West Galloway SOC - Birding in and Around Stranraer

With the absence of the migrant Geoff Sheppard, West Galloway SOC walked up to the hide at Wigtown harbour. The hide was already busy with RSPB's Gus Keys showing visitors telescopic views of Pinkfoot and Barnacle Geese on the mudflats, however, most of us managed to grab a seat to see what else was around. Whooper Swans were present on a island in the main wetland area surrounded by various ducks, such as Shovelers, Teal, Wigeon and Mallard. Redshank, Coot, Oystercatcher, Moorhen, Curlew and several Herons were also present. All round was the constant pee-wit of lapwings and Curlew and Water Rail were also heard (but not seen).

We then decided to walk from the harbour along the footpath to the Martyr's Stake, a veritable wildlife corridor, where Goldfinches, Chaffinches, Chiffchaffs, Willow Warblers, Mute Swans, a Songthrush, Blackbirds, Blue Tits, Great Tits, Robins, Starlings, Woodpigeons, Pheasant, more Herons and a Red Kite was noticed. There were also a number of Great Black-Backed Gulls circling overhead.

At the Stake itself, we were greeted by a Pied Wagtail. There were more Pink-Foots and a Shelduck as well as a Meadow Pipit.

After retracing our steps back to the harbour, the walk was topped off by some Reed Buntings frolicking in the reeds. This was followed by a chat with RSPB wardens Paul Tarling and Gus Keys.

By Mike Harrison

Labels: wigtown