Nature Watch at Todheugh

I awoke this morning to find a light dusting of snow.

As we set out for the morning dog walk the sun was shining and there was hardly a breath of wind - lovely weather for walking.

A rabbit ran across the road causing a little excitement just as we turned the corner by our cow shed. Down at the river I saw four ducks flapping along building up speed for take-off.

We were passed by a gritter as we made our way up the hill past Margaret's.

By the time we got to the bend in the road the wind had started to pick up. By the gate into the sheep field the clouds had moved in, blocking out the sun. By Edrom the first hail stone. I made the decision to turn round and head back home. The hail got heavier. The stones were quite large. I let out a loud ouch when one hit me on the cheek. Heads down all the way home...

The hail gave way to big fat chunky snow flakes. After half an hour this diminished to light flurries and then stopped.

I have noticed that nearly all the berries on the hawthorns have gone, unlike last year when they persisted into the spring. I am going to have to ensure that I keep the bird feeders topped up - there has been a steady flow of visitors, mainly tits, but also robins, blackbirds and a woodpecker. Mole hills are popping up all over the place - luckily not in our lawn yet.

On the garden front I have spotted quite a few vole holes in the rockery which is worrying but not much I can do about it. I love inspecting the banks to see what is coming through (snowdrops and early crocuses so far). At this time of year you can really see the structure of the beds with the bare shrubs. It is also frustrating as I can see what needs to be done but it is too cold at the moment. Maybe I am still a southern wuss...