October 2014

23rd. I nipped to Barrow Tank no. 3 to see the snow bunting as it was getting dark.

20th. The Batman of Mexico hits Bristol and we drink bat-pollinated tequila. Rodrigo Medellin gave a great talk at the University to a room packed with undergrads who were there out of interest, not because it was examined material. He then did a Q & A session with Masters students. There was a screening of his film at the Watershed - it went on to win a Panda award at Wildscreen. Then after more Q and A we had time for Tapas and Tequila. We've got a promising collaborative project on genetic consequences of climate change.

18th. The Chew Valley Lake bonxie was always too distant for photography - a couple of record photos below. I also heard a bearded tit close to Stratford Hide, and saw 3 swallows.

14th. Red kite at Rothamsted Research, Harpenden.

6th. The official opening of our new Life Sciences building by Sir David Attenborough. An amazing day, with the honorary guest eating a mealworm brownie and chatting with amazed freshers in their first year practical class. He gave a great speech, including 'Understanding the natural sciences and the processes that brought us here – these things bring joy and resonance and happiness to our lives'. I couldn't agree more. Pictures from the University of Bristol Facebook page.

1st. A kingfisher flew over the cycle track at Yanley Lane, Long Ashton as I cycled to work.