As the dawn breaks we are greeted with a chorus of bird song. In our busy frantic lives this symphony is often lost in the background. And yet, its continued presence is a vital indicator of the health of the ecosystem.
How can we identify which birds are part of this orchestra? Furthermore, what role do birds play in a balanced environment? Perhaps it is time for us all to embrace Grandad culture. So, grab your sweaters, make yourself a weak cup of tea and arm yourself with binoculars, it’s time to go bird watching.
Wood Wind
For those who grew up in the UK, as I did, may be especially familiar with the sound of our first entry. The coo of the Woodpigeon accompanied me during many mornings eating cereal by the fireplace.
Now considered nostalgic, the proliferation of this sound comes during Woodpigeon season. Mainly active during colder wetter months of later September to early November. The one you, dear reader, are more likely familiar with is the ‘advertisement call.’ A 5 note run that serves as a territorial call.
Strings
Did you know that in an orchestra, the violin is often the most prominent instrument? Did you also know that the Wren is the UK’s most common bird? It is astonishing how much noise this little brown ball can make. What they lack in size, they make up for in volume.
As with the pacy sound of a dramatic violin solo, the Wren’s call is nippy with speedy bursts of trilling. I thoroughly recommend finding a video of a Wren singing, as the sight is as pleasant as the sound.
Brass and Percussion
There is a reason why the Robin is such a popular bird. I have to admit that my taste is fairly mainstream in that regard. As a fiercely territorial bird they sing from dawn to dusk and at times into the night. Its common sound will be instantly recognisable upon hearing it with plenty of sharp high notes.
The Blue Tit is fairly tardy in its performance. A later arrival into the dawn chorus as the insects they eat arrive later in the morning. They aren’t the only ones, as Chiffchaffs, Blackcaps and Willow Warblers also arrive gradually. The Blue Tit has three softer notes followed by three sharper higher notes, to really punctuate their point.
Why?
Believe it or not, the beauty of the dawn chorus isn’t for us. Very little is. Whilst we have covered some points, we have not told the whole story.
It is mainly about defending territory, announcing the bird is there so others know to stay away. It is also a way in which to show strength and attract mates. Predominantly well fed male birds are those singing at dawn as it takes a lot of energy. It is also a great time to avoid predators and not be in competition with the sounds of the waking world.
End of the Show
The prospect of the end of the dawn chorus is a terrifying one. It is an indicator for the health and diversity of the bird population in any given area. If it falls quiet then the birds are gone and that is catastrophic.
The transferring of seeds, nutrients and spores in their droppings is vital. Their poo promotes soil health and gives a chance for new fruit plants to grow, continuing the cycle of growth and consumption.
They are environmentally ethical pest controllers, keeping down the insect population. They are even the ultimate sanitisers, with birds such as vultures able to eat dangerous bacteria.
As with any group of animals, their removal would collapse the fragile finely poised ecosystem. Not only would the loss of their beautiful song be tragic but their practical use is also vital. We must take care to protect and support wildlife to keep our world healthy.
Be Curious
- If you want to learn about the art of bird watching, check out Hamza Yassin’s delightfully informative book.
- https://www.rspb.org.uk/To keep up with and support the conservation effort surrounding birds, head onto the RSPB website.
- As custodians for nature, we can help birds out each season, here’s a handy list on what to do.
- Read the tragic story of my favourite bird and the effects of invasive predators on a local species.
