Connor Coombes lets us in to the secret life of birds that live on our doorstep, the European Robin.

Connor has been bird watching from the age of 5 and photographing birds from the age of 9. He has a strong passion for the Natural World and likes to highlight his interest using photography.

So far at the age of nineteen Connor has been lucky enough to travel much of Europe to see many different species of birds and mammals. He has had many wonderful experiences with wildlife not only abroad but in his own back garden. The wildlife on our doorstep is just as fascinating to Connor as the birds that live thousands of miles away. Connor has spent lockdown documenting the behaviours of one of the common bird species we all know and love.

A mature garden in Suburbia, a busy main road and an active footpath to the supermarket. Could there be any hidden wildlife here? You may think not, but every habitat has its hidden treasures. A common resident of the garden, the European Robin, perches on the bough of the cherry tree to survey his patch. Alone he stands sentinel, but where is his mate?

At last he flies off across the garden to visit his favourite perch before he comes to a peaceful landing on the lawn. Always alert he views the grass beneath his feet ready to investigate what food he might find.

Following his progress from tree to ground then ground to tree, he soon alights on a branch that has been recently cut back. Here he sits and waits a while, then, as quick as a flash he disappears from view.

Wait a minute, could this be the same Robin? With a beak full of grubs and watchful eye a second robin arrives nearby. Two Robins with food. Each vanishing into the ivy seconds apart.

A glimpse of the treasures they have been guarding and caring for. A new generation of Robins have hatched. Young nestlings that are growing and developing will eventually leave this nest. Where will their future be, will they stay close by or go further afield to find their own territories when they are old enough? It is enough to say that even in our busy lives we can see nature at its best and marvel at the tenacity of one of our favourite little birds. You just have to look close enough.

To see more of Connors beautiful wildlife photography visit his Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connorcoombesphoto/

A Story About a Robin