We have been monitoring the progress of our two nests closely as we estimated the date of hatching for the blue tit family would be this weekend. In previous years we have come in one morning and found 10 hungry mouths being busily fed by two attentive parents and haven't really had an opportunity to witness the hatching process. Two days ago, whilst sitting having a cup of coffee, one of our volunteers said, "I'm sure that egg just moved!" and proceeded to watch the nest for half an hour to see if it would do it again. Alas, it seemed to be a one off, but nonetheless a good sign that things were starting to happen.
This morning, I was sure that we'd come in to find all of the eggs hatched, but it seemed we would have to wait a wee bit longer. However, as I watched more closely, a beak popped out! Only one of eight so far, but I'm sure the others will catch on soon enough. Just one tiny little beak from a tiny little egg to make you realise what an amazing process birds go through to live, thrive and survive.
I'll look forward to watching the rest as they progress.
Paula