pied flycatchers

The occurrence of pied flycatchers in Charente seems curious. They are a summer migrant but I've never seen one during the Spring passage, yet on their return migration they are regular visitors to my garden. Perhaps their migration route varies between Spring and Autumn.

They usually turn up in mid August and stay around for a week or two--or at least keep passing through. Their presence is often indicated by a repetitive 'seep' call and they flit from tree to tree and sometimes to the ground, often seemingly chasing each other if more than one is present. I heard at least one in the garden yesterday and two were there today. At this time of the year the males closely resemble the females in plumage but one of today's birds still had his black primaries.

It was very warm today and not really conducive to birding but a cycle ride to the Bonnieure valley was quite productive. The woods were a lot cooler and a bit of pishing attracted a few species including lesser spotted woodpecker and nuthatch. The St Angeau little owl was on his perch behind the church.

My farewell to the turtle dove was rather premature. I saw 3 today, including one purring in the garden. Long may they hang around with their summery sound.