Gull counts for Herm & a big thanks to Phil Alexander

Gulls nesting on Herm's south-east cliffs - 23 April - PKV

Local BTO representative Phil Alexander has very kindly given me his gull counts for the BTO Atlas survey in relation to Herm Island. The counts were made in mid-April and are impressive - giving 430 Herring Gulls, 100 Lesser Black-backed Gulls and 75 Great Black-backed Gulls. The densest concentrations (not surprisingly) are on the island's south-east cliffs. It is hoped this year to follow the fortunes of these nesting gulls a little more closely than in 2009 (when the Herring Gulls appeared to be quite successful).

Also a very big thank you to Phil for making me two new poles for my garden clap net. Made within 24 hours of my call for help...Phil's much appreciated efforts should ensure that we can try to catch a few more gulls at Ty Coed on Sunday.

LBBG Black 1.R1 at Ty Coed - 08 May 2010 - PKV

LBBG Black 1.R1 Chouet landfill Beach 10 May 2010 - PKV