Exbomont in the Belgian Ardennes

Friday 26 September

At last a beautiful day with breaking cloud, a light breeze but much warmer than the past few days.  Once more back into the high Ardennes in search of the Nutcracker but getting much more difficult now as most of the hazelnuts seem to have already been collected and, once completed, the birds retreat to their natural habitat in the high, unmanaged pine plantations.  Making our way up to the steep hill to the small hamlet of Exbomont a Buzzard resting on a dead tree below us and, upon arrival, another high tin the sky above.  Just the single Nutcracker seen as it made its way back up to a plantation from the hazelnut trees below.

The high Ardennes

Time to walk up the steep, muddy path to the top of the hill giving glorious views over the surrounding area.  Jays moving about to our left and in front a few Chaffinches and Robins.  Then we came across an abandoned house which looked something like a relic from a Hansel and Gretel adventure!

Who will but this abandoned Hansel and Gretel cottage?

Continuing on up to the top, first a Blackbird then both Great Tit and a Goldcrest high in the pine trees to our left.  Meanwhile, both Magpies and and Carrion Crows seen in the fields below.  Making our way back down the path we found a Blue Tit and as we approached the car a Chiffchaff along with a couple of House Sparrows at the neighbouring house.

A joy to behold

Not many birds seen but the scenery, now in dappled sunshine, was beautiful and a joy to be out in the countryside.

High above Exbomont and overlooking Mulin du Ruy

Birds seen:

Buzzard, Woodpigeon, Robin, Blackbird, Chiffchaff, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Goldcrest, Jay, Magpie, Nutcracker, Carrion Crow, House Sparrow, Chaffinch.

For the latest news follow the Axarquia Birds and Wildlife Facebook page for more photos and comments and the opportunity to share with the wider birding world.