LNNR Events updated

The new events programme is now up on the events page of the blog. There's plenty to do over the summer holidays and even a chance to get stuck in with some practical tasks on the reserve. Booking may be required and you'll find all the information needed on the events page. Hope to see you there.

Spot the Eider Chicks

There are several eider creches using the reserve at the moment and I stumbled on one whilst out doing a breeding bird survey. Out on the rocky shore you can see how camouflaged they are against the rocks and seaweed. There were 10 in this particular group so I moved away and left them in peace.

 

 

 

 

There is always something new to look and below is some interesting cloud formations visible over the dunes last week.

 

Unexpected Nest

Whilst tidying up a few bags in the yard I came across this at the bottom of one. After a super quick photo I put it back where it came from and let the robin return to incubate her eggs. After a couple of minutes she was back and she's still sitting tight....oh well I'll just have to do the tidying later.

 

 

Sea Thrift

There is a carpet of pink engulfing parts of the Reserve recently. Sea Thrift has been blooming for a few weeks now and it's so stunning on the green of the salt marsh we thought we'd share a couple of pictures with you.

 

 

 

 

Our work is never done - Catherine goes in to retrieve a washed up crate.  

Glendale Children's Day

 

Last week we were asked to attend the Glendale Childrens Day. We went last year and this time it was even better. Armed with shorebird crafts and information on Brent Geese we set up camp and welcomed 100's of children from as far a field as Newcatle. It was a great day and it was brilliant to meet all the kids. They all now have one of our special 50th anniversary badges to wear with pride!

 

 

 

That's Rubbish!

 

 

A big part of our every day work on the reserve is collecting rubbish! Anything from rubbish washed up on the shore to piles that have been left in carparks like the picture below. This poor stone bollard had the misfortune to be mistaken for a rubbish bin. The mouse that was enjoying the spoils didn't seem to mind too much however four bin bags later and the place was looking much tidier. To those of you who take your litter home with you - a big thank you.

 

 

Partnership working benefits the Reserve

As we do every year We've been putting every effort into ensuring our wildlife and coast are protected throughout the year and during the important shorebird breeding season (Stretching from April until August). This year, in addition to other areas, the reserve has more fenced protection at Goswick Sands. In additionThis year we have managed to secure funding for two additional shorebird wardens to bolster staff and volunteers.

 

There are a couple of issue which, without a doubt, affect our breeding shorebirds particularly at Goswick Sands. Dogs off leads can be an issue as shorebirds nest in exposed areas and even a well behaved dog can cause birds to lift and expose eggs and chicks to all sorts of dangers. Many people don’t realise that the reserve has bye-laws one of which includes keeping dogs on a lead or close at heel.

Illegal off road driving can also be an issue as it destroys habitats and disturbs wildlife however with support from the police and local residents we are tackling this issue.

Davy Garrick Berwick Neighbourhood Police Inspector "Northumbria Police officers are working with partner agencies and members of the community to gather information and intelligence about any activity which adversely affects wildlife and the environment.  All reported incidents will be investigated and, where evidence exists, we will seek advice regarding appropriate sanctions against offenders".

Visitors to the reserve can help make a positive impact on nature by keeping to paths, keeping dogs on leads or at heel and taking note of fenced of areas and signs. 

Wild and windy Lindisfarne

It's been wild and wet last night with the wind strengthening into today. This unseasonable weather certainly makes it feel more like winter than summer and there is undoubtably a knock on effect for wildlife.

If you are out over the next couple of days stay clear of roosting, breeding and resting birds on the shore and dunes as they will be struggling. It's particularly true of breeding birds that will be attempting to keep eggs warm as well as stopping them from being buried in the moving sand.

Sand blowing at over the shore at Goswick.