Scruff bags!!

[Tinkerbell]

With less time spent in the garden recently and more in the conservatory, from where I can observe the birdbath, I've noticed quite a number of scruffy birds. One in particular, a blackbird, appears to have several feathers missing and the odd red patch visible on its chest etc. This appearance isn't just restricted to blackbirds, the odd chaffinch and greenfinch seem to be similarly afflicted with scruffy plumage.

I wondered if they might have a mite problem, but perhaps someone on the forum can give a better explanation.

Tinkerbell

[Kayleigh]

I think they are just coming out of moult. I may be wrong

[Gill Catton]

There is definately a moult thing, but also bear in mind these adult birds have been feeding chicks beak to beak since Feb/March, blackbirds are probably in their third brood! Thats got to be quite a bit of wear and tear on an adults head feathers poor things

[kshotton45]

Yesterday and today, I've been experimenting with a Teleconvertor and a long lens.
I've been posting the results in the photography section.
Here's one that I took yesterday. I think he/she's been in a tight hole somewhere ! Or somethings took a bite out of it's neck !!

Keith.

[oseor]

Awww, poor little Blue tit I know alot of the birds in my garden have been looking a bit ragged lately, think it must be the moulting season to blame. Saw a Dunnock sunning itself yesterday looking a right state, bless!