Starlings and brave Siskins.

Starlings have discovered that their heads (and the-all-important-bill- can fit right through the gaps in the squirrel guard around the peanutcake feeder. There are only two brave enough to come into the garden, but as we all know, Starlings never come alone! The Corvids are very envious of the Starling's smaller size. They would love to get their hands on this delicacy.

The Greenfinches and House Sparrows seem always in the mood for a few sharp words, once another bird joins their feeder.

The Robin was teasing me by hiding among the twigs, but did pose for me eventually.

The birds will attend my tree-planting ceremony. And I hope that they will appreciate the Rowan, Common Alder and Blackthorn. We have chosen Tuesday, the 24th January, for this. It would have been Francis' 63rd birthday.
It is more appropiate to plant the Rowan in his memory on the day Francis was born, rather than on the day he died. This way we can celebrate his life, instead of the day his heart stopped.

The 6 Siskins seem to be fearless, and they will fend off any of the bigger birds, inspiring the many Blue and Coal Tits to do the same.

I had a beautiful mobile of silver seagulls, which I bought in Whitby in 1974. Several cats have jumped up to it over the years, and now I have only a couple of loose seagulls left. I will try and get some thread on them again, and hang these in the Rowan. Francis loved these little silver birds, as much as I did, and he'd be pleased to have them out in his tree for the day.
I will do a blog on the planting on Wildlife on Wheels.
This blog is still in its hibernation like all the species she covers in spring and summer. Its about time she awakens!

A little baby Rat, still pink-nosed & footed, has braved the wet & windy weather to feed on the dropped seeds. Not very happy with him/her, because I doubt it is the only one in the garden!