The icy weather here has spelled hardship for much of our wildlife over Christmas, but it has brought some spectacular wildlife watching opportunities too.
Woodcock is one of Europe's most elusive birds and although readily spotted when flushed by beaters on shoot days, it is rarely seen naturally foraging on the ground.
But since the ground has been frozen solid I've been able to watch this enigmatic bird at close quarters.Click here to read my column in this week's Gazette & Herald and find out more about this special sighting.
