Colder temperatures over the weekend have been difficult for a lot of the migratory birds that arrived early in Finland this spring.
Birds that eat insects are particularly affected by the colder conditions, according to Anniina Kontiokorpi of the North Karelian birdwatching association.
"Our observation system has seen a lot of reports of dead robins," said Kontiokorpi.
Ice-covered and snowy ground is a problem for many birds, as it makes it much more difficult for them to find food.
They then gravitate towards roads where the ground is clear, but that puts them in danger from traffic.
This year many birds arrived in Finland exceptionally early as temperatures rose further south, according to BirdLife Finland.
Observations have been reported at least in North Karelia so far, according to Jan Södersved of BirdLife Finland, but he says the exceptional conditions have had an effect.
"It's obvious that there are quite a lot of dead birds because of the weather," said Södersved. "Usually you only find a few of the dead birds because they are hidden away in different places."
Some birds die during each migration, and the population is large enough that the deaths so far won't have a significant effect on bird numbers, according to Södersved.
People can help the intrepid early arrivals, however. Kontiokorpi said that clearing snow from a patch of ground is already a big help, and those that leave bird feeders out during the winter will find plenty of eager diners even as we head towards May.
The general rule, says Kontiokorpi, is to continue to offer feed until there are no longer any night frosts.
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