Here are two more pictures of house hunting bluetits. There were also visits to Box2.
This bird seems to be using its tail as a prop while it takes a good look around.
Wednesday 5th February, 2003
For the first time this year, we saw two birds together in Box1. The picture was too blurred to use because as soon as the second bird came in, the first departed in a great hurry. Whether this is the normal behaviour of a courting couple or the result of competition for a potential nest site, we do not know.
Here is another visit to Box2.
Thursday 6th February, 2003
Today we were watching Box2 which as usual had several visits during the day. It is interesting to note that this bird's behaviour is quite different from that of the bird in Box1. It seems much more anxious, and keeps stretching up, looking towards the entrance hole.
Saturday 8th February, 2003
On one occasion today, a bird in Box2 spent nearly 3 minutes on the entrance hole looking out.
Sunday 9th February, 2003
There is now a small piece of hay in Box1. This was brought in early today before monitoring started.
Here you can just see a bird swap. In the first picture, the current occupier of the box is looking apprehensively at the entrance hole. In the second, you can just see its tail as it departs in a hurry. The new entrant is now watching the other bird depart.
Monday 10th February, 2003
There are now two pieces of straw in Box1. This is progress indeed!!
Tuesday 11th February, 2003
"Who's been bringing hay into my box?" After which, it promptly removed one of the pieces!