Hundreds of birds with unusual marking have been reported in the BTO abnormal plumage survey. Across the country, householders have been seeing Blackbirds with strange white markings. The condition, typically referred to as ‘leucism’, is one of a number of plumage abnormalities to have been reported through the BTO abnormal plumage survey, preliminary results from … [Read more...] about Abnormal Plumage Survey
Blackbirds
Don’t over trim your holly bush
It’s an age-old tradition – using fresh holly branches to adorn your table and give your home a festive look – but conservationists are warning that using too much could leave wildlife out in the cold this winter. Holly is a valuable source of food and shelter for a number of birds, mammals and insects. Thrushes, robins, dunnocks, finches and goldcrests use it for … [Read more...] about Don’t over trim your holly bush
Bramble crop concerns scientists
Known by some as the bramble and to others as the blackberry, the small dark fruit found in hedgerows is becoming an essential tool in the recording of changes in our climate. The Woodland Trust has predicted that, although blackberries could ripen early due to the unseasonably warm weather, the crop could suffer this year due to the driest spring across many counties in … [Read more...] about Bramble crop concerns scientists
Garden birds face food shortage – RSPB
The unusually dry September experienced in many parts of the country may be causing trouble for our garden birds this winter, according to the RSPB. The dry weather has produced a bumper crop of berries, providing one great food source for garden birds. But the accompanying parched, hard earth has forced worms and other grubs deep under ground, making them inaccessible to … [Read more...] about Garden birds face food shortage – RSPB
Big Garden Bird Watch is 30
2009 sees the 30th birthday of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, the world's biggest bird survey, providing a vital snapshot of the UK's birds each winter. … [Read more...] about Big Garden Bird Watch is 30