Observing Wildlife

The big Farm Watch (a counting scheme) organised by the GWCT, took place at the end of February.  The principal of the count is really simple and well explained on the GWCT website, it is a half an hour recording of the bird population on one given site.

I would encourage anyone in self-isolation to try and observe wildlife from his or her location. The National Museum’s website provides similar activities aimed at children of all ages to get them interested in nature. We were very lucky to record numerous Yellow Hammer, Wagtail, Finches, Tits (blues and coals), Pigeons, Oyster Catcher, Rooks and Seagulls by the coast.

During the last Bowhouse Market in March, the RSPB were present, and they were promoting a leaflet called “Corn Bunting in the Community”. The leaflet contains some information on Corn Bunting, but also a map that has suggested walks around the East Neuk of Fife.

 

Once the pandemic has passed and the all clear is given, I would strongly suggest requesting a copy from the RSPB in order to explore and discover the Corn Bunting in their natural habitat.

 

In fields and on country paths, you will see that the snowdrop season has now passed, and, in their place, wild garlic now fills the air with its pungent aroma, a sure sign that spring is on its way.

 

The lambing season in well underway with ewes and lambs starting to reappear back in the fields. As the lambs are still young, they remain susceptible to predators. This means that the carrion crow population needs to be managed in order to avoid any injury to our sheep stock. This management method comes under regulations given by the Scottish Government and The Scottish Natural Heritage. If you have any queries concerning our methods, please contact the Estate Office and we would be happy to help.