The rides were trimmed up and ready to go after several hours spent bringing the vegetation underfoot down to a workable length just a couple of days ago. Lots of rain coupled with warm temperatures have resulted in a sudden spurt of growth.
We had seven nets up and got just over 40 birds. This despite the fledging of youngsters of most migrant species being delayed due to the dreadful weather throughout most of May.
We got young Robins and Dunnock as expected, with the first few young Chiffchaffs of the year. There was also a young Blackcap that must have fledged really early since it was already starting post-juvenile body moult.
A couple of young Magpies blundered into a net creating much consternation from the rest of their family.
A further three Whitethroat re-traps were eligible for inclusion in the RAS and there were also three returning Garden Warbler and a Blackcap adding to the value of data collected.
No sign of young Garden Warbler (22/06 last year) or Whitethroat (earliest ringing date last year was 16/06) as yet.
Seeing how the vegetation is growing we'll need to do more ride maintenance before the end of the month.
Total: 29 (17)
Blackbird - 1 (2)
Song Thrush - 0 (1)
Robin - 9 (0)
Dunnock - 3 (7)
Whitethroat - 3 (3)
Garden Warbler - 1 (3)
Blackcap - 4 (1)
Chiffchaff - 4
Blue Tit - 2
Magpie - 2
