Late February is a great time of year to get out and about into the countryside, or garden, and take notice of the big changes occurring. Bulbs are bursting into life, frogs are starting to stir, some ponds already have frogspawn, and birds are definitely distracted by the urge to breed. However it is quite likely that we will be seeing more of the cold weather before spring is properly here.
Many of our winter visitors like redwings and fieldfares are currently busy feeding up for their long journeys ahead, they return to their breeding ranges across the North sea in the spring. If our countryside does get another covering of snow, expect to see these winter thrushes back in gardens, they may also be joined by finches and other unusual garden visitors such as yellowhammers and reed buntings as they seek shelter and food.
If you can keep a could supply of fresh water and a mix of food including fruit, seed and fat based treats, you should be able to help see them through it. For our resident breeders, it is likely that they will simply put the brakes on their breeding activities and concentrate on feeding until milder weather returns.
One species to look out for in the next few weeks, especially along the east coast, is the waxwing. There have been a trickle of reports over the last week and a cold front from the east may push a few more in to the UK this week. Any trees or hedges that still have berries left on them would be well worth checking out.
Thanks Ian. We have been looking and waiting for the waxwings, but no luck yet. ( E. Sussex )