Bird Notes

We see more birds in our garden, attracted by our feeders, than we do on our walks. It is our impression that this is an ongoing trend. Once a month Kath and I take part in a waterfowl count at Thorpe Park. Since September, compared with previous years, the number of birds seen has been very low. Even gulls and Coots, usually present in very large numbers, have been very few. We have seen one Black-necked Grebe and a few Goldeneyes, and a female Goosander.

In November we had a Brambling in the garden for a couple of days, but so far no Siskins. The Redwings are still around eating the remaining Holly berries but will soon go. By far the most numerous visitors are the Greenfinches, often in flocks of up to twenty. They take over the feeders and tend to push out the smaller tits. This year we have had many more Starlings and Ring-necked Parakeets which, until last year, were quite rare, but are now regular visitors.

The days are already lengthening and together with the mild weather some birds are beginning to pair up. Nuthatch, Coal Tit and Dunnock are now frequently seen together.

CHRIS BRADING