The very wet weather has undoubtedly had an adverse effect on breeding birds in the area. Nonetheless, with close observation, it is possible to see fledglings being fed, usually hidden though they are in deep foliage. In my garden, a family of young wrens have recently emerged from their well-camouflaged nest amongst the ivy and their parents are constantly going backwards and forwards with food. Five young magpies are similarly being supplied with morsels scavenged by their parents, though their presence is rather less subtle. The risk is of course, that the young wrens and their ilk will become food for the magpies.

There have been at least two broods of fox cubs playing in the church carpark, but these have recently disappeared and I suspect that their mothers have transferred them to an area with more cover. A pity as their playful antics were a sight to behold.