Thursday 21 March 2013

Fierce Siskins

We wrote about our Siskins just over a week ago and at the time mentioned that the poor old Blue Tits were being kept from their favourite feeders by them. Last Sunday we noted that from the dozens we had, we are now lucky if we see a Blue Tit at all.

Further observations have revealed that these small Siskins don't half fight where food is involved and being small does not appear to be a hindrance. (other than to the photographer as well as being small they ain't half quick)

You might be bigger than me but "Get off my fatballs"
 They even don't like their own...

You could say it's just male aggression but think again!
This sweet little female is having non of it...

It will be the Great Tits next, that decide it's toooo much agro to feed here.

She even sees off the male, which can be seen here making a rapid exit.

Don't know how they will go on mating!!!


7 comments:

Tim said...

Something tells me that she will dictate where... and when!!
And how!!

Pollygarter said...

Aggressive little tykes, aren't they? Lovely action pics.

Diane said...

I have not seen a Siskin this year at all. They must all be visiting you. We do still have the Blue Tits around though. Take care Diane

Susan said...

You have to wonder why they are so aggressive. In a situation where there is clearly enough food for all, it seems very time and energy wasting.

Colin and Elizabeth said...

I used to be one of those! According to my late father, a true Yorkshireman!! Have not heard that in years... thanks.

Tim said...

I can't see it being a survival trait somehow...
unless it is instinctive behaviour learn-ded through aeons of breeding in places where food isn't so plentiful...
the same behaviour is evident here...
including putting your feet on another's shoulders and using neck and beak to lever downward, whilst battering the lower 'poor sod' with your wings...
I didn't get photos of that...
I was too busy just watching, fascinated...
that was also a female bullying a male!

They aren't phased by Greenfinches either...
tho' agressive little Bluetits are...
and I always thought that the Bluetit was the worst offender...
obviously not!!

Craig said...

Wonderful "action" shots!