There are currently twenty odd starlings enjoying the contents of my bird feeders (generally to the disadvantage of the usual tit and finch encumbents!). A family of five first arrived a few days ago but the word has obviously got around.

When I was growing up (some many moons ago now) there were Starlings everywhere and breeding in profusion in every nook and cranny. Over the last couple of decades they have been subject to huge decline as residents. Though I have to don ear plugs and the mess on my patio will soon earn me a good income as guano, it is absolutely brilliant to see them here with evidence of prolific breeding to boot.

There are at least four family groups here at the moment with the parents very busy feeding the voracious youngsters but looking resplendently irridescent in the sun.

Sorry to put up this rather sad post but the youngster in the photos was found, sadly demised, on my patio next to the bird feeder.

The question is, what is it?

First thoughts might be a young robin or dunnock as there are youngsters of both species in the garden. None, however, with the reddy-brown rump and tail feathers.

Black legs and bill match young redstart but not in a north Cardiff garden surely?

All suggestions gratefully received.