Trail Tales - August 2024
A monthly update from the Warwickshire Country Parks rangers
A successful year for Sand Martin breeding at Kingsbury Water Park
From Ranger Nelson
We’ve had a successful year for Sand Martin breeding at Kingsbury Water Park. Ranger Nelson carried out a series of nineteen five minute counts to collect data on the Sand Martins on our Sand Martin wall. He recorded twenty four holes being used between 1 June and 30 July.
Nelson recorded the birds arriving on the 1 June, shown at the start of the video below, after which they can be seen digging sand out of the hole. They may try different holes to find their favourite before laying eggs. They may also move to a new hole for their second clutch if the old nest gets too many parasites.
Nelson also recorded the faecal sack being removed, evidence of a chick inside the hole.
After being with us for two months, all the Sand Martins have now left the Sand Martin wall and are most likely on their journey to Africa. We hope to welcome them back again next year.
Water Voles spotted at Ryton Pools Country Park
From Ranger Ben and Student Placement Abi
Our university student placemet Abi was busy working hard in the rain last week following an exciting sighting by Ranger George. Abi has been setting camera traps in the hunt for footage of Water Voles after an individual was sighted in one of our large ditches a few weeks ago. Fingers crossed for success - keep an eye on the Ryton Pools Country Park Facebook page for further updates.
Barn Owlets at Kingsbury Water Park
From Ranger Nelson
Owlets have once again been found in our Barn Owl boxes, which are located in a quiet, restricted area at Kingsbury Water Park. Pictured are the owlets just over a month ago when we first identified them, one of the three owlets that were ringed two weeks, and our new Barn Owl box ready to put up after the breeding season We’re delighted the Barn Owls have had another successful year - well done to Ranger Nelson and team for providing a peaceful habitat to allow these owls to thrive!
New Spider Mower now in action at Burton Dassett Hills
From Ranger Simon
Our new Spider Mower is now in action at Burton Dassett Hills Country Park! This type of remote-control operated mower can mow slopes up to 55 degrees, making it a safer and more efficient way to keep our grasses in check than strimming.
Have you spotted our Spider Mower while exploring our hills?
