|
|
|
Haweswater The year started with much excitement over the arrival of a new male eagle in Riggindale. The old male, in residence since 1976, disappeared over the winter and had been replaced. Unfortunately, despite being accepted by the female, no eggs were laid in 2002. Other raptors had a mixed season. As in the rest of the Lakes, Peregrines had a poor year, probably due to prolonged and heavy rain during May and June. However, despite the weather, two pairs of Merlins managed to fledge seven young. Ring Ouzels were surveyed, with 18 pairs found on territory; this figure implies a relatively stable population at Haweswater, certainly over the last five years. Ring Ouzel is now a species of high conservation concern in the UK, and we will continue to monitor the Haweswater population closely. The most startling result stemming from our survey work was the increase in breeding Reed Buntings. During the 2002 season, no fewer than 61 pairs were found. This represents a massive increase. We are not sure of the reasons for this. It could be a reflection on winter survival, with a big increase in land locally down to arable crops, or short-term changes in vegetation structure, both resulting from the foot-and-mouth disease crisis. Certainly, the few arable areas that exist at Haweswater are extensively utilised by Reed Buntings and other passerines for winter-feeding, indicating the probable importance of pockets of arable within upland farming systems.
Bill Kenmir
|