Hugh’s News – 5 June 2020
The long spell of settled weather had to end eventually, and things have certainly changed over the last few days! I am sure the gardeners will welcome the drenching though. Temperatures are still reasonable, albeit several degrees lower than it has been on most days recently.
As long as the rain does not continue for too long, hopefully birds will not suffer too much. The birds most at risk potentially will be newly fledged youngsters, which can succumb to longer periods of cold and rain.
I know several of you have seen plenty of evidence of a successful breeding season, and we have had some brilliant photos sent in to demonstrate this.
Bill captured a male Great-spotted Woodpecker (with red on the nape) feeding a youngster (identified by the full red cap) in their nest hole in Irby. He also snapped a pair of young Peregrine Falcons on a water tower.
Barry has sent in a baby Robin having a bath, and a Blue Tit with a fluffy baby. Barry also sent in this wonderful picture of a Green Woodpecker – not in his own garden this time but his daughter’s. He was understandably “chough-ed” (Sorry folks!).
In my own garden, I have seen at least one young Robin but not managed to capture it. They were much more wary than its parents. I did though snap one of the two Blackbird fledglings being fed by Dad. I have not seen the female Blackbird for a few days now, so I am wondering if she is looking after separate chicks in a nearby garden, sharing the parental duties. Or has she been taken by a cat or Sparrowhawk? I hope not!
Provided the weather improves, some of these birds will start another brood, as there is plenty of time to do so. Keep looking!
I will take this opportunity to remind you what to do if you find a baby bird, although many of you are aware already. In most instances, the parents will be close by and be aware of the chick. The best chance of survival is if the chick continues to be fed by the parents. So unless the chick looks sick or injured, leave it where it is, or put it higher up on a branch etc., if it is at risk on the ground. The parent will find it.
A sick or injured bird may need intervention as a last resort. Put the bird in a box to keep it quiet. Phone the RSPCA (Tel 0300 1234 999) or a friendly, local vet for advice. As the animal services are inundated with calls about baby birds at this time of year, be aware that they may be limited in what they can do.
With that, I will just wish you an eggcellent weekend!
Hugh Stewart
