Northern Ireland

19 Apr

*A hooded crow displaying its freshly pilfered egg.*

My partner and I ventured to Northern Ireland for a few days, primarily for a family occasion. Though, we did earn some time in the countryside to explore and take photos

Montalto Estate harboured some gorgeous grounds, with lush foliage and a meticulously-maintained Japanese-style garden. The local birds scampered about, sitting still just long enough to snap some artsy shots.

Oxford Island Nature Reserve seemed counter to it. A dense, disorderly array of old trees, stumps, and broken branches, reminding me of the tip that was my teenage bedroom. Though, it was delightful in its own right. A pair of treecreepers gathered dozens of twigs to slot into their homely hollow. Blue tits nibbled on buds at the tips of growing branches. And carpets of bluebells covered the forest floor.

It was overall a scenic, tranquil trip. A much-needed escape from the daily grind.