We went out to watch for Cuckoos again today but things have already changed. Instead of the usually regular visits to what was obviously their favourite perch, not one Cuckoo landed there today. Having said that, a male called both to our left and then later to the right but in spite of seeing, probably that bird fly past us, it didn't choose our tree to land in. It was disappointing but not a surprise as in previous years June 19th was the last day that I photographed a Cuckoo. It is known that some of the tagged UK Cuckoos have already departed on their southern migration so I guess our birds may be doing the same already.
We had the usual small birds land in the same tree today, apart from the male Pied Flycatcher which was noticeable by it's absence, four new species landed in the tree. A Great spotted Woodpecker, Willow Warble, Linnet and Stonechat came to the tree to add to the great list of birds that have visited these four hawthorn trees while we have waited for Cuckoos.
At the end of the afternoon I went out to the Peregrine Falcon site. (I have a Schedule 1.license to photograph at this site). The Falcon was sat brooding the chicks taking great care to protect them from the sun with her extended wings acting as a a good sunshade, interesting behaviour. From time to time the little kicks could be seem either underneath the female or poking out from the side of her wings. I waited as long as I dare but by 10 past 7 the Tercel hadn't delivered a kill for the falcon and the chicks. I had to leave at that point with the promise of a good game of World Cup football on the TV….. I really shouldn't have bothered and should have waited for the tercel to catch the "evening meal" which I am sure would have proved much more entertainment.
Wildlife in a Suburban Garden 
Leave a comment