Breeding waders doing well

The predator exclusion fence is doing its job and the breeding waders are making good progress. Many nests have now hatched and the grazing animals are back in an attempt to create short turf and poached areas to increase feeding opportunities. Several young are visible and very mobile as they feed on the wet edges and then scurry under the protection of mum’s wing at times of inclement weather. Birds are still sitting and with the introduction of grazing animals it is hoped that those pairs yet to settle will now be enticed to do so. Although it is still early days, it is very encouraging to see all our nests hatching rather than falling foul to ground predators and will hopefully give the population the boost that it needs to secure a healthy population for future years. A pair of oystercatcher has taken advantage of the secure nesting place and they too have been sitting tight over the last few weeks with young soon on the way.