Wayne,
According to the classic study done by the late Robert Carrick, laying begins in August so given that we have had relatively mild conditions locally, it isn’t surprising that magpies are starting a little earlier. There are quite a few species that are already starting to nest in the local area. In previous years I have found Yellow-rumped Thornbills with eggs in June and at the banding site where I operate near West Wyalong, I have had White-plumed Honeyeaters on eggs in July. Birds are very quick to take advantage of the right conditions for breeding.
Cheers,
Mark
From: Wayne Gregson [
Sent: Friday, 12 July 2013 8:59 PM
To:
Subject: [canberrabirds] magpies nest building?
twice this last week I have seen magpies apparently collecting nesting material. Is this earlier than normal?
