Just a few months ago, as I remember, I longed for this: light mornings. I like a dawn chorus. Around 6.30am is fine. I'm not a morning person. What I can't stand is that early-rising Wood Pigeon that has selected my chimney pot to begin his Coo-coo Cooo practice.

The resounding repetition of Coo-coo Cooo booms down my bedroom flue about 4.39am. I know that for certain, 'cos I've checked. If only to make sure I haven't slept in. It's a bit more than annoying. Maybe more melodious than an alarm clock, but without the ability to switch it off!

Sometimes I get up and make coffee just for some respite. By the time I've done all that, I'm wide awake and the blooming bird's scarpered off to annoy one of my neighbours!

But I wouldn't want a garden devoid of birdsong. All that unseen chirruping in the leaves. I love it! Simple pleasures. I'm not anything like a twitcher, but I got quite excited after a recent trip to Oban, when I spotted some mystery black ducks with white wing flashes, near the harbour. Once home, I looked them up and they turned out to be Velvet Scooters. I'd never seen one before - so now I've seen around 8!

My sis has suggested an aviary for my garden. She keeps lots of exotic finches etc. She has 4 budgie hatchlings. Rainbow Budgerigars with pretty markings. I'm undecided.

I can't get that pesky pigeon out of my head. I might have to resort to Mr Twit tactics to get rid of it. Mr Pigeon is a fair size. I think he could make a satisfying Bird Pie. Or am I just being a twit!