Even though we are now into April we are still waiting to welcome our first visitors to the island for the season. A combination of big swells and some issues with the low tide landing stage has sadly hampered our efforts. The pillars on the gutter have now been replaced, so hopefully, we will welcome the public back very soon.
Shanni catching up on some sleep in the sunshine on the back of the Quad © Nia Stephens
It has been a busy week as always. We started our first breeding bird surveys on the island on the 6th with Nia doing one of her transects in the South East and me doing a transect around Carn Ysgybor in the North. It was a tad windy but still plenty of birds calling away and defending their territories.
Views from Nia's breeding bird survey © Nia Stephens
Derek has been busy sorting out the bungalow and the low-tide landing stage this week. The kitchen has been painted, the worktops assembled, and the cooker has been delivered so it is well on its way to being finished.
We have continued to monitor our Chough sites. Several pairs have now started to lay and more signs of nest building from a few other pairs. It won't be long till they start incubating!
In other news, Nia & myself were very excited to find out that our beloved island chicken Sylvie has started laying again! Looks like we will be getting plenty of fresh eggs for cooking and baking.
Sylvie and her first egg! © Nia Stephens
Wildlife Roundup
We have a had few more migrants dropping in this week with lots more Willow Warblers and Blackcaps.
A Male Blackcap © Alys Perry
There have been daily sightings of Swallows on the Island which has been wonderful to see. We also had a delightful Male Black Redstart by the Bungalow on the 3rd.
© Alys Perry
Followed by a Hen Harrier in the South on the 6th. Puffins were also spotted in the sound in amongst the sea mist on the 7th.
Plenty of seals appear to be hauling out on the beaches and making the most of the sunshine while it lasted.
Sleepy Seals on Abermyharan © Alys Perry
The Ramsey team is wishing you a very Happy Easter this Easter Sunday!!!
Until next week.
Alys Perry
Assistant Warden
Assistant Warden Ramsey & Grassholm Island