Goldcrest on Garrya Elliptica

[BettyB]

For three consecutive days we have had a grandstand view of a goldcrest on a large garrya close to our sitting room window.She spends as long as 10-15 minutes on the new shoots which, as far as we can tell, have neither insects nor spiderwebs on them. She concentrates on a small area at a time, wiping her beak on the stalks then moves to another area having, apparently, exhausted the supply of whatever she is finding.

At first we were very careful not to disturb her, going so far as to go out of the front door, round the house and back intothe kitchen!!. We now find she doesn't mind if we walk to and fro normally and even pick up items form " her" window ledge. What is she doing and does the double glazing distort her view of us so that we do not appear as a threat?

[aeshna5]

Quite a special treat for you! There are certainly less Goldcrests around after severe winter weather over the last 2 seasons. Perhaps ther might be tiny insects you haven't noticed?

[BettyB]

Another treat today when the male came. Same behaviour; we think it has to be food.Maybe the eggs have hatched and it takes two to feed the latge brood (7-10, we read).

Did the feamle give directions? Do the "talk" like bees? or was he just lucky.

The description in our old Observers ( 1952 ) of the male crest as fiery is perfect.

[BettyB]

It IS food.We took a poerful magnifying glass and inspected the new leaves in strong sunshine. Minute white aphid-like creatures not as big as powder with the naked eye. The nestlings will eat well and our shrub will benefit.