The jackdaws of halloween

jackdaws in a lime tree

Now that the leaves are falling we get to see the birds in the trees again. Some have flown and left for warmer climes but not our jackdaws, they are staying to keep watch over things.

jackdaws in a lime tree

I often see them perched together on the top of this particular tree, a big lime on Midgehole Road. Today their dark silhouettes next to the orange leaves and against a brooding sky, looked so striking and sat on the wall and watched them for ages. 

jackdaws in a lime tree

I noticed they were sitting in pairs, watching the world go by together,

jackdaws in a lime tree

nuzzling each other

jackdaws in a lime tree

and doing some synchronised grooming!

jackdaws in a lime tree

I decided that if I was going to a halloween party this year (I'm relieved that I'm not) I would like to dress up as a jackdaw. Some autumn leaves would have to feature somewhere in the outfit too as they are such good halloween colours altogether, maybe a headdress of twigs and leaves?

Look at that beady eye? What have they seen over the years? Are they sitting on top of the trees today listening for the distant cackle of their ancestors while the veil is thin?

jackdaws in the sky

All of a sudden something spooked them and they all took to the air, their 'jack jack jack' echoing across the valley.

The halloween spell was broken.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Hannah Nunn

Welcome to my blog

I'm Hannah Nunn, designer/maker of papercut lamps, wallpaper, window film and laser cut 'treasures' all inspired by the beautiful details of nature. Find out what inspires me and join me for walks in the woods and other adventures...

Categories

Mailing List

Each week I send 'three somethings' by email - something I've made, something I'm making and something I have noticed so you'll be the first to see new designs and watch ideas unfold.

Sign Up