On the 28th of April I visited Eskrigg Reserve to gather the sounds for the evening section of my piece. We visited around 7-9pm, meaning the viewing hts were closed. Despite this, there were plenty of places to sit, watch, and listen to the birds. It was extremely populated despite being so late in the evening. The birds were not much quieter than they had been earlier in the day, but the atmosphere was a lot calmer and it was clear the day was nearing its end.
Since the reserve had both wet and dryland, there was a variety of birds that we could see and or hear. There were roughly 15-20 Greylag Geese and since I have been researching what will go into my spoken section of my piece I have been looking into this species of goose. Here is a draft of what I would like to say:
I find it interesting, to think about what we can hear versus what we can see.
I try to sit still on the dock, and I can see so many birds.
Despite not making a noise, the Heron catches my attention.
Stalking fish in the water, it stands completely still.
Surrounded by oblivious Graylag Geese, of which it weighs less than half.
Graylag Geese are another species that mate for life,
While they sound quite rowdy and annoying there is something about them which fascinates me.
Often they are seen living with Canada Geese, sometimes even producing hybrid offspring.
Sat amongst them are my favourite bird, Mute Swans.
I know many people feel threatened by swans, which is understandable.
So territorial they chase their own young away in winter.
Despite this, they have me under their spell
So majestic, so glorious. A wonderful example of love
While the sun disappears,
I can still hear the distinct call
Of the Blackbird
In the dawn.
