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Nature Notes - June 2021

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Sickleholme Nature Notes

A few snippets from June which I hope will be of interest. Assisted by Steve Clarke, Alan Kydd undertook the second examination of our bird nest boxes and was able to confirm that 27 of the 32 boxes have been occupied. This success rate (84%) exceeded expectations, since the weather at critical times had been far from what is best for breeding birds. Some 14 of the boxes were occupied by Blue Tits, 11 by Great Tits whilst the eggs in two have yet to be identified. Over 100 young were counted, with more to come from the remaining eggs and second broods.

John Holliday and Trevor Hoyland, together with a member of Rivercraft Monitoring, carried out the second invertebrate survey of the stream in mid-month.  They sampled the same areas as the first survey, these being in the valley below the 5th hole and below the bridge on the 13th hole. The mix of species was similar to the first survey, but numbers increased at the second site showing that the environment has settled back down after the disturbance from the construction work last year. The list of species included such splendid descriptions as Cased Caddis, Stone Clingers, the nymphs of Mayfly, Upwing Olive, Large Brook Dun and Stonefly plus plenty of Freshwater Shrimps. But the main news is that the stream remains in excellent condition and provides a healthy environment for the invertebrates, and for the creatures that rely on them as part of the food chain.

Marie Athorn is currently working for the RSPB in a golf course advisory capacity. Whilst our course is not part of this project, Marie was golfing with the family during a period back at home and is ready to offer advice on some of the areas that see the best of our wildflowers. She also arranged with Simon that the pro-shop would be one of the first to sell a new set of golf-related RSPB pin badges (see photo image). These feature Britain’s favourite birdie (the Robin), an eagle and an albatross. Easily acquired for a nominal figure, and ideal as a present or for pinning on your golf bag. What fun!

Thanks to everyone who sent in records. Butterflies included the first Holly Blue that I have ever seen on the course and multiple sightings of Orange-tips. A number of members and Greens staff reported deer with Roe, Fallow and Muntjac being mentioned (all possible) and definite confirmation of Roe Deer.

Bryan Barnacle