Dear Readers, I’m sure you’ve all heard enough about me and my virus over the past two weeks, though I could entertain you with tales of nearly passing out in the shower and doing a ‘Shakin’ Stevens’ impression for most of last night. Suffice it to say that my usual GP has decided enough is enough and is going to try me on some antibiotics for the secondary chest infection, so I might soon have no cough but a whole range of other problems. I shall certainly be paying attention to my own article here. No more gallons of fruit juice for me!

And in the meantime, have a look at this cheeky parakeet. I think they always look their best in spring and autumn, when there’s a host of blossom or golden leaf to set off their green feathers. This one appeared to be trying to break off a twig. Probably a bored teenager.

And the light really is lovely at this time of year, especially once the fog lifts.

So here are a few more well-posed parakeets. Keep healthy out there!