #BirdLife #birdphotography @rspb.bsky.social #wildlife

3126240

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

Good morning birders and buddies. The #BirdOfTheDayTheme #AtOneWithNature Celebrating birds in their natural environment. No manmade objects. #Raptors Any Raptor Won’t be around much for a few days, as I have family staying. 😍😊 Not raiding a feeder! #birds #photography #ECK

A close-up portrait of a European Starling, its glossy black plumage shimmering with iridescent green, blue and purple tones. Fine white speckles cover its breast and body, while the folded wing shows warm buff-edged feathers. The bird’s long, pointed bill extends to the left and its dark, alert eye faces the camera. Soft green foliage creates a smooth, natural background, with a few blurred leaves adding depth.

5337566

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Atlantic Birding @atlanticbirding.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

Good Morning Everybody! Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #PeekABoo; birds peeking out at the camera Alt. is #Finches; any shot you have of a Finch - plump Chaffinch checking if the guy with the camera is still there - BullFinch at the end of dead branch #birds #photography #ECK #birdphotography

A plump, round chaffinch peeking out from behind a mossy branch. The bird is slightly left of centre of shot and is staring directly at the camera so that its pinkish red front and breast and pink head with blue-grey cap are visible. The light is coming from the right and the feather detail on the bird can be seen.
The bird is perched on a mossy willow trunk and the light green moss takes up the entire foreground. A vertical branch to the left of the frame is also covered in moss and the bird is partially hidden behind this.
The background is out of focus branches, moss, dark and light patches.

2927548

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 11/08/2026

Good morning birders. AB @atlanticbirding.bsky.social has said: “ Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #PeekABoo; birds peeking out at the camera Alt. is #Finches; any shot you have of a Finch.” Side-eye peek. 😁 #birds #photography #BloomScrolling #ECK

A young sparrow perches among lush green foliage, surrounded by vivid red and purple fuchsia flowers. Its head is turned to the side, with one bright eye looking towards the camera in a wonderfully cheeky side-eye, as if it has just noticed the photographer watching. Sunlight catches its soft brown and buff plumage, while the colourful flowers and leaves create a vibrant natural backdrop.

2737960

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 09/08/2026

Good morning birders. Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #BestFootForward- any bird taking a step forward or standing on one leg. #ASplashOfColour- Celebrate vibrant plumage or colourful backgrounds that complement the bird. #birds #photography #ECK

A Little Egret coming in to land on a lush green field, its brilliant white wings fully spread and its long black leg extended forward, with yellow-green feet reaching towards the ground. Its slender black bill points ahead and its alert eye is clearly visible. Sunlight illuminates the delicate wing feathers, while the softly blurred green grass and sparkling highlights in the background add a fresh, vibrant feel to the scene.

6361293

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Atlantic Birding @atlanticbirding.bsky.social · 07/08/2026

Good Morning & Happy Friday! Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #LittleBrownBirds; time to show love for the small brown birds in your life Alt. is #Busted; birds looking directly at camera - Meadow Pipit on barbed wire - Willow Warbler staring contest #birds #photography #ECK #birdphotography

3329145

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 06/08/2026

Good morning folks. Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #LongLegs, any bird with long legs. The Alt theme is #Borb, any bird appearing larger than it should be. The latest Alt Txt Stories have landed. #birds #photography #ECK #CanonR5mkii #ukbirding #birdphotography @rspb.bsky.social #BirdLife

Gary Grey Heron was out for a walk when he was caught short, so he pretended to stand still and act like a mannequin with a 3rd leg in the hope I didn't see what was happening.
Now I did warn Gary that if he didn't pick up his waste product (💩) I would be on speed dial to Freddie Fulmar, who would be out faster than 'Streethawk' (if you know you know, if not use Google) 😂.
So Gary decided it was best to retrieve what he had dropped before flying off in disgust because he didn't have a 💩 bag, meaning his wings were a darker shade until he could was it off.

Captured at Tophill Low Nature Reserve.

Lisa Little Egret was feeling fresh after an overnight trip to 'Mind, Body & Wings Spa Center', which was a gift for her birthday from her partner Larry.
What Lisa failed to realise was that Larry bought her the Spa Treatment because he had planned a lads night out, which Larry wouldn't have been able to go on if Lisa was at home.
Larry thought he had been smart about it.and covered all scenarios, but Lisa arrived home early and found him drunk on the floor with some half eaten food on the floor beside him.
So in the end Lisa had the last laugh when she chucked a bucket of cold water over Larry to wake him up, so he could tidy up the mess he had left strewn around the house.

Captured at Tophill Low Nature Reserve.

Beryl Blue Tit's mind had been pre-occupied recently which meant she was eating more than she had realised, that was until she came across Barry Blue Tit.
Barry was always blunt with his comments and had asked her when she was due to drop her eggs, now although Beryl didn't show it in front of Barry, she was really upset about his comment.
But this was the kick up the rear she needed to do something about her size, and booked a few sessions with the PT down at 'Wings, Bums & Tums' Gymnasium. It wasn't long before she was feeling much better about herself, and was able to look in the mirror and not feel disgusted about her size.

Captured at Summer Leys Nature Reserve.

Percy Puffin was enjoying his tryout for his local NFL Team the 'New England Puffins', and had been given the nickname of 'The Fridge'. Now he couldn't decide whether they chose that because he had eaten everything that was in the fridge or because he was as big as it.
Either way he was happy with his nickname and had been chosen to stay on and train with the team for the upcoming friendly against the 'Baltimore Ravens' before the New NFL Season kicks off on the 14th August.

Captured on the Farne Islands.

4629449

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Helen Bennett 🌿 @helenbennett.bsky.social · 04/08/2026

Good morning all. For today's #BirdOfTheDay theme I've chosen #FabulousWaders Any wading bird that you love! For me it's the Avocet, a calm and graceful beauty wading along the shoreline! 🤍🪶 The Alt. theme is #Speckled any bird with speckled patterns on its plumage. 📷 #birds #photography #ECK

5341175

B.R. Crichton @brcrichton.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

From @atlanticbirding.bsky.social "Good morning All. I thought that as today is my first day, the #BirdOfTheDay theme should be: #Firsts some of your earliest bird captures. Alt. is my most captured; #Robins" A Yellow-bellied Sunbird; one of the first birds captured with my first 'decent' lens!

3462

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Atlantic Birding @atlanticbirding.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

Good morning All. I thought that as today is my first day, the #BirdOfTheDay theme should be: #Firsts some of your earliest bird captures. Alt. is my most captured; #Robins - Male Reed Bunting, shot in my 1st fortnight of having a camera - The ubiquitous European Robin #birds #photography #ECK

A Male Reed Warbler on a thin plant stalk. The bird is left of centre of the shot perched near the top of tall, dried out plant stalk that is bent over at a 45 degree angle with the weight of the bird. It is turned slightly to look right so that its front, belly and right side can be seen.
Another plant stalk is vertical beside the bird.
The background is an out focus blue sky with two thin, vertical tree branches sparsely covered in green leaves.

A European Robin perched on a thin Sycamore branch. The bird is right of frame, the underside of its tail and body are fully visible, as is its chest. Its head is turned to the left so that the left side of its head can be seen.
It is perched on a small sycamore branch which runs vertically along the right of the picture. A second, larger branch runs from the bottom, slightly left of the centre, to the top right hand corner.
The background is out of focus branches lit brightly by sunlight

5030853

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 02/08/2026

Good night folks. Hope this helps you with the week ahead. The rota will just repeat itself, unless one of us is unable to on any given day. #BirdOfTheDay I even put a Kingfisher in for Rob. That’s the gentleman I am. 😂😂

A bird of the day poster with the names of the hosts for the next four days.

3022142

B.R. Crichton @brcrichton.bsky.social · 31/07/2026

From @robcrank68.bsky.social "Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #EgretsAndHerons, any Egret or Heron will do. The Alt Theme is #Yellow, any bird with Yellow as part of its plumage." A Yellow-billed Egret.

3191

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 31/07/2026

Good morning folks. Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #EgretsAndHerons, any Egret or Heron will do. The Alt Theme is #Yellow, any bird with Yellow as part of its plumage. #birds @rspb.bsky.social #ECK #photography #ukbirding #CanonR5mkii #naturephotography #BirdLife #birdphotography

3029740

B.R. Crichton @brcrichton.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

Well, @alan678.bsky.social has gone all liberal and is letting us make our own choices for #BirdOfTheDay ! #YourChoice bird capture/ captures you’ve been itching to post. No alt obviously. Freedom! This Muscovy Duck is delighted! His companions are mostly indifferent.

1130

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 30/07/2026

Good morning birders. Today I thought I would let you post freely so the #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #YourChoice bird capture/ captures you’ve been itching to post. No alt obviously. I’ve went with the unloved but beautiful in sunlight Starling. Taken a few days ago. #birds #photography #ECK

Close-up portrait of a European Starling perched among leafy branches. The bird’s glossy black plumage shimmers with iridescent purple and green highlights in bright sunlight, while neat white speckles cover its breast and flanks. It faces to the right with its long, pointed bill and dark eye sharply in focus. Soft green foliage and blurred leaves create a smooth natural background, drawing attention to the starling’s striking metallic sheen and intricate feather detail.

74824111

B.R. Crichton @brcrichton.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

Fron @robcrank68.bsky.social "Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #MultiColour, birds with 3 or more colours in their plumage. The Alt theme is #DucksOutOfWater, Ducks that are out of water but not flying." A Crested Barbet and a Mallard for the Alt

1161

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

Good morning. Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #MultiColour, birds with 3 or more colours in their plumage. The Alt theme is #DucksOutOfWater, Ducks that are out of water but not flying. #birds #ECK #CanonR5mkii #ukbirding #photography @rspb.bsky.social #naturetherapy #BirdLife #WoodpeckerWednesday

2329352

B.R. Crichton @brcrichton.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

From @alan678.bsky.social Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is #EmeraldBackdrop – Images where the background colour is green. Alt: #WeatheringTheElements – Birds photographed in rain, snow, mist, wind or dramatic weather conditions. An Oyster Catcher in flight.

2284

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 28/07/2026

Good morning birders. Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme: #EmeraldBackdrop – Images where the background colour is green. Alt: #WeatheringTheElements – Birds photographed in rain, snow, mist, wind or dramatic weather conditions. #birds #photography #ECK

A male Eurasian Blackbird perches on the weathered top of a broken wooden fence post, its glossy black plumage slightly fluffed to reveal layers of soft, textured feathers. The bird’s vivid orange-yellow bill and bright golden eye-ring stand out against its dark face as it gazes alertly to the left. Around the fence, bramble stems carry clusters of ripening blackberries, with berries ranging from green to deep red, while fresh green leaves add colour and texture to the foreground. The background melts into a smooth wash of rich green bokeh, isolating the blackbird in warm sunlight and creating a striking contrast between the bird’s dark plumage, the pale weathered wood, and the vibrant summer foliage.

4345265

B.R. Crichton @brcrichton.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

From @robcrank68.bsky.social "Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #Grey, any bird with Grey in its plumage. The Alt theme is #RedBeaks, any bird with a Red Beak." This Common Waxbill ticks both boxes!

0122

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

Good morning folks, I will try and find some time today to reply/repost some of the contributions. Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #Grey, any bird with Grey in its plumage. The Alt theme is #RedBeaks, any bird with a Red Beak. #birds #ECK #CanonR5mkii #ukbirding #photography @rspb.bsky.social

2121738

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 25/07/2026

Good morning folks. Today's #BirdOfTheDay main theme is a tough one with #OneTwoThreeFour, 4 photos with 1, 2, 3, 4 birds, with each photo being the same bird/s. The Alt theme is #ForJanet, any of the Robin Species will do. #birds #ECK @rspb.bsky.social #CanonR5mkii #ukbirding #naturephotography

A beautiful Robin Yarrow Valley Country Park.

Two beautiful Mediterranean Gulls at WWT Slimbridge.

Three wonderful Avocets at WWT Slimbridge.

3225247

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

Good morning folks. Wonder what Rob is going to choose today? 🧐 Hope you all have a wonderful Tuesday. 🎶 Walk tall, walk straight and look the world right in the eye……. #birds #photography #ECK

Close-up portrait of a juvenile House Sparrow standing on a rough stone surface, photographed at ground level. The young bird faces left with one foot slightly raised as if mid-step, showing soft grey-brown plumage, warm brown wings with subtle pale edging, and a pale pink bill with bright yellow gape flanges that reveal its recent fledgling age. Its large, dark eye gives it an alert, curious expression while the smooth green background is softly blurred, drawing attention to the fine feather detail and delicate stance of the bird.

2241357

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 21/07/2026

Good morning. Today's #BirdOfTheDay is going back to basics with a theme of #Gulls, any Gull will do. The Alt theme is #Paridae any of the species. #birds #ECK #naturephotography @rspb.bsky.social #CanonR5mkii #PhotographyIsArt @wwtworldwide.bsky.social #ukbirding #BirdLife #birdphotography

Freddie Fulmar is out on duty with the Flying Squad trying to cut down on the number of speeders, but he is struggling to cope with the growing task.
So Freddie's superiors have given him permission to bring in some new recruits of his choosing, so today's stories are all about who Freddie is bringing on to his team.

Captured at RSPB Bempton Cliffs.

First up to join the Flying Squad is Larry Lesser Black-backed Gull, Larry comes from a well known family within the force, sadly not for being part of the force but for being on the wrong side of the law.
This is something Larry is trying to change, but this hasn't gone down well within his family because they now have to watch what they do and say in front of Larry because he is obliged to share the information with his employers.

Captured at the Farne Islands.

Next up to join the Flying Squad is Monty Mediterranean Gull who comes from a long line of Officers in various positions in the force, but he is following his father who has recently retired from the Flying Squad.
Monty hopes to make a big impact in the Flying Squad just like his dad, but Freddie is going to be a tough boss to impress. But non the less he is going to work hard on doing so, starting with making an impact on the number of speeders causing a nuisance at the moment.

Captured at WWT Slimbridge.

It's now time for the final new recruit who is Karen Kittiwake, who you can see isn't a full basket :-) but is hoping to also make a big impact within the force.
But it will probably not all be for the right reasons as she is a tad clumsy and odd, most jobs have one of these but not always female (got to be politically correct of i would get some grief). That said Karen is always putting her foot in it and that won't go down well with Freddie who is a boss who wants a squeaky clean squad, so this should be good to see moving forward as we see Karen testing Freddie's patience.

Captured at Tynemouth Pier.

2524041

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 20/07/2026

Good morning birders. Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is #SummerLovin, bird captures taken during summer. No alt today. Good luck. Have a blast. Taken two days ago. Fledgling Stonechat #birds #photography #ECK

A recently fledged Stonechat perches on a lichen-speckled branch against a cloudless blue sky. The young bird has soft, fluffy brown plumage with subtle streaking across its head and chest, warm buff underparts, and rusty-orange highlights on its wings and tail. Its large, dark eye and slightly tousled feathers give it an alert yet youthful appearance as it looks upward, taking in its surroundings. Bright sunlight illuminates the fine feather detail while the smooth blue background isolates the fledgling, creating a simple, striking portrait of a young bird beginning to explore the world.

4561084

B.R. Crichton @brcrichton.bsky.social · 18/07/2026

Good Lord, no! Flower of Scotland at Murrayfield has the pipes for the 1st verse and an unaccompanied second. I suppose, technically, it's an away game. #FijivSco

000

B.R. Crichton @brcrichton.bsky.social · 18/07/2026

From @alan678.bsky.social : "The #BirdofTheDay theme is #ScreenFiller, a capture where the bird takes up a large part of the image. Alt #Migratory, birds you see only in certain seasons." An immature Reed Cormorant, doing its best to fill the frame.

1311

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 18/07/2026

Good morning birders. The #BirdofTheDay theme is #ScreenFiller, a capture where the bird takes up a large part of the image. Alt #Migratory, birds you see only in certain seasons. A Grey #Heron taken yesterday. #birds #photography #ECK

3033658

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 17/07/2026

Good morning, Rob @robcrank68.bsky.social has said: Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #Corvidae, any of the species will do. The Alt theme is #BlueSky, any bird with a Blue Sky in the background. Alt as I’m done with Jays, I’m in my Willow Warbler phase. 😂 #birds #photography #BloomScrolliing #ECK

A recently fledged Willow Warbler perches lightly on the gently curving stem of a dried wildflower, its fluffy pale-grey and cream breast still showing the soft down of youth. Olive-green feathers wash across its back and wings, while a warm yellow tint brightens the throat and flanks. The young bird faces right with an alert, dark eye and a slender orange-brown bill, appearing calm as it surveys the surrounding meadow. Out-of-focus purple wildflowers and green foliage create a colourful, painterly backdrop beneath a clear blue sky, with warm sunlight illuminating the bird’s delicate plumage and giving the scene a peaceful late-summer feel.

3030946

B.R. Crichton @brcrichton.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

From @robcrank68.bsky.social "Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #Birds&Flowers, birds standing with flowers. The Alt theme is #NewLife, any of this year's new broods." A Dark-capped Bulbul on an Aloe.

1110

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Rob Crank Photography @robcrank68.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

Good morning folks. Today's #BirdOfTheDay theme is #Birds&Flowers, birds standing with flowers. The Alt theme is #NewLife, any of this year's new broods. #birds #photography #ECK #ukbirding #naturephotography #BirdLife #CanonR5mkii

Graham Gadwall was trudging through the Daisies without a care in the world, that was until the paparazzi popped their heads up catching Graham off guard.
Now all Graham wanted to do was continue his walk to the pub so he can get a good seat before tonight's Bird Cup Semi-Final between England & Argentina, but sadly Graham was wearing a Argentinian shirt so the paparazzi were not going to let him off that easily.
They followed Graham all the time asking him were his loyalties lie, but what the paparazzi hadn't seen was the rear of Graham's shirt was the England shirt. Now the paparazzi felt a tad stupid for their error, because they should always get the facts right before saying anything at all.

Captured at WWT Slimbridge.

Pamela Puffin wasn't interested in the Bird Cup and would be finding something else to do while her partner Percy goes to the pub with his mates to watch the match, the only thing she said to Percy was don't come home and wake up little Paul the Puffling.
Now only time will tell whether Percy can do has he's told but i can see him coming home in a really bad state regardless of result because he doesn't get out that often, and add the fact all his mates will be there and that's a recipe for disaster.
Watch out for the follow up story on Pamela & Percy's life after the Bird Cup Semi-Finals.

Captured at the Farne Islands.

Henrietta Herring Gull was taking a well earned break by hiding in the grass and flowers because she was sick of being pestered by the male Herring Gulls, she is sick of having to keep telling them she's really isn't interested in dating them.
You see Henrietta isn't interested in having any little squakers running round her ankles until she's older, because she is more interested in getting out there and enjoying the prime of her life (so she says).
So that was it for the paparazzi as far as Henrietta's story goes, which is a bit of a let down really.

Captured at St Mary's Lighthouse Car Park.

Young Ollie Oystercatcher was taking his time to get ready for the match tonight, which he will be watching at the Swan & Duck Arms because he says it's a better crowd in there than the Wader Inn down the road.
When asked about the game he says England will win 2-1 after extra time to get to the Bird Cup Final on Sunday, which is a bold outlook but at least he didn't say Penalties ;-) because we all know what happens with them.

Captured at St Mary's Lighthouse Car Park.

4233864

Reposted by B.R. Crichton

Alan H @alan678.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

Good morning birders. Today’s #BirdOfTheDay theme is: #PerfectPoise Photographs where balance and posture tell a story. Alt #MomentsOfMajesty Elegant, regal or commanding poses. Juvenile Willow Warbler stretching upside down looking for bugs. Taken yesterday. #birds #photography #ECK

A Willow Warbler hangs almost upside down from a strand of blue-green barbed wire as it searches for tiny insects among the seed heads and leaves of a wild hedgerow plant. Bathed in warm sunlight, its olive-green upperparts, pale yellow face, creamy underparts, and fine orange-brown bill are shown in crisp detail. The bird’s dark eye is intently focused on the vegetation, capturing a moment of agile insect hunting. A softly blurred green background isolates the scene, emphasising both the willow warbler’s remarkable acrobatic balance and the contrast between the delicate songbird and the weathered farm fence.

3440063