Time for another update on the building works! With the Big Shed and Dutch Barn now gone, the work on the new office has begun. The back wall, overlooking Starnafin Pools had to come down (which meant moving some rather inquisitive ponies to the adjacent field), and there are any number of diggers and lorries and mounds of earth and great big holes in the ground! (All building works photos by Ed Grace)
footings for the new office and toilet block
Visitor Centre - new door and window going in!
The yard is extremely muddy, and – as can be expected – the track is taking a beating, so if you’re visiting please take care as there are some large potholes.
Recent sightings: The latest WeBS count took place on Sunday 15 November; there were around 10,500 pink-footed geese, 2,569 wigeon, 278 goldeneyes, 37 gadwalls, 1675 golden plovers, 163 mute swans, and a terrific 966 whooper swans – our third highest count ever! A stonechat was also seen, and a couple of ring-tail hen harriers over the marsh. Other than that, it’s been pretty quiet, but you never know what these Atlantic storms may bring in!
Male stonechat - photo by Paul Cameron
Wow! The vc is certainly looking a bit sorry for itself at the moment! Exciting times at Strathbeg! I'm quite looking forward to popping up for a visit over Christmas to have a look at all the goings on. It does look strange without the Dutch barn!