The Sparrowhawk

The male sparrowhawk was in the garden again today and it looked a bit disheartened as it sat empty clawed.
They will take a range of prey from the smallest goldcrest to pheasants , often taking weak or injured birds. They will also prey on voles ,mice and will take bats. They themselves can also be prey to the larger Goshawk or tawny owls. Not an easy place to be a bird on the Black isle.
Sparrowhawks were nearly wiped out in the east of England due to DDT poisoning. It was interesting to note that the population of song birds made no dramatic increase during their absence and there was no decrease when they returned. They are now protected by law.

Waxwings have been sited in Fortrose yesterday but I have nt seen any YET !