It's been a while......

The Wildlife Enquiries department is well and truly in the busy period so apologies for not posting anything for the last few weeks.

Baby birds
We have to start with baby birds or more accurately, fledglings. May, June and July are the peak periods for fledglings being found out of the nest. Swallows and gull chicks are two of the main species being found wandering at the moment – 9 times out of 10 you should leave the bird where it is – for information on what to do if you find a fledgling please see our website

Gulls
Speaking of gulls, dive-bombing adult gulls are out in force as they protect the chicks on the ground. Gulls, like all birds, are protected so you cannot have them, or their nests, removed until they’ve finished nesting – it’s a problem that repeats every year and with a few precautions you should be able to avoid the worst – Herring and lesser black-backed gulls are the main "problem" species, as they often nest on roofs near humans in urban areas. Moving through the area quickly and carrying an umbrella can help to avoid any conflict. More information here

White-tailed eagles
The news that Natural England are pulling out of the Suffolk reintroduction generated a few fresh queries about our role and whether these birds do really eat livestock, pets etc. Read about it here

Racing pigeons and peacocks
These domestic birds often turn up in gardens. Racing pigeons need reporting to the relevant racing group – if you can read the numbers on the bird’s rings, contact the Royal Pigeon Racing Association on 01452 713529. There is often little that can be done for peacocks - Feed them if you are happy to have them around or don't if you'd rather they moved on – some useful information on this factsheet

Daytime bats
We have had a few queries about bats flying in the daytime. If they’ve got young to feed or need to feed themselves they’ll come out early to make the most of the insects. If you have any bat queries please contact the Bat Conservation Trust on 0845 1300 228 or visit their website - http://www.bats.org.uk/