A Tern For The Better?

   Last summer, a range of factors seem to have contributed to the very welcome breeding success of the internationally rare Little Terns. Approximately 25 to 30 young fledged, their best for many years.
   Recently, these small, fast flying, frenetic terns, with their white foreheads and yellow bills and feet have nested on the "Beach Recharge" off Blockhouse Bay.
   This half kilometre long shingle bank (made from the dredgings from Harwich harbour) lies only 70 metres from the seawall. This gives the terns the vital security from land predators like Foxes and Stoats. These were probably the downfall for those formerly nesting at Shinglehead Point.
   However, Herring Gulls or a pair of Crows or Kestrels can devastate a small colony. Larger, established colonies tend to do better, especially when other shore-nesting species are amongst the Little Terns. It means more adult birds will team up to chase off these avian predators. High Spring tides can wash away eggs and young, but the recent growth of sparse vegetation at the south-west end of the recharge has meant this part of the shingle has stabilised. Signs were erected here, asking people in boats not to land and walk amongst the shore-nesting birds. We believe this was generally accepted and adhered to. New signs have been provided, thanks to Natural England, which will be put up again at the end of April until the end of July. This year, the shingle will be zoned to allow boat landings in the middle section, whilst restricting access at either end of the recharge.
This is because the north-east end is also becoming vegetated and will provide additional nesting opportunities for the terns. Once again, our thanks to everyone who respected the signs last summer and we hope the same consideration will be shown this time.

Reserve Open Day

Saturday May 19th

   We will be holding our third annual Open Day on May 19 between 10.00 and 13.00. This is a chance to see the reserve from the inside and talk to us about our conservation work on the Wick.
   Lambing is currently (mid April) in full swing and so there should be around 200 lambs, plus some new calves by then, in addition to our breeding birds, Light refreshments will be available at the farm buildings.
   We hope that you are able to join us.
   To access the Reserve take the seawall footpath that leads from the marina along the southern side of Woodrolfe Creek, for about 450 metres. You will then see a gate on your right where a Trust member will be waiting to meet you. The route will be signed. If you need any assistance with access please contact Jonathan Smith on 01621 868628 or Mike Sandison on 01621 741351.