Quote:
Originally Posted by Mark Hope  Rather unusual for a Magpie to bother with a nest when there's nothing in it - are you certain the birds (?House Martins) weren't on to their second brood? |
Mark,
In some ways I wish you had not made me think too much about it but, as I saw no evidence on the drive other than nesting material I had assumed (no hoped) that the nests were unoccupied.
I did see a magpie on the ground near the nest site looking up and appearing to listen for signs of life. Now, on reflection, I fear you may be correct. What a shame.
About 10 years ago we had a tabby cat that seemed fearless. He climbed a tree in which Magpies had nested next to our bungalow. Despite being called down by me and buzzed by the Magpies which were making a fearful din, he raided the nest and got away with it. I remember feeling sorry for the Magpies but now I am not too sure if I should. The cat probly saved the lives of a few young birds.
PeterD