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Feed the Birds
YELLOWHAMMER
Did you know that the RSPB was originally called the "plume and feather club"? It was set up to discourage the use of feathers in hats that was resulting in the total extinction of some bird species. The society was awarded a Royal Charter in 1904, and in 1911, after a campaign to save the egret, the plumage trade was abolished.
John Clews, an RSPB volunteer gave a very informative talk at our February meeting. He highlighted the work of the RSPB which is one of the largest wildlife organisations with 1,100,000 members. In 1961 the society established their headquarters in Bedfordshire with the purchase of The Lodge for £25,000. Most of the work done for the RSPB is carried out by volunteers who manage the reserves and offices, organise fund-raising and conservation programmes and are involved in education.
A constant concern for the society is the birds that are in decline. Starlings, which are hardy, natural survivors and gregarious birds have shown a 75% decline. This is a serious problem which has been investigated. Sparrow hawks, often blamed for the decline in bird numbers, apparently do not have a significant effect. With a strike rate of only 1 in 10 they are not solely responsible. Astonishingly, cats kill 55 million birds a year. To reduce the number of deaths, owners are advised to keep their pet cats inside during the hours of darkness and to put a bell on their collars. This results in 35% less deaths. Magpies are hardy aggressive birds which eat eggs and chicks and also contribute to a decline in bird numbers. Intensive farming, lack of hedgerows and the government’s dictated use of all chemicals has caused a 96% decline in the corn bunting and a 50% decline in the yellowhammer - a tragic loss of such beautiful birds.
The RSPB has many success stories. In 1997 there were 11 pairs of bitterns but this had increased to 104 pairs last year. Other successes include the fish eating osprey and the red kite. We were urged to provide food for the birds during the whole year. Grow shrubs that have berries as these can save the life of fieldfares, redwings and waxwings. Do not provide food in nets as little feet can get caught and don't forget to leave clean water out.
During the meeting we were given early notice of our May Market - Saturday 19th May. Please keep this date free in your diaries. Details of the craft and walking group were given. Our next meeting is on Wednesday 14th March. This will be our AGM followed by George Hook talking to us on 'The World of Mother OF Pearl'. Visitors are always welcome. For further information click below to contact Penny Bailey.
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