North Cumbria

[banks]

Hi to everyone from Carlisle, North Cumbria. We're just about to move on from what has been a great little garden right on the edge of town that has kept me entertained for the last three years. The garden has enjoyed its fair share of feathered visitors in that time. We're now moving out to a village some 10 miles away this coming weekend and I'm already excited at the though of attracted new species into the garden (spotted a Nuthatch whilst viewing the property - not too common this far north)!

The property is on the very edge of a small village with open fields to the front and a small wooded area (which belongs to the property) to the rear. Is it wise to a bird table at either end of the property?

I look forwad to keeping you all up-to-date once we get moved in.

[magnuspullus]

Welcome Banks!

[barn owl]

Welcome Banks,
a move is exciting i think, especially looking for the wildlife, first bird i saw was a nuthatch, i was in awe, i said hey baby look thats a nuthatch... answer was yes we get them here a lot. lol Guess wot we do. and i know where they nest which confused me ... where would you all expect a N/H to nest ? i thought just in a tree. but they are nesting under a nieghbours house, yes UNDER, theres a small gap on the corner and they are in and out all day long.
found feathers in the garden today, either a sparrowhawk or our cats, deffinately a blue tit bit the dust, but spring is here and its the best weather for ages, at the moment i just hang out fat balls, and spread the old bread on the lawn, actually i am waiting in antisipation (is that good spelling it looks wrong) for the flycatchers to come back. i am soooo happy summer is on the way, birds waking me up and demanding breaky lol.
i was cutting wood today and a wren came within feet of me complaining about the chain saw and my axe lol. real cheecky he/she was too. basically i had a wonderful day with the birds, and at my age thats a bonus lol.
regards owl.

[banks]

Quick up-date ...

Moved into property last Friday and first thing we did was put feeders up. Spent the weekend unpacking boxes whilst keeping an eye on peanut and suet feeders in wooded area and seed feeder in side garden.

Species so far:

Blue Tit (far too many to count)
Great Tit
Long-Tailed Tit (3)
Coal Tit
Chaffinch
Green Finch
Gold Finch
House Sparrow
Nuthatch (2)
Great-Spotted Woodpecker
Robin
Dunnock
Blackbird
Starling
Rook
Jackdaw
Sparrowhawk (1) (quick hunting mission)
Wood Pigeon

I know Pied Flycatchers nest in woodland about a mile away - roll-on the spring!

[barn owl]

Banks if thats a start then it looks great, well done, i know we get lots here but greenfinch are rare, as are bull.
Strange hing the other day i ws doing my post i mean postman service and i went down a lane and saw at least 200 chaffinch in the trees, i was amazed.
We only get 2 or 4 here, to be honest i never expected to see anything in groups apart from starlings sparrows and gulls, but last year it was cormorants and herons etc.
I look 4ward to this year, my list grows AND they never cease 2 amaze me.
I just hope the flycatchers come back, i fitted now today 3 new nest boxes so in total thats 9, AND there was interest in one today after an hr. the wife went shopping and i asked for peanuts,, i have lots of fat balls lol. and guess wot she brought home ? yep more fat balls, bless her heart.
anyway the birds get fed, and the bread will surfise.
anyway buddy sounds like you had a good move, update on species, and get those nest boxes out.
one question TO ALL HERE, I DONT NORMALLY MESS WITH NEST BOXES FROM YR 2 YR,
but does anyone clean out the old nests as a prep for a new breed,? ?
or do you leave the old nest and see ?
the flycatchers i left, but today i moved boxes away from feed points and having moved them i cleaned out 3.
kinda a new start i guess.
Lots of interest, i also noticed that when i point boxes toward the sun in the am i get more response. maybe a warm start gets a more pleasurable location, i really dont know.
any thoughts on the point of entry ?
am or pm ?
birds live for food and breeding, to continue the species, i think climate and food is the most important, we all see birds kinda OFFtrack, i believe we all want to help them, i sometimes wonder how they would survive without us. after all we take their spA

[banks]

Several more species to add to my list ...

Wren
Pheasant
Jay (2)
Marsh Tit (1)

New bird table arrived on Friday and finally got round to putting nest boxes up yesterday. Still got House Sparrow nest box to position this coming weekend.

[miss jay]

Sound like you've moved to a wonderful location. I love Cumbria, last year we were lucky enough to see Golden Eagles there!

[70007]

I'm getting very jealous now Banks, especially as you have your own wooded area.

To have that many species within 4 weeks of moving is really encouraging at this time of year. Just imagine what else you might get when the migrants show up.

With regular feeding, your place will soon get the bird equivalent of michelin stars.:)

[banks]

Siskins have now found the peanuts feeders in both garden and woodland area!

[70007]

I hope you can post some photos in the future. Sounds like a bird haven.

[banks]

Hi 70007
It really is a fantastic location for both garden birdwatching and in the surrounding countryside (which we are slowing discovering) but I must admit all the hard work was done for us. It is a mature garden and even more mature wooded area. The house was built in the late 1600's right smack bang on the top of Hadrian's Wall. The main garden (lawn, scrubs,flower borders and veg patch) is surrounded by dry stone wall and grazing pasture with hedgerows so there is always the hope of Bramblings, Reed Buntings, etc (nothing to report yet). The wooded area (mainly beech and yew) is across the lane and is where most of the action takes place! I really can't count the number of Blue Tits that are coming onto the table and feeders (the most I have ever counted as being visible was 26). The personal attraction is the more unusual species such as Marsh Tit, Long-Tailed Tit, Nuthatch, Great-Spotted Woodpecker, etc.

I will happily keep you up-to-date with sightings, etc on a weekly basis.

[70007]

Yes, updates would be great, thanks.

26 blue tits! That reminds me of a big house we visited in Northumberland. It may have been Alnwick but I'm not good at stately home recognition. All I remember is walking through some woods to a bird hide which looked out onto a large number of hanging seed and peanut feeders.

The activity was amazing. There were queues of blue, coal and great tits waiting to take seeds from the feeders, occasional woodpeckers and nuthatches, plus a couple of red squirrels cleaning up the debris on the woodland floor. There were probably more than that, but it was the sheer number of tits flying backwards and forwards that mesmerised me.

I thought I had gone to heaven. I could have stayed there all day, but mrs 70007 had to look at some 17th furniture and I had to be dragged away kicking and screaming.

[banks]

A single Mistle Thrush made a brief appearance over the weekend as did male Sparrowhawk in woodland feeding area. Rooks are becoming a real problem on the bird table – any suggestions by way of a deterrent greatly appreciated.

Nothing too exciting in woodland area. Two Great-Spotted Woodpeckers about on Saturday along with single Nuthatch. My mission before the end of the month is to really try and count the number of Blue Tits!

Talking of numbers, I counted eight (8) Siskin at garden bird table along with Goldfinch (7), Green Finch and Chaffinch on Saturday morning.

[banks]

As promised, several photographs of both garden and woodland area. The 'green' pics are couple of weeks old. Most recent 'snow' pics from last weekend!

[banks]

The weather has been very changeable in seven days – heavy snow showers over East weekend then periods of bright spring sunshine. Today we have blustery winds with occasional shows. Having said this, spring is certainly in the air. Blue Tits are showing increased interest in nest boxes and this morning I saw male Blackbird strangely making his way into ivy that covers dry-stone way in garden. On closer inspection I discovered the start of what I hope will be a successful nest.

Up-to-date sighting include:

Blue Tit
Great Tit
Coal Tit
Long-Tailed Tit
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Gold Finch (7+)
Siskin (2)
House Sparrow
Starling
Blackbird
Dunnock
Robin
Nuthatch (1)
Great-Spotted Woodpecker (2)
Rook
Carrion Crow
Jackdaw
Collard Dove (2)
Stock Dove (2)
Wood Pigeon
Pheasant (2)
Tawny Owl (3) (heard calling at night)

[banks]

So much is happening lately. Two additional species in the last 24 hours. Yesterday two Red-Legged Partridge paid us a short visit before making a mad dash to nearby pasture and this morning we had a pair of Tree Sparrows (with mixed flock of House Sparrow and Chaffinch).

Pair of Blue Tits are busy building nest (nestbox outside study window) whilst the pair of Blackbirds have just about completed their nest in ivy in garden. Today I found second Blackbird nest on edge of small wooded area again in ivy. This pair have already laid two eggs.

Siskins are still about and getting very tame and approachable whilst Gold Finches are getting very aggressive at bird tables.

[banks]

NESTING UP-DATE

Blackbirds in garden (nesting in ivy on dry-stone wall) now sitting on four eggs whilst Blackbirds on edge of woodland (ivy-covered tree-stump) sitting on three eggs. Blue Tits outside study window appear to have boycotted nest-box but second pair of Blue Tits have just completed nest in box on summer house. This evening I discovered Song Thrush brooding four or five chicks (about a week old) in conifer shrub in woodland area.

Finally looks like spring is well and truely underway at long last! Roll on the arrival of migrants.

[banks]

The Red-Legged Partridge (2) are becoming regular visitors to garden. Finally managed to take a snap of one of them today.

[banks]

Blue Tits are sitting on eggs in both nestboxes in garden. Unfortunately, all nestboxes in wooded area remain empty (although a pair of House Sparrows have built a very untidy nest in one of them). Is it possible Blue Tits prefer to use nestboxes attached to man-made structures i.e. house, outbuilding, shed or summer house?

Blackbirds and first fledgings have left the nest in wooded area whilst pair nesting in ivy in garden have about another week (or so) to go.

Still plenty of birds coming to feeding stations including Siskin (8), Tree Sparrow, House Sparrow, Greenfinch, Chaffinch and Goldfinch. Brambling made a brief appearance over several days in late April. Nuthatch and Great Spotted Woodpecker daily visitors.

More news as and when it happens.

[70007]

marvellous stuff, thanks

i dont know much about nests, but maybe blue tits are one of those species that build several and pick the best one?

[banks]

Quick up-date ... the House sparrows that built nest in nestbox in wooded area have laid eggs. It would appear there was about seven days between completing nest and getting round to laying.

Large number of Goldfinches (30+) at birdtable in garden this morning along with usual visitors.

[banks]

Hello everyone and apologies for the delay in up-date (due to holidays and recent job change).

The breeding season is in full swing. Three pairs of Blackbirds have each successfully reared broods (the pair that nested in ivy against wall went on to raise a second brood using the same nest – has anyone had similar experience of Blackbirds using same nest to raise send brood?). House Sparrows used woodland nestbox to raise a brood whilst the Blue Tits that built nest and laid eggs in nestbox on summer house were forced out after wasps took over. Upon dealing with wasps (and removing nest) a second pair of House Sparrows quickly moved in and are now sitting on eggs. Blue Tits have successfully nested in woodland nest box and in barn at the end on the drive. Likewise, two pairs of Swallows have nested in barn – at time of writing first chicks are about to fledge.

Twice Blue Tits have tried to nest in nestbox outside study window. For some unknown reason the nest was abandoned on both occasions. No signs of Great Tits nesting despite the large number of birds using the feeding stations in early spring. Nuthatches have nested locally – I only know as a young bird flew into greenhouse window and required some TLC before being released again!

No sign of Spotted or Pied Flycatchers even though the latter already nest in large numbers in woodland nature reserve only a short distance away – fingered crossed for next year.

[banks]

First of all, my apologies for lack of up-dates since mid-June 2008. The nesting season is just about over now and the gardens have been full of activity. We now have up to five (5) Great-spotted Woodpeckers visiting both feeding stations on a daily basis. The adults are very caution as ever but the young can be very approachable. Blue Tit, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Marsh Tit and Nuthatch are still about together Chaffinch, Greenfinch, Gold Finch, Robin, Dunnock, Tree Sparrow, Wren and very large numbers of House Sparrow. Swallows raised several broods in adjoining barn whilst a pair of Pied wagtails found a suitable nest site under the barn tiles roof.

Being our first year at this location, we have monitored nesting activity very closely. This has resulted in ordering additional open-front nest boxes (a real bargain at only £4.99 from CJ’s). We are considering the idea of purchasing additional hole-front nest boxes for surrounding area (subject to landlords permission).

Roe Deer, Fox (with cubs) and Badger have been sighted on several occasions, particularly along the approach road.

[Hazelnuts]

Hi Banks

I have just read your thread and I am in awe at all the species that you have managed to associate yourself with since your move. I see you have chosen the extra large feeders. I am sure that you have noticed the bird food bills have shot up, but it is so worth it for the enjoyment of watching all the bird antics. It is so addictive.

We have moved from the countryside into a more built up area, and we have noticed the changes with the species. We miss some of the regulars we had. The Coal Tits and the Siskins are 2 of my favourites and they where around in great numbers while living in my cottage in Aberdeenshire. We also miss the family of GS woodpeckers that we had too :)

As we are rental that gives us more free range to what we see if we need to move once more. Each move brings more bird delights for us to see.

I saw a Green Woodpecker for the first time since moving from Scotland to England. I have also been lucky to see a Tree Creeper, but I did not have my camera on me at the time. He was so close to me too.

I would love to hear more about your birds, and will watch this thread with interest.

Kathy
x

[banks]

Hi Kathy and thanks for your comments.

Yes, our monthly bird food bill has more than doubled but, as you well say, it is worth it. I really can't begin to describe the pleasure of having so many species around the house and gardens. We are lucky to have a typical cottage garden with lawned area and established flower borders (which gets a bit overgrown during the summer season) along with adjoining veg patch and side gardens (mainly scrubs and herbs). On the other side of the lane we have a mature wooded area (mainly beech and yew) that is surrounded by hedge of hawthorn and elder.

The house dates way back to the mid 1600s and I recently discovered the foundations of Hadrian's Wall lies directly under our kitchen and staircase. The real credit must go to those who have lived in the property before us for designing such a wildlife haven and, in more recent times, maintaining it for all it is worth.

Location-wise, we're surrounded by farmland (mainly grazing pasture, trees, hedgerows and wetland pools) on one side and the lowland moor on the other. I guess the different habitats has something to do with the number of species records. We are now looking forward to late autumn and the flocks of wintering finches that will no doubt find the beech masts a welcoming treat.

[banks]

SEPTEMBER LIST

Species seen in gardens during the month:

House Sparrow
Great Tit
Blue Tit
Coal Tit
Marsh Tit
Long-Tailed Tit
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Dunnock
Wren
Blackbird
Robin
Great-Spotted Woodpecker
Nuthatch
Mistle Thrush
Pheasant
Sparrowhawk
Tawny Owl (calling in wooded area in late evening)

Additional species seen in the surrounding area include Mallard, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw, Rook, Magpie, Buzzard (six seen over valley mid September), Jay, Kestrel, Starling, Wood Pigeon and Collared Dove. The last Swallows were recorded on 15th and we now look forward to the arrival of winter visitors.

[banks]

Winter has arrived early ...

Recorded our first Brambling mid afternoon today. Adult male in semi-winter plumage at garden feeding station along with flock of House Sparrows and finches. Has anyone else recorded such early winter arrivals?

[tui-nz]

well i think you have certainly found your piece of heaven to have that many different species of birds in such a short while must be great will look forward to seeing some photos, that is if you have time in between unpacking and settling in, good luck.

[banks]

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2008 LIST

Species seen in gardens as follows:

House Sparrow
Great Tit
Blue Tit
Coal Tit
Marsh Tit (1)
Long-Tailed Tit
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Brambling (mid October – not seen again)
Dunnock
Wren
Blackbird
Song Thrush
Mistle Thrush
Robin
Great-Spotted Woodpecker
Nuthatch
Pheasant
Pied Wagtail
Grey Wagtail (2)
Jackdaw
Carrion Crow
Rook
Starling

Species in local vicinity:

Tawny Owl (calling in wooded area in late evening and spotted on road from valley)
Sparrowhawk
Kestrel
Buzzard
Fieldfare (300+ overhead 16/11/2008 flying west)
Redwing

We have made some changes with feeding stations around the gardens in recent weeks. The main table and feeders (peanut and seed) are now located outside study window (all are stocked throughout the year). The peanut feeders in the main garden are also constantly stocked but the new smaller table is only going to be stocked in winter months. Likewise, the table in the wooded area is stocked with a cheaper seed mixture for two reasons (a) the roaming finches are not as fussy as regular visitors and (b) this area is frequented by pheasants!

Already large number of Chaffinch (feeding on beech masts) but no sign of Bramlbling since mid October.

Large number of Blue Tits (20+) and Coal Tits (8+ this morning).

[70007]

Wow, that is another impressive bird list.

I am now turning green with envy, especially the 20+ blue tits and 8+ coal tits.

They must be costing you an arm and a leg ;)

[banks]

They must be costing you an arm and a leg ;)

About £25-£30 a week!

[banks]

DECEMBER LIST

Great Tit
Blue Tit
Coal Tit
Long-Tailed Tit
Marsh Tit
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Bullfinch *** FIRST TIME RECORDED IN GARDEN ***
Starling
Dunnock
Robin
House Sparrow
Great-Spotted Woodpecker
Rook
Jackdaw
Carrion Crow
Pheasant
Blackbird
Song Thrush
Mistle Thrush
Fieldfare
Wren
Goldcrest *** FIRST TIME RECORDED IN GARDEN ***

(will add to list throughout course of month)

Late November’s freezing fog with temperatures down to –5c gave way to a light dusting of overnight snow. We woke this morning (01/12/2008) to picturesque views - see attached photographs.

Party of up to seven Long-Tailed Tit paid early morning visit to garden feeders on 01/12/2008. Also subsequent visits throughout the month.

Finally established today (26/12/2008) we have TWO Marsh Tits visiting the feeding station. We were never fully sure as we have only ever seen one bird at any one time (until today).

Female Bullfinch recorded on 27/12/2008 feeding on dead nettle flower heads - all the more reason to leave a quite area of the garden unattended. Probably brought into the garden due to hard overnight frost. Even managed to take a photograph.

[70007]

Lovely.

We get rain down here. :(

[Jandy]

Really envy your surroundings, Banks, according to your brilliant pics. One thing I noticed - Your bird table looks surprisingly short - is it not threatened by squirrels or cats at all?

[banks]

Hi Jandy

Thanks for your post. Although shorter in height than recommended by various organisations, the table is quite large and stands about 4' off the ground. To give you some idea of scale, the post with feeders attached is 7' in height. Sadly, we don't have squirrels (red or grey) on a regular basis (and understand the last red squirrel was spotted over two years ago). Thankfully, living in such a rural location without neighbours we don'y have any problems with cats!

[Hazelnuts]

Hi Jandy

Thanks for your post. Although shorter in height than recommended by various organisations, the table is quite large and stands about 4' off the ground. To give you some idea of scale, the post with feeders attached is 7' in height. Sadly, we don't have squirrels (red or grey) on a regular basis (and understand the last red squirrel was spotted over two years ago). Thankfully, living in such a rural location without neighbours we don'y have any problems with cats!

Hi Banks

Love your pictures of your patch. Brrrr it looks cold and icy.

Like what has been said I have never seen a Birdtable that short before. As you say at least you do not have the closeness of neighbours, nor Squirrels/cats.
The birdtable I have is my height of 5" 7". It was made by my friend (sadly he is not alive anymore)

What an impressive listing of birds you have too. Love the picture of your Female Bullfinch - beautiful shot.
My OH loves Bullfinches. He has seen one once on Stirling. Scotland and that was the only time.

How are your birds doing after the cold snap in your photo's. Have you seen your Goldcrest and your bullfinch once more?

[banks]

Hiya Hazelnuts

First of all, a Happy New Year to you and all fellow forum users ...

Thank you for your comments. Sadly, there has been no sign of the Goldcrest since :o( but the female Bullfinch was seen on several consecutive days (in the very same location) but nothing recently.

It has been bitterly cold with overnight temperatures down to -5c again. All the tables and feeders are constantly well-stocked in such harsh conditions. There has been a constant flow of visitors today including FOUR Robins which it has to be said are become very territorial despite a constant supply of food at various locations. Has anyone else noticed such bahavious this early in the year? Three Long-Tailed Tits together with Great, Blue, Coal and Marsh Tits were feeding in garden today.

[Hazelnuts]

Hiya Hazelnuts

First of all, a Happy New Year to you and all fellow forum users ...

Thank you for your comments. Sadly, there has been no sign of the Goldcrest since :o( but the female Bullfinch was seen on several consecutive days (in the very same location) but nothing recently.

It has been bitterly cold with overnight temperatures down to -5c again. All the tables and feeders are constantly well-stocked in such harsh conditions. There has been a constant flow of visitors today including FOUR Robins which it has to be said are become very territorial despite a constant supply of food at various locations. Has anyone else noticed such bahavious this early in the year? Three Long-Tailed Tits together with Great, Blue, Coal and Marsh Tits were feeding in garden today.

Hi Banks

Happy New Year to you too. :)

Sad to hear that your Goldcrest has not made a reappearance. We live in hope don't we. :(

Great to hear that your female Bullfinch is still around and the additional Marsh Tit. I always get mixed up between a Marsh Tit and a Willow Tit. Still a great sight to see anyday.

I have noticed that the male Blackies are starting to fight a little at the moment, and they size each other up all of the time. I can only guess the territorial disputes are getting close now. I hope that they divide their differences and get along - not to many lost feathers on the lawn.

The Robins around here are having their 24/7 singalong. They never run out of puff. Where do they get all that energy from! :eek:

We had all the regulars around today including 3 Collared Doves, and 10 sparrows who love our Privet Hedge, and regard it as their patch. Too many birds to mention.

[banks]

JANUARY 2009

Great-Spotted Woodpecker
Nuthatch (1)
Great Tit
Blue Tit
Coal Tit
Marsh Tit
Long-Tailed Tit
Robin
Dunnock
House Sparrow
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Bullfinch
Brambling (1)
Pied Wagtail
Blackbird
Redwing
Fieldfare
Starling
Rook
Jackdaw
Carrion Crow
Pheasant
Sparrowhawk

*** Will update list throughout the month ***

NOTES

The low New Year temperatures (down to –5c on New Year’s Eve) resulted in a constant stream of visitors on including three Long-Tailed Tits feeding on peanut feeders in garden (1st) along with FOUR Robins using bird table and ground feeders and already showing signs of defending territories. The female Bullfinch was still present in garden (3rd), once again feeding on seeds of Nettle. Redwing searching through fallen leaves in wooded area (3rd) along with Blackbirds. A female Sparrowhawk (with prey) was spotted overhead late afternoon (3rd) plus small flocks of Fieldfare overhead.

*** SQUIRREL ALERT *** A single Grey Squirrel was spotted (looking a little confused) on approach road (2nd), this is the first time recorded in area.

Finch numbers increased middle of month with 20+ Chaffinch together with single Brambling (18th) plus female Sparrowhawk making unsuccessful attempt at woodland feeding station.

[banks]

FEBRUARY 2009

Great Tit
Blue Tit
Coal Tit
Long-Tailed Tit
Blackbird
Mistle Thrush
Fieldfare
Robin
Dunnock
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Bullfinch (2)
Siskin
Great-Spotted Woodpecker
Wren
House Sparrow
Pied Wagtail
Jackdaw
Rook
Carrion Crow

*** Any additional species will be added during month ***

NOTES

Male and female Bullfinch feeding on seed heads in main garden (1st) whilst single Pied Wagtail on barn attracted into area after silage spreading on fields. Heavy overnight snowfalls (up to 15cms) and strong winds (2nd) appeared to have displaced number of birds - not much to report despite constant food supplies. Two Roe Deer on approach road (3rd).

[Hazelnuts]

Hi Banks

Long time no chat!! :D

Love your reports and your up to date listings of your bird species. A Marsh Tit is waht most people would dream of in their garden patch. :)

You are very lucky where you live and it gives an opporunity to see many diverse species of birds from all types of habitat. Moved about a bit and been to all types of areas - rural and built up, and there a lot of different birds that you never expect to see at all. :)

Love to hear more about your patch, and keep this thread as interesting as it is!
Watch out for the Grey Squirrel that you mentioned, as they are a menace on the bird feeders. :)

[banks]

Hi Hazelnut (and everyone else),

Apologies for not posting sooner – I simply thought it was better to post on a monthly basis as and when there was something new or exciting to report.

OK, a little about where I am based. I live on the edge of a small village called Banks (hence the username) about twelve miles east of Carlisle in north Cumbria (google postcode CA8 2JH and go to the map section to give yourself some idea of our location). We are extremely lucky location-wise as we are able to enjoy a rich and varied selection of habitat in the surrounding areas. First of all we have a typical very mature cottage county garden and vegetable garden (complete with compost heaps, ivy-covered dry-stone walls, etc). The garden is surrounded on three sides by pasture (sheep and cattle) with mature hedgerows (mainly hawthorn). Across the lane there is a mature wooded area of beech, yew and maple surrounded by a hedge of hawthorn, bramble, elder and holly together with dry-stone walls and bracken. Looking south we have views of open pasture and mixed woodland heading down the lane toward a river valley (the River Irthing). Typical birds here include Mallard, Goosander (during winter months), Dipper and Kingfisher (both species all year), summer warblers and Sparrowhawk. Going north on the far side of the village and within minutes we are into traditional open moorland (sheep grazing) and Hadrian’s Wall country where trees and hedgerows make way to rocks and mile-upon-mile of dry-stone walls, sedge and heather. Typical species here include Buzzard, Stonechat, Wheatear, Kestrel, Pheasant, etc.

I am the first to admit we are very lucky the previous residence of the property were bit into feeding the garden birds and all I have really done is developed further by way of additional feeding stations, nest boxes, etc on what had already been established.

I hope this gives you an in-sight into the area. Perhaps I should pop out with the camera in the coming weeks to give you all a visually of how lucky we really are to have our very own nature reserve literally on our doorstep.

Raymond (Banks)

[banks]

Siskins (male and female) at garden feeders yesterday afternoon.

[Hazelnuts]

Siskins (male and female) at garden feeders yesterday afternoon.

Great find Banks.

I hope that they some back for another visit to your feeders. Which feeder did they eat from? Was it the Nyger only or others too?

We saw a Male and Female Siskin on the Nyger feeder at Sandy, RSPB headquarters yesterday afternoon. Been a while since we have seen thenm so it is nice to see them again.

The males are in lovely plumage at the moment. :)

[banks]

Which feeder did they eat from? Was it the Nyger only or others too? :)

Hi Hazelnuts, our Siskins tend to prefer peanut feeders. They will sometimes visit seed feeders.

[Hazelnuts]

Hi Hazelnuts, our Siskins tend to prefer peanut feeders. They will sometimes visit seed feeders.

Hi Banks

So your Siskins like Peanuts too. They seen to enjoy their whole peanuts. I have to admit, I have never seen them eat anything else.

Seeing one on a Nyger feeder was different to me, while on my trip to Sandy. It was a novelity too, as I do not know if they like Nyger seeds or not? As they are a finch, I am sure that they will.

Do you notice how they like to eat peanuts from the feeder upside down. That is what I find so endearing about them?

[banks]

I've never really favoured niger seed feeders. Personally, I don't think I can justify the extra expense for such a limited number of species - mainly Goldfinch and perhap Siskin). Our Goldfinches are more than happy feeding on the mixed seed feeders and we can have a flock of 10+ at any one time. As stated previously, our Siskins prefer the peanut feeders and only occasionally will venture onto the seed feeders.

[banks]

Great Tit
Blue Tit
Coal Tit
Long-Tailed Tit
Blackbird
Song Thrush
Mistle Thrush
Robin
Dunnock
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
House Sparrow
Great-Spotted Woodpecker
Jackdaw
Rook
Carrion Crow
Sparrowhawk

Chaffinch and House Sparrow numbers have increased in the last week whilst the Robins (up to 4 individuals) are starting to get more territorial as spring arrives. Blue Tits are visiting one of the woodland nest boxes. Goldfinches (3) on garden seed feeders along with single Greenfinch.

[banks]

Single Red Squirrel was recorded this morning in lane near river bridge (this was almost the exact same location as Grey Squirrel sighting in early January 2009).

[Hazelnuts]

Single Red Squirrel was recorded this morning in lane near river bridge (this was almost the exact same location as Grey Squirrel sighting in early January 2009).

Hi Banks

That is good news to show that the Red squirrels are hanging on by their toe nails at the moment.

Hope that this is a sign that the Reds are being immune to the Pox, and are fighting back as they should be - plucky as they are!

Things have got to get better for the Reds now.

[banks]

Blue Tit
Great Tit
Coal Tit
House Sparrow
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Robin
Dunnock
Blackbird
Song Thrush
Nuthatch
Great-Spotted Woodpecker
Jackdaw
Rook
Carrion Crow
Woodpigeon
Pheasant

Several Buzzards have in seen in valley in recent days. Two Goosander in flight through valley following River Irthing downsteam.

[Hazelnuts]

Blue Tit
Great Tit
Coal Tit
House Sparrow
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Robin
Dunnock
Blackbird
Song Thrush
Nuthatch
Great-Spotted Woodpecker
Jackdaw
Rook
Carrion Crow
Woodpigeon
Pheasant

Several Buzzards have in seen in valley in recent days. Two Goosander in flight through valley following River Irthing downsteam.

hi Banks

You have a good list going on there. The Thrushes are great to see at this time of year. They are shy though and never atay around for long at all.

The Buzzards are fantastic to see too, I love their moewing. The call is very distinctive and can be heard for miles even though you cannot see the bird.
Very graceful on the wing.

Goosanders are not do easily found, and it is a nice addition to your bird lists if you are inclined that way at all. Great birds to see on your lists.

[banks]

Hello to all and apologies for lack of up-dates in last month – been a bit hectic all round.

April species to dates as follows:

Great Tit
Blue Tit
Coal Tit
Chaffinch
Greenfinch
Goldfinch
Siskin
House Sparrow
Dunnock
Wren
Robin
Blackbird
Song Thrush
Mistle Thrush
Fieldfare (60+ birds on 10/04/2009)
Woodpigeon
Collard Dove
Stock Dove (1)
Carrion Crow
Rook
Jackdaw
Swallow (first arrival on 10/04/2009)
Starling
Great-Spotted Woodpecker
Nuthatch
Pheasant
Sparrowhawk (overhead 11/04/2009)
Grey Heron (overhead 11/04/2009)

Blue Tits are already nest building in nest box at back of summerhouse. A pair of Robins has completed nest in open-front nest box in lane but no eggs to date.

A single Wood Mouse has mastered how to climb the Pyracantha then balance along the branches to reach fat ball feeder. Although I would normally discourage such activity I must admit its great fun to watch from such close quarters as the study window!

[banks]

Finch numbers have increased greatly in last few days with Greenfinch, Goldfinch and Chaffinch all making use of seed feeders. A single Brambling was recorded on 13/04/2009 and Siskin (7+) on 14/04/2009.

There are now two Swallows present and feeding over adjoining pasture.

UP-DATE *** The finch invasion continues with 14+ Siskins feeding late afternoon at garden feeding station (seed mixture) and 3+ Siskins at woodland feeding station (peanuts).

[Hazelnuts]

Hi Banks

Great to hear from you once more. Felt ages since you posted last on here.

That is some list of birds that you have, and a very healthy one too. :):):)

The Fieldfares and the Siskens - you could not do any better than that. Like you, we have one Stock dove here but we have never seen two of them yet.

Love the fact you have a Nutchhatch too. Is he always on the Nut Feeder, or does the Nuthatch like your other seed feeders too. :)

[banks]

Hi Hazelnuts

Apologies again for lack of up-dates - I really must make more of an effort in future.

I ain't seen the Fieldfares since last week so I guess the large gathering was simply that - a large gathering before they headed east to their breeding grounds. Siskin numbers are increasing by the hour every day and are still present along with Goldfinches, Greenfinches, Chaffinches and House Sparrows.

The Nuthatches are a little more elusive (compared with the same time last year) and are now feeding exclusively on peanut feeders. Last year they would visit the bird tables for sunflower hearts.

[Hazelnuts]

Hi Hazelnuts

Apologies again for lack of up-dates - I really must make more of an effort in future.

I ain't seen the Fieldfares since last week so I guess the large gathering was simply that - a large gathering before they headed east to their breeding grounds. Siskin numbers are increasing by the hour every day and are still present along with Goldfinches, Greenfinches, Chaffinches and House Sparrows.

The Nuthatches are a little more elusive (compared with the same time last year) and are now feeding exclusively on peanut feeders. Last year they would visit the bird tables for sunflower hearts.

Hi Banks

No worries We all have busy other lives. We have other things to think about to. :)

I would love to see a flock of Fieldfares again. Great for you seeing them as a group together. like you say, they go abroad to other places.

No Siskens had made an appearance here but there is always a chance yet. They are lovely little birds.

Only seen Nuthatches away from gardens and that is just as good seeing them scuttling up a tree in a local Reserve Yes, they are shy but there call is very distinctive indeed. Not to be missed, and once you know what the call is you will never miss a birds again.

[banks]

Siskin invasions appears to be over - there was a maximum of 20+ birds mid-week busy feeding on both seed and peanit feeders. Has anyone else noticed a sudden increase in numbers?

Robins now sitting on eggs in open-front nestbox whilst Blues Tits busy nest-building in greenhouse and summer house nestboxes.

[Hazelnuts]

Siskin invasions appears to be over - there was a maximum of 20+ birds mid-week busy feeding on both seed and peanit feeders. Has anyone else noticed a sudden increase in numbers?

Robins now sitting on eggs in open-front nestbox whilst Blues Tits busy nest-building in greenhouse and summer house nestboxes.

Hi Banks

We do not have siskens on our Feeders where we live now - I wish we had them - though we have had them in the past. They are lovely little birds.

Sounding good Banks with the bird box activity.

All of your boxes have a resident in them. Tell us how all the activity progresses. :)

[banks]

I have refrained from checking-out Blue Tit nest as there is still signs of nest building and don't want to create unnecessary disturbance. Robin is sitting on five eggs in nestbox behind ivy-covered tree stump. I have now discovered Blackbird nest in woodland area - also five eggs.

Swallows are busy checking-out suitable nest locations in adjoining barn again (we hade two pairs of Swallows in barn last year).

[Hazelnuts]

I have refrained from checking-out Blue Tit nest as there is still signs of nest building and don't want to create unnecessary disturbance. Robin is sitting on five eggs in nestbox behind ivy-covered tree stump. I have now discovered Blackbird nest in woodland area - also five eggs.

Swallows are busy checking-out suitable nest locations in adjoining barn again (we hade two pairs of Swallows in barn last year).

Hi Banks

Great to hear all about your Blue Tits or any nesting birds, and yes it is a good idea not to disturb them too much - an odd check is okay but leave them is the best motto.

Good to hear that your Swallows are around too.

[Mobee]

Hi Banks

you are as far north as myself so your bluetits nesting calendar may be about the same. We have a complete nest in one of our boxes but no eggs as yet.

Maureen

[banks]

What a difference a week makes! The Robins eggs have hatches as have the Blackbirds. The Blue Tits (two pairs) have both completed nest building and a pair House Sparrows are sitting on eggs in box above the summer house door.

Swallows (two pairs) are busy checking-out adjoining barn as potential nest site - we had two nests in there last year.

[Hazelnuts]

What a difference a week makes! The Robins eggs have hatches as have the Blackbirds. The Blue Tits (two pairs) have both completed nest building and a pair House Sparrows are sitting on eggs in box above the summer house door.

Swallows (two pairs) are busy checking-out adjoining barn as potential nest site - we had two nests in there last year.

Hi Banks

Great to hear from you once more.

Good to hear that all of your birds are doing well at the moment.

Like the idea of your Swallows nesting - now that would be something else. Let us know how things pan out. :)

[banks]

Hi all and apologies for lack of up-dates.

It has been a hectic spring season so far with a number of nesting species. A pair of Blue Tits took up residence in the triple box designed for House Sparrows and raised five healthy chicks which fledged last week. In the meantime a pair of House Sparrows are now feeding four chicks in standard nest box on the summer house. This is the second nest this season. A pair of Robins successfully reared four young in nestbox behind ivy-covered tree stump. Blackbird and Song Thrush have both nested during the early spring and both lots of young have successfully fledge.

We have a number of Wren, Dunnock and Spotted Flycatcher which may well be nesting in the gardens - the Spotted Flycatchers have been seen on a number of occasions going into ivy on barn. Access and height limits as well as any risk of disturbance has resulted in us being unable to know for definate at this stage.

There are two Swallow nests in the barn (one may have resently fledged as a number of younger birds are now in the area).

Happy birding.

[Hazelnuts]

Hi all and apologies for lack of up-dates.

It has been a hectic spring season so far with a number of nesting species. A pair of Blue Tits took up residence in the triple box designed for House Sparrows and raised five healthy chicks which fledged last week. In the meantime a pair of House Sparrows are now feeding four chicks in standard nest box on the summer house. This is the second nest this season. A pair of Robins successfully reared four young in nestbox behind ivy-covered tree stump. Blackbird and Song Thrush have both nested during the early spring and both lots of young have successfully fledge.

We have a number of Wren, Dunnock and Spotted Flycatcher which may well be nesting in the gardens - the Spotted Flycatchers have been seen on a number of occasions going into ivy on barn. Access and height limits as well as any risk of disturbance has resulted in us being unable to know for definate at this stage.

There are two Swallow nests in the barn (one may have resently fledged as a number of younger birds are now in the area).

Happy birding.

Hi Banks

Great to hear from you.:)

Sounds like your have had a lot of babies on your hands. Very active bird boxes, and birds indeed.

Lucky you having Spotted Flycatchers so closeby - not such a usual occurance at all.

Sounds like a all round success for you in your garden, Banks :):):)

Keep in touch as it is good to hear from you, and I like to hear all of your bird news.

Take care until next time
Kathy

[banks]

Hi all ...

Autumn is fast approaching - its actually evident already around here with ripe Elder and Rowan berries, trees starting to change colour, etc.

We've had a brilliant spring and summer season. Blackbird, Song Thrush, Robin, Blue Tit, Great Tit, House Sparrow and Swallow all nesting in the gardens. We never did find the elusive Spotted Flycatcher nest but, given that they were recorded throughout late spring and summer, I think we can safely assume they had nested somewhere along the ivy-covered wall on the old barn. Dunnock, Wren, Chaffinch, Greenfinch and Goldfinch were all regular visitors so again, I think we can assume they were nesting either in or nearby the gardens.

We started feeding the birds again yesterday (there is so much natural food around I really don't see the point in year-round feeding) and already Great, Blue and Coal Tit, Robin and Chaffinch are visiting the bird table along with Nutchatch.

Most of the Swallows appear to have left already - only two birds recorded earlier today. Single Willow Warbler in cottage garden today feeding on insects in the boundary headge.

That's about it for now and look forward to keeping you up-to-date with news and sightings in the coming months.

Happy birding!

[Hazelnuts]

Hi all ...

Autumn is fast approaching - its actually evident already around here with ripe Elder and Rowan berries, trees starting to change colour, etc.

We've had a brilliant spring and summer season. Blackbird, Song Thrush, Robin, Blue Tit, Great Tit, House Sparrow and Swallow all nesting in the gardens. We never did find the elusive Spotted Flycatcher nest but, given that they were recorded throughout late spring and summer, I think we can safely assume they had nested somewhere along the ivy-covered wall on the old barn. Dunnock, Wren, Chaffinch, Greenfinch and Goldfinch were all regular visitors so again, I think we can assume they were nesting either in or nearby the gardens.

We started feeding the birds again yesterday (there is so much natural food around I really don't see the point in year-round feeding) and already Great, Blue and Coal Tit, Robin and Chaffinch are visiting the bird table along with Nutchatch.

Most of the Swallows appear to have left already - only two birds recorded earlier today. Single Willow Warbler in cottage garden today feeding on insects in the boundary headge.

That's about it for now and look forward to keeping you up-to-date with news and sightings in the coming months.

Happy birding!

Hi Banks

I have not been on much here as my Broadband has been down for the past 2 months or so. Moved house, and broke my foot all at one time :eek: all sorted now, other than the foot.

Anyway, I am glad to see that you are still posting on here and I am always pleased to read your latest reports.

Yes, Autumn has stuck and it does feel a lot colder as of late. It is a pity about you not seeing your Spotted flycatcher (we where lucky to see them in Menorca Sapin this year!) Hopr that they reappear so you can see them.

Great to have a Nuthatch or two closeby. One could never tire of their antics on a bird table - if we as humans are lucky to get that glimpse of them in their full glory.

All the flying migratory birds like the Swallows, and the Swifts are well on their way now. The weather has changed so much as they have no choice in the matter at all.

Sounds a great selection of birds that you have Banks and please keep us informed about all the activity around your garden area. :)

Love to hear what you have to say anyday. :)

Best wishes
Kathy

[banks]

Hi Kathy

Great to hear from you. Hope the broken foot is on the mend and the house-move went according to plan? Any exciting new birds to tell us about?

We spent many a happy hour watching the Spotted Flycatchers doing whatthe do best - catching flies. Sadly, we never did find any evidence of a nest but the fact they were with us all summer does confirm they had a family tucked safely away somewhere close but out of sight.

We have a pair of Nuthatches that visit the garden and wooded area all year - fantastic to watch them on the birdtable trying hard to keep a dozen or so Chaffinches from visiting the table.

Regards Raymond

[banks]

There is still plenty to see around the gardens. First full week since supplying seed via feeders.

House Sparrow
Greenfinch
Goldfinch (2)
Chaffinch
Wren (1)
Dunnock (2)
Robin (2)
Blackbird (3)
Blue Tit (7)
Great Tit
Coal Tit
Nuthatch (1)
Jackdaw
Swallow

There is still a number of Swallows in area on 12/09/2009 so I can only assume the wet start to September when it rained non-stop for many days was simply keeping them at bay sheltering in barns, etc. There is no signs of House Martin or Swift.

[Hazelnuts]

Hi Kathy

Great to hear from you. Hope the broken foot is on the mend and the house-move went according to plan? Any exciting new birds to tell us about?

We spent many a happy hour watching the Spotted Flycatchers doing whatthe do best - catching flies. Sadly, we never did find any evidence of a nest but the fact they were with us all summer does confirm they had a family tucked safely away somewhere close but out of sight.

We have a pair of Nuthatches that visit the garden and wooded area all year - fantastic to watch them on the birdtable trying hard to keep a dozen or so Chaffinches from visiting the table.

Regards Raymond

Hi Raymond

How are you getting along yourself?

Thank you for your kind reply. My broken foot is getting there, and I have felt a big difference in the last week or so. I find if I do not walk enough the joint just stiffens up. So regular exercise is the best thing.
So I will go out, I make sure I wear my walking boots to support my ankle joint.

Still sorting out the garden in our new home at the moment. I think that the birds have been hiding as it is their moulting time and the garden feels bare of them
We have a Plum eating Wood Pigeon at the moment and it is funny seeing him hanging on the end of a branch trying to eat Plums of the tree at the end of our garden. It jsut looks hard work for him.

I have not seen any flycatchers in the UK, but I have seen them during our Spanish trip in May this year. Our local favourite eating place has a pair of spotted Flycatchers. They are the resident birds and they like to dive about the door and window frames taking flies as they do. We know that they are a male and female as it is in May-time.
They have their favourite perches. We sit and watch all of their antics while they sit on the the one favourite TV aerial, move to a branch of the nearby Lemon Tree, and then they sit as a pair on the trunk of a Palm Tree. They move about eating all the flies that can catch from beween the knobbles in the trunk of the Palm Tree. It is better than the TV anyday.

Great to hear that you have a pair of Spotted Flycatchers nesting in your garden area - you lucky thing. Hopefully one day you will be able to see their nest and their chicks. :)

Nuthatches are just the best to see. The only place we have seen them is at the Lodge RSPB Headquarters at Sandy. They have a very distinctive call, and that gives the game away as to where they are in the Trees. They like to scuttle up and down the trunks of trees at the rate of knots.
To have them on your garden feeders is an honour. Never knew that they liked to chase other birds away from the food - must be amusing to watch. Only knew that Robins do that, and they are comical as they are so small and the birds they chase after are so much larger than themselves.

There is a debate elsewhere on the web about swallows, Swifts and House Martins (and no doubt the less discussed Sand Martins) - and we have not seen them for the last week now, The call have gone for another year. You can hear them calling to one another all day every day and the sky is devoid of them.
I think that the colder weather has triggered their instincts to move on, and as you say Raymond the wet weather has not helped either.
Must be a hard life for them at times, and they are plucky little birds anyway. So I wish thwm 'bon voyage' until next year. :)

Great list of garden birds there, Raymond. We only have Blackbirds, Woodpigeons and Blue tits at the moment. Oh yes, and a little flock of House Sparrows living in the front area of our garden. We have a 3-D view of them out of our front room window - so pleased that we have them once again. They pop and and out of the dense bushes in front of the garden. :)
Sad news about our old house is that the garden with the large Davidii Buddeli (sp) has been chainsawed down.
So the flock of 'House Sparrows' we have there have lost their Privet Hedge that they loved to live in. I hope they found other accommodation.

Anyway life is looking up and I have my Broadband back too. I really missed the internet, and my nature walks.

Look forward to hearing more about your garden birds in the future.

Speak soon
Kathy
x

[banks]

Just a quick up-date ... we have been busy in the garden the last few days attempting to transform and prepare what was an over-grown jungle into some form of vegetable garden (and failing badly so far). Its surprising what you don't normally see and hear whilst busy bending over a spade ...

For the last two days we have had a Buzzard overhead, circling on the thermols (our attention grabbed by its call). A pair of Pied Wagtails have decented on the adjoining field to (we assume) feed on the flies disturbed by grazing cattle. A Wren has sounded its constant alarm call which got me thinking perhaps this 'jungle' was actuall his or her home. Nevertheless, he or she has now found refuge in the scrubs and border on the far side of the lawn. A Sparrowhawk was modded by two Carrion Crows and made a swift exit into the wooded area on the far side of the valley. There are still a small number of Swallows around although nothing like the numbers he had throughout the summer months.

[Hazelnuts]

Just a quick up-date ... we have been busy in the garden the last few days attempting to transform and prepare what was an over-grown jungle into some form of vegetable garden (and failing badly so far). Its surprising what you don't normally see and hear whilst busy bending over a spade ...

For the last two days we have had a Buzzard overhead, circling on the thermols (our attention grabbed by its call). A pair of Pied Wagtails have decented on the adjoining field to (we assume) feed on the flies disturbed by grazing cattle. A Wren has sounded its constant alarm call which got me thinking perhaps this 'jungle' was actuall his or her home. Nevertheless, he or she has now found refuge in the scrubs and border on the far side of the lawn. A Sparrowhawk was modded by two Carrion Crows and made a swift exit into the wooded area on the far side of the valley. There are still a small number of Swallows around although nothing like the numbers he had throughout the summer months.

Hi Raymond

Thank you for yet another interesting report of all of your bird life in your garden area.
It is great to hear Buzzard and they have such a distinctive call, and quite unmistakle. quite soothing on the mind when outdoors.
Pied Wagtails are great birds for hoovering up those pesky flies. Like you say they are obvious as to what they are doing while they move about. They look like they are dancing.
Love Wrens, and their cheeky persistant little calls. I love the way they sit in a bush, with their pert tails high over their backs, and look at you as to say "what do you want". Then tsk... like fury while hiding from you in the undergrowth somewhere.
Sparrowhawks will shift a garden load of birds very quickly and a Sparrowhawk can a remove a selection of birds in one second flat. No-one want to to be there.
There no sightings of Swifts, Swallows, House Martins or Sand Martins in Bedford - the skies are devoid of them. Feels empty withour them in our lives. Glad to hear you have the odd few that are hanging on in your area.

Great to hear you sightings, and thank for sharing once more.

Regards
Kathy
x

[banks]

A male Sparrowhawk made unsuccessful swoop on woodland feeding area on Saturday early afternoon. It was surprising how far in advance birds disappeared from feeders - there was a good ten seconds delay between everything darting for cover (which is what first caught my attention) and the Sparrowhawk swooping through. I know some people on here try every which way possible to deter suck attacks but I personally am thrilled Sparrowhawks have identified our little patch as potential larder. Having said this we do move feeders around on a weekly basis so it takes a clever Sparrowhawk to keep up-to-date.

We also had a single Marsh Tit was feeding on garden feeder on Sunday afternoon.

[Hazelnuts]

A male Sparrowhawk made unsuccessful swoop on woodland feeding area on Saturday early afternoon. It was surprising how far in advance birds disappeared from feeders - there was a good ten seconds delay between everything darting for cover (which is what first caught my attention) and the Sparrowhawk swooping through. I know some people on here try every which way possible to deter suck attacks but I personally am thrilled Sparrowhawks have identified our little patch as potential larder. Having said this we do move feeders around on a weekly basis so it takes a clever Sparrowhawk to keep up-to-date.

We also had a single Marsh Tit was feeding on garden feeder on Sunday afternoon.

Hi Banks

What a thrill to see a Sparrowhawk in your Garden. They are top notch hunters. One could never tire of all their antics. When they are on a mission to catch a bird they mean business. :)
Yes, the little birds move fast when the Sparrowhawk appears - talk about emptying a room they certainly do that. :)

We had a female Sparrowhawk in our garden area this year. She dive bombed the Privet hedge in the back garden to chase the group of Sparrows out. Once they where flushed out all we could see was one solitary sparrow flying for it's life past our kitchen window - the Sparrowhawk in hot persuit. It all happened so fast and it was awesome to see. :eek::eek:

Never thought of moving feeders around other then for hygience purposes. I just thought it would confuse the birds all the more, and unsettles them.

Great find a Marsh Tit on your feeders, that is a bit more unusual. Great find anyday. Only seen them in reserves so far!

Regards
Kathy
x

[banks]

Not a great deal to report. Blue Tit numbers are up (20+ birds between the two feeding stations) along with usual Great Tit and Coal Tit. No sighting of recent Marsh Tit or Long-Tailed Tit, the latter usually start visiting bird tables and feeders in February and March. There is definate increase in Chaffinch and House Sparrow numbers - so comical watching the mixed flocks come and go all day long. Occasional Goldfinches in last couple of days. We now have a Dunnock who has mastered the art of feeding on the seed feeder - a little unsteady on his (or her) feet but is getting there!

We took delivery of some new hole-front nest boxes for wooded area, replacing existing boxes which we have now put up in mature trees along back country lane (300-500 yards from house). Fingers crossed the boxes in the lane may well attract Pied Flycatchers in the spring. I know I keep going on about Pied Flycatchers but it is so frustrating to know there is a hotspot for breeding Pieds at our local RSPB Gelt Woods reserve which is only a short 'flight' away! Here's hoping anyway ...

[Hazelnuts]

Not a great deal to report. Blue Tit numbers are up (20+ birds between the two feeding stations) along with usual Great Tit and Coal Tit. No sighting of recent Marsh Tit or Long-Tailed Tit, the latter usually start visiting bird tables and feeders in February and March. There is definate increase in Chaffinch and House Sparrow numbers - so comical watching the mixed flocks come and go all day long. Occasional Goldfinches in last couple of days. We now have a Dunnock who has mastered the art of feeding on the seed feeder - a little unsteady on his (or her) feet but is getting there!

We took delivery of some new hole-front nest boxes for wooded area, replacing existing boxes which we have now put up in mature trees along back country lane (300-500 yards from house). Fingers crossed the boxes in the lane may well attract Pied Flycatchers in the spring. I know I keep going on about Pied Flycatchers but it is so frustrating to know there is a hotspot for breeding Pieds at our local RSPB Gelt Woods reserve which is only a short 'flight' away! Here's hoping anyway ...

Hi Banks

Great to hear about all of thr activity going on in your garden area at the moment. :)

Sounding good where you are at the moment. You have a good number of birds. There is a colder feeling in the air now and the birds will be making a bigger appearance in the garden area now.
I hope that you see your Marsh Tit once more. You are so lucky to have one close to your garden. I have heard of other people seeing Long tailed tits so this is the time of year that they make their appearance once more.

It is not usual to see Dunnocks sitting on feeders. I have seen a Robin on a seed feeder and the bird looks odd because it has no neck. Just a bit comical - as it liked to make sure that no other bird got anywhere near 'his' feeder.
I have also seen a Robin sitting on top of a hanging giant Fatball and that is seriously funny to look at.

It has felt forever since the birds have been around. Your birds are coming into your garden in droves at the moment.

I hope that your nest boxes win over the Pied Flycatchers I would think the more luxurious you make the boxes the more likely to get the birds visiting - well that is the theory Never seen a Pied yet, only a pair of Spotted Flycatchers in Spain.

Since our feeders only have been only up for a couple of months it is taking the birds a while to get used to the new set up. We have added a window feeder to our lounge window and there have been no takers for it at all. We where hoping that the House Sparrows hiding in the hedge would take advantage of it, but they have not seen it yet.

Our Blackbirds looks a bit scruffy but they are getting there. The male blackbird has bad hair loss at the moment on top of his head so I am sure he knows it too! So we have 3 blackbirds 1 male and 2 females. I have noticed a couple of collared doves coming in and they are alwasy together a bit like a married couple.

We also have got some repair work to be done to our bird boxes and I need to sort everything out in the bird food wheelie bin at the moment. Still a bit disorganised in the garden area, but we will get there in the end.

So autumn is here and I can see a lot more posting on here about all the bird activity. Well, here is hoping.

Regards
Kathy
x

[banks]

No sooner have the summer visitors departed and the winter visitors arrive - there has been a large influx of Fieldfare and Redwing descending upon us with both species feeding on Hawthorn berries in fields alongside main garden yesterday. This morning there was a flock of Redwing feeding on Elder by the main gate. All around there are large flocks of Fieldfare moving around the area. A single Wren made an appearance in garden yesterday and is singing loudly today. Nuthatch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Chaffinch, Greenfinch and 20+ House Sparrows are still visiting feeders along with usual Great, Blue and Coal Tits, Dunnock, Blackbird and Robin.

[Hazelnuts]

No sooner have the summer visitors departed and the winter visitors arrive - there has been a large influx of Fieldfare and Redwing descending upon us with both species feeding on Hawthorn berries in fields alongside main garden yesterday. This morning there was a flock of Redwing feeding on Elder by the main gate. All around there are large flocks of Fieldfare moving around the area. A single Wren made an appearance in garden yesterday and is singing loudly today. Nuthatch, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Chaffinch, Greenfinch and 20+ House Sparrows are still visiting feeders along with usual Great, Blue and Coal Tits, Dunnock, Blackbird and Robin.

Hi Banks

Great to read another new update from yourself on here.:D

It is good news that the Fieldfare and the Redwing are back on our doorsteps once more. You are so lucky to have seen them so close by. Seeing them feeding in groups in a local field is something else to behold. :D
I have not seen any myself yet so far. OH and I are planning to go on some serious bird watching this weekend so hopefully we will see these birds.

A nice selection of birds you have there Banks. Our birds are a bit and go in the garden area they are around though - just well hidden. Great to hear that you have a Wren in your garden area - they are so cute, I have to say that I do get mixed with a Wrens and a Robins alarm call. One is supposed to Tsk anf other Psk - but which is which. :confused:

Birds are a lot slower finding there way onto the nut feeders when the weather is a little milder. Things will change when the colder wintry weather arrives once more, and there will lots and we will be entertained for hours on end.

Speak again

Regards
Kathy
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[Reiver]

Hello Banks and Hazelnuts... Its been a while since I have been on here but just thought I would say how great this thread is. I really love North Cumbria and the border country just to the north of you Banks, so I am not surprised at all the wonderful birds you have seen over the past seasons.

A few years ago I walked the Hadrian's wall path and I believe we must have gone through your wee spot... We stayed just down the road at a pub by a stone bridge at Lanercost (I can't remember the name of the pub though) and I remember standing by the river looking out for brown trout down below. It was early September so autumn hadn't quite arrived and the colours on the trees were at their most vibrant. A real magical spot.

Anyway, thanks for a great thread...

Reiver :)

[Jandy]

Hi, Banks! I was wondering if you get waxwings at all where you are. I know they work their way down from the north about this time of year, so you are more likely to spot them before us down south.

[banks]

Message to Reiver ... Yes, if you have walked the Hadrian's Wall Footpath Trail then you can be certain you have walked alongside the gardens. We're based in Banks village and Hadrian's Wall actually runs through our kitchen! There are two B&B's at Lanercost, both alongside the old and new river bridges (great place for spotting Dippers throughout the year and Goosander in winter months).

Message to Jandy ... Sadly, I haven't seen any signs of Waxwings just yet but I'll certainly keep looking with fingers crosses. We have had such an influx of Fieldfares and Redwings there is little left in the way of Hawthorn berries (the Rowan and Elder berries dissappeared several weeks ago).

[banks]

There are lots of Blue Tits around feeders today (20+ individuals) along with usual Great Tits, Coal Tits and TWO Marsh Tits which are becoming increasingly tame and now visit the seed feeder and bird table outside the study window (literally four feet away). Robins are now following us around the gardens and there are occasional visits from Great Spotted Woodpecker and Nuthatch. House Sparrows and quite a large number of Chaffinches visits feeding stations throughout the day but no sign of Greenfinches in past week.

We were watch a group of Jackdaws yesterday busy squabbling amonst themselves when a Buzzard launched an unsuccessful attack on them. I always thought Buzzards were carrion feeders - has anyone else witnessed such incidents? Fieldfares still about in local fields although nothing like as many a week or so ago.

[banks]

Storms, gales and heavy rainfall that hit Cumbria in recent days has certainly had a knock-on effect with large number of birds appearing to head down into the valley, perhaps for added protection from the elements. We still have small number of Chaffinch together with Blue, Great, Coal and Marsh Tit, Blackbird, Dunnock, House Sparrow and our resident Robin which keeps making an appearance from time to time.

We have a triangular walk starting at the house which first follows the main access road down the hill then turns right and follows the valley for a short distance before turning right again to join the Hadrian's Wall Walk up the back lane, eventually arriving back at the house (total walking time 15-20 minutes). The stream running down the back lane and through the valley is usually very tranquil. Today it is a ranging torrent but I did manage to spot a Dipper! Dippers and Kingfishers are usually seen much further down the valley on the main river (the River Irthing) and I can only assume the floods have forced this particular bird further up-stream in search of an easier meal!

Hopefully, the worth of the weather is behind us and things will start to settle down again in the coming days and weeks.

[Hazelnuts]

Hi Banks

Thought I would answer you, catch up at the moment and see how things are. Dippers you lucky thing, I wish I could one of those - not seen one for years.:)

Great to hear that you have Fieldfares and Redwings. We have had some here but I think I got the back stragglers of the main flock that past over close to where I stay. I could hear the distinctive 'clakking' calls of the Fieldfares.

Never seen a Waxwing at all yet, and it is on my wish list a lot!!

Great collection of members of the Tit family and to have Marsh Tits well that goes without saying. Lucky, lucky !!!! Soem peopke have LTT's coming in now to feed so they are aroudn once more.
I find that most birds will adapt to a window feeder after a while and they do not bother with your presence on the other side. A great way of seeing birds close up and personal. :)

Robins become tame so easily and will do anything to grab your attention for some mealworms and they are mealworm mad!! Lots of finches for you and that is something we lack here. There is the finch disease around once more so I hope that is not the reason why you are lacking Green Finches.
I will wait until the colder weather comes and the birds will become more established at the feeders. GSW and Nuthatches great to see and one can never tire of their antics.

I understand that Buzzards can be the laziest birds ever an prefer road kill, and easy pickings. I am sure if the opportunity arose a Buzzard would snatch a Corvid. Corvids like to mob BoP's a lot so maybe that is what the BoP will do in return to get some peace - who can blame the BoP's

Dippers and Kingfishers what a dream place you stay at, Banks. All types of environements and all types of wild birds. Of course all the historical factors are around too.

Great report, and great read anytime :) :)

Regards
Kathy
x

[banks]

We managed to snap a couple of visitors to the seed feeder this morning - photographs not exactly fantastic but you can still see what's what. We even managed to get a shot of our Marsh Tit!

[Hazelnuts]

We managed to snap a couple of visitors to the seed feeder this morning - photographs not exactly fantastic but you can still see what's what. We even managed to get a shot of our Marsh Tit!

Hi Banks

Great shot of the Marsh Tit, and he is facing the camera for you LOL :)

Lovely pictures of the Goldies and the other birds too. :)

Regards
Kathy
x

[banks]

Three more photographs including one of our resident Nuthatches! Apologies for the quality but these photographs were taken through a double-glazed window.

[Hazelnuts]

Three more photographs including one of our resident Nuthatches! Apologies for the quality but these photographs were taken through a double-glazed window.

Hi Banks

Super pictures, once more

Lucky you having a Nuthatch - wow super birds to have.

It was great seeing one close up at the ringing session at the RSPB Headquarters at Sandy,Bedford.

Nuthatches have the most amazing bronze and white specked area under their tail that you never see normally.

Regards
Kathy
x

[banks]

Pleased you like them Kathy. Luckily for me (and not so lucky for the bird) I had the task of trying to remove a Nuthatch from our greenhouse during the spring which thankfully didn't take too long or cause too much distress for him or her. There is a pair of birds, resident all year round. We can see them several times for several days then they dissappear for two or three days - maybe there is a fressh supply of peanuts over the hill!

[Hazelnuts]

Pleased you like them Kathy. Luckily for me (and not so lucky for the bird) I had the task of trying to remove a Nuthatch from our greenhouse during the spring which thankfully didn't take too long or cause too much distress for him or her. There is a pair of birds, resident all year round. We can see them several times for several days then they dissappear for two or three days - maybe there is a fressh supply of peanuts over the hill!

Hi Banks

Yes, birds are bad for getting in places that they should not. Thry lose their sense of direction at times.
Had Blackies doing that to me more than once in a conservatory, and a Sparrow flying down the chimney once and he was alright. Once a Female Blackie got into our Farmhouse, by a mistake, and left a few deposits on our settee. They get so stressed out poor things.

It is good that your Nuthatches like your place for feeding - yes, I wonder where they disappear off too. Maybe it is a Nuthatch meet up somewhere. Compare notes. :)

Regards
Kathy
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[banks]

Great news ... our Tree Sparrows are back with us today on seed feeder along with House Sparrows, Nuthatch, Blue, Great, Coal and Marsh Tits, etc.

[Hevva]

Raymond, what a superb collection all in one go. I have fed my garden birds for many years now but have never had a nuthatch on the feeders or a tree sparrow. At work we have several very ancient sweet chestnut trees and I often see a pair of nuthatches in one of them, but I would still like one to visit me!!!

[Hazelnuts]

Great news ... our Tree Sparrows are back with us today on seed feeder along with House Sparrows, Nuthatch, Blue, Great, Coal and Marsh Tits, etc.

Lovely collection of birds, Banks.

Love to have a Marsh Tit, Tree Sparrow, and Nuthatch on our feeders anyday.

Will just place the thoughts on the level of 'wishful thinking' at the moment. :)

Regards
Kathy
x

[banks]

Yesterday we had a single Tree Sparrow. Today we hade up to six individuals visiting the seed feeder along with Goldfinches (5+), Great, Blue, Coal and Marsh Tits, Chaffinches, etc.

[Hazelnuts]

Hi Banks

You are so lucky to have all of all those tree sparrows.

We have only seen two so far - at Titchwell Marsh, Norfolk.

Another increased selection of birds too.

Regards
Kathy
x

[70007]

Yes you are lucky, I havent seen a tree sparrow for about 30 years :(

However, I have just seen a bullfinch on the buddleia eating seeds. I had not seen a bullfinch for about 15 years in the garden until today. :)

[banks]

Happy New Year to everyone.

There is still plenty to see despite the recent harsh weather (three inches of snow at present and approach roads only passable with 4x4s). Great, Blue, Coal and Tits are still visiting garden feeding station throughout the day along with Robin (3+), Nuthatch, Chaffinch, Goldfinch (2+), House Sparrow, Tree Sparrow, Dunnock and occasional Starlings. We don’t see many Starlings in local area so we strongly suspect these may be European birds wintering here.

Great Spotted woodpecker plus usual Great, Blue and Coal Tits at woodland feeder together with large number of Chaffinch. No signs of Brambling yet but we live in hope.

Two Treecreepers accompanied a group of roaming Great and Blue Tits on the approach road mid afternoon. Also, two Bullfinches plus party of Blackbirds and Redwings. A stroll along the back lane mid afternoon and we encountered a mixed flock of 50+ Siskin and Redpoll feeding on Alder seeds. Several Fieldfare still present plus Nuthatch. Wood Pigeon and Lapwing overhead.

[Jandy]

Wow, Banks! You should change your address to Birdwatcher's Paradise!

[banks]

Still in the depths of a bitterly cold winter spell with temperature at 9.00am this morning at only -7c.

Still the usually visitiors to garden feeding station. The importance of running water really hit home to me this afternoon - there are now two Lapwing using wetland bog in field just east of the wooded area plus 2-3 Snipe and single Grey Wagtail!

Fieldfare still in back lane and large number of Redwing in surrounding hedgerows.

[banks]

The cold weather continues and another three inches of snow overnight. Snipe (2) still present in wetland bog together with Lapwaing (1) and Grey Wagtail. Just about the only running water in the area - even the river has frozen over!

Collard Dove (2) plus large number of Chaffinches at woodland feedingarea but still no signs of the elusive Bramblings yet. Several Fieldfare and increased number of Redwing in surrounding lanes.

[banks]

Snow and sub zero temperatures continue ... Now up to six Snipe plus three Lapwing and a single Pied Wagtail in wetland.

Also, Long-Tailed Tit (12+) in back lane.

[banks]

We finally have Bramblings feeding in wooded area together with quite a large number of Chaffinch.

There is also two male Bullfinches in hedgrow on approach road this lunchtime.

[banks]

I thought it was about time I supplied a quick up-date of all thats going on:

Great, Blue, Coal and Marsh Tits are daily visitors to garden feeding station. They were joined by several Long-Tailed Tits late in the past week. Mixed flocks of Chaffinch and Goldfinch together with small number of Greenfinch and several Brambling on daily basis (mainly in wooded area). No further signs of recent Bullfinches in lane or Snipe and Lapwing in wet area now that the weather has returned to normal.

Several Robin (3+), Wren, Dunnock, House Sparrow, Tree Sparrow and Blackbird are recorded daily in both areas.

No signs of additional thrush species including Fieldfare and Redwing.

[banks]

The recent unsettled weather hasn't had any effect on birds in the area. Still large number of visitors to feeding stations including Great, Blue and Coal Tits which were joined yesterday by single Long-Tailed Tit, House and Tree Sparrow, Chaffinch, Greenfinch and Goldfinch. Yesterday a single Siskin appeared which was joined today by another two - perhaps the feeling of spring really is in the air! Nuthatch and Great-Spotted Woodpecker appear from time to time. Other regular visitors include Robin (3+), Dunnock, Blackbird, Wren and occasional Song Thrush. A flock of Jackdaws and Rooks make daily raid on wooded area (usually in mid afternoon). We eventually realised the fat balls were the main attraction so we have now opted to keep them in their original netting in the hope they actually last a little longer. No signs of Marsh Tits in recent days but a flock of 16+ Fieldfare passed overhead yesterday heading east (again, perhaps heading back to Scandinavia).

We have quite a lot of Coal Tits at present and they are already starting to get very territorial, casing each other around the gardens. Likewise, Great and Blue Tits are showing a lot of attention to the various nestboxes we put up in the garden and wooded area in autumn of last year.

Elsewhere locally, Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Barn Owl have all been recorded (the latter giving me a bit of a fright late one evening whilst driving along the approach road).

[crissie]

All I have to say is "Lucky old you" how delighful to live in such a wonderful location.
look forward to the pic's.

[banks]

Errrrrr, less of the "old" thank you very much!

[banks]

Chaffinch and Greenfinch numbers starting to drop off as spring makes a welcome return. Likewise, small number of Great, Blue and Coal Tits still present and we hope will take advantage of the nestboxes. Robins are now very territorial and only appear for short periods when we're in the garden (sadly, still no signs of nest-building in open-front nestbox but it is still early in the season and we live in hope). Small flocks of winter thrushes are still passing overhead. Nuthatch puts in an appearance from time to time as does Greater Spotted Woodpecker.