CES visit 2, and nest box checks

The forecast for Friday 12th May looked good, so George and Jerry decided it was the best option for the second CES visit. The early weather was perfect - overcast and calm, and the catching was brisk. However from mid session the cloud cover started to break up, allowing sun on the nets, and with a strengthening breeze the catch rate reduced. The session ended on 15 + (14) - the 9th highest session 2 total since 2000 - made up of Wren 1 + (2), Robin (1), Dunnock (2), Song Thrush 1, Blackbird 4 + (3), Cettis Warbler 1 + (2), Blackcap 2, Garden Warbler 2, Chiffchaff 1, Willow Warbler (2), Treecreeper 2, Goldfinch 1 and Bullfinch (2). The relatively high proportion of recaptures (of local breeders) is to be expected in the early visits when young birds have not yet fledged. The higher number of Blackbirds (mainly un-ringed) was unexpected, as was a new female Cettis Warbler with a well developed brood patch.

Towards the end of the session George and Jerry were surprised when a Swallow flew into the ringing hut through the open door (presumably looking for a site to build its nest). One of the shelterbelt nest boxes held our first Pied Flycatcher eggs of the year (clutch not yet complete), and in the afternoon, Andy visited the Cwm Sorgwm boxes. There were seven Pied Flycatcher nests (none with completed clutches yet), a Nuthatch, a Redstart (c/1), and the rest of the boxes were occupied by Blue and Great Tits (these are also late this year with most still laying). A check of some of the boxes some three weeks ago indicated that four were being prepared with mud by Nuthatch (maybe the same pair as three have now been taken over by tits). One incubating Blue Tit was ringed.

The day ended with a total of 17 + (14).

The first (of hopefully many) Swallow of the year.