I'm far too old (and have far too much to do!) to go chasing birds on New Year's Day, but I was pleased to see that a pair of Stock Doves have started nest-building in our owl box. (Needless to say: apart from one occasion when a Tawny Owl sat on top of it, it's never been used by the intended occupants!)
Stock Doves are dainty little birds: I'm always pleased to see them in the garden. But did you know the origin of their name? It's from the Old German Stocktaube, literally 'stick pigeon', referring to the species' preference for nesting in hollow trees. Just two metres away a pair of Wood Pigeons have begun building a more conventional nest!
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