Heron

In a comment on my recent post about the goldfish I've introduced to the pond CJ mentioned that a heron was their most likely predator.  Oddly herons are not a bird I can recall seeing very often in the vicinity of Eagleton and I suspect that the pond is so close to the house that it might deter any passing heron.   Certainly if a heron set it's mind on devouring them they would have little chance.  I once saw a heron in Stoke-on-Trent on an island in the middle of a lake.  In full view it grabbed a rat, took it into the lake and drowned it and then proceeded to swallow it whole.  It was one of the most amazing things I have ever witnessed in nature.  The goldfish would hardly even be hors d'oeuvres.

Oddly as I was walking with David and Molly a heron was down on the shore.  I was fortunate to get a shot of it when it took off.  

Heron, Castle Grounds, Stornoway

Imperious and Regal

What's going on over there?

Off to investigate!

Heron

I went to buy some dried seaweed a few days ago to top dress what passes for my lawns.  The factory is at the end of the road to Arnish Point and the former oil platform fabrication yard.  Along the road are some lochans.  Fishing in one of those lochans was a heron.  These photos were taken through the car window.  I was foolish enough to lower the window (I nearly said wind down the window – that shows my age!) for a few seconds but the invasion of midges was unbelievable and it went back up before I could take a photo with it open.