Grey Heron, watercolour

Herons have a tough time in winter. During long periods of snow and cold temperatures like we've experienced this year, ponds and lakes freeze over and fish shelter near the bottom. Many young herons don't make it through their first winter.

One poor heron in our garden must have been particularly desperate this December, overcoming its inhibitions in its search for food and tip-toeing right up to the terrace outside the sunroom.