anyone know what this is?

I think it might be a pale Tussock Moth catepillar (Calliteara pudibunda) as I found it on my tent when I went to go to sleep. Because they are known to eat hops, they used to be known as "Hop Dogs" in Sussex, but we dont have hops at Rais, only Brambles which are another favourite apparently. The hairs are said to cause a severe allergic reaction in some people, so I'm glad I didn't try to pick it up, it would have been just my luck.

Slash and burn.

Yay it's that time of year again, when we get to burn the rhodies! Or someone does! feel really bad I've not been down to the wood in a while. Work has been overwhelming and a few weekend commitments have left poor Simon slashing and burning alone. But he seems to be doing a cracking job.... he has even managed to replace the shutters on the Immac Hide with new ones that match the Hedgery and provide a much more secure and easy access opening for upcoming woodland bird photography sessions.