I'm sad today, of the two House Martins nests under the eaves of my roof only one nest appears to be occupied this year. The nest is whole and has been used for 11 years, obviously It's been repaired a few times during that period. That means one or both birds have probably perished on their journey back to southern Africa at the end of the breeding season 2011 or on the return journey this year. Three quarters of the other nest broke away when the birds returned this year but they are busily rebuilding it and are about half way to completion. I was out in the garden drinking a very nice Hobgoblin ale at lunch time and did notice one bird took a look at the unoccupied nest so I'm hoping another pair will take up residence. On a lighter note, the House Martin population in my area seems to have increased this year.
Geoff.
Geoff.