Sadly when we returned yesterday from Tynemouth Market – I could see that the nest had been disturbed – no hen bird and no eggs ? Probably a raid by a magpie when she was away from the nest – she will ( hopefully) probably ? already be making another nest ready to lay more eggs. Sad but the eggs may be sustaining other chicks in their fight for life.
I’ve learnt that the female blackbird is solitary during the brood stage – the male blackbird gets involved when the chicks are hatched – he is the main provider of food. Also that it’s common for blackbirds to make nests in less than ideal places – well although it’s all ended without success I hope that the trellis nest may be re used – that is apparently a possibility.
Anne Proctor Printmaker 