Bill back on the Blog
| 10:16 UK time, Thursday, 5 June 2008
We're past half way now in the 2008 Springwatch Experience, so I asked Bill to tell us how it's been for him so far, and what he's looking forward to.
Over to Bill - or as we would say in his ear during the live ..... "Coming to you in 5 .... 4 .... 3 ... 2 ... 1 ..... and cue Bill ....."
BILL BACK ON THE BLOG : "Approaching the end of the second week - already! Time always seems to race by on Springwatch and this year quicker than ever. I think maybe it's the effect of having a routine each day which is pretty much invariable, but "content" that is constantly variable. We always seem to be racing towards tomorrow and wondering what surprises it will bring. It's a bit of a rollercoaster, but it's a very enjoyable ride.
Pensthorpe has provided a variety of nests that far exceeds any previous Springwatches down in Devon, splendid though they were. I'm particularly pleased we've been able to feature warblers - Sedge, Chiffchaff and Reed Warbler (new for tonight - stay tuned and watch the webcams!) so far, plus Goldcrest, which is sort of an honorary warbler. Mind you, ironically, not one of those species could be said to "warble"! Reed Warblers scratch, Sedgies buzz, Goldcrests whisper and Chiffchaffs just repeat their name. But they all have exquisite nests that it feels like a real privilege to be able to see.
I really do think this Springwatch has been the most visually delightful so far, whilst avoiding being too "aw, innit cute?" thanks to the alarming infanticidal swallow.
So what do I hope for during the rest of Springwatch ? I'd just love the Wrens to leave their nest on air - live - and flutter down to join Kate and I on the sofa, but I suspect they'll fledge over the weekend, when we're not broadcasting. They will be video'd though, and you may catch them on the webcams. Simon will be in the Cairngorm mountains, so I'm looking forward to close ups of Dotterel, Ptarmigan and maybe even Snow Buntings. I'd like more - no, some ..... any! - sunshine. And the Little Ringed Plovers to hatch, please. And the audience to hit 5 million!
And after Springwatch? Finish work on my autobiography and watch every match of European Footie - I'll be supporting Portugal! Oh and I'll be glad to get back to my electric guitar and turning it up to 11 - I have to make do with an acoustic in the Springwatch village and that's probably driving my 'neighbours' crazy - but nobody dares complain 'cos I'm the "talent" and I've got an O.B.E."
