Blackbirds in Gardens BTO Survey

[kinkytoes]

I'm really enjoying taking part in this citizen science survey.

My blackbirds are rather shy atm though! I'm entering plenty of 0 surveys, but they are just as useful it says.

It's very easy to fill in the data asked for. I'm adding in the comments if I see behaviour not asked for in the actual survey.

My female for example is mostly just leaving and returning to her nest, which isn't very interesting I suppose but I feel may be pertinent.

I'm entering one count per day, at whatever time of day I can fit in (sometimes quite late 8.30pm ish). What's everyone else doing?

Here's the link for those interested in taking part.

app.bto.org/usutu/public/login.jsp

I joined the other week when you mentioned it on another thread (what a painful sign up process! Almost like they don't want you to join!) but absolutely zero count here. I get about 3 landing a year, only in winter. I suppose it is indeed further evidence that blackbirds are declining in (East) London!

Very sad @Agapornis that you haven't seen any at all.

I'm not much further north than you and I'm sure there are fewer here than there used to be. At least we've had one successful nest and another one in progress at the moment. 🤞

Lots of sparrows, starlings and wood pigeons here though! Briefly saw a blackcap a few weeks ago - highlight of the year so far.

The houses are only 25 years old so no mature trees or hedges yet, just clay with a very thin topsoil layer, a plethora of plastic grass, etc. A few roads away it's more typical Victorian terraces and older gardens, with far more blackbirds. Plus, between us and the six immediate neighbours we have 9 cats... I'm thankful the blackbirds are too smart to be caught.

I love doing a bit of citizen science, but sometimes does feel pointless!

Ah, it's hard to make newbuilds attractive to wildlife. The blackcap is a good sign! Keep doing what you're doing. Mine like nesting in conifers if that's any help.

What time do we think blackbirds are heading to roost now? I'm wondering if 9pm is too late to be surveying now.