Kittiwake update 12th May 2012

Following up on Jeremy Douglas-Jones' report that more birds were starting to use artificial ledges on the lifeboat house, we were pleased to count 52 birds on the north side of the lifeboat house with 33 on the shelving itself. Even more promising was that there appeared to be some evidence that rudimentary nests were being constructed. There were another 198+ birds still attempting to use the netted off section of pier, so still a long way to go!
To see some of the action click here

Kittiwakes on Mumbles Pier update

Last week Mark Newton reported seeing the Kittiwakes showing a bit more interest in the artificial ledges on Mumbles Lifeboat house. By Saturday afternoon the main flock was still hanging around the pier, indicating their strong fidelity to the original site, but we did see up to 10 Kittiwakes sitting on the new shelving, providing a little more optimism that birds might eventually start showing signs of nesting. Fingers crossed!

Kittiwake ledges at Mumbles

The Kittiwake nesting shelves have now been erected on The Mumbles Lifeboat House. Their purpose is to provide alternative nest sites, as the birds are to be excluded from their former nest ledges on the pier whilst extensive renovation work is carried out there this summer. Fingers will be crossed that the birds take to these artificial ledges.

Personally I don't expect that the entire population will move location in the first year, but hopefully some birds will to provide the foundation upon which the colony can regrow. There should be sufficient capacity for around 200 pairs, but whatever the outcome the developers and others involved should be applauded for their commitment in accommodating this very special population.

Turnstones under Mumbles Pier

At least 60 Turnstones around Mumbles Pier this afternoon at low water. No Purple Sandpipers as yet, but no doubt they will show themselves soon. Mediterranean Gulls outnumbered Black-headeds feeding on bread being thrown out from a car in Bracelet Bay.