Disaster!

All the rain yesterday has caused a large hole in the House Martins' nest. We don't think there were any eggs or young in it at the time (or at least we hope not) and today the two adults were working hard to mend it. They have quite a task on and we so want to help. Gordon has at least put some mud close by. 

You can see how carefully the nests are made with pellets of mud and straw and lined with wool and feathers. This one had been very busy and you can see its beak covered in mud. They have been flying in and out all day. Their chattering is company for Gordon as he marks exam papers on the other side of the window. 

Update
A couple of hours later and it’s nearly finished - they are so clever.