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Water birds are mostly affected by ice rather
than snow. Freshwater freezes from the top,
and during windy periods it may take longer.
Ducks sometimes stir up the water so that a
small patch may be left unfrozen. Shallow
waters such as found on marshes freeze quickly,
and birds such as Bitterns and Herons could
soon be in difficulty: also waders could find
it difficult to feed.
We can all help garden birds in various ways —
by providing nest boxes, by putting out food
and, just as important, water. Water is
essential for birds so that their plumage is
kept in order. Without our help many birds
would not be able to survive severe winter
spells.
M. T. PARKER
SOME ADDITIONAL ORNITHOLOGICAL RECORDS FOR 1987
1. Mr. John Plant beat the record for date of
arrival of Swallows by one day. He saw 2
Swallows over the ornamental water on Wanstead
Park on 11.4.1987. He also informs us that
Great Crested Grebes have bred on Heronry Pond,
Wanstead Park. In the past nesting has not
been so successful.
2. Mr. J. Friedlein reported Whimbrels at
North Fambridge on 8th and 12th July.
3. Nightingales. There were no reports of
Nightingales in the Mill Green area this