stondin' t' crow

[ChrisJB]

The title of this posting, I've discovered from the writings of a long gone Lancashire dialect writer translates as 'standing the crow' and refers to being out in the countryside at dawn.
With this time of the year being so utterly captivating and coupled with agreeable weather, for the past two Saturday mornings, I have been leaving the house before four a.m to experience the dawn.
Firstly, I walked through the woodlands by the River Wharfe, upstream of Bolton Abbey to experience the dawn chorus. Such magnificence! And I heard the song of and saw the the 'big three' of the upland oak woods (pied flycatcher, redstart and wood warbler).
Last Saturday, I set off walking north from Dunsop Bridge (Forest of Bowland), up into Whitendale and back across the moors. The eagle owls sadly seem to have gone, but I did see the spectral form of a male hen harrier, conspicuous against the dark heather mosses.
May is all too fleeting, so make the most of the daylight hours and go out 'stondin ' t' crow'. These are my best walks.

Regards, Chris

[NickCantle]

They sound absolutely stunning Chris. You've inspired me to get up early a few days next week and go for a dawn walk. Isn't it just a feeling that you can't ever recreate- a feeling that you only know once you've experienced it.

Brilliant mate, i'll post about my first '08 dawn saunter when it's done!

Thanks mate,

Nick

[ChrisJB]

I'll be perfectly honest Nick, the moment when the alarm goes off at some ungodly hour is horrendous, but don't dawdle. Instead, leap from your 'pit' full of glee and anticipation. You will soon recover from the shock and will embark on a great journey that will make your spirits soar. Having the countryside to yourself at first light is so very special.
This Saturdays' 'stondin' t' crow' is to be a local affair. I'm going looking for long-eared owls near a plantation on the edge of the moors. Fingers crossed.
Anyway Nick, go out and do it! I look forward to your report!

Regards, Chris