Many of the UK resident birds are gearing up for the breeding season but some birds, despite the snow and ice in February, are ahead of the game.

Crossbills - three large chicks, 21st February.

Collared Dove - one chick on 6th February.

Egyptian Goose - goslings on 13th February.

Tawny Owls - had fledged young by the end of February.

Robins - have fledged young.

Woodpigeons - have fledged young.

The first Sand Martins and Swallows have been sighted, while in Cape Town, South Africa the Barn Swallows are getting ready to leave.