Nature Notes 1 December 2020

Nature Notes 1 December 2020

Bluebells, Milford (c) Ryan Bradley

Observations from staff and members on our Nature Reserves this week.

Nature reserves may look completely wild, but our 19 reserves across Northern Ireland are actually carefully managed by a dedicated team. We protect, restore and create a mix of habitats where wildlife can thrive.

Isle of Muck Nature Reserve

We spotted some grey seals around the Isle of Muck at the weekend. They can be distinguished from common seals by their larger size and longer snout, and will feed on the rich source of crustaceans, fish and sand eels in the area ~ John, Nature Reserves Officer

Grey seals, Isle of Muck (c) John McLaughlin

Bog Meadows Nature Reserve

Our volunteer team have been busy helping our partners Naomh Gall CLG with the development of their new 'Woodland Trail', by clearing access and providing natural materials from Bog Meadows nature reserve for the creation of steps and paths. This work was carried out as part of our new community engagement project at Bog Meadows, 'Our People, Our Places' ~ Deborah, Community Engagement Officer

Milford Cutting Nature Reserve

Bluebells have broken ground at Milford due to the mild weather we have been experiencing. Who knows what's around the corner for us in the spring, but the bluebells will be there anyway ~ Ryan, Nature Reserves Officer

Bluebells, Milford

Bluebells, Milford (c) Ryan Bradley