Observations from readers
I saw a jay alight on a tree, then, quick as a flash, it flew on to the roof of a nest box mounted on the tree and used by sparrows. It then swung down and poked its beak through the entrance hole, fished out a fledgling and flew away. J McClung, Kells, Co Antrim
A rash of at least 40 or 50 holes appeared on our front lawn during the winter months and now again last week. The spoil pattern suggests that they were dug by the forelegs of some four-legged creature. How might we discourage any further excavation of this kind? Martin McDonald, Carrigaline, Co Cork
It was probably a badger. The best way to prevent them coming into the garden is to construct a badger-proof fence (find out how at www.badgertrust.org.uk).
As a result of the recent sunny spell the brickwork facing of the chimney of our newly built house had become heavily coated with white efflorescence. I saw about 12 birds, like sparrows, pecking away at it and within an hour, the efflorescence was gone. As it is primarly a calcium salt, would this indicate an avian dietary deficiency? S Fogarty, Sandyford Road, Dublin
Quite likely.
• Michael Viney welcomes observations at Thallabawn, Carrowniskey PO, Westport, Co Mayo; e-mail: viney@anu.ie. Please include a postal address.