Things used to make these videos:

In box Camera - Green Feathers wired IP camera
https://www.green-feathers.co.uk/coll... - Use discount code YOUTUBE10 for 10% off non-discounted Green Feathers products across their website

Nest box - Garden Nature side view box
https://gardenature.co.uk/product/sid...

Streaming software - OBS
FREE to download at https://obsproject.com/download

Editing software - Davinci Resolve 17
FREE to download at https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/prod...

External Camera - Sony A6400 with 18 -105mm F4 lens
Streaming hardware - Apple MacBook Pro 15" 2012 and 2018


There's more than a bit of hesitation in saying the today was a good day because there is still a reminder of yesterday's mis-adventure in the nest. That doesn't seem to be bothering the occupants though.

It was a huge relief to see the parents return to the nest shortly after 5am this morning. Our hardworking male was first in, followed slightly later by the caterpillar catching female. The fact that they chose last night to be their first night away from the box only added to the worry from yesterday's drama. Thank you to those who commented to let us know that this shift in evening behaviour is entirely normal as the chicks approach the time to fledge. Admittedly the birds timing could have been better for those of a nervous disposition!

After another brief Starling appearance at 1:14 there was a collective sharp intake of breath on the livestream today when one of the chicks decided to follow in the footsteps of it's unfortunate sibling from yesterday and leave the safety of the nest cup for a bit of a walkabout. (1:35) This chick was much more steady on it's feet than yesterday's and dropped back into the cup without much of a problem.
After we had all recovered from that little fright there was a repeat performance later in the day just to make us all jittery again.(5:45)

Thanks to those who got in touch to share their similar nest box dramas. It's good to know that we're not alone in our trials and disappointments. It seems to be a less than stellar year for the Blue Tits in general.

Not long now until these two remaining chicks fledge. Let's see what the morning brings and thanks for sticking with us. Almost there.

More tomorrow...