tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31366924164179804522024-03-13T09:43:19.926+00:00The Cardiff Bird RingersPerhaps the best bird ringing blog in Cardiff....Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.comBlogger244125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-13240992685715778212016-08-08T07:40:00.003+01:002016-08-09T08:44:39.924+01:00Sunday PastimesSunday is a day for enjoyment. A day for relaxation. A day for pastimes. The Cardiff Ringers are no stranger to enjoyment and relaxation, especially the kind that is measured in pints. But this Sunday, The Ginger Fishermen found some new pastimes for us. A nice walk in the countryside followed by some tree climbing and three feathered pastimes were inducted in to the ringing scheme. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEd7vrlWiZs/V6gm7xsEtVI/AAAAAAAABKo/bl7Wu_llOJQc-PlZq1JQ_vJXBo3VDgtlQCLcB/s1600/20160807_191806.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VEd7vrlWiZs/V6gm7xsEtVI/AAAAAAAABKo/bl7Wu_llOJQc-PlZq1JQ_vJXBo3VDgtlQCLcB/s400/20160807_191806.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pastime</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y81Bom9kbHI/V6gm-vHOQKI/AAAAAAAABK4/m7mNi8i1pFsZJY_5PawxWEUTPcmiXnNrwCLcB/s1600/20160807_192121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y81Bom9kbHI/V6gm-vHOQKI/AAAAAAAABK4/m7mNi8i1pFsZJY_5PawxWEUTPcmiXnNrwCLcB/s400/20160807_192121.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mike ringing a pastime. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A big thank you to the ringing demi-god that is the leaser of <a href="https://midwalesringers.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ruffled Feathers</a> for the opportunity. </div>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-79488870350494478642016-04-25T13:30:00.001+01:002016-04-25T13:31:02.591+01:00A break from nappies (a poem by CRG)A lovely way,<br />
<div>
to start the day,</div>
<div>
a break from nappies and milky sick,</div>
<div>
to put up nets upon a stick.</div>
<div>
Chiffs and willows taking flight,</div>
<div>
lesser and common white.</div>
<div>
time to go but I'm still happy,</div>
<div>
I'm needed to change another nappy.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S-UD0sjcBOY/Vx4N0slN-mI/AAAAAAAABKA/tIk4qfuN1A8WBnYkj7MeKIr_OBAhK0FLgCLcB/s1600/IMG_0220.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S-UD0sjcBOY/Vx4N0slN-mI/AAAAAAAABKA/tIk4qfuN1A8WBnYkj7MeKIr_OBAhK0FLgCLcB/s320/IMG_0220.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
</div>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-11807373823044524862016-02-11T23:16:00.000+00:002016-02-11T23:16:11.376+00:00First Woodcock ringed in Cardiff?Garth Mountain Woodcock # 1<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S0REbcgjGUY/Vr0V9daWJKI/AAAAAAAABJw/X8jq_f1SJ5M/s1600/20160211_212240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-S0REbcgjGUY/Vr0V9daWJKI/AAAAAAAABJw/X8jq_f1SJ5M/s320/20160211_212240.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>
<br />
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-5827913671291881912016-02-08T15:56:00.000+00:002016-02-08T15:56:04.090+00:00Woodcock O'ClockAs the gentle folk of the UK battened down their hatches and settled into their favourite slouching positions in last nights' storm, two intrepid ecologists braved the wind and rain in search of Muckle Snippecks, gobbling worms on the common grounds of Pen coed. Although Woodcocks (as we prefer to call them), are often described as 'one of the best examples of camouflage in the world of nature', all the stripes and brown feathers in the world are no match for a big bright torch and a massive landing net. We have tallied only 9 this season but we have a string of metal rings to use before these marvellous creatures disappear northwards.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yCiCswMHSR8/Vri6L088MbI/AAAAAAAABJc/0Y73QTBYZVY/s1600/IMG_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yCiCswMHSR8/Vri6L088MbI/AAAAAAAABJc/0Y73QTBYZVY/s320/IMG_0048.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zDkI19gk9es/Vri6Mo6zv8I/AAAAAAAABJg/XySy77E-ad4/s1600/IMG_0050.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zDkI19gk9es/Vri6Mo6zv8I/AAAAAAAABJg/XySy77E-ad4/s320/IMG_0050.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That is the look of joy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-24482917352707666762016-01-22T13:55:00.003+00:002016-01-22T13:55:46.952+00:00Small VictoriesThe Cardiff Ringing Group is composed of conservationists and scientists (which can sometimes, but not always, be the same thing). As such, the group strives to contribute to the understanding of the ecology our avian cousins- (especially those with funny names). It shames us to admit it, but most of our endeavours in this regard, result in total failure. However- with persistence and learning, we can succeed...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5N3triFB2Yk/VqI0xMqXnsI/AAAAAAAABJM/5jVAiDdscjw/s1600/IMG_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5N3triFB2Yk/VqI0xMqXnsI/AAAAAAAABJM/5jVAiDdscjw/s1600/IMG_0017.jpg" /></a></div>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-91026013069970416292016-01-11T22:20:00.002+00:002016-01-11T22:20:28.540+00:00Slow Saturday for SwansAs is tradition for all new CRG trainee recruits, the new year began with testing the steel of our newest members: John and Claire. There is a craft to stalking and capturing a mute swan; the trick is to look unimpressed and uninterested in the birds and gaze out into the distance as if counting the new tufted ducks you plan to catch (it also helps to picture the bacon sandwich you'll soon be eating from the cafe). Then, once in pouncing range, and after checking the bird doesn't already bear the markings of a BTO-endorsed previous encounter, pounce; pounce fast; pounce with precision and accuracy. All too often trainees will show hesitation, deviation and repetition - all hallmarks of failure- and guarantees of having to shell out for the bacon sarnies.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
When I watch Richard pouncing onto an unsuspecting mute swan, I am often taken back in time 12,000 years to the early Holocene to observe the successes of a well fed and successful swan hunter- I suspect that I too bear a similar (albeit Neanderthal) resemblance. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am happy to report that the new crew show promise; (they were not afraid of the honkers and they had a go- good enough I suppose!) 6 more swans with blue rings (C077-082).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In related news- we have had a couple of recoveries of swans (Burnham on Sea -somewhere abroad I reckon) and roath park lake (again). Another coot has ended up in Manchester (Kane Brides must have been on tour).</div>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-33107283027993403602016-01-02T23:01:00.003+00:002016-01-07T17:52:20.436+00:00Keeping the CRG in the Lime Light<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
As role models and peers to the other ringing groups in Wales and indeed, the UK, its very important for the Cardiff ringers to occasionally feature on TV providing world class Friday night entertainment. On this occasion (aired on New Years Day) we were assisting Prof Ormerod relay the importance of River water quality to biodiversity to the ITV viewing public with the legendary Ray Mears. I suspect Ray has seen many bird extractions in his career, but we could sense his awe. Its tough maintaining high standards....<br />
<br />
check it out in full here<br />
<a href="http://www.itv.com/hub/wild-river-with-ray-mears" target="_blank">Cardiff Ringers ringing with Ray</a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
The dipper ringed was later recovered this winter (a year or so later) by half man, half ringing god Tony Cross, who quipped 'the dipper must have picked up a couple of survival tips from Ray!'<br />
<br />
<br />Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-9867543273543054772015-11-23T19:03:00.002+00:002015-11-23T19:03:40.616+00:00Back with a Bang!Radio silence can be beautiful, but its' time has been and gone. The third age of flippant, mildly amusing posts about the activities of an unremarkable ringing group in South Wales has just begun.<br />
<br />
We are mostly active at Cardiff Bay which is ticking over nicely- we are also monitoring Lavernock.<br />
The first ringing session at Lavernock yielded many new recruits to the ringing scheme including Bullfinches, Goldcrests and a Firecrest. A Firecrest!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-afbEug1Efjw/VlNi0fbBhaI/AAAAAAAABHg/XAbvTVPQKhg/s1600/IMG_0156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-afbEug1Efjw/VlNi0fbBhaI/AAAAAAAABHg/XAbvTVPQKhg/s320/IMG_0156.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy to be invited</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-60264651434517564212014-09-20T18:59:00.000+01:002014-09-20T18:59:43.625+01:00New Site Going Well (Caerlan - Penrhiwfer)Although this site is well known locally to the bird watchers in the area, it was identified the potential of the location from a ringing perspective, various studies are conducted over the year from NRS, BBS to general year listing.<br />
<br />
Having reached the dizzy heights of being awarded a C permit (Conventional Trapping Techniques) from the BTO, it was time all the visits to the location were split up to target specific areas were particular species were active.<br />
<br />
A visit in early July produced a male / female Stonechat visiting a identified area frequently, spring trap set with mealworm BINGO<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRs-cFu4OFlXSsblUF-Wq4hJO1ed3t2NSqJUZLPySP2wRJ6kdaAUzF4VpDslG2Cr0RojDn62MQZ746Zj3Sx9s6ZrU6h8jw-iYPdaMI1h2PYPFnZ18XHh5r1h49mmxWVwg3mDpIuRJiXo_2/s1600/IMG_2165.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRs-cFu4OFlXSsblUF-Wq4hJO1ed3t2NSqJUZLPySP2wRJ6kdaAUzF4VpDslG2Cr0RojDn62MQZ746Zj3Sx9s6ZrU6h8jw-iYPdaMI1h2PYPFnZ18XHh5r1h49mmxWVwg3mDpIuRJiXo_2/s1600/IMG_2165.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My First Officially Rung Bird For The Site</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Various other visits to the site produced the odd Meadow Pipit <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A concentrated effort was then carried out at my back garden with using small spring trap 25cm x 25cm & potter traps various sizes received from John Mawer (by the way a very nice chap indeed).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The potter traps proved to be pretty productive with Woodpigeon, Starling, House Sparrow, Magpie, Dunnock & Chaffinch current species caught</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
After the family holiday it was time to get back to business, with a visit to Cearlan to target Meadow Pipits the first visit was conducted over the weekend of 13/14th September and what a few days to remember a total of 35 Meadow Pipits were processed. Further visits up to this morning has produced a total of 59 processed Meadow Pipits the majority this year birds, many of the birds showing the post juvenile moult stage. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It is hoped a few more visits will be conducted over the next few weeks, also identified was a flock of approx 60 -70 linnets, good numbers of Skylark 20+</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The site has some real potential from a ringing perspective particularly over the winter periods as Fieldfare, Redwing, & Blackbird are plentiful in various areas</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dS0yaqee7f0/VB2-wHrae1I/AAAAAAAABGM/asDTEATbGu0/s1600/25%2Bcm%2Bx%2B25%2Bcm%2BMeapi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dS0yaqee7f0/VB2-wHrae1I/AAAAAAAABGM/asDTEATbGu0/s1600/25%2Bcm%2Bx%2B25%2Bcm%2BMeapi.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cTkJGL5OfGQ/VB2-6emujpI/AAAAAAAABGU/N7K6DCG9MXQ/s1600/30cm%2Bx%2B30cm%2BMeapi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cTkJGL5OfGQ/VB2-6emujpI/AAAAAAAABGU/N7K6DCG9MXQ/s1600/30cm%2Bx%2B30cm%2BMeapi.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A selection of spring traps used at the Cearlan Site</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And finally a Welsh Meadow Pipit wearing its official BTO jewellery<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oy52e3AS1T0/VB2_69Dc5YI/AAAAAAAABGc/uQAf9_wB3jc/s1600/Meapi%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Oy52e3AS1T0/VB2_69Dc5YI/AAAAAAAABGc/uQAf9_wB3jc/s1600/Meapi%2B1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Y536562<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
</div>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-48500156463182488292014-09-13T09:58:00.000+01:002014-09-13T10:30:36.805+01:00Island Bonanza!<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last weekend we sent Facey and a few banner men as emissary to Flat Holm;
if for nothing else other than to see how many empty net rounds he'd managed
before being found in a heap in the Gull and Leek, surrounded by empty beer
bottles and covered in crisps.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But Flat Holm is an unpredictable mistress and this time the alder bushes were
hopping with birds. Nets were put up and believe it or not, birds were caught.
Real birds too. Chiffchaffs, willow warblers and blackcaps graced the net on
Friday before a cold beer (just the err one).<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d3fMmIT1Qgg/VBQIubbx7vI/AAAAAAAABFg/hPhIIscKgPA/s1600/demo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d3fMmIT1Qgg/VBQIubbx7vI/AAAAAAAABFg/hPhIIscKgPA/s1600/demo.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="justify">
Trainee (soon to be C) Erin explaining to members of the Flat Holm Society </div>
<div align="justify">
all about Willwas. For those familiar with the Welsh Political scene, yes that</div>
<div align="justify">
Ray in the background.</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Then came Saturday - grey skies, low cloud and an invisible mainland meant the
migrants stayed on the island. Nets put up the previous evening were unfurled and then more put up. The first two net rounds contained more non-gulls than were caught on Flat Holm in all of 2013. Then came the House martins, clinging to the light house; 32 were tempted by a tape lure, as was a sedge warbler. By the afternoon the sun was shining and the cloud burnt through so things slowed down. But when the
G&L opened its doors, 119 birds had been ringed. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jR_AFP3Uo2w/VBQI6HogATI/AAAAAAAABFo/wFaTwD8m2bc/s1600/House%2BMartin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jR_AFP3Uo2w/VBQI6HogATI/AAAAAAAABFo/wFaTwD8m2bc/s1600/House%2BMartin.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Extracting house martins. We apologise for the smiles and scene of enjoyment</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Sunday saw much slower progress and fewer birds were caught - rock pipit and meadow pipit gracing the nets. Wheatear refused to play ball, repeatedly ignoring our offerings of mealworm. Eventually we packed up, slightly sun kissed, finishing on 180 birds of the weekend. Hells Yeah!<br />
<br />
<br />
So what was bird of the trip? The house martins were pretty good. But, as no megas were caught, bird of the trip went too...<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<o:p> </o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GaSO2Xdv_bg/VBINWfc80PI/AAAAAAAABFQ/vZD7x3px1sw/s1600/trec.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GaSO2Xdv_bg/VBINWfc80PI/AAAAAAAABFQ/vZD7x3px1sw/s1600/trec.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="justify">
As rarity is a matter of context and this is a rare bird for Flat Holm; this</div>
<div align="justify">
individual being only the fourth to end up in a net on the island. The last</div>
<div align="justify">
one was caught in 1998. Still, with wryneck seemingly everywhere that</div>
<div align="justify">
weekend it would have been nice if the Gods had graced us with one. <br />
<br />
<br />
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0g9f0k-e1dc/VBQJA4G74hI/AAAAAAAABFw/n-pPoHWImLI/s1600/Notebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0g9f0k-e1dc/VBQJA4G74hI/AAAAAAAABFw/n-pPoHWImLI/s1600/Notebook.jpg" height="640" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tad-da! Our totals for the trip, presented old school in a notebook.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-75882374506216089132014-08-21T15:43:00.000+01:002014-08-21T15:43:13.175+01:00As (hopefully) seen on TV
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The question might have been asked thus “Can you help me out
with catching dippers for a filming session for Ray Mears’ new series?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">What was heard was “Whotcha! Want to meet Ray Mears?!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hN4xFNIyLu4/U_YEUGUXwaI/AAAAAAAABFA/1e7Ex0IV7sU/s1600/Vaf%2Band%2BPole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hN4xFNIyLu4/U_YEUGUXwaI/AAAAAAAABFA/1e7Ex0IV7sU/s1600/Vaf%2Band%2BPole.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="justify">
Vaf practising his on screen his pole </div>
<div align="justify">
handling technique</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">And so that is how it transpired that Vaf and Facey found themselves,
chanting “Ray! Ray! Ray! Ray! Ray!” on their way to meet Prof Steve O(merod) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and get some BTO bling on some dippehs in
front of Ray Mears (while not pointing and not drivelling “You’re Ray Mears,
you are!”).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Mr Mears is a genuinely, genuinely, nice guy – friendly,
chatty, and down to earth. He took the time to talk to us both and even
listened to what we had to say (more than just “You’re Ray Mears, you are!”). He
clearly cares about the world around him and the fact our species is royally
screwing it up. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Steve wanted the big riparian three; dipper, kingfisher and
grey wag. Water birds are like water buses, after a long wait for nothing four
come along at once; in quick succession we missed two kingfisher, a dipper and
a grey wag. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
B<span style="font-family: Calibri;">ut the Gods of Ringing did smile on their loyal disciples and
we soon caught a kingfisher. No sooner as the bird was on dry land it was a
case of “ere, Ray! Hold this!” and off our merry pair went to extract two
dippers, quickly followed by a grey wag. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gqp7BQOfbgA/U_YERznRB8I/AAAAAAAABE4/G_js__StW1Q/s1600/CR%2Band%2BRay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gqp7BQOfbgA/U_YERznRB8I/AAAAAAAABE4/G_js__StW1Q/s1600/CR%2Band%2BRay.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="left">
Facey, Ray and Vaf. Mr Mears is clearly pleased to be in the </div>
<div align="left">
presence of the (in)famous Cardiff Ringers. </div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The camera was pointed at us a good few times, thankfully as
we took ages on our hair and makeup. So you might, just might, glimpse our
overly excited grins on Ray’s (yeah first name terms) new programme to be aired
in Feb 2015. But if we end up on the cutting room floor, we’ll be pleased with
the fact that the dippers we caught made it on screen with Steve Ormerod and
Ray Mears.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span></o:p> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><em>If you have a film
sequence involving of ringing... if no one else can help... and if you can find
them... maybe you can hire... The Cardiff Ringers*<o:p></o:p></em></strong></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Cue Facey’s car
rolling over and Vaf throwing an eco-tone pole at some trainees)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><o:p><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></o:p></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;">*If locked in a
warehouse we’d probably fashion a larger potter trap. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-83222217013826261842014-07-02T22:54:00.003+01:002014-07-02T22:58:25.725+01:00Gull Ringing It Is ThenHaving missed the annual gull ringing last year in Cardiff City Centre & Surrounding Area, I was eager to receive the date from Rich, this was received, annual leave request put into employer for July 1st , leave granted, "Happy Days"<br />
<br />
The activity was run like a military operation with Peter Rock, being the OC, RV Southgate House 09:00hrs, where we (Wayne Morris & myself) were greeted by Peter, bringing up the rear was Rich Facey & Ian Vaughan (That sound rude) should I say arriving a few minutes later was Rich & Ian<br />
<br />
To the roof we went, where 3 Lesser Black Back Juvenile Gulls were rung, at this location a few nests had failed.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2a6YQ7eEJA/U7R8hGkYAPI/AAAAAAAABEE/zl3zR0ECrFg/s1600/eggs+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2a6YQ7eEJA/U7R8hGkYAPI/AAAAAAAABEE/zl3zR0ECrFg/s1600/eggs+1.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Further visited to the roof of WH Smith produced 3 LBBGU & 3 HERGU contributing to science and wearing new jewellery and a fancy plastic accessory (Darvic)<br />
<br />
Visits to Vitality/Henrys - Sainsburys - Boots produced a further 8 Juveniles<br />
<br />
By far the largest breeding area was the roof of Wilkinsons (17) & Sainsbury (2) roof just off Newport Road, with another 19 Juveniles being added<br />
<br />
Eagle eye Morris had viewed Juveniles on the roof of carpet right, the smooth talking Peter Rock secured permission from the store to grant us authorisation to go on the roof 3 LBBGU were ringed, however a visit a week earlier could of secured us a few more.<br />
<br />
In total 39 Juveniles were rung 27 LBBGU & 12 HERGU<br />
<br />
A thoroughly enjoyable day with great company, huge thanks to Peter, Rich, Ian & Wayne, and the beer was pretty good at the end of the ringing activities<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J7cXcEu0SJM/U7R7dIln9HI/AAAAAAAABD4/MoLc4PVp2Tc/s1600/mjt+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J7cXcEu0SJM/U7R7dIln9HI/AAAAAAAABD4/MoLc4PVp2Tc/s1600/mjt+1.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Myself arranging birds for further processing</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vqb2Jpebvrw/U7R5W6DeWZI/AAAAAAAABDw/WyJlJ2qYLHs/s1600/D+D+Darvic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vqb2Jpebvrw/U7R5W6DeWZI/AAAAAAAABDw/WyJlJ2qYLHs/s1600/D+D+Darvic.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;">
Darvic Being Added To This Herring Gull</div>
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-1847682606905462082014-04-21T12:14:00.002+01:002014-04-21T12:15:32.773+01:00Communique from some bloke in Northern Ireland<div style="text-align: justify;">
Contrary to rumour, our Irish contingent, TT, has not in fact been held hostage pending a ransom. Were that the case, it is hoped that someone, somewhere, would come up with the 25p and a chewing gum needed to release him.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
No, TT is still active on the Emerald Isle. Unfortunately his gloriously be-canopied site proved to be less productive than a very unproductive thing, with zero birds caught from his last 5 outings. Evidently the Ringing God, Sagi (it's Latin; Google it. See what I did there, huh? Yeah...), had decided that this was not the right site to conduct ringing operations so TT is currently searching for pastures new. Except that he won't be using pastures as that would be foolish. Phone numbers have been collected and ringing threatens to break-out any day now.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ECDXZgm1YF8/U1T7zsX_NFI/AAAAAAAABC8/yyRT0bZ79i0/s1600/20140313_064026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ECDXZgm1YF8/U1T7zsX_NFI/AAAAAAAABC8/yyRT0bZ79i0/s1600/20140313_064026.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Fortunately for TT, who, for some obscure reason, continues to write in the third person, there has been the occasional outing to tide him over. A couple of birds were caught in the garden of a colleague, hereafter known as Hesford, for 'tis his name. With Hesford gaining his restricted C permit for his PhD study of mumblemumble willow farms, they have taken to ringing at one of his study sites where the catch is, while not huge, appreciable.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zfxz5645Q9I/U1T7pFbQ8ZI/AAAAAAAABC0/pgyJ91EfMyI/s1600/20140401_101219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zfxz5645Q9I/U1T7pFbQ8ZI/AAAAAAAABC0/pgyJ91EfMyI/s1600/20140401_101219.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On our first outing, they... oh screw this, I'm confusing myself. On our first outing we caught several bullfinch and this glorious jay which, due to a lack of appropriate rings in Hesford's kit, is now swanning - or should that be jaying? - around sporting that most sought-after piece of avian bling, a Cardiff Ringing Group ring sequence. It's only a matter of time before the other jays see it and start throwing themselves into our nets in order to get their own.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
We've been out again since and should be going out this week, if the weather holds up. It's a big site to there's plenty of scope for experimentation. Then, hopefully, I'll be closer to having a new permanent site or two and I can introduce more birds to the splendour of CRG rings.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
'Til next time, toodle pip.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
TT</div>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-32450427814648659092014-02-09T10:28:00.001+00:002014-02-09T10:28:14.400+00:00New Nest Recording Site Now Ready For The 2014 Breeding Season And BeyondThe new site at the works location of Martin Thomas (Billy Wizz), has now been completed with the sighting of 15 various type nesting boxes, made by Martin & Teifion over the previous year, as well as this site various other sites will be monitored, the nest box outcome results will be forwarded to the BTO as part of the Nest Recording Scheme<br />
<br />
We look forward to some new tenants for the forthcoming breeding season and beyond<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7SXUnYspc-Y/UvdV9-FL5WI/AAAAAAAABCY/AoAyjXg9QRw/s1600/Picture+001a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7SXUnYspc-Y/UvdV9-FL5WI/AAAAAAAABCY/AoAyjXg9QRw/s1600/Picture+001a.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4J001mTcH_o/UvdWB5Ug1wI/AAAAAAAABCg/pgjw-wjvWWg/s1600/Picture+002a.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4J001mTcH_o/UvdWB5Ug1wI/AAAAAAAABCg/pgjw-wjvWWg/s1600/Picture+002a.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-19072332091516361802013-12-13T22:54:00.002+00:002013-12-13T22:56:04.562+00:00Poultry in Motion II Way back when in 2010 GR03863 was ringed as a juv at Cosmeston Lakes. We heard nothing more of it <a href="http://cardiffringers.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/poultry-in-motion.html" target="_blank">until it's ring was read in Greater Manchester.</a> And that was the last we heard of GR03863.<br />
<br />
Until recently when we heard via Kane Brides that GR03863's ring had been again read in the field in Greater Manchester. We could tell you more but to be honest <a href="http://two-in-a-bush.blogspot.co.uk/2013/12/the-long-and-short-of-it.html" target="_blank">Peter Aker who read the ring has done the job on his blog</a>. There is even a map!Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-2791351967883576552013-12-01T20:12:00.000+00:002013-12-01T20:12:05.621+00:00Make The Effort And Reap The RewardsRich,James, Wayne and Martin visited CBWR for a scheduled ringing session and were rewarded for their patience with the processing of this beauty<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QKbcvCz-uQM/UpuXOSnt4sI/AAAAAAAABB0/S2DjvpexakI/s1600/beati.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" closure_lm_457680="null" dua="true" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QKbcvCz-uQM/UpuXOSnt4sI/AAAAAAAABB0/S2DjvpexakI/s320/beati.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This species undergo a complete summer moult and therefor it was not possible to age this male<br />
<br />
<div align="left">
<br /></div>
<div align="left">
Other processed species included Cetti Warbler - Reed Bunting & Starlings</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-54300365434233940882013-11-16T13:55:00.001+00:002013-11-16T13:56:59.925+00:00Cardiff Bird Ringers Travel To Pastures NewMartin & Teifion had an early start to join members of the Gower Ringing Group at their site at Oxwich.<br />
<br />
Species Caught : Meadow Pipit - Robin - Long Tailed Tit - Blue Tit - Great Tit- Goldcrest - Cetti Warbler and wait for it FIRECREST to the delight of Owain as this was a target species for the site<br />
<br />
Special thanks go to Owain, Charlie, Heather, Cedwyn and Keith for our warm welcome<br />
See below photograph of Firecrest & Goldcrest<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1gCOCCdl0F0/Uod3JdO6OXI/AAAAAAAABBY/dxy6NXPhRo0/s1600/firecrest+goldcrest.BMP" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1gCOCCdl0F0/Uod3JdO6OXI/AAAAAAAABBY/dxy6NXPhRo0/s320/firecrest+goldcrest.BMP" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photograph Courtesy of Teifion Thomas Bird Images</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Further images available on Gower Ringing Group BlogCardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-60965198072490778242013-09-17T21:31:00.001+01:002013-09-17T21:31:18.462+01:00Making the most of migrationWell since a trip to Flat Holm island to monitor migrants was called off due to blustery conditions, the only option was to monitor at our usual haunts. The bay was the ideal substitute and a modest number of birds were caught - mainly willows and chiffs with a splattering of blackcaps and reed warblers. The later are now getting thin on the ground (much to Vaf's relief) and migration for the species presence in the country is petering out.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MPopIU4reoo/Uji4RyNQYsI/AAAAAAAABAQ/M2Sa_G71Li0/s1600/chart+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MPopIU4reoo/Uji4RyNQYsI/AAAAAAAABAQ/M2Sa_G71Li0/s400/chart+(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="left">
Oh yes, what would science be without a graph. This one from BirdTrack</div>
<div align="left">
showing the reporting rate of reed warblers showing reed warbler migration </div>
<div align="left">
nearing its end.</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The black caps we caught were very chunky and some had some major fat stored up - giving Facey a run for his money. But the stars show went to a spotted flycatcher and a mippit. The former was only caught for the first time at the site in 2011 but has put in an annual appearance since although at very low numbers. The mippit was only the twelfth we have caught; the first eleven all being caught in 2009!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--bjG9Hx9-B8/Uji4oVlmiGI/AAAAAAAABAc/YSayZB2HSHQ/s1600/IMG_5968.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--bjG9Hx9-B8/Uji4oVlmiGI/AAAAAAAABAc/YSayZB2HSHQ/s400/IMG_5968.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Separating mippits and trippits involves things like measuring the hind claw. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9TM6r_OGcw/Uji4oAMeKRI/AAAAAAAABAY/jhtlArwh27w/s1600/IMG_5969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c9TM6r_OGcw/Uji4oAMeKRI/AAAAAAAABAY/jhtlArwh27w/s400/IMG_5969.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close up of the meadow pipits head with data sheets in the back ground. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7xT4U805e7Y/Uji4qPTTB9I/AAAAAAAABAo/GjNSbNA1BOU/s1600/IMG_5970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7xT4U805e7Y/Uji4qPTTB9I/AAAAAAAABAo/GjNSbNA1BOU/s400/IMG_5970.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A picture of a meadow pipit to illustrate the fact we caught a meadow pipit. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-48360090343543727412013-08-30T11:02:00.000+01:002013-08-30T11:03:26.867+01:00Late in the SeasonSwallows seem to be particularly unpredictable this year. I very recently received permission to ring at a farm where a surveyor counted around 40 breeding pairs. Permission seemed to come far too late for me to do much of anything, but reports from a few colleagues around the UK, including the venerable Facey, suggested it was worth a shot. It seems that while some birds have finished breeding for the year, others are occupied by their second broods and still others have laid their third clutch.<br />
<br />
I got out to the farm yesterday to find all three scenarios in one place. The vast majority of nests were empty, two had chicks which will have fledged in a few days time, and several contained eggs. Only one of the clutches was definitively cold so there's the possibility that some birds are trying to get one late brood in. I'll go back in a week or so to double-check.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Om3k4OXeRqg/UiBs9hYXOUI/AAAAAAAABAA/aAAVZaBqeoQ/s1600/2013-08-29+18.52.21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Om3k4OXeRqg/UiBs9hYXOUI/AAAAAAAABAA/aAAVZaBqeoQ/s320/2013-08-29+18.52.21.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over 50 in the air, 1 caught. Result. There were only one pair with a brood in the building, to be fair.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I don't have short nets to cover exits but did manage to find space for a 12m and caught one adult female while we were there. It wasn't evening and the sun was low, so the nets were far too visible.<br />
<br />
There were plenty of swallows feeding over surrounding fields. If I have time I'll try to figure out where they're roosting.<br />
<br />
TT Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-7652193715485866972013-08-25T09:55:00.001+01:002013-08-25T09:55:40.113+01:00The Eyes Have ItA very quiet morning at Cardiff Bay yesterday was very much a case of "quality over quantity". A meagre catch of the usual warblers was punctuated with a new Cetti's, a Kingfisher and a species we don't catch very often...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sKut_HJtkhE/UhnFQiCfSzI/AAAAAAAAA_g/HDZhs7bnFmw/s1600/IMG_5903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sKut_HJtkhE/UhnFQiCfSzI/AAAAAAAAA_g/HDZhs7bnFmw/s400/IMG_5903.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ti looks on expectantly as Pliers removes the star of the morning from a bag...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FZc2ithPqXU/UhnFK5LtEKI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/Z4cAFyFwmIE/s1600/IMG_5904.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FZc2ithPqXU/UhnFK5LtEKI/AAAAAAAAA_Y/Z4cAFyFwmIE/s400/IMG_5904.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="justify">
Behold! A sparrowhawk! We catch these often but they </div>
<div align="justify">
tend to leave the net before we get to them...</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kAwxGgseHy4/UhnFRNj_0sI/AAAAAAAAA_k/CcGnZtf8WGA/s1600/IMG_5912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kAwxGgseHy4/UhnFRNj_0sI/AAAAAAAAA_k/CcGnZtf8WGA/s400/IMG_5912.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The eyes have it! You can't fail to be impressed by the eyes of a sparrowhawk.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FZMFCdCNMLo/UhnFXm7I9aI/AAAAAAAAA_w/gM8EBwJxRtM/s1600/IMG_5916.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FZMFCdCNMLo/UhnFXm7I9aI/AAAAAAAAA_w/gM8EBwJxRtM/s400/IMG_5916.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ti with our other star. Kingfishers are always impressive. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-24822302035302872412013-08-01T14:36:00.000+01:002013-08-03T13:50:25.427+01:00Swan round up<div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"></span> </div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;">So a little while ago me along with my very small car and even smaller tent trundled off down to Abbotsbury to round up some swans!</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4qt-ClFnx4/Ufo2j2H5MBI/AAAAAAAAA-o/OEmE9nMuvso/s1600/22013_10151693231477850_1573318869_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q4qt-ClFnx4/Ufo2j2H5MBI/AAAAAAAAA-o/OEmE9nMuvso/s320/22013_10151693231477850_1573318869_n.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #cc0000;">As usual the day started nice and early which was thoroughly appreciated after a blustery night in the tent! The canoeists headed out on to the water and the volunteers began to walk out into the shallows in order to guide the moulting and therefore flightless swans into the pen. With some gentle encouragement and only a couple escapees, the swans were quickly penned up! </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t3HNOtFdCwY/Ufo5gkFlcJI/AAAAAAAAA-4/RaoRH20v4o4/s320/1069920_10151693232552850_751779401_n.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">With the help of a 'few' volunteers and canoeists we <br />managed to round up exactly 600 swans!</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t3HNOtFdCwY/Ufo5gkFlcJI/AAAAAAAAA-4/RaoRH20v4o4/s1600/1069920_10151693232552850_751779401_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"></span></a><br /></div>
<span style="color: #cc0000;">The ringing stations were set up and the swans began to pile in, of course directed straight to the trainees! From what I heard there was a food station where hot dogs, burgers and sandwiches were available but I'm sure Rich will be pleased to here that a swan-free moment was never found to sample any!</span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A5juPXvs4AM/UfpFO9YXRQI/AAAAAAAAA_I/2MBka9BzOeU/s1600/998560_10151693234447850_2105190424_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A5juPXvs4AM/UfpFO9YXRQI/AAAAAAAAA_I/2MBka9BzOeU/s320/998560_10151693234447850_2105190424_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #cc0000;">By the end of the morning all swans were ringed, weighed, measured, sexed (which was interesting....) and released back onto the water. As great as the day was I must say I am glad its a biennial event as I feel it may take that long to recover! </span>Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-44336519110973357312013-07-31T19:42:00.001+01:002013-07-31T19:43:11.913+01:00The Circle of DataA week or so ago while chatting in the pub with my pal Sam, we came to the subject of the excellent <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SplatterProject13" target="_blank">Project Splatter</a><span class="screen-name"> *- the coordinator of which is his housemate.</span><br />
<span class="screen-name"></span><br />
<span class="screen-name">Sam mentioned that he'd found a squished swallow near the Ambulance Station - he'd take a picture of it for his house mate, who noticed it was colour ringed. Of course I became excited! A colour ringed swallow in Cardiff had to be one of ours! </span><span class="screen-name">But only two colour rings were on show... Easy, we caught all 10 adults at the Station so just check the notebook... oh, no it wasn't one of those... hmmm. </span><br />
<span class="screen-name"></span><br />
<span class="screen-name">With 6 Red over Purples and 6 Purple over Reds to choose from, the identity of our swallow looked to remain a mystery. </span><span class="screen-name">Until last night when Sam brought the now very, very, very splattered swallow to the same pub to </span>complete the circle of data.<br />
<br />
Our mystery swallow h<span class="screen-name">atched on 27/07/2012 at the Cardiff Riding School in 2012, (one of 4 nestlings of a second brood). She was ringed L224778 on 06/08/2012, the lightest of her brood at 21.1g . She died on or just before 24/07/2013 having lost a fight with a motor vehicle. The day after we heard of her demise we found out it looked as if a sixth pair had moved in to the station - she was likely one of those before her untimely end having made it back from Africa.</span><br />
<span class="screen-name"></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9qBG6IFkxa8/UflXhJ2Q6NI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/Uies-VVvIw8/s1600/ST8+Br2+23072012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9qBG6IFkxa8/UflXhJ2Q6NI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/Uies-VVvIw8/s400/ST8+Br2+23072012.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="justify">
This is genuinely a picture of the clutch of eggs L224778 hatched from in 2012. <br />
Rumour has it she is the one of the left... </div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FH10F6Jiok/UflOLsDxxjI/AAAAAAAAA-I/KH-33q-eXoQ/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FH10F6Jiok/UflOLsDxxjI/AAAAAAAAA-I/KH-33q-eXoQ/s400/photo.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="justify">
Although its a sad end to a beautiful creature, L224778's short life has </div>
<div align="justify">
contributed to science in several ways; as well as to the BTO's RAS scheme <br />
and ringing scheme, her early days will be included in the dataset of projects</div>
<div align="justify">
as diverse as shell maculation, nestling growth, and female fecundity. And of <br />
course she contributed to the Project Splatter. A fair bit for a small bird. </div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;">* Project Splatter is a citizen science project based at Cardiff Uni that collates UK wildlife road casualty data using social media. Project Splatter collates UK wildlife road casualty data via Twitter (</span><a href="https://twitter.com/ProjectSplatter" rel="nofollow nofollow" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">https://twitter.com/ProjectSplatter</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> or @SplatterProject) and Facebook with the aim to identify roadkill 'hotspots' for future mitigation projects and help preserve our wildlife.</span></div>
<span class="screen-name"></span><br />Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-11326155073946155542013-07-27T22:41:00.001+01:002013-07-27T22:44:01.660+01:00A Productive MorningGreetings from Northern Ireland! It was lovely in the forest this morning. The canopy provided excellent protection from the sun and a light breeze payed through on occasion, lifting the heat and the small biting insects along with it. Much of the morning was spent with a coffee in one hand, a book in the other. Occasionally I'd rouse myself to tend the nets. This, almost predictably, is where, time and again, my morning came apart. Between 4:30 and 10am, three birds hit the nets. I'm not allowed to post without including a picture of a bird, it's an old charter or something, so here's the second 3J Robin of the morning:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6AojNV8jjfQ/UfQ9Dtr4rhI/AAAAAAAAA9s/k9cEermVhKA/s1600/Photo+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6AojNV8jjfQ/UfQ9Dtr4rhI/AAAAAAAAA9s/k9cEermVhKA/s320/Photo+4.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's not quite a Sparrowhawk, Kingfisher or Wryneck but it'll do.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
It goes without saying of course that the forest was full of birdsong and movement, most of it 20 - 30ft up. It's probably time I explored another part of my site. The Estate is quite large and while I'm sure my current area will be good in the winter, especially with some tapes playing, the canopy is altogether too tall and too mature for much to come to the level of the nets. Here's a picture of one of my nets so you have an idea of what I'm dealing with:<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RiYysjMZhJI/UfQ-Ltm2BhI/AAAAAAAAA94/IaSvtrR0wCQ/s1600/Photo+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RiYysjMZhJI/UfQ-Ltm2BhI/AAAAAAAAA94/IaSvtrR0wCQ/s320/Photo+6.jpg" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The black stick down the bottom is, of course, the pole. The canopy extends to the top of the frame.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I'm sure there's a more appropriate summer ringing site somewhere on the Estate, I just need to find it.Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-79594484674581549602013-07-24T11:44:00.001+01:002013-07-24T11:44:19.699+01:00More DippersOn 18 July, we visited <a href="http://www.welshwildlife.org/taf-fechan/">Taf Fechan Local Nature Reserve</a> just north of Merthyr Tydfil for the monthly <a href="http://cardiffringers.blogspot.co.uk/search?q=dipper" target="_blank">Dipper netting session</a>. If you’ve not visited, then you’ve been missing out on one of our local treasures. The reserve is managed by the <a href="http://www.welshwildlife.org/" target="_blank">Wildlife Trust of South & West Wales</a>, and is made up of deciduous woodland, grassland, river and cliffs. It’s renowned for its
bryophytes.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EoLKwrLWVJE/Ue-la6O6uRI/AAAAAAAAA9c/ggCIO1qDZA0/s1600/tf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EoLKwrLWVJE/Ue-la6O6uRI/AAAAAAAAA9c/ggCIO1qDZA0/s400/tf.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mist net across the Taf Fechan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We ran a single mist net across the river between 6:30 and 8:30am. A Kingfisher whizzed by as we erected the net. Would it return later?<br />
<br />
We didn’t have long to wait until our first Dipper speeded downstream and straight into our net. A safe return to the shoreline, and a juvenile was returned to the river with a fresh CC ring and its biometrics added to our notebook.<br />
<br />
Another 45 minutes went by, with a few Jays and Long-tailed Tits over, before Dipper number 2 hit the net on its way downstream. Another new juvenile.<br />
<br />
We hung on for a while longer in anticipation of the Kingfisher return. Sure enough, it came back upstream, bounced and return from whence it came. We lingered awhile, but it was clear this bird was too smart for us, and with breakfast and work beckoning we relunctantly departed, already looking forward to the next visit.Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3136692416417980452.post-61440003275819357372013-07-15T18:59:00.000+01:002013-07-15T19:17:19.291+01:00Blackbird CurryIngredients:<br />
<ul>
<li>A RAS on the abundant and seemingly easy to catch Blackbird (other species can be substituted)</li>
<li>Friend with a project based on resighting colour ringed gulls</li>
</ul>
<br />
Recipe<br />
<ul>
<li>Take nets and struggle to catch blackbirds before missing season one target of 50 birds completely</li>
<li>Read Facebook comment by friend, when on 32 gulls, betting a curry on the fact that they will reach 50 gulls before you reach 50 blackbirds.</li>
<li>Fail to inform friend that blackbird total stands at 47 birds</li>
<li>Accept bet</li>
<li>Struggle to catch birds for 1 month until two more are caught</li>
<li>Watch as Blackbirds evade every net put up.</li>
<li>Read Facebook and twitter messages from friend as they make it into the forties</li>
<li>Colour ring gulls, thus making it easier for friend.</li>
<li>Read more comments; become concerned, </li>
<li>Check bank balance and look up reviews of curry houses</li>
<li>Catch 50th blackbird on a whim and sigh</li>
<li>Claim curry via blog post </li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YU_x2WMuma4/UeQ1uD9QdCI/AAAAAAAAA9M/2YBXiTJJRz0/s1600/IMG_5839.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YU_x2WMuma4/UeQ1uD9QdCI/AAAAAAAAA9M/2YBXiTJJRz0/s400/IMG_5839.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="left">
Never, we repeat never, has a blackbird been more welcome</div>
<div align="left">
HP - also known as 2 poppadoms with dips followed by Thai </div>
<div align="left">
green fish curry with a pashwari naan and two pints and </div>
<div align="left">
whatever Dr V is having. </div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Cardiff Bird Ringershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10700851026925507351noreply@blogger.com4