Red kites, reintroduced into the Lake District earlier this year, are doing well according to the Forestry Commission. Reports indicate that they are thriving and are spreading out around Cumbria and further afield. Iain Yoxall, Forestry Commission wildlife ranger at Grizedale Forest who managed the reintroduction, said: “As far as we can tell the birds are doing … [Read more...] about Red Kites doing well in Cumbria
Birds
Bittern numbers increase
Bittern numbers are on the increase, according to the latest research. This threatened heron has enjoyed its most successful year since it recolonised the UK in 1911, following 25 years of British extinction. Conservationists add that this year’s success is even more remarkable, following the long spell of cold weather earlier in the year, which was known to have … [Read more...] about Bittern numbers increase
Sparrows get drive-through food
Sparrows in an East Cumbrian town have found a unique way of finding food. Cars arriving at the Co-Operative store in Kirkby Stephen are given a close inspection by the resident sparrows on the search for bugs. In a sort of drive through food outlet for birds, flies and other insects are removed by the birds whilst the car driver goes for the shopping. Around a … [Read more...] about Sparrows get drive-through food
Record breeding year for World Owl Trust
2010 is proving to be a record breaking breeding year for the World Owl Trust at Muncaster Castle near Ravenglass in the Western Lake District, with 21 owl species raising more than 50 chicks. MacKinder’s eagle owls, spectacled owls, white-faced owls, western screech owls, long-eared owls and European scops owls have all bred for the first time, and there have also been five … [Read more...] about Record breeding year for World Owl Trust
Humber Avocet colony expands
A failing breeding avocet colony on the Humber has enjoyed a dramatic reversal in fortunes with its most successful season ever, thanks to a major restoration project. The RSPB estimates that at least 200 avocet chicks have fledged this year on its reserve Read’s Island. Not only is this around 25% higher than its previous best season, it is the first time any young have … [Read more...] about Humber Avocet colony expands