Nature Notes 9 March 2021

Nature Notes 9 March 2021

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.

Ballynahone Bog ⁦

Wee flash of colour caught my eye as we were monitoring the water levels at Ballynahone Bog. Little common lizard; thought it was dead but moved more once the warmth of my hand got through. It was safely returned to cover, but suspect it was injured. Belly markings are stunning. First one I’ve seen on Ballynahone Bog. ~ Trish Fox, Senior Technical Officer

Isle of Muck Nature Reserve

Sheep were grazing the Isle of Muck through Autumn/ Winter to create more favourable habitat conditions for breeding seabirds. We had a successful rat eradication programme this year and the sheep were taken off the island before the beginning of bird breeding season~ John McLaughlin, Nature Reserves Officer

Glenarm Nature Reserve

This Irish Hare seems to like our trail camera in Glenarm Nature Reserve ~John McLaughlin, Nature Reserves Officer