The first sparrowhawk attack at my loft took place shortly after I the last article was published. The young birds were just starting to flip round learning to use their wings. I always stay very close to the lofts at this time but it came between the trees and hit the young birds. I was not sure if it took one and I looked around and tried quickly to get them in. I had checked over the fence but could not see any feathers. On counting up I was one missing and kept checking to see if it was around. I happened to look over the fence and there it was being eaten alive in my neighbours garden. Luckily for me my neighbour was at home. This was roughly 1 hour after the attack. I scared it off the baby which at this stage was still alive and it’s back was being eaten out. Unfortunately it was too far gone to be saved. 1-0 to the sparrowhawk. On checking the ring number it was a young bird that I had bought for a special race within the Norfolk & Suffolk. Sods law. On speaking with my neighbour they told me they no longer feed the wild birds as none were visiting their garden. As I have said before “It’s nature but this bit I don’t like”

Regarding Racing to date. The scores on the doors are as follows.

Regarding Jimmy. He is one of the best fanciers I have ever known. He gets the best out of his pigeons and is a natural – my son calls him Ace Sprinter.

Just a short article this time as most of my time is tending the birds. As I type this they are currently at Perth 333 miles away and should be liberated Monday morning home in time for tea. Jimmy sent 9 birds, and John 2

Until next time