RSPB Mersehead Recent Sightings 8th – 14th August 2020
A key component of the Barnacle Goose management on the reserve is hay making. By removing the grass from the field, we can ensure the vegetation is nutrient-rich and lush, just what the barnacle geese need after their 2000-mile migration from Svalbard.
Making Hay. Photo credit: R.Flavelle
It can be quite tense hay making in Scotland as you need at least a week of high pressure and a good dry heat. Nerves start to jangle as you check the weather constantly and finally make the decision to go for it. Fifteen acres were cut last Thursday and turned over the weekend to help the grass dry out. A thunderstorm Monday night caused some concern but the dry, hot weather the rest of the week has resulted in some good quality hay (87 bales to be exact). We sell the hay locally which provides some income to help in our nature conservation work on the reserve. If you are interested in buying hay from the reserve, please get in touch with us at Mersehead@rspb.org.uk.
Rowing up for the baler. Photo credit: R.Flavelle
Whilst getting the hay rake ready in the machinery shed, a sudden movement drew my attention to a Peacock Butterfly which had not long emerged from its chrysalis which can be seen hanging from some machinery in the photograph below. For the peacock butterfly, the chrysalis stage only lasts a few weeks but for some species this stage may last months or even years.
Peacock Butterfly with Chrysalis. Photo credit. R.Flavelle
Windowsills are also a great place to search for Peacock chrysalis. The adult butterfly has already emerged from the paler chrysalis in the middle. The bright colours on the wings will start to show through the translucent material of the chrysalis.
Peacock Chrysalis. Photo credit: R.Flavelle
Swallows are starting to gather on the telegraph wires in preparation for their migration back to Africa, the avian equivalent of a departure lounge. Look out for Sand Martins swooping low and joining the crowd on the wires. The Kestrel family can still be heard frequently around the old farm buildings and a Red Kite has been present over the reserve this week.
The Departure Lounge. Photo credit R.Flavelle
The Visitor Centre (including toilets), viewing hides and play area remain closed for now to ensure social distancing measures are followed. We are hoping to open some of the facilities soon. More information about the re-opening of RSPB reserves can be found at: Reserve Reboot.
One facility that will be re-opening tomorrow are the two holiday cottages, Barnacle and Shelduck. These are the only holiday cottages located on a RSPB reserve and are a great base for exploring the wonderful county of Dumfries & Galloway. Follow the links to find out more and to book a holiday at Mersehead.
Barnacle Cottage. Photo credit: P.Radford
With a spectacular beach just a short walk up the lane, many holiday cottage guests never even leave the reserve.
Old Field Drain. Photo credit: R.Flavelle
We hope you all continue to stay safe and well and look forward to seeing you back at Mersehead soon.
Rowena Flavelle, Warden