For the first time in 20 years there are no Curlews round our house. For the last decade there have been 2 pairs but the last large chick was about 15 years ago.
I think both Curlew and Lapwing can live to about 20 so I fear the Curlews have finally died without heirs. 3 Lapwing are still back displaying at the field by Gwnws Church with half a dozen crows watching from fence posts.
A sadly silent spring with neither the usual Misltle and Song thrushes singing in the garden. To continue this depressing theme, not a single Wheatear on the mountain road to Rhayader, perhaps a bit early.
24 Fieldfares heading noisily East at sunset.
Philip Ellis