Mist

The valley is cocooned in mist during the morning dog walk, bird calls more important than ever in identifying their presence. Robin numbers have been increasing and today each riverside bush appears to host one, all of them reciting the same sad notes. Cetti’s Warblers are vociferous but even more difficult to see than usual. In the distance a Raven croaks ominously several times, postponing its flight until the mist clears.

That will not take long, even in these breezeless conditions. The mist clinging to the riverside earth is already thinning. The Robin in the next bush along is visible, drained of colour but its image sharp. Spider’s webs decorate the reeds and teasels as well as a disintegrating wooden fence, the drops of moisture on the gossamer glinting in the awakening light.

Thrushes have been scarce so far this autumn, but a group of at least six Blackbirds are cloistered in the next bush, chuckling and moving occasionally before finally erupting and disappearing into the mist. The increase is a good sign, offering hope that a Ring Ousel might stop off to feed.

A line of Stonechats is now visible by the river-side path. They have been everywhere for the past week or so, passing through or preparing to winter. Today a party of three is moving along the ditch-side reeds ahead of the dog, giving their soft, flinty calls as they do so.

Above the valley the sun has burnt most of the mist from the hills, and now the trees by the Millstream are clear. The Raven is no longer calling.