Blackbirds are now singing loudly at dawn and dusk to herald the start and end of the day.
Often the first sign of spring are Snowdrops appearing in the hedgerows followed by purple crocus on roadside verges. Buds are now starting to appear on trees and shrubs everywhere.
Birds are starting to sing again and just as the winter migrants are leaving the first summer migrants appear towards the end of the month. Look out, and listen, for Chiffchaffs, Blackcaps & Skylarks from as far away as the Mediterranean & Africa.
Birds are now pairing up ready for the breeding season. Look out for aerial displays from Buzzards and Red Kites. Blue & Great Tits and others can be seen chasing each other around the garden and looking for suitable nest sites.
Jays are collecting previously hidden nuts and much more visible with their vivid blue/pink flashes as they chase each other through the trees.
Great-crested Grebes are now in full plumage with their courting dances about to begin.
Tawny Owls are also very vocal at this time of year as they get together with their familiar Twitt (female) Twoo (male) contact calls. Badgers are starting to emerge and gather new bedding material in readiness for their young.
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- Red Kite
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- Pair of Jays
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- Now what’s for breakfast?
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- Blue Tit
Things to do
- Prune hedges & trees but don’t leave it too late before the nesting season begins in March.
- Put out food (e.g. fat-balls, nuts, seeds and apples) and water for birds especially if the ground is frozen.
- Put up nest boxes. You can get yours from the PNF, see our website.
- Take afternoon walks along the River Wey to see Barn Owls hunting on its adjacent wetland areas.