Swift Half SWIFTS update - 30th June 2011

• Both chicks are getting big, boisterous and feathery now - and starting to explore the nest space when the adults have left on a "shopping spree".
• The oldest chick (11 days old - hatched on 19th June remember) today opened its eyes for the first time.
• Both adults are being set upon by the noisy, whistling chicks, as soon as they enter the nest space with any food!
• I've just uploaded clip number thirty-seven onto the website, which shows the eldest chick (11 days old) get a feed from one of the parents. The younger chick (10 days old) is out of shot in the clip, under the camera, but no need to worry - its getting fed regularly also - this weather is perfect for our swifts - not too hot, not too wet and plenty of insects around.
• If you look very carefully, you may just be able to make out that the elder chick's eyes have opened (just) - but lets be frank, these swift nestlings still look pretty grotesque! They'll start to look more cute with a few more adult feathers and properly opened eyes though. I expect the younger chick will open its eyes tomorrow...