Another successful trip to Tern Island to continue with the clearance work with 13 hard working volunteers. We would like to thanks all those whole help out on this important project. With this extra help we have had over the last six weeks the island is nearly clear for the breeding season so fingers crossed. Already some of the seabirds are showing signs of changing their winter attire and the Black-Headed and Mediterranean Gulls are sporting their summer regalia.
Volunteers Hard at work on Tern Island
Summer Plumage Mediterranean Gull
With the continued stormy but mild weather many of the wildfowl have vacated the site and are moving north, but a large flock of Brent Geese continue to gather on the north fields with a reported 4000 birds now present. Ferry Pool, despite the hole in the bank (which is due to have a temporary fix in place over the next week – apologise for the disturbance to the birds but it is really necessary) has supported good numbers of Lapwing and Golden Plover, and on the odd sunny end to the day there has been some stunning sunsets.
Sunset over Ferry
Despite the reserve being quiet at present it is only a few weeks away before the first summer migrants will appear so keep you eyes open and see if you can spot the first Wheatear or Sand Martin next month. But in the mean time you can watch the antics of all your favourites at the Visitor Centre's feeders with Long-Tailed Tits, Chaffinches and Greenfinch all eager to impress.
Long-Tailed Tit
The Warden, RSPB Crook of Baldoon