the long-tailed tit was today competing with its own reflection for who can climb highest on the flimsy twigs of the twisted willow.

sure it was a no-score draw.

just had the female blackbird fluttering up at the kitchen window to get my attention as soon as I entered. I assumed she wanted more sultanas and fed her - which appeared to be an acceptable response.

she (and the other female) are going through a phase of being very hungry again. It surely has to be connected with nesting since the weather has been OK and there ought to be grubs and worms and snails around.