Changes

After a month away from Mersehead on holiday, this week was my first one back on the reserve. Though it’s been a shock getting used to the early starts again, the amazing views and magical dawn chorus make it very worthwhile. But something that has shocked me even more is just how much has changed in such a short amount of time. However, something that hasn’t changed sadly is the weather;  you’d be forgiven for thinking we are in the middle of winter this week. Despite this we have had a busy week here and seen many marvelous things out and about at Mersehead.

Probably the most noticeable change or me, is the lack of Barnacle Geese. When I Left Mersehead the reserve was home to hundreds of barnies all of which, with a few exceptions, have now left. Something else that has changed is the plant life. Everything seems to have grown over the last few weeks. Although this means jobs such as strimming and grass cutting need to be done more often, the growth spurt has brought with it a lovely splash of colour. The grass is greener, the trees are full of leaves and many of the fields are now carpeted with wild flowers. On the few occasions this week when the clouds have parted, the bright sun and beautiful colours have left the reserve looking glorious.  

The view from The Roost on one of the sunny days this week: Photo Credit: S. Boothman

This week I was also surprised to see how much our Lapwing chicks have changed. Most of the chicks which had just emerged from their eggs when I left Mersehead have now fledged, or are at least close to fledging. And there are several nests which I was not aware of before which have now produced chicks. So many hours have been spent over the last couple of months monitoring these nest, and marking where they are on maps.  To see so many young Lapwings out in the fields is a wonderful sight and incredibly rewarding.

A young Lapwing chick out on reserve: Photo Credit: C. Farrell 

On the subject of change, this week with the help of our wonderful volunteers we have whitewashed the outside of our two holiday cottages - Shelduck and Barnacle. This new coat of paint has left them looking better than ever.

Barnacle and Shelduck cottages with a fresh lick of paint. Photo credit: P. Radford

As usual there have been some very interesting sightings this week at Mersehead. Early on this week a couple of Spotted Flycatchers were seen on reserve, these late arrivals are tricky to spot in the leaf laden canopy, so it was a lovely surprise to see them.

Spotted Flycatcher: Photo Credit: Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com)

 This week a Marsh Harrier was spotted over the reed bed. These raptors do sometimes pass through the reserve so we always like to know when they’re around even though they do pose a threat to our Lapwing chicks.

Marsh Harrier: Photo Credit: Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com)

In this weeks moth trap in the Sulwath Garden we caught a Gold Spot Moth, with their reddish brown colour and yellow blotches they certainly stand out and are striking to look at. This was an unusual species to find at this time of year, as their flight season is usually late June, so it was a real treat to catch such a unique species so early. And as we head into summer, we will be catching more and more moths.  N,ot great news for me and my Moth phobia but wonderful for everyone fascinated by them.

Gold Spot Moth found in our moth trap: Photo Credit: P. Radford

Sam Boothman, Trainee Warden

Announcements

Upcoming events:

*Holiday Cottages - Planning your 2022 holidays? Discover the breath-taking scenery, wildlife, cultural and history of Dumfries & Galloway whilst staying in one of the Mersehead cosy semi-detached holiday cottages – Barnacle and Shelduck – located in the heart of reserve.

*Flooding - Please note that Mersehead nature reserve is prone to flooding during periods of high rainfall and/or strong winds and tidal surges. To avoid disappointment at these times, please contact the reserve in advance of your visit by email in the first instance at mersehead@rspb.org.uk or check the RSPB Dumfries and Galloway Facebook Page for daily updates.