No Mum today for the little Tuffties, but all 7 youngsters were ok. I am not sure if Mum has left the youngsters or is just having a little ‘me’ time. In previous years Mum has left when the youngsters were a bit bigger than these ones so we will have to wait and see if she has gone or if she returns. If she has gone it should be no problem for the youngsters who are quite able to look after themselves now, it was noticeable that all 7 were keeping close to each other today so I suppose they were a little nervous.
The Dab babies are still doing well.
I have been told that the New Street bridge will be closed for a for most of September and some of October as it is being replaced. It certainly needs replacing and at least they are doing it out of the main nesting season, so disruption to the wildlife should be small (ish). It will be interesting what the vandals will do to it as it is a lifting bridge so that boats can pass underneath 
I just hope that in time it will be welded in the closed position 
Terry
Just a quick update: Alan rang and told me that on Saturday (the day after the original post) the Tuffted Duck ‘Mum’ was back with her brood, so it looks like she was just having a little ‘me’ time
I would not be surprised though, if she comes and goes for a week or so and then disappears completely – the little ones can already look after themselves so it should not be a great problem 
Terry