ANOTHER large black bird that is conspicuous at this time of year is the rook; it is different from the raven and crow in that it nests gregariously in trees. The birds are currently repairing their nests from last year or building new ones. There is a saying that if the rooks nest high in the branches it will be a good summer, presumably as it will be less wet and windy.
The rook also feeds in flocks and can do damage to turf as it uses it powerful grey beak to turn up earthworms from the ground. There are rookeries at Hanley Swan Church. If you go and look do not stand underneath them for too long!
IAN ROWAT.
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