Any Kingfisher Experts?

[carlj]

Not spending any time lingering around where we believe the Kingfishers on our stretch of the river to be nesting, but...

Are they likely to be on their first clutch yet, and if so, would sightings drop as both are warming the eggs? Even though we're not watching our pair as intensely as over the previous months, I'm usually able to see several glimpses as they skit over the river, but in last couple of weeks have seen nowt but a glimpse of a second or two.

My biggest fear is that the local teenagers think it's fun to dump furniture in the river, and that the Kingfishers are suffering from their behaviour.

[glsammy]

Originally Posted by carlj

Not spending any time lingering around where we believe the Kingfishers on our stretch of the river to be nesting, but...

Are they likely to be on their first clutch yet, and if so, would sightings drop as both are warming the eggs? Even though we're not watching our pair as intensely as over the previous months, I'm usually able to see several glimpses as they skit over the river, but in last couple of weeks have seen nowt but a glimpse of a second or two.

My biggest fear is that the local teenagers think it's fun to dump furniture in the river, and that the Kingfishers are suffering from their behaviour.

From what little I know, now is about the time they will be preparing the nest and mating. Whether this terrible cold weather will delay that this year, who knows.

[digi]

I have had more Kingfisher sightings this year than ever before.

[Gill Catton]

Hello!
Kingfishers usually begin egg laying from early April, but things are shifting from the expected norm (due to climate change?) to even a week early for some species so it's not impossible (I understand that Barn Owls across the country were laying three weeks earlier than normal last year).
Possibly though its territorial disputes and movements as those who have not paired up yet or found a territory get more desperate.
Yes rubbish dumping can be a problem if it provides fish better cover in what was a good fishing spot, but this species also has to deal with the accumulation of natural debris in the water and in many cases should be able to adapt.
Hope this helps!

[carlj]

Just what I need to know. Admittedly, they are very shy birds and as the weather warms up, we're going further afield than our river walk, but was getting concerned at the absence of strong sightings.

Is it me, or because my partner and I have spent almost 12 months watching the same pair, you feel they're almost a part of the family?

Thanks folks!

[Kev Lewis]

It's a bit early for eggs but if a female is on the eggs the male will be constantly out hunting from dawn to dusk to eat the female and himself. When the chicks hatch both birds will be out all the time hunting for fish and spending only a few minutes at the nest.

Please remember the legal status of the kingfisher with regard to disturbance at the nest site, it is not allowed without a licence and heavy penalties can be enforced. (note: this is a very friendly reminder as I'm sure that most people are aware of this)