Blackbird steals an early arrival in May

THE weather has been kind over the past few weeks. No frost to blacken the new leaves of the potatoes which are now above ground — though it has been touch-and-go on a couple of nights. And there’s been plenty of sunshine during the day, with little in the way of rain and wind.

This sort of weather puts everyone in good humour. They comment to me about how lovely the countryside is in May when the rain stays away. It also seems to have a stimulating effect on the natural world. A fortnight ago I saw a young blackbird on the lane. This was early for a fully fledged bird to have left the nest, but blackbirds are prone to sneaking in an early brood if the weather is good.

They are increasing in numbers in this country and the reason may be that they are adapting to take advantage of climate change.