Lack of summer visitorsLast week we were still receiving queries about the apparent lack of house martins, swallows and swift. Some of these birds might have been delayed by the cold northerly winds that made early May a chilly one. Swallow and House Martin (hirundines) populations fluctuate from year to year and are greatly affected by weather. They require rain for wet mud for nest building and for encouraging the abundance of insect prey, but cold wet weather prevents them from feeding. Large-scale mortality is regularly recorded during and after bad weather, during both breeding and migration. On the other hand, hot and dry weather can result in mortality through dehydration and heat stress. Things have warmed up considerably triggering now so we might start to see more.
More advice!? - see Attracting house martins
Nestbox casualtiesThe cool weather early in the month seems to be likely cause of many of the reported deaths of blue tits chicks in their nests. In cold weather, insect food can be harder to find so the parents struggle to feed the youngsters. It’s also important to ensure you’re nest boxes aren’t exposed to direct sunlight as the chicks can essentially cook in the box. It’s too late in the year to re-sight boxes but of need be use a parasol to shelter them from extreme temperature variation. more information is available in our advice section such as siting a nest box.
Wandering peacocksThe spring and summer triggers the peacocks to think about breeding and they often end up wandering from where they should be. Tracing the owners is usually not possible so they are best left to it. As with any stray domestic animal if they become a real problem local wildlife rescue groups and animal sanctuaries may be able to help. South Gloucs council produce a good advisory note on problem peacocks.
Oystercatcher nestsA few unusual oystercatcher nests. These birds traditionally nest on shingle beaches but some have take to gravel car parks and even roofs switching their feeding to earthworms and insect larvae.
SightingsA few interesting sightings this week. Lots of hoopoe reports. In theory they should be difficult to confuse with anything else. Although we do get a few jay photos from time to time. We were also send a nice photo of an osprey on Loch Awe.
Do geese commit suicide?!A local petting zoo owner suggested to a group of school children visiting that a goose found lying face down in a paddling pool had killed itself because it was distraught at the loss of its chicks. The teacher leading the children phoned us to check if geese do in fact commit suicide. This probably wouldn't be a good evolutionary strategy so we think not.