RSPB Mersehead Blog 25th February – 3rd March 2023
Volunteers from Mersehead were out completing the national Beached Bird Survey over the weekend. This is one of the UK’s longest running citizen science projects having started 50-years ago. Initially launched to monitor chronic oil pollution, this survey gives scientists an insight into the causes of seabird deaths. With the beautiful weather, it was a stunning day to be out although the continuing avian influenza made for a busy survey.
Daylight hours are becoming notably longer as we transition into spring. Lapwing are starting to display more frequently, and pair bonds are forming out on the wetlands. It was great to see five pairs of Gadwall from Bruiach hide this week. The still bare hedgerows make spotting our songbirds easier. Amongst the species on full display in the woodland this week were Goldcrest, Chaffinch, Long-tailed Tit, Blue Tit, Great Tit, Coal Tit, Blackbird, Greenfinch, Treecreeper, Wren and Song Thrush. Eight Whooper Swans flew low over the reserve this morning, properly on the first leg of their migration back to their breeding grounds in Iceland.
The driftwood bird table at the Information Centre has been hectic with small birds queuing up in the hedgerows awaiting their turn. As well as the more common garden birds such as Chaffinch, Blackbird and Blue tit, there has been fabulous close-up views of Tree Sparrow and Yellowhammer this week.
The low tides this week saw us back at RSPB Kirkconnell Merse to complete livestock fence repairs on the merse after the winter storms. At around 300ha, RSPB Kirkconnell Merse is one of the most extensive areas of saltmarsh in southern Scotland. Large flocks of both Barnacle and Pink-footed geese were fuelling up on the merse, with Goldeneye and Little Egret seen on the river. We were treated to the sight of a full rainbow stretching the width of the merse.
Other wildlife sightings at Mersehead this week include:
Visiting the reserve during this time of year is an excellent way to reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of Scotland's wetlands. Whether you are a bird-watching enthusiast, a lover of wildflowers, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Mersehead has something for everyone!
So why not pack your binoculars, put on your walking boots, and come and explore this magnificent wetland nature reserve for yourself? You will be amazed by the natural wonders that await you.
At Mersehead you will find the RSPB’s only self-catering holiday cottages- Barnacle and Shelduck. Available dates are currently going quickly, follow the links to book your next holiday.
Rowena Chambers, Warden