Silver Birch Sawfly Larvae

Our little silver birch tree was planted last Autumn and today we found an infestation of these caterpillar type creatures which are actually larvae of the sawfly. They were fascinating if they hadn't been doing so much damage! Where were the birds to feast on them ?
More gardening clearing today as well as a trip into Sherborne to plan for some home improvements in the bathroom department!

I was so happy this morning to see the house - martins flying up to the site of their nest and I was hopeful that they might rebuild, but sadly they flew up a few times then didn't return again.