Shorebirds, Sunshine and Sea mist

RSPB Mersehead Blog 7th – 14th Sep 2024 

After a frosty start to 2025, the second week of January brings a large variety of bird species, with a total of 20 individual species recorded on Wednesday 15th January, as part of a Wetland Birds Survey (otherwise known as WeBs). These are organised monthly by BTO (British Trust for Orthinology) and completed by surveyors across the UK, either by organisations such as the RSPB, or keen individuals about nature and wildlife.  

The results are as follows:  

Notably, a few raptors have been observed on reserve recently: Sparrow Hawk, Male Hen Harrier, Female Marsh Harrier, Tawny Owls and Barn Owl.  

Furthermore, this week’s Barnacle Goose count totals to 4,051. Large groups of Geese can be spotted roosting or feeding in fields around reserve.  
Challenge: Have you tried counting Barnacle Geese? Sometimes they’re sat in groups of hundreds or thousands... Maybe you’ll see the odd couple flying overhead.  
Top-Tip:  Count 10 and try to apply this to the rest of the group, Good Luck! 

Most of us have heard of murmurations, usually in relation to large gatherings of Starlings to display a beautiful spectacle or “dance” in the sky. I’d like to share a video caught of shorebirds displaying similar fascinating behaviour. 

These are Dunlin, thousands of the little waders flew in synchronous groups, often splitting into smaller groups then re-joining the larger flock. This was taken at high tide, while most waders and sea birds roost during this time, both Knot and Dunlin surfed the wind while creating marvellous patterns. 

Although we’re not out of winter yet, daylight hours are stretching further, and signs of new life are emerging through. These are first snowdrops I’ve spotted so far. Many people believe Snow Drops symbolise new beginnings, hope and are the first sign of changes in season. This small patch is growing amongst fallen bracken, reeds and coppiced trees on a riverbank.  

With the cold brings a crisp breeze in the winter air, but also great visibility and stunning sunsets. This picture was taken looking out towards the Merse open mudflats. 

Join the World’s largest garden wildlife survey. Big Garden Birdwatch is fun, free and for everyone. And you don’t need a garden to take part! Counting birds from your balcony, or your local park will play a vital role in helping us understand how UK birds are doing. Sign up for your free guide and let's look out for birds together on 24-26 January. 

At Mersehead you will find the RSPB’s only self-catering holiday cottages - Barnacle and Shelduck. 

We will shortly be advertising for a Residential Volunteer to join the reserve team as a Volunteer Warden. With free accommodation provided on the reserve, the work is very varied and will allow you to gain a wealth of experience for pursuing a career in nature conservation. Keep a look out on the blog and our Facebook page for this opportunity to join the Mersehead team. 

*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.