Author Archives: Thomas Whitlock

In total, 21 separate species were witnessed in the 9.9 acre nature reserve site situated right next to the M4. In total, 13 woodland species were recorded and 8 “edge” species were recorded, depending on their breeding habitats. The full alphabetical list … Continue reading →

In total, 20 different species were witnessed in the 7.8 acre site behind Sibly Hall. This included 14 Woodland species, as described by their breeding grounds and the BTO, as well as 6 “edge” species. The woodland species are marked … Continue reading →

In the early 1960s the mean Woodpigeon population fluctuated between 60 and 112 birds per 50 ha during the winter months. Subsequently there was a steady decline until the population levelled out in the early 1970s at around 30 birds … Continue reading →

The Woodpigeon (Columba palumbus) is a plump and familiar bird of lightly wooded open country. Its song is a familiar sound of the countryside, as is the loud clatter of wings heard when a bird flies off in alarm, or … Continue reading →

Today was the final data collection point for my dissertation study, and it was the last dawn sample at Pearmans Copse by the M4. Unfortunately, the weather was a bit against me, with a few showers happening, but all in all … Continue reading →

There are two main paternity assurance strategies which are generally found in birds: mate guarding and frequent copulations. The latter is expected particularly in species such as raptors that cannot guard their mates efficiently because of ecological constraints, such as … Continue reading →

The Red Kite (Milvus milvus) is an elegant and graceful raptor. It is readily identified on the wing by its deeply forked tail, which is constantly twisted as an aid to flight control, and by its long bowed wings. The … Continue reading →

Today was my final sample at Redhatch Copse behind Sibly Hall. The weather was again lovely, with sun out and the birds singing, it was a very nice stroll through the woodland, even if it was at 6am this morning. In total, … Continue reading →

Jackdaws prefer safe cavities with small minimum nest-entrance dimensions and avoid those with a high risk of nest predation. In experimental (fed) colonies, however, there is a tendency to use all cavities, which results in an increased breeding density. No … Continue reading →

The Jackdaw (Corvus monedula) is the most widespread of the small corvids. The Jackdaw is an engaging and opportunistic feeder, quick to exploit and new food source. It walks with a characteristic swagger and is acrobatic in flight. Outside the … Continue reading →