RSPB Mersehead Blog 5 - 11th April 2025
We kicked off the week with a long but rewarding day in the sunshine at Kirkconnel, repairing the fencing in preparation for the cattle arriving later in the year. Fortunately, the weather was on our side, with clear skies and plenty of sunshine to keep our spirits high.
Enjoying the sunshine at Kirkconnel. Photo credit: K. Stevenson
The Barnacle Geese are still lingering here at Mersehead, though it won’t be long before they head off to Svalbard to begin their breeding season. This week’s count came to 3,360—down from last week’s total of 7,179, marking a noticeable drop as their departure draws closer.
Barnacle Geese at RSPB Mersehead. Photo credit: K. Stevenson
With the onset of spring, Mersehead is once again seeing the return of several characteristic species. Chiffchaff and Skylark have been observed vocalising across the reserve, marking the start of their breeding activity. Botanical signs of spring are also emerging along the footpaths, with growth of Primula veris (Cowslip) and Adoxa moschatellina (Town Hall Clock) noted among the vegetation.
Cowslip photographed next to the car park at RSPB Mersehead. Photo credit: K. Stevenson
Town Hall Clock photographed along woodland path at RSPB Mersehead. Photo credit: F. Sanders
We've kicked off our weekly moth trapping sessions once again and are already seeing a promising variety of species. As temperatures continue to rise in the coming weeks, we’re looking forward to an even broader range of moths making an appearance. So far, our catches have included several familiar early-season species such as Clouded Drab, Common Quaker, and Hebrew Character.
Red Chestnut moth caught onsite. Photo credit: K. Stevenson
Clouded Drab moth caught onsite. Photo credit: K. Stevenson
Elsewhere on site, Common Toad tadpoles have been spotted this week. These amphibians typically breed in larger, deeper bodies of water compared to Common Frogs and Natterjack Toads. It will take around sixteen weeks for the tadpoles to fully mature—during this time, they’ll gradually lose their tails and develop legs as they transform into adult toads.
Common Toad tadpoles feeding on old spawn string, photographed at RSPB Mersehead. Photo credit: K. Stevenson
Keira Stevenson (Residential volunteer)
For more information on individual events and to book a place please go to our website:
https://events.rspb.org.uk/mersehead
Forest School: For more information & to book a place on Forest School please email: mersehead@rspb.org.uk
Returning for the summer term
Easter Badger Feast
Friday 11th April
Natterjack Night
Thursday 17th April
Friday 25th April
At Mersehead you will find the RSPB’s only self-catering holiday cottages - Barnacle and Shelduck. Available summer dates are currently going quickly, follow the links to book your next holiday.
*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.