It’s been a busy week at the Mull of Galloway as our nesting season continues. The cliffs have been a hive of activity with Shags continuing to collect nesting material to construct their elaborate nests. Many more eggs have been laid- including another one which can be seen from the RSPB visitor centre via our nest camera. Shags tend to return to the same nesting site each year – if it is deemed to be a good spot e.g. sheltered from the elements. They also tend to return to the same partner. This year the male from our nest camera has not returned despite nesting here for the last 4 years. The female lingered around the nest site for weeks with a young Lothario trying to win her attention. Bringing her small twigs to construct her nest- it was clear she was unimpressed. Finally she snapped and chased him away however only hours later she snapped herself up a new man!
The new male has proven to be an excellent provider and within days a new nest had been constructed. The pair has had 2 eggs so far and can be seen preening each other and developing their bond. We will bring you regular updates on how this season progresses for these new lovebirds.
Shag nest can be seen in RSPB visitor centre via our cliff camera (photo Laura Shearer)
Elsewhere on the reserve, migrant birds have been moving through. Using the Mull of Galloway as a pit stop, the bugs and beasties have been providing these birds with a well-earned meal as they continue to move north to their breeding grounds. Willow warblers and Chiffchaffs can be seen daily- often singing from the willows behind the RSPB visitor centre. A Yellowhammer, House Sparrow and White wagtail have been unusual visitors to the reserve this week.
Yellowhammer in the gorse (photo Laura Shearer)
House Sparrow is an unusual visitor to the Mull of Galloway (photo Laura Shearer)
With the added bonus of sunshine- it’s certainly shaping up to be an exciting season so what are you waiting for? Come join us at Scotland’s Southernmost point!