A Norwich resident has noticed eggs laid unusually well ahead of season.

A Norwich resident has noticed some unexpected new additions to her local area this festive season.

Ruth Phelps, who lives in the Cathedral Quarter of the city centre, has noticed two collared doves laying their eggs in a tree outside her home, well ahead of normal breeding season.

Phelps said: 'Normally the pair here nest from around March to September, but they've already laid eggs which I suspect will hatch around New Years' Eve.

'I've known birds nest maybe a month early, but I've never seen garden birds lay eggs so early in the season. It's extraordinary.'

This has lead Ruth to question whether any other birds in the region have been acting strangely, perhaps given the warmer winter months.

Phelps added: 'This could be an effect of global warming as it's been a warmer winter, and I'd be interested to know if anyone else had noticed a change in breeding patterns.'

If you've noticed birds in your area laying their eggs earlier, get in touch.

Email eleanor.pringle@archant.co.uk