David and Molly the Kestrel

David adds, ‘I visited Oxford Island Nature Reserve with the Education Work Leader at T.A.C.T. I got to learn about all the small birds like Great Tits and Dunnocks and also how to tell them apart. While sitting at a bench a very cheeky Grey Squirrel came close which was really cool!’

We are all tremendously happy with the progress David has made and welcome his arrival on Friday & Saturday mornings.

We would like to thank David for all his help and hope he continues volunteering with us for a long time.

With Spring now here, the birds are beginning to get that broody feeling. You will be able to see the prospective parents searching around gardens, looking for a quiet secret site to build their nests and raise their young.

We can make things easier for them by providing a nest box. Many different shapes and sizes are available for purchase on the market.

Robins, for example, will readily use a box with an open front whereas Bluetits prefer the typical small round hole for protection from predators.

Nest boxes don’t have to be wooden. There are a variety of materials that can be utilised for nesting birds. Wicker, hazel & willow tear shaped nests can be made or purchased. Even an old tin kettle may be used.

Always place your nest box out of reach of cats and other predators. On a tall tree or the side of a house is always suitable.

One other idea which is fun is to build your own nest box. Plans are available in many bird books and also on wildlife websites. Building your own nest box can have many advantages. You can adapt your box to contain a small video camera linked to your PC or TV and watch live images of the nesting birds. Alternatively, build your nest box without a back and secure it tightly to a window frame. Then you can watch the birds from the comfort of your sofa.

Providing a range of food in your garden can save a large number of birds from starvation. There is no end to the items that birds will eat. Dry fruit cake, cheese, bacon rinds, and old fruit are just a few of them. String apples together and hang them from the tree or washing line.

Try being organic in the garden! There is nothing better for birds and mammals than being able to find natural food, like snails, slugs and other insects. If pesticides have been used then insect numbers will be reduced.

Do you fancy challenging your memory? Then pop in and pick up a copy of the next instalment of our popular fireside quiz. It is available for a £1 donation. If you would like a copy or could help distribute them to friends and family please contact us at the above number.

The winners from the fireside quiz in November 2005 have been drawn. Many thanks to all those who took part in the quiz.

We had 9 replies, 5 of which had all 20 correct answers. They are as follows:

The winners are, 1st prize of £15 goes to Mrs Doris McCullagh of Templepatrick

2nd prize of £10 goes to Mr Aaron Coleman of Doagh, Ballyclare

And 3rd Prize of £5 goes to Mrs Norah Lavery of Portadown

Congratulations to you all.