Over the last couple of weeks, the weather has seen a very distinctive autumnal flavour to it as one Atlantic depression after another sweeps across the reserve. The changing light, with the backdrop of the Galloway hills makes the Crook a very atmospheric place to visit at this time of year.
Rainbow with the constantly changing light conditions
Alongside the stunning setting, are the birds. Although not yet at their peak numbers it is an exciting time for the birdwatcher on any coastal site. With strong westerlies blowing in who knows the next arrival. It has been an interesting few weeks for arrivals the first geese are now regularly seen around the reserve particular Pink-Foots. Over the last few days, the Whooper Swans have returned in tow their young families as they travel in family grounds back to the UK.
Pink-Footed Geese
Whooper Family arrive for the winter
Time to rest
As with the waterfowl there has been an increase in birds of prey activity as northern wanders return to join the local birds. It is no impossible to have five or six species within an hour if you are luckily. The light of any visit would be to observe the majestic Hen Harrier quartering gently across the marsh as it flushes out pipits and skylark for its lunch. There have been at least two individuals over the last week with a ringed tailed bird reported on a couple of occasions and an immature male just starting to turn in to its shining grey plumage. These join other visitor such as the small but agile Merlin which if a blink is wrongly timed you will miss it as it streaks across the marsh. Alongside the visitor the residents of the reserve Red Kites, Peregrine, Kestrel, Buzzard, and Sparrowhawks are seen almost daily, also there is the occasional visit from a Marsh Harrier.
Red Kite
Over head the migration south continues with a constant stream of smaller birds, Meadow Pipits, Skylark are joined by the occasion Twite or Brambling if you are lucky. The last Swallow are now passing through and will be gone until next April.
Autumn is the time for fungi and if you look carefully at your feet, a variety can be found in the grasslands and trails around the reserve.
A selection of Waxcaps at the Crook
The Warden, RSPB Crook of Baldoon