“Birds of a feather flock together” so the saying goes. I’ve noticed that in winter some wooded areas seem to be totally devoid of birds but then you find a patch where there is a whole flock of birds hanging out together. Recently I observed this with a flock of about 16 Goldfinches and nearby 4 Bullfinch pairs. It’s lovely to see natures’ colourful tree decorations, especially after our artificial ones have just been taken down.
There is a wooded hedge which cuts between two fields where I’ve been seeing huge flocks of chaffinches mixed with reed buntings and yellowhammers. If they hear or see me coming they take off in sync. with a loud whoosh.
It makes sense for birds to flock together in winter as there is less cover in which to hide from predators and there is safety in numbers. Some birds are good at alerting others to predator danger. Also it can provide extra warmth if they roost close together in bushes. Flocks often feed on similar food sources, for example tits can help each other locate good supplies of insects to feed on.
I’ve been meeting lots of fellow wildlife watchers on my walks. Birds of a feather ….
Sarah's Wildlife Watch 