The End is Nigh

RSPB Mersehead Blog 16th – 22^nd December 2023

The December Wetland Bird Survey (WeBS) has been completed this week. Seven species of wader were recorded at the high tide point with 971 Oystercatcher, 21 Grey Plover, 221 Curlew, 3340 Dunlin, 41 Ringed Plover, 3140 Knot, 1 Sanderling and 1 Black-tailed Godwit recorded. Lapwing and Redshank have been feeding in the field directly behind the car park. Wildfowl have been dabbling and diving across the wetlands with the usual Teal, Wigeon, Pintail, Shoveler and Gadwall all present. Ringtail Hen Harrier was spotted hunting over the sand dunes and we have had reports of Short-eared Owl received at the Visitor Centre.

Two hours before high tide, a tidal bore travels up the River Nith. The incoming tide forms a wave which travels upriver against the flow. This natural phenomenon is witnessed on each WeBS count at Kirkconnell Merse.  At just over 200ha RSPB Kirkconnell Merse is one of the largest expanses of saltmarsh in Southern Scotland and holds a good breeding population of Curlew. Best viewed from the village of Glencaple, there is always plenty of activity along the River Nith. Goldeneye were present this week with 10 recorded diving in the river including the first males of the winter. Wildfowl were busy feeding along the edge of the mud with 481 Wigeon, 182 Teal, 72 Mallard, 4 Goosander and 2 Red-breasted Merganser recorded.

Male Goldeneye by Ben Hall (rspb-images.com). 

Kirkconnell Wetland Bird Survey Results:

Trail cameras across the reserve have been picking up plenty of wildlife action. Present on the reserve but rarely seen, Otter dry their fur, groom themselves and mark their territory by vigorously scratching, rubbing, and rolling on the ground. Some of this behaviour was caught on the trail camera this month.

Residential Volunteering Opportunities:

We are looking for three residential volunteers to join our small, friendly team here at Mersehead to assist with the delivery of both our practical and visitor experience work programmes throughout the spring and summer. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to wildlife conservation, bring people closer to nature and start a career in conservation. You will learn what it takes to run and manage a nature reserve and will gain a valuable insight into Europe's largest conservation charity.

Accommodation is provided in our converted farmhouse in the heart of the reserve where you will become fully immersed in the life of RSPB Mersehead. Working alongside staff and volunteers you will gain a range of wildlife survey knowledge, practical estate/habitat skills and people engagement experiences. For full details and how to apply click through the below links.

Conservation & Land Management Placement

People Experience Placement

Upcoming events

The Mersehead blog will return in the New Year

Merry Christmas!

Rowena Chambers, Warden

*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.