Happy & Sad Events

Is fear an acquired reaction?


Like many dogs I have known, our 12 year old wire-fox terrier chases birds. It's a pretty half-hearted attempt; the birds see her coming, seem to take time in finishing whatever they were doing and fly a short way onto the nearest branches, from where they loudly scold the dog below!


About 10 days ago, we noticed a number of baby Serins (or maybe Siskins!) and Goldfinches about - smaller size, less assured flight and, unfortunately, a comparative lack of fear. When approached they would fly away at the last minute or sometimes had to be shooed away, or would sit unmoving in the tree while we re-filled the feeders les than a foot away.


Unforunately this was their undoing when the dog chased them. Much to her surprise, our dog caught one and despite a severe telling-off, subsequently caught 4 more. Hopefully, the adults will move away to nest now that spring is well underway.


Thus my question above. It would appear, if the evidence of Serins & Goldfinces is typical, that fear of predators and rapid flight away has to be learnt by birds.


More bird problems.


If they survive long enough to beware of land predators, it may not be enough to save their lives! Yesterday I saw a Sparrowhawk make a surprise attack and claim a bird. When I went out he was sitting in thr walnut tree, ready to start his lunch, but flew off when he saw me.


we feel a bit guilty, as our bird feeders attract many birds, providing a good hunting area for Sparrowhawks. I suspect, on balance, that providing food for birds all the year is beneficial despite the odd predation?

Heron trouble.

After losing some 100 goldfish in April 2008, we thought that our two scarecrows had done the trick and kept herons away. Alas! Two days ago, I went to feed the fish to find that all we had left were the two large Carp; the eleven goldfish had all disappeared.

Poor fish; if anyone approaches the pond, human or dog, the fish came "running" to be fed. No doubt this made it very easy for the heron; like shooting fish in a barrel. I must find out if my sister-in- law has used her "heron rings" and if they work.

Short-toed Eagles back!

Last Saturday I heard hoarse whistling sounds overhead and sure enough a couple of Short-toed Eagles flew overhead. Easily recognisable by the mostly white underwings and their call, which is more of a whistle than the buzzards' miouw.

They apparently usually leave here in the winter for sub-Saharan Africa, returning to Europe to breed.

Swallows too.

I met Jo at Nîmes airport this morning and the swallows are back! I've mentioned in a previous blog how they nest in the underground car park at Nîmes airport, despite the cars, neon lights and muzak! They seemed to have a lot to say this morning, almost making enough noise to drown out the sound of the music!
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