We have a nature table. The children love to add their nature finds. Every now and again, the area has to be sorted and carefully cleared of the items that are no longer suitable.
Today I uncovered the dunnock’s nest from last year. We had the best view imaginable of the dunnock pair hopping in and out of the ivy that covered the fence. We could get ready in the morning and watch them from our conservatory, without fear of disturbing them.
We watched them have two broods and, once the area had gone quiet, we peeked. One lone egg remained. So we left it alone, just in case. A few weeks later it was still there. Abandoned.
I love the blue, and the pointed end. Looks almost similar in shape to a cliff laying bird’s egg. The adult birds are brown and ….dare I say it…..a bit dull. Eek! I used to mistake them for house sparrows. Dunnocks are indeed also known as hedge sparrows.
Having watched our pair of dunnocks, I really appreciate how dedicated they were in raising their brood. So cautious. They never flew straight to the nest. Always zig-zagging to try to fool us watchers.
The nest is light to hold. The inside is more spongy than I imagined. A good layer of moss and sheeps wool. The outside is made up of bigger twigs. Including some from our Tamarisk tree. The children love spotting the different building materials that make up the nest.
Joining in with #AlphabetPhoto today. Pop over to PODCast and see the other “Ds”. Any one else chosen D for dunnock?
What a fascinating D! And, the egg is such a pretty colour. It must be so interesting to spot the materials that have been used to make the nest x
There is such a variety of materials used. Its dried out now and some of the leaves have become skeletons, but it’s not falling to pieces. Inside is so spongey. I can imagine the chicks were warm and comfortable.
wow, fab D word. I love the duck egg blue colour. Gorgeous. x
It is a great colour and surprising.
Wow what gorgeous colour eggs x
Certainly stands out from the nest.
I remember we always had a nature table when I was in my first school, I loved it. I don’t think they have them now and that’s a shame.
I also remember that we did bark rubbings of the various trees with paper and a wax stick.
Love that nest.
I’m sure your children and you would love this link, its a live webcam of an Owl on a nest. I watched the first chick hatch last night.
cams.allaboutbirds.org/channel/46/Great_Horned_Owls
I couldn’t seem to copy and paste so hope you can find this okay I know you will love it.
Briony
x
I haven’t come across a nature table at school yet, but I’m still hoping! I’ll have to show the owls to the children. I know they will love it.
What a great addition to the nature table. I love watching the birds out in our garden, too, but I don’t take enough time to do so, so thanks for the reminder.
I hope you find some time soon.
I can see some womb like feature in the next. Looks so cozy and warm in there and comfy! I always wanted to see and touch a bird’s nest. Havent yet. The architecture grad in me is so curious of their shape and strength. Its so delicate and strong at the same time. A hard feat to do! #alphabetphoto
Unbelievable that they make such a perfect structure with their beaks. Hope you find a vacant nest soon.