I hope everyone is enjoying Greylake now that it is wetting up and the winter birds are starting to increase. Unfortunately it was discovered just over a week ago that someone had tampered with the electric fence adjacent to the hides (attached to the predator exclusion fence) and removed the signs warning that the fence was electrified. The predator exclusion fence is in place to protect the breeding lapwing population (the largest on the levels and probably the South West) from large mammalian predators predating the nests. Not only does this fence protect the lapwing population but also redshank, snipe and many duck species including gadwall and garganey as well as a number of other important bird species. The fence is kept powered all year so that any animals will learn the wires have power and generally avoid them. So by disconnecting the fence not only did the individual or individuals who did this risk a bit of a bit of a nasty shock to themselves but they were also allowing predators to potential climb over the fence and disturb the roosting ducks and waders. These birds might then potentially move elsewhere to safer roosting grounds and if this happened or happens again in the summer there is the potential for predation of eggs or chicks which will negatively effect bird population in future years. We want to keep our duck and wader populations as safe and thriving as possible so if anyone has any information about how this happened please do let us know.
Additionally we have had reports that a few individuals are manicuring parts of the reserve to suit their own needs by cutting down vegetation and small bushes, before installing their own twig perches in order to get that perfect shot. By doing so they are removing the natural cover and potential food sources which birds rely on. We understand that many visitors to Graylake do so to enjoy the nature which lives there, as well as to photograph the wildlife. However, we need to balance the needs of visitors with the needs of wildlife. It might be that we have left vegetation in place to provide wildlife with cover/ shelter or that laws require us not to cut outside of certain parts of the year. Please leave the vegetation as you found it so that everyone can enjoy the site.
The Royal Photographic Society has produced a useful 'Nature Photographers' code of conduct'. It gives guidance around photographing nature and highlights the laws which applies - a useful source for beginners and experienced photographers. The link to the code can be found here: http://www.rps.org/adminuploads/external/images/nature@rps.org/Nature%20Photographers%20Code%20of%20Practice.pdf
If you have any information or concerns about the issues listed above please do contact us at greylake@rspb.org.uk.