Who is watching who? Fledgling Wheatear (photo by Laura Shearer)
Fledgling Wheatears having a rest on the wall (photo by Laura Shearer)
The Wheatears have recently fledged their chicks and the reserve is bustling with their fledglings. Four pairs have been recorded nesting on the reserve this season so it is impossible to walk too far without spotting one! There is a wide variation in their markings, particularly as there are so many juveniles at various life stages; however they are easy to identify by their big white rumps as they fly off.
Meadow Pipit fledgling (photo by Laura Shearer)
Both Meadow Pipits and Rock Pipits have also fledged their chicks in the last week or so. As they learn to fly it is easy to get within close proximity to the chicks, watching them learn to feed and eventually fend for themselves. Many of the adults have decided to try for a second brood and their acrobatic displays and “parachute” flights can be seen lighting up the skies.
Shag Fledgling drying its wings on a rock (photo by Laura Shearer)
The seabird nesting season is going well with the Shags fledging many chicks. They have had a fairly successful breeding season- despite the strong winds and bad weather during the spring. A handful of Razorbill chicks have jumped off the cliffs however there are still several hundred on the cliffs with youngsters so what are you waiting for? Come see them for yourself!
Guided walks on the Mull of Galloway every Tuesday and Thursday at 1pm- no booking required. Puffins have been seen daily for almost 3 weeks now!
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