RSPB Mersehead blog 4th- 10th December 2021
The Mersehead Reserve count saw 3066 Barnacle Geese, 1700 Dunlin, 314 Lapwing, 281 Teal, 118 Wigeon and 100 Knot being the most abundant species recorded. The coordinated Barnacle Goose count was also undertaken this week which saw 9,382 being recorded in the local area.
Beach view whilst carrying out reserve count. Photo credit: Amy Blachford
Other sightings this week include a Red Kite circling in the sky beside rainbow lane. This species breeds in mature open woodland and roosts communally in woods during the winter. They hunt over open expanses such as farmland and moorland. A Weasel was also sighted seeking refuge from the storm to eat its freshly caught meal, a Common Shrew. Twite have also been spotted flying over the merse.
Red Kite in flight. Photo credit: Ben Andrew (rspb-images.com)
Additionally, a Barn Owl was spotted this morning hunting for food. They are more commonly seen in the day when it is cold weather as it is harder for them to find food. Barn Owls produce a clutch size of between 4-6 eggs. Incubating begins after the first egg has been laid resulting in the young hatching in 2 to 3 day intervals with each egg needing to be incubated for about 30 days. Due to this in some instances the oldest chick may be two weeks older than the youngest.
Barn Owl. Photo credit: John Bridges (rspb-images.com)
Tidying up after the stormy weather has been a task this week with us collecting gorse from along rainbow lane that had been cut prior or had been snapped off due to the high winds. Also, logs have been gathered from the trees that had fallen in the woodland approaching the Meida Hide.
Tractor trailer packed full of gorse. Photo credit: Amy Blachford
Not only do the wetlands provide habitat for a variety of different ducks and geese but they also offer a picturesque view with the water reflecting the hills in the background.
Reflecting the cloudy sky. Photo credit: Amy Blachford
Last bit of pink from the sunset. Photo credit: Amy Blachford
Much of this week has been carrying out crucial monitoring of the spread of Avian Flu. This is seemingly having a significant effect on the reserve with distressing sights being witnessed. The hardest hit species at present is the Barnacle Goose, one of the reserves priority species. The staff here are devastated to witness this happen. Our work here is tailored to protecting and conserving this species in particular and so the current situation is very upsetting. Be aware that it is highly likely that you will see a dead bird whilst visiting the reserve. We appreciate your understanding on this matter.
Taking part in the GMS' Winter Garden Moth Scheme seems to be paying off with another different moth being found in our trap this morning. This species overwinters as an egg on many broadleaved trees and shrubs with the larva emerging in early April until late June. Their flight season is from October through to January although they have been seen as early as September.
Mottled Umber. Photo credit: Amy Blachford
Want to stay in the heart of the reserve! At Mersehead you can gain this unique experience by booking one of our holiday cottages, Shelduck Holiday Cottage and Barnacle Holiday Cottage. Follow the links to book through our agent Discover Scotland.
Amy Blachford, Trainee Warden
Reserve announcements
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.
Avian Flu
Positive cases have been confirmed in dead birds at Mersehead nature reserve. Biosecurity measures are in place on the reserve along with signage with further information for visitors to try to help prevent further spread of the disease. Although the risk of contracting the disease from a wild bird is very low, we recommend that people do not handle sick or dead wild birds, remain vigilant, and report dead wild waterfowl (swans, geese or ducks), gulls or birds of prey to the UK government Defra helpline (03459 33 44 77).
Covid advice
Please follow our advice on Covid restrictions and updates on our website: https://www.rspb.org.uk/our-work/rspb-news/news/stories/coronavirus/reserve-reboot/
Festive opening times:
From 23 December - 4 January the visitor centre (including toilets) will be closed at this reserve. The carpark, hides and trails will remain open with the exception of the dates below.