Dear reader...

MARCH COMES IN like a lion and goes out like a lamb, well at least so the old saying goes. The first part is generally true, with the start of the month often seeing the full gamut of wintry weather with gales, storms and snow. Whether that will have passed by the end of the month is open to question. Of course, March sees both the first day of spring and the clocks going forward, so we are entitled to at least hope for better weather to follow. And with that better weather comes the opportunity to get out and about more. In particular, there is more chance of appreciating what a busy time of year this is for the local bird life. Everywhere I look, the birds are flying to and fro, looking for love, for nesting materials and, of course, for food. Every warm day sees a new hatching of insects, and a feast for many of the birds. I’m hoping that when the swallows return in April, a pair will re-use the beautiful nest they built on top of my outdoor porch light. It’s a great place for them, sheltered and out of the way of predators such as cats and sparrowhawks. The only downside is the mess that accompanies them. But having to regularly clean the porch step and remembering not to put on the light is a small price to pay for the pleasure of watching the birds swoop in and out as they prepare for their new family. Last year, they managed two broods. Hopefully, they all made it to their winter quarters and will return this spring.