On a beautiful early summer’s day in mid-May a group of members of BBTA and BGS was guided around Prior Park Garden by our members Pat and Bob. This walk had been postponed from March, but was well worth the wait. The Garden was alive with birdsong and we identified many different varieties, including our favourite: the “Zilpzalp” (chiffchaff)! Some of us had to admit to difficulties distinguishing a “Blaumeise” from a “Kohlmeise” (blue tit and great tit) but Pat and Bob were always at hand to explain and help. Not to mention distinguishing a “Saatkrähe” (rook) from a “Rabenkrähe” (crow) – a crow is slightly bigger, usually (but not always) seen alone and has a black beak, a rook is usually (but not always) in a flock and has a light beak. We also glimpsed an “Eichelhäher” (jay) flying through the trees.
We also investigated the flora, admired the views, and discussed the literary associations of the House and Garden. Some of us can be seen on the famous Palladian Bridge, possibly counting the ducklings just below us.
