Eagle-eyed Airdrie residents have spotted a more unusual feathered friend among their garden birds this autumn.
Keen photographer Bob Coyle told how he was “amazed” to see a nuthatch on the outskirts of Glenmavis, and was able to capture an impressive picture of it; while Sandra Stevenson managed to film the species in her Cairnhill garden.
Previously rarely seen in Scotland, they have increasingly made their way north during the past two decades; and experts from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) say they are more likely to be seen at this time of year as young nuthatches fly the nest.
Bob describes himself as “fascinated by wildlife” and has previously shared his impressive photographs in the Airdrie and Coatbridge Advertiser, ranging from atmospheric shots in the Highlands to creatures including butterflies and a red fox found close to home.
He said of his latest photo: “Nuthatches are common over much of England and the Scottish border, but have been extending their range further north.”
Sandra was delighted to be able to film the “beautiful” bird at the feeder in her garden, and added: “So many birds are in decline, so I want to help.”
Keith Morton of the RSPB said of the Airdrie residents’ sightings: “We often get quite a few reports of nuthatches at this time of year from members of the public who have started seeing them in their gardens.
“Nuthatches have successfully colonised Scotland over the past 20 years or so and are now well-established in the woodlands of the central belt, and well up into Perthshire and other parts of the Highlands.
“This is also the time of year when young birds, hatched this spring, will be dispersing and looking to find their own more permanent homes; this is probably why they suddenly become more conspicuous at garden feeders.”
