sandeyeBIRD NEWS: 2
January 24th 2012 14:06
Whether this is usual for European mild winters or not, I am unsure. After all, I have been in Australia for 22 years, and only been back in England for 2. However, the doves are nesting already - and it is only January.
To me, this seemed somewhat early - so I took a look in my bird spotter guide. Apparently they are not supposed to be nesting and laying eggs for a couple more months. I admit my guide is out of date, being from the 1970's or 80's - so, I am curious as to whether this happens every mild winter, or is a one off. I suppose, after a few more winters in England, I will find out...
Over the few weeks I took as a writing break, various exciting bird-related happenings have occurred. We had goldcrests in the tree outside my window - this is only the second time EVER I have spotted one, and this time there were two! The blackcaps seem to enjoy the stone bird bath this month. Once, I was lucky enough to spot one start a bath - but then was called away. A few days ago, I was able to watch a blackcap throughout its entire bathing routine.
I have also got to know one of the resident pair of robins somewhat better. It does not flitter away as soon as it sees me anymore - but often sits on the pole outside the kitchen window and stares in, watching me cook. This makes me happy - as I really miss the friendliness of birds since having moved back to England - the Aussie birds always seemed much more friendly and curious to me - and far less afraid. Magpies and pigeons would often walk in through the open back door - right inside, once upon a time....
Talking of winter, now that the leaves have fallen, we can easily spot the nest the wood pigeons made on the grass verge tree next door....
....or could, until the winds blew the nest away recently.
To me, this seemed somewhat early - so I took a look in my bird spotter guide. Apparently they are not supposed to be nesting and laying eggs for a couple more months. I admit my guide is out of date, being from the 1970's or 80's - so, I am curious as to whether this happens every mild winter, or is a one off. I suppose, after a few more winters in England, I will find out...
Over the few weeks I took as a writing break, various exciting bird-related happenings have occurred. We had goldcrests in the tree outside my window - this is only the second time EVER I have spotted one, and this time there were two! The blackcaps seem to enjoy the stone bird bath this month. Once, I was lucky enough to spot one start a bath - but then was called away. A few days ago, I was able to watch a blackcap throughout its entire bathing routine.
I have also got to know one of the resident pair of robins somewhat better. It does not flitter away as soon as it sees me anymore - but often sits on the pole outside the kitchen window and stares in, watching me cook. This makes me happy - as I really miss the friendliness of birds since having moved back to England - the Aussie birds always seemed much more friendly and curious to me - and far less afraid. Magpies and pigeons would often walk in through the open back door - right inside, once upon a time....
Talking of winter, now that the leaves have fallen, we can easily spot the nest the wood pigeons made on the grass verge tree next door....
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Comment by RJDiogenes
I'm a little bit worried about the doves nesting early. They could be confused by changes in climate. I hope it doesn't harm the baby birds.
Good news about the goldcrests and blackcaps-- are their nests in your backyard or nearby?
Comment by sandeye
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