Blackcaps

[luckyoldme]

I saw three Blackcaps regularly in my Berkshire suburban Garden last winter, and a couple in the summer, but have seen none thus far this winter. I'm guessing the odds are that they were migrants, so curious if the mild weather continues across Europe whether this will decrease our chances of seeing Blackcaps again this winter? Is their need to migrate dictated by the severity of continental weather conditions and their visitation to gardens dictated by lack of available wild food elsewhere?
Such a charming little bird, would be a shame not to see them.....

Merry Christmas one and all!

[aeshna5]

I haven't seen a winter Blackcap yet this winter though only saw 1 locally last year which was on New Year's Day.

A few have been reported in peoples gardens on my local birding website.

Hope you get some soon.

Merry Xmas too!

[LynM]

I'm waiting too! Last year, the first one was in the garden in the week starting Nov 28th and I had both male and female. They stayed with me until the end of February. The previous year, there was only a male (I'm guessing just the one) who arrived in the equivalent week, but stayed until the end of March.

I keep looking.....!

[Astra]

I saw a male Blackcap feeding on the Mahonia in the garden last week.
Unfortunately it flew off before I could get a picture but they are definitely about.

[nightshade]

We have had Black Caps here for a couple of weeks now and have been regulars for a few years

[faz]

have had blackcaps regular now for three years all year

[Hedera]

Saw first one last Monday on the honeysuckle berries. They ususally arrive the first week of December.

[Southcoasters]

Originally Posted by Hedera

Saw first one last Monday on the honeysuckle berries. They ususally arrive the first week of December.

Blackcaps here also having honeysuckle berries besides Callicarpa berries I mentioned in another post, and now decided to compete with Blackbirds and a Wood Pigeon eating a couple of apples put out for Redwings, hopefully.

[Guinnessman1974]

Me neither - it's been a milder winter of late so I guess there's sufficient food in the wider countryside for birds such as Blackcaps.

I had Redwings, Lesser Redpolls and Blackcaps last winter.... none so far however

[Guinnessman1974]

Looked out my window this morning - Blackcap on the bird table!