New Arrivals

This evening I spotted the first new ducklings on the river this season, as always they are gorgeous. There was also a lot of Martin activity on the lower river indicating that there was some insect life available at last !

Warmer temperatures are sorely needed to get some insect life and a bit of growth, which has now started.
As always, can I remind people if they see the ducklings PLEASE DO NOT THROW BREAD AT THEM, this will only bring the gulls and Crows onto them, and in any case young ducklings cannot eat bread !

 I counted 13 , lets hope the number does not live up to it's reputation this time.

Meanwhile A short vid clip below of the first rescued ducklings having a bath at home.

Ducklings and Rat update !

Today saw a thaw, and the ducklings enjoying their new two tier swimming pool ( short video below). High tides and huge north sea Swell swept up river swamping both banks along the tidal reaches. 

No doubt many river rats got washed out, which maybe includes the poisoned dead ones near Merryton bridge. I had an update from Alan bentley on the ratcatchers efforts over the "hoards of rats" fiasco in recent weeks. Enclosed content of Mr Bentley's email which I have forwarded to  Liz, Cllr Macaulay,  and others.

Hi Joe

David checked on things yesterday. He reports that there was little evidence of any recent disturbance by rats or uptake of bait, so it looks like this treatment has been successful. Unless something crops up to alter things, David anticipates that he will make a final sign off treatment check next week.

I have contacted Scottish Water regarding the pipe next to the bridge as to what it is, who is responsible, and can it be blocked or sealed off. Will keep you posted.

Regards

  

Alan Bentley Principal Waste Management Officer, Highland Council, TEC Services, Ross House,
High Street, Dingwall,

There is now no need to remove the dense undergrowth near the bridge which is vital to local birdlife !

Ducklings Progress

The change to colder weather in the last few days has been noted by the Ducklings, they take to the indoor coop by late afternoon. Their first real feathers are just starting to come through, but in frosty weather they do feel the cold ! The heat lamp in the coop is only 60w but enough to keep them cosy when closed and huddled together. I'm glad they got a few mild days to get partially acclimatised before the cold set in. This morning their bath had a film of ice on it, but they still enjoyed the water,( short vid below)