Will the early birds catch the worm? RSPB warns reports of birds nesting early could see our garden favourites at risk
Following increasing reports of unseasonably early nesting birds, the RSPB is urging members of the public to look out for nesting birds and give them a helping hand, as concerns grow that milder winters could change the breeding habits
Last weekend, thousands looked to their garden bird feeders and local greenspaces to count the birds they saw for the Big Garden Birdwatch.
The popular annual citizen science project sparked a national conversation, with the RSPB receiving calls for wildlife advice across the weekend. While some asked for help identifying the birds seen in their gardens, others called in from across the country to report birds showing unusually early signs of nesting.
One supporter, based in Nottinghamshire, shared images with the charity showing 5 young Blackbirds huddled together in a nest near Sherwood Forest. The nestlings – as they’re known – are yet to grow feathers and so have a down-like covering, as well as shut eyes.
Typically, the nesting season for this much-loved garden bird begins in March and can span as late as August, making these new arrivals unseasonably early.
As the RSPB’s wildlife advisor, Katie Nethercoat describes: “From reports of Blue Tits checking out nest boxes and Robins gathering nesting materials, to Blackbirds and Woodpigeons already raising young, these are all signs that Spring is on its way, albeit a little early.”
According to the wildlife charity, milder than usual winters can bring on early nesting attempts like these as birds work to raise more than one brood in a year. Blackbirds for instance can raise up to 4 broods of chicks in a year, however it is crucial that the conditions are right to ensure their survival.
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Posted On: 02/02/2023