There is a general air of dampness and decay in
many parts of the grounds, particularly in the areas beneath the trees around the
boundaries and It is now easy to observe blackbirds as they kick over dead leaves or toss them to one side with their beaks in their search for food. The leaves provide a popular feeding ground for a number of other species and a very brief examination of the leaf litter shows why this is so. There are many worms and woodlice and it is possible to find small snails, as well as numerous beetles etc.. I found the shield bug illustrated above amongst some beech leaves. The bug was about 1cm long and must represent a welcome food item for a bird.
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