Red in tooth and claw

[strange_complex]

I have just watched one of my blackbird chicks die after being pecked by a magpie. I banged hard on the window as soon as I saw it happening, but it was too late for that chick. It thrashed and twitched for a while, and then was still. I don't know where the parents are, and I can't tell if the other chicks are OK or not.

I feel really shaken up about it, although I did know that it was unlikely all four would survive. I saw some pigeons close by the nest earlier, too. I didn't think they were such ones for eating other birds' chicks as magpies, but it looks like they would, given half the chance.

I know this stuff happens all the time, but I had got really involved with these blackbirds. At this rate, I shall be sitting up all night with an air-gun, defending them whenever the parents aren't around.

Not happy.

Comments

[helikesthursday.livejournal.com]

found time to do nothing so obviously i have too much time. searched round on the interests lists, and came across yours. it's nice, and i like it -although it feels strange to say that when the last entry is so sad.
hope for the other chicks!
peter

[strange-complex.livejournal.com]

Thanks! Yes, this is a sad entry, but I felt that poor chick deserved a tribute. At least two of the other chicks are still alive, but I don't know if they'll be safe now they've been attacked once. :( Still, like you, I'm hoping!

[helikesthursday.livejournal.com]

there's nothing more you can do than look after them. and you're right, it does deserve a journal entry.
recently i've been going through a rough patch, so the last few entries of mine wouldn't make for pretty reading...