Exceptionally quiet yet again with only 11 birds counted in the skies at one time.
It does not look like the Post Office Buildings are being used this year (as yet!), although we do think both original sites in Cocking Yard are being used. Last night we saw two birds going into nest holes on the rear annexe of the Royal at the same time so we are taking it that both these sites are being used. Although we wondered if perhaps both nest site holes actually lead into one site because of their close proximity. We never saw any birds entering the front of the Royal although we do suspect at least one pair if not two to be using it. Again watching the Coaching House and The Manor there did not seem to be any definite nesting activity although there was plenty of aerial activity with chasing one another and screaming in small parties up to six birds. Also on the gable of the Manor House the Starling was again playing Sentinel post and making sure the Swifts did not try and take over his/her nest. Young Starlings could be heard in the nest as soon as food was being brought in.
Activity does seem to be very slow this year compared to past years and we perhaps need to change our observation times like in past years to nearer the point of darkness (eg 2000hrs). For now its probably best left to meet at 1900hrs though maybe we could discuss it when more watchers are present.
Tonights watchers included: David Craig, Angela Sumner and Bryan Yorke
The next Swift watch will be next Thursday 8th June 2017 - Meeting at the Memorial Hall at 1900hrs - Everyone Welcome