IT HAD been a while since I had last visited the Delph Pond in Tullibody, which was a bit remiss, because it is a place I enjoy and one where there are always ducks and other waterfowl about.

What’s more, these birds are used to the presence of people, making it possible to approach close and get great views.

Delph Pond is also capable of delivering the odd surprise, which was certainly the case on this visit, for there were several goosanders out on the water. Goosanders are normally shy birds, but these ones were as bold as brass.

I’m not sure why they were on the pond because goosanders are fish-eaters and there wouldn’t be enough, or indeed any, fish in this small body of water to create much interest. I can only presume, therefore, that these goosanders were using the pond as a safe place to rest.

There were also many mallards about, the drakes looking resplendent with their metallic-green heads and deep maroon breasts.

It is easy to take mallards for granted because they are so common, but one should never to do this, for they are wonderful ducks that bring so much colour to our urban ponds.

By the fringes of the pond edge, a moorhen stepped cautiously, its large lobed feet providing support on the boggy ground.

Moorhens are strange, rather gangly-looking birds, and perhaps even more peculiarly, they often nest in the branches of bushes overhanging the water.

Their feet aren’t really designed for holding onto branches, but despite such handicap, they are still able to construct their arboreal nests through a combination of sheer grit and determination.

@BroomfieldKeith