What with Wolves, Siberian Crane and numerous other goodies in Iran, then Three-toed Woodpecker and Tengmalm's Owl recorded from my Lithuanian land and garden respectively, 2012 certainly started on a high!

As the month progressed, and temperatures in Lithuania began a slide to minus 20 and below, all action of note revolved around me feeding stations, the bountiful attractions including White-backed Woodpecker, Crested Tit and hunting Great Grey Shrike.

Off on travels to exotic lands mid-month, but till then hoping for a bit of sunshine in the ultra-mild Lithuania, the highlights off the first days of the month limited to the comings and goings in the garden.

With gloomy skies, I could think of nothing better to celebrate the new month than buy a new lens for the camera. Gave it a quick whirl in the garden - despite the poor lighting conditions, the results pleasing enough, a Crested Tit approaching a peanut feeder.