Mersehead Recent Sightings 27th May - 2nd June
Another mainly dry week at Mersehead, we have begun to conduct our last round of Surveys. Whilst completing our 4th visit to the south section of our Kirkconnell reserve, territory mapping skylark & meadow pipit, a busy morning was had with activity in all areas. We also were given a treat of not only a marsh harrier soaring over head, but also a peregrine falcon perched on a post, stopping us in our tracks – fantastic! That is not the only marsh harrier we have seen this week, we have also had a number of sightings of a female patrolling our reed beds here at Mersehead.
female marsh harrier Photo Credit: Ben Foot
On our 4th and final reed bed survey on Wednesday morning, good numbers of reed bunting, reed warbler & sedge warbler were seen & heard. Other treats seen were common blue & azure damselfly, small copper butterfly and an abundance of marsh Orchid. We also amused by a sparrowhawk being chased off into the distance by a much smaller bird.
marsh orchid Photo credit: Jon Foot
During our weekly butterfly transect, where we recorded varieties such as red admiral, peacock, painted lady, small heath, whilst walking along our beach section, we noticed a ringed plover acting very protectively over what we subsequently found to be her nest containing 3 eggs.
ringed plover nest Photo credit: Jon Foot
Also visitors to the reserve on Monday were lucky to see an otter swimming in front of our meida hide.
We are hoping the overnight rain on Thursday will be a sufficient boost for the natterjack tadpoles, helping them to develop onto their next stage.
Jon Foot, Residential Volunteer