Weather on Anna Maria Island is warming up nicely. I love this time of year - walking the beach and enjoying an al fresco lunch at one of the island's restaurants. amisland.com

At the bottom of the garden in West Wing Cottage last week we saw either a seal bobbing about in the water just a few yards from the edge of the sea. www.torquay.uk.com

A large goss hawk was just sitting in the ancient oak tree behind the cottage. What an amazing sight - he has a white ruff of feathers around his neck. www.walesholidaycottages.com