Birds That Nest On The Lower River

To the casual passer by it may look as though there are only Swans and ducks on the lower River. 

However there are other species which also nest and use the riverside as a haven. 

Here are some of the species that nest along the tidal area of the river, 

another reason why the Trust wants this to be declared a wildlife Sanctuary / Haven.

Happy Families

The daily feed makes for a happy family of Swans and ducks !

The Good- The Bad - and the Lovely

The good - news from one of the Brochers brae residents today, is that the Leaking sewage pipe that I have so often displayed on this blog - is to be replaced shortly. Starting in a about a weeks time, the job should last for around 6 weeks replacing 120 metres of pipe. This is good news for this particular resident and their children who were most directly affected, it is also good news for the Swans and related river wildlife, along with the Nairn beaches which should now be cleaner - without the periodic pollution every time we get heavy rain.

The bad - news for me today was the flooding of one of the ducks nests due to the spate and high tide. This is heartbreaking, because she is one of the ducks that I reared and released last year. She has been brilliant and built the most beautiful camouflaged nest which was filled with eggs, today she was close by the bank looking towards her swamped nest - it was really sad after such a breeding success. The lovely - are the ducks of the river, they are the most endearing creatures with real character - I love them !

Ducks and Pigeon Pals

One of my duck pals who greets me everyday is now so relaxed I can take some very close shots, she is beautiful - I love ducks brown eyes !

Seems like all the riverside birds have a taste for the wheat grain these days. The spring weather has got the nesting season underway, and many of the birds are feasting for the famine that has to be endured whilst laying and nesting. Even the Turnstones are picking up grain that the ducks have missed, and the pigeons are now joining in feasting happily with the ducks ! Today I was given another injured young pigeon found in the high street by some kind girls who put it carefully in a box. I think it's had a bash of some kind but does not appear to have any broken bones. Following on last weeks pigeon success, I will feed it up for a few days until it is able to fly off.

Pristine Waterbirds

Though cooler the exceptional weather continues, and I can honestly say this is the mildest winter I have experienced in my lifetime....anyone still doubting climate change ?

The Pen is in pristine condition,looking good and constantly preening herself ready for the long nesting season. The cob too is in his prime, ready for action when the Pen chooses the time.

The Mallards are also in prime condition, and some probably already nesting. One pair in particular always pay me the compliment of landing at my feet at least once a day. The duck is looking for food as she begins the nesting season, and seeks me out knowing some high quality wheat and poultry pellets will be available ! ( video clip below). This is the same duck that landed at my feet last year in front of the Harbour Cafe after I had run out of food ! Eager to make sure she got a feed, I asked the cafe for 2 slices of plain brown bread for which they charged me £1. Scandalous price, particularly in view of the fact that some of my bird loving friends who come to see the ducks and swans weekly - actually visit the cafe too ! I dont think the cafe proprietors appreciate how much trade they get because of the wildlife on view locally !