Today, there was only some sporadic noise from the jackdaws and ravens, coming from Pontcanna Fields, about 30 minutes before we left the house at 7.40 a.m.
There had been rain in the night again, and it was damp when we left, with drizzle and intermittent rain. It was dark because of the clouds, but it was reasonably mild. The fields were very muddy, unsurprisingly!
We heard some raven calls from the ravens field as we made our way to the top of the big field.
One pair came down from the trees at the spinney - but there were still raven calls from the ravens field.
This pair was very shy when I threw them a few scraps, so I assume they were the second young pair.
We went into the ravens field, and eventually they followed us. They did not compete for the scraps, and kept their distance from us in the enclosure. When we had made our way round and went back towards the spinney and the big field (more-food way), they didn't follow us. I assume they had flown off - I was watching Madame and had my back turned.
Then, a pair did appear, just before we crossed the footpath, and they hopped into the big field in our wake. As I threw them the rest of the scraps, I saw that this was my bold raven and his companion.
Its not just the way they follow us, hopping and getting within a couple of yards - its the way my bold raven competes for every scrap until he's filled his crop. He again scoffed most of the scraps, pushing his companion out of the way. It looks as if he really really means to get all he can.
That second raven gets her scraps only after the bold one has flown off to hide his loot.
I'm happy that he's back, but that happiness is tinged with a bit of sadness because of Madame, who still has a long way to go before she is well again.
We'll have to wait and see what tomorrow brings - and which ravens will appear!
