The dawn chorus: its the best time of year to listen in on one of the marvels of nature – soaring skylarks can be found on the special reserve area of Roundshaw Downs and on Riddlesdown
Right now, birdsong is at its brightest and best. Something called International Dawn Chorus Day falls on May 4 this year, marking a high point in birdsong, according to the RSPB, and making this week an ideal time to get out and about in our parks and open spaces to listen in on a marvel of the natural world on our doorstep.
According to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, “The dawn chorus is the symphony of song performed by birds looking for love and to defend their patch.
“In spring, as the days lengthen, wildlife starts to think about the need to breed. For many male birds, this means belting out the well-worn but wonderful classics to try and attract females. Think of it as Britain’s Got Talent without the jugglers. The males want to show off to females, but also to let other males know they’re top bird and that others should back off the mic.
“Some species sing throughout the day, but it’s at dawn, as the morning light begins to break, that many different birds join together to perform.”
By mid-March lots of our resident birds are in full song and in mid-April, the riot of sound is in full effect as millions of migrant birds pour back in from Africa to their summer homes. In early May the chorus is at its peak, but it can be heard in some form into early summer.
“Song thrushes, blackbirds and robins are among the first to rise, starting things off when the air is still and the lights are low.
“Popular songsters like wrens and warblers, such as chiffchaffs, blackcaps and willow warblers then gradually join in. As do wood pigeons. Anyone living near them will know they like to join in, for hours on end, often forming a repetitive double act with collared doves.
“What species you hear will depend on where you are. If you’re near water, wading birds will add their rich and varied songs and calls to the chorus. If you’re near heathland, you might hear the joyful fluid song of linnets or the famous call of the cuckoo.”
Read more: Birders leave a sign to mark life of RSPB founder Eliza Phillips
Read more: Heard before they’re seen, skylarks soar back over Roundshaw
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Wonderful ♥️
For those who like their daily birdsong then listen to BBC Radio 3 at 0630 every morning for their Birdsong Of The Day.
It’s a very valued bit of programming, Roger. But snuggling in bed for a brief escape somewhat defeats the object of this exercise, for people to get up and out to experience the dawn chorus for themselves.
It is possible to listen to the radio outdoors Oh Miserable One. BTW, spotted a wren, robins, great tit, blackbird and, wait for it, a dunnock!
If you’re listening to recorded birdsong while outside, you’re doing it wrong.
Where did you do your bird spotting?