Solway Project Officers, Jack and Liam, have been far from hibernating over the winter period. Here’s a look at what they’ve been up to:
Habitat improvements
Over the winter, Jack and Liam worked alongside volunteers to improve habitat for the northern brown argus butterfly by removing gorse at key locations along the coast.
Earlier this spring, Liam oversaw the cutting of rush-dominated grassland in an effort to improve terrestrial habitat for the natterjack toad population at Powfoot. This was made possible using a low ground pressure cut and collect system to preserve the grazing integrity of the field. Liam will continue to work closely with the estate that owns the land and the site grazier to advise and help implement a long-term strategy for controlling the rushes at the site, helping to maintain favourable habitat for natterjack toad and other wetland species such as wading birds.
Talks and training
Over the winter, Liam delivered a series of talks and presentations on the Solway Coast’s ‘species on the edge’ to a variety of community groups throughout the region, including the Dumfries & Galloway Natural History & Antiquarian Society.
Liam and his colleagues at Amphibian & Reptile Conservation ran online training for prospective volunteer natterjack surveyors, teaching them about the unique natural history and ecology of the species as well as the accepted methodologies for assessing their population health. This online training will be followed by a field visit so the volunteers can practice their new surveying skills. Liam and his colleagues also ran an event demonstrating positive habitat management techniques for the species with support from staff at RSPB Mersehead Nature Reserve.
Looking ahead
In addition to the above, the Solway team has also been busy preparing for a busy season ahead. Jack and Liam are particularly excited for a range of bat-related activities which will include bat talks and walks, as well as opportunities for volunteers to take part in a range of bat surveys.
Their summer programme also includes northern brown argus surveys and they have a range sites across the region in need of volunteer surveyors. These surveys are easy to complete and often involve walks in picturesque coastal locations – so why not enjoy a summer stroll with a view and help a threatened little butterfly while you’re at it!
To keep up to date with all that we’ve got going on on the Solway Coast and to receive notifications of new events and opportunities, sign up to the Species on the Edge mailing list, keep an eye on the Species on the Edge social media channels, or get in touch with the team:
Jack: Jack.Barton@rspb.org.uk
