Blackbird Sculpture
Backbird sculpture carved in Yorkstone
Every year a Blackbird couple nest in the hedge that runs along the north boundary of my workshop area. (They’re the ones who pinch all my Gooseberries!). On occasion a pair have nested in the sheds. I’ve noticed over the last week another Blackbird nearby running and bobbing in threat display, and singing to establish a territory.
Unlike most other birds, Blackbirds continue to learn different elements of their song throughout their lives, becoming more tuneful with age and reciprocal learning between neighbours can create local dialects. The variety within a bird’s song is also dependent on its stage in the breeding season and the time of year.
It is always a marvel watching these scenes unfold, I wonder if hedgerow Blackbird will be usurped? Perhaps they will just tolerate each other and I will hear ever richer and more magnificently melodious warbling songs.