A delicate tracery of fine branches is etched against a leaden winter sky, revealing nests of birds that we were not aware of when so well concealed in summer.

The flimsy, twiggy see-through platform of woodpigeon; bulky build of crow; deep constructions of magpie with telltale thatched roof and untidy round dead leaf encrusted squirrel dreys are clearly visible.

Another strange contraption of distorted small branches is the so called 'witches broom', resembling an old broken bird's nest which is caused by a fungus that mainly attacks birch trees.

When the wind drops for a few seconds there is now the beginnings of a welcome hint of warmth in the February sun as it briefly peeps between scudding clouds.

Robins are instigating scraps among rivals while blackbirds chase and bicker. Crows are sitting on eggs and rooks (pictured) converse noisily among themselves in the rookery, carefully watching their neighbours just in case, as often happens, a lazy rival sneaks in to steal a twig or two rather than search for one himself.

St. Valentine tells us that birds choose mates on 14th February but most have already claimed partners by now.