On Monday an electric fence was put in place on little tern bay to keep the livestock away from the nesting birds on the beach, this was finished just in time before the weather turned really wet and windy. By the afternoon whilst digging up old clay drainage pipes it started to snow quite heavily, what a treat! I was then driven indoors and built a cold frame.
On Tuesday Dave and I completed the eighth and last swamp bridge, this was a bigger undertaking as it spanned a higher stream and needed vertical supports and side rails to keep the quad bike were it should be! Work was interrupted a couple of times by hail storms which soon passed! A great sense of satisfaction ensued once this was done.
Today also nearly 800 golden plover have arrived near Crossapol bay, what a great sight!
The wonderful bread maker that has been supplied to the accommodation had to be used again but this time I set it to be awaken on Wednesday morning to the smell of baked bread!
The corncrakes are continuously making their presence know with their calling but are proving elusive to see! Some die hard birders have been here a few days trying to photograph them.
On Thursday Ben and I embarked on a new task for me, Comfrey bulb planting. This is to provide a food source for bumble bees and another corncrake habitat. When I return it will be great to see this area fully grown and being used!
I have finally finished digging up the old perimeter wire fence that encloses the rear of the farm and digging up hundreds of old clay drainage pipes that had become entombed in earth and moss!
Today whilst sitting outside the visitor area on my last working day, a corncrake suddenly popped up in full view! What a treat for me but I was not quick enough with my camera.
I have had a great four weeks, got involved with a huge variety of jobs, worked hard and had a great time exploring the island, I really hope to visit again. Thanks to Ben, Dave and Ric my fellow volunteer, for making it so rewarding and enjoyable.
PAT HARLE