brewoodringers

During October, lots of Goldcrests come into Britain from the Continent--and they are very interested in tape lures. Over the years we have caught many 'crests like this, in suitable coniferous habitat--even catching a couple of Firecrests as well. This year however, there seems to be a dearth of Goldcrests--two sessions have resulted in just 7 birds caught. Interestingly this was reflected in a recent ringing trip a friend organised to Lundy. Last year during the same week he ringed 200 Goldcrests--this year just one!!

If this is part of a bigger picture, news will filter out over the coming months--but quite what could have caused this is a bit of a mystery.