Mersehead Recent Sightings 16th - 22nd July
As summer kicks into life albeit very slowly, Mersehead is beginning to liven up after the brief early summer lull. As well as all the regular birds visiting the visitor centre (Siskin/ Lesser Redpoll) and trails we were recently joined by over 250 hirundines (swallows and martins). This unusual peak in numbers was due to the lovely weather on Tuesday followed by the storm, which caused these birds to form flocks. Lots of youngsters were in these groups to, suggesting a good breeding season in their colonies. 2 Swifts also briefly joined in completing the picture. A male Kestrel took advantage of this flying banquet which was unusual for this time of year. Other raptors around include Buzzard, Sparrowhawk and the odd Red Kite.
Photo credit: B.Hall
Many of the smaller birds are also out in force with my first Scottish Stonechats seen on the reserve. They can be seen around the end of the coastal trail amongst the local rabbit horde! Lots of Whitethroats and Willow Warblers are now moving around, so good id practice for those little brown jobs. This increase in avian numbers was further reflected by the ringing group with larger amounts of Sedge Warblers being caught including a French Sedgie! This was a real surprise and we shall post the results of its travels soon.
In the world of mammals, the Roe Deer are now a lot showier with daily sightings across the reserve. Look out for their Bambi look-a-like fawns to as they follow the adults. Brown Hares and Barn Owls continue to be seen though you might need to come here at dusk to get the best views. Other usual suspects included Badger, Stoat, Field Vole and the elusive Otter.
As part of my placement, we’ve been undertaking regular Butterfly surveys and with the scorching heat this week, there were butterflies all over. Loads of Green Veined Whites, Ringlets, Small Heaths and Meadow Brown. A lone Small Blue and Red Admiral were additional treats.
Photo credit: A.Hay
Not surprisingly, many amphibians have been making use of the ever increasing slug and invertebrate population here. 5 Newtlets were spotted lurking underneath stone and wood piles and the ever present Common Frog bounced its way through our butterfly transect. Now is a good time to check your own wood piles for these garden visitors.
My placement is now unfortunately drawing to a close. It’s been a real pleasure to work on such a varied and friendly reserve and develop my knowledge of conservation science. All the different tasks have shown me that there is a lot of hard work and graft that goes into maintaining these amazing wildlife havens. I hope to return at some point to see how its developing.
Daniel Whitelegg, Residential Volunteer