The observatory was set up in 1980. It involves ringing,'vis mig' counts (including seabirds) and general monitoring in the Heysham Nature reserve/power stations/harbour area. The statutory moth trap is in place and also a daily log for butterflies, dragonflies etc. We share an office, kindly provided by EDF Energy, with the County Wildlife Trust. This is located next to the Nature Reserve car park. Do call in. Please leave sightings in the letterbox, ESPECIALLY 'fly-by' seabirds.
Thursday, 20 June 2019
Didn't see that coming!
This morning I checked out the most likely nesting areas in the vicinity of the displaying Rock pipit seen on saltmarsh on June 14th. Not a sign.
I then walked along south wall to check for Mediterranean gulls, again nothing.
To my knowledge, there hasn't been a Rock pipit seen in harbour/outflows area since June 10th, despite almost daily visits. I had been at No1 outflow a few minutes, when two Rock pipits appeared, one begging for, and receiving food. I had just put my camera away and just managed to get it out in time for a hurried shot. Think it was the far bird begging. After that they flew into Power Station land near the reed bed, presumably where they had come from.
I suspect that the two "spare" birds, seen occasionally when the known breeding pair were feeding young, must have nested later, probably within the PS grounds. I really don't think any of the well watched pair's young survived. (MD)
Middleton Nature Reserve - afternoon
Gadwall 2 females with 7 & 6 young chicks.
Stock dove 2
No sign of any Darters today
Painted lady 3
Pete and Jean not back till late today. Hopefully back to normal tomorrow.
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