Clever Birds (as reported by the BBC)

Rebecca Morelle reports on recent research to suggest that birds, particularly corvids are as clever as primates. Read more in Meet the brains of the animal world.

Bird Feeder update - Great tit and Squirrel

Chris has enlarged some of the holes in the bird feeder. Thank you.

Finally the birds are starting to take an interest and have been pecking at the fat ball. This is a picture of a Great Tit around the feeder... and another photo to show that the feeder is squirrel proof.

9th May Building a deadwood pit

On the 9th of May we are building a deadwood pit in the square and would like some help. we'll start at two and there will be cakes and drinks at four. We would be really gratefull for all available help.

Back garden No. 7 - Recent visitors

The green finches have been visiting frequently. The robin was around a few days ago but unfortunately hopped in through an open window so I hope he hasn't been scared off permanently.

Bird Feeder update

Disappointingly, the birds have been pretty disinterested in the feeder to date. There has been some suggestion that the holes in the squirrel proof mesh are too small. In case this is the reason Chris the new park ranger is going to make some larger holes. I have agreed to monitor and fill the feeder in Spa Fields. This feeder has also been a bit neglected by the birds. I have cleaned the feeders and put fresh mix in today just in case this is what is putting them off. Keep looking and let's hope that they pay more interest soon.

Why not to kill magpies

I thought that this article on One for sorrow, two for joy ... why we must protect magpies was very interesting and humane. Chris Packham defends the magpies who have historically been treated with suspicion. He recommends that people fill their bird feeders as a way to encourage little birds rather than resorting to the desperate measures the Songbird Trust are suggesting - a cull of magpies by bird lovers.

Blue Jay sighting

I saw a blue jay hopping from tree to tree in the south of Wilmington Square yesterday.