Ramsey Sightings
– March 2010
A
cold month following on from a very cold winter has affected some
species. Chough were a bit late to get going, more interested in
feeding up after a tough few winter months than getting round to
breeding. First nest building was on 22/3. By the end of the month 5
pairs had been confirmed with another 3 on territory and we hope they
will start nest building soon.
Lapwing
had an equally tough winter and although it is too early for us to
establish final breeding numbers yet, a max of 6 birds displaying is
down on recent years at this stage.
Another
species seemingly hit by the weather is stonechat. They disappeared
from the island after Christmas and only a very few have returned so
far.
Wheatears
however, which spend the winter in Africa, have returned in apparently
good numbers. In 2009 we had 115 pairs nesting on Ramsey (over 25% of
the Pembrokeshire population) and the first migrants returned on 7/3
this year. Male birds are the first to be seen as they head back in
advance of the females to reclaim their territories.
Other
regular breeders setting up territory are peregrine falcon (2 pairs),
buzzard (2 pairs) and raven (4 pairs). Skylarks and meadow pipits have
been singing for most of the month, a sure sign that spring is round
the corner……
Returning
migrant dates include chiffchaff (25/3) and sand martin (19/3). Two
merlins (a male and a female) were seen on and off during March. A red
kite on 25/3 was a relatively rare sight out here.
Our
cliff nesting auks (guillemots and razorbills) have been on and off
the ledges throughout March. They will keep up this sporadic
attendance until they lay their eggs in late April / early May.
Moulting
grey seals can be readily seen around the island at this time of year.
Up to 150 have been hauled out on the main beaches during March and
good numbers should continue through April. Anyone approaching by boat
should do so with care as they are very jumpy at this time of year and
moulting is a very important process for them; the quality of their
new coat affecting their health for the remainder of the year. An out
of season seal pup was born in early March. It has done very well and
is on the verge of weaning. |