We carried out our RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch for one hour yesterday morning. For the first 20 minutes it was as 'dead as a doornail' but once the first advance guard Greenfinch arrived then everything else seemed to appear in succession over the next 25 minutes until it all went quiet again. So here are our sightings; the numbers in brackets indicating the maximum number of each species seen:
Robin (2)
House Sparrow (8)
Greenfinch (9)
Blackcap (1)
Chaffinch (1)
Siskin (1)
Blackbird (2)
Great Tit (1)
Blue Tit (2)
Coal Tit (1)
Starling (7)
Collared Dove (2)
Woodpigeon (3)
Magpie (1)
Ring-necked Parakeet (2)
According to my records for our 2010 count the overall species total is very similar but we didn't see Song Thrush, Dunnock or Lesser Redpoll this year but their places were taken by Chaffinch, Siskin and Ring-necked Parakeet. House Sparrow numbers were the same but far more Greenfinches around this January.
The birds weren't too keen on having their photos taken through the window so apologies for the poor quality plus the Siskin (top right) didn't want to show her face at all!
Finally I should like to THANK everyone who left me Birthday Wishes .. I had a pleasant day with my parents today including a tasty lunch at a local hotel plus a wander around the High Street where I started my working life back in the mid sixties with my mother pointing out all the changes that have occurred over the ensuing years. FAB.
Finally I should like to THANK everyone who left me Birthday Wishes .. I had a pleasant day with my parents today including a tasty lunch at a local hotel plus a wander around the High Street where I started my working life back in the mid sixties with my mother pointing out all the changes that have occurred over the ensuing years. FAB.
Happy Belated Birthday Frank. So glad you got to enjoy it. I love the bird images. They are so sweet. I've been out of commission but hopefully will be feeling better soon. Carol
ReplyDeleteGood selection Frank.
ReplyDeleteDo you find they hide when this count is on? Mine do lol
Glad you enjoyed your birthday.
Hi Frank..you have a impressive list there...not sure I could sit still that long lol
ReplyDeleteSounds like you had a nice day with your parents..your very fortunate to still them!!
A very fine list and great images! Happy belated birthday! Wishing you every happiness today and in the year ahead.
ReplyDeleteThanks Carol. I'm sorry to learn you are not 100%. I do hope your recovery is swift.
ReplyDeleteKeith. I'm damn sure they know they are being watched!
Hi Grammie. I think I was reading, drinking coffee and peering out of the window from time to time! Yes, I am fortunate they are still both around even though Dad looks like he is on his last legs at the moment.
Great images as always, and what a variety you guys see!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like a great birding activity! I can't wait to try it.
ReplyDeleteA good selection there Frank. I always find some of the regulars stay away during any count.
ReplyDeleteThat's a good collection Frank. You obviously have a bird friendly garden.
ReplyDeleteYou only saw 3 wood pigeons?
ReplyDeleteYou lucky thing!
We saw at least 33, and had to clean up after them. Like every day.
To my amazement we had a mini flock of magpies in a lime tree.
(I feel a song coming on).
At least now I know what a siskin looks like.
The verif. word is apt: nestfy
Hi Julie G. Thanks for the good wishes.
ReplyDeleteHi Mona. At the moment there seems to be more activity in the garden than there is elsewhere.
Yes Red. A simple way for the RSPB to collect valuable data from year to year.
Thanks Roy. We try our best although a number of local cats often try to upset the visitors.
I agree John ... another hour and maybe a different tally.
Hi jo. Yes I know how messy they can be. We used to have flocks of Ferals around but fortunately they have been driven away. Very appropriate verification .. lol.
Happy Birthday Frank! What a fine way to celebrate! Love the bird shots and info. It is fun to see what you are seeing around your place!
ReplyDeleteThanks very much Kathie. It would be nice if something different popped into the garden but hey that's nature and at least we have a few species to look at every day.
ReplyDelete