Tens of thousands of geese are expected to pass through the Dumfries area during March and Early April on their way to the breeding grounds. Pink-footed and Barnacle geese are usually the main visitors as they stop off in the area to refuel before heading north to the Arctic. Greylag, Greenland white-fronted and brent geese are also expected to be spotted. A number … [Read more...] about Goose watch in Dumfries
Birds
Arctic Redpolls arrive in Durham
A nature reserve in Durham is celebrating after an Arctic Redpoll is spotted. The rare visitor to the UK was found at the Rainton Meadows nature reserve, near Houghton-le-Spring. The reserve is home to the Durham Wildlife Trust. Mark Richardson, Trust Reserves Manager, said: “This winter at Rainton Meadows has proven to be a bird spotters dream". Redpoll species … [Read more...] about Arctic Redpolls arrive in Durham
Heron fishing as river thaws
Our local Heron grabs a chance to feed as the icy waters of the Eden start to flow again. Over four weeks of below freezing temperatures resulted in our rivers freezing over for the first time in many years. Waterside wildlife such as this heron will have struggled to feed during this time, so the the last 24 hours of thaw have been a welcome break for birds and … [Read more...] about Heron fishing as river thaws
Barn Owl may become extinct
The Barn Owl could become extinct, according to founder of The World Owl Trust. Tony Warburton MBE, the Founder and Honorary President of the World Owl Trust, warns that in his opinion, Britain’s population of Barn Owls is actually on the brink of collapse. Although there have been some claims that this charismatic species is recovering from a disastrous 150-year … [Read more...] about Barn Owl may become extinct
Birds struggling in freezing conditions
Garden and migratory birds will suffer if arctic conditions continue according to a leading bird charity. Following the prolonged icy blast bringing Arctic weather to Britain and Northern Ireland, the RSPB is calling on birdwatchers, walkers, anglers and water sports enthusiasts across the UK to minimise disturbance to groups of ducks, geese, swans and wading birds until … [Read more...] about Birds struggling in freezing conditions