We're standing at the window of Tom's mum's kitchen, wondering where all the birds have gone. Tom spots a magpie in the apple tree where several bird houses are placed, perhaps the culprit behind the grand exodus of blackbirds, tits and other smaller feathered friends. Liz laments the loss of her usual chirping flocks.
A cat once occupied the whole of one birdhouse – goodness knows how it got in there – hence the extra 'railings' along one side of it. The railings don't deter squirrels however. Wherever a tiny bird wishes to perch there seems to be a predator. Only the odd brave robin dares to tread where other birds may only dream.
And then, just as we have given up hope of ever seeing the old regulars again, I spot a long feathered tail behind a ripe, pendulous apple. The tail is black and grey where it catches the light, giving way to a softly blushing breast and dusky pink flashes above its wings. 'A long-tailed tit,' announces Liz.
At this point we would have been happy with just one bird. But before we know it, the tree has more tits than apples. A whole flock of long-tailed tits has landed – a family of parents, children and nest-builders – and brought with them some blue tits to boot. Friends. They are noisy and excitable, spreading the news as they jump from twig to twig. Last orders at the bar: maggots ahoy.
They are temporary visitors, gone as quickly as they arrived as these flocks are oft to do, but the sight really does make us smile. The magpie has been told.
Watch long-tailed tits building their funnel like, feather-lined feathers...
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