Apollo the kestrel is trapped on the floor of the nest after jackdaws strike through a small gap in the entrance to the nest. This kestrel pair have nested here at Ash Wood for the past four years. But a pair of jackdaws want to take over their nest and it's getting increasingly difficult to secure the site.
Jackdaw attack
Now a jackdaw has found a small gap just beneath the entrance to the nest. By reaching up from beneath, it grabs Apollo by the leg and instantly topples the unsuspecting kestrel. Apollo, who was guarding the nest, is floored in an instant. Meanwhile a second jackdaw grabs Apollo's wing. Athena doesn’t know how to help and in the confusion, stands on his back, screeching all the while.
Apollo falls
After a desperate tussle, the kestrel manages to release his leg. But the second jackdaw still has a firm hold on his wing and as he twists and turns to free himself it becomes clear the wing is damaged. He drops to the floor, unable to fly. The jackdaws look on, and it seems like they are cheering. Meanwhile Athena looks on helplessly, calling for her mate.
Searching for Apollo
This looks really serious, so I head to Ash Wood to try and locate Apollo. After searching for two days, I get a message from a channel moderator. Mercedes thinks she has spotted Apollo on the live cams. Back at base, I search through the footage and find a recording of him, limping and holding his wing down. But at least he is alive, and amazingly can still fly, albeit not perfectly. The following day I spot Apollo at Ash Hollow. And he seems back to normal - even defending Athena from the, ever persistent, jackdaws.
Resilient birds
This Kestrel pair really are hardy birds. This pair have been through some very tough fights over the years. But hopefully they are here to stay and will go on to nest this year.
