A Bird in the Hand

 Paul Roughley sent me these photos, taken at home near Abermule where he caught and ringed it. He asked me to confirm the identification.

I noticed the long, tapering tail, dark-spotted back contrasting with unmarked underparts, long thin bill and dull pink legs. These are all features of a Grasshopper Warbler. It may have been a local breeder, or a migrant on passage from further north. They breed in Wales in small numbers, often in young conifer plantations. When they are not singing, they are skulking and secretive, often running mouse-like on the ground. Thanks Paul - I am sure you knew what it was as soon as you saw it!