While surveying for BTO’s Breeding bird survey in the Bedlinog-Treharris area today, we saw 5 Swallows and heard at least 2 Blackcaps and multiple Chiffchaffs. A group of 6 Pied (or White) Wagtails seemed to be flying through on passage.

Nothing unusual noted in the resident birds, but a group of 4 Bullfinches was a pleasure, and a Wren singing lustily at eye level allowed us to get surprisingly close. Multiple Stonechats seen, including two singing males. Overall, there seemed to be fewer birds about than usual, although conditions seemed very good. Meadow Pipits and Skylarks seemed fewer than expected but, after missing 2020, my memory may be incorrect and I haven’t made a formal analysis yet.