RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch

This morning, like many thousands of people across the country, we took part in the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch.  Things got off to a slow start (we didn't get going until 08:35).  Two Dunnocks showed up first and then a flock of House Sparrows flew into the honeysuckle and attacked the seed feeder, sharing it with one or two Bluetits, but then.....nothing.  A female Pheasant stalked around, but for long periods there wasn't a single bird in sight.  We speculated on the possibility that there was a Sparrowhawk lurking unseen (to us) somewhere and, sure enough, one flew over, heading south away from the house at about 09:00.  The House Sparrows, Dunnock and Bluetits reappeared gradually and cautiously, but it was not until quarter past nine that Blackbirds, two Robins, and two Chaffinches appeared.  Compared with our normal range of visitors this was a poor show.  I found myself wishing for a Woodpigeon to put in an appearance! Daft. Finally one did show up and a late Great Tit arrived on the feeder just before the end of our hour.