Helping Hands from Aviva

We were grateful to have the assistance of a group of volunteers from the Aviva Solutions Delivery team recently, who spent what they graciously called :-) 'an enjoyable day' painting aviaries and clearing overgrown bramble hedges at the centre. 

Painting the outside of some of the creche aviaries no doubt made a change from the daily desk routine - but there were no complaints!

Aviva is the major insurance company based in the region (formerly known as Norwich Union) and as part of its’ commitment to the community allows staff time away from their normal jobs to contribute to their community.

The team started with breakfast at the Stonham Barns complex, setting themselves up  for the hard work ahead. Aviary painting followed, then a spot of lunch and then a really enjoyable tour and presentation on the work that SOS carries out. 

Fresh air and good company was enjoyed by the volunteer group as they cleared some of the bramble overgrowth at the perimeter of the Centre

Further into the afternoon saw the crew back at work and clearing some overgrown Bramble hedges before finally retiring for tea and scones - as they commented, 'all very English'.

The team went on to say how enjoyable the day had been and how having thirteen pairs of hands certainly made quick progress on the jobs that head falconer Matt Lott had set them. Spokesman Ed Godbold of Aviva said: "The team mostly work on assignments day-to-day which may not see them actually working together on projects, but today allowed our team to grow and let people get to know each other better in a fabulous environment, helping to keep a much need facility running."

The team certainly made a sterling contribution to our winter work schedule and we appreciate their help very much - thanks guys!

You can find out more about Aviva Solutions, who provide private medical insurance, at www.aviva.co.uk/healthcare zone/

Helping Hands from Aviva

We were grateful to have the assistance of a group of volunteers from the Aviva Solutions Delivery team recently, who spent what they graciously called :-) 'an enjoyable day' painting aviaries and clearing overgrown bramble hedges at the centre.

Painting the outside of some of the creche aviaries no doubt made a change from the daily desk routine - but there were no complaints!

Aviva is the major insurance company based in the region (formerly known as Norwich Union) and as part of its’ commitment to the community allows staff time away from their normal jobs to contribute to their community.

The team started with breakfast at the Stonham Barns complex, setting themselves up for the hard work ahead. Aviary painting followed, then a spot of lunch and then a really enjoyable tour and presentation on the work that SOS carries out.

Fresh air and good company was enjoyed by the volunteer group as they cleared some of the bramble overgrowth at the perimeter of the Centre

Further into the afternoon saw the crew back at work and clearing some overgrown Bramble hedges before finally retiring for tea and scones - as they commented, 'all very English'.

The team went on to say how enjoyable the day had been and how having thirteen pairs of hands certainly made quick progress on the jobs that head falconer Matt Lott had set them. Spokesman Ed Godbold of Aviva said: "The team mostly work on assignments day-to-day which may not see them actually working together on projects, but today allowed our team to grow and let people get to know each other better in a fabulous environment, helping to keep a much need facility running."

The team certainly made a sterling contribution to our winter work schedule and we appreciate their help very much - thanks guys!

You can find out more about Aviva Solutions, who provide private medical insurance, at www.aviva.co.uk/healthcare zone/

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Thornham Owl Project Annual Review

As you may know, our East Anglian Nest Box Scheme for wild owls and other birds of prey has progressively surveyed and then built, sited, erected and monitored a network of wild owl nesting boxes to replace the diminishing number of derelict barns, outbuildings and natural nesting cavities favoured by raptors in our Mid-Suffolk vicinity. 

Earlier this year we were pleased to announce that we are beginning to amalgamate our efforts with another long-standing regional conservation group - The Thornham Owl Project - in order to strengthen, consolidate & extend the important work of providing safe & secure lodgings for wild birds of prey, especially those species which are under threat.

As winter approaches, Roger Buxton of The Thornham Owl Project reports on activity & findings during the past year - research which was carried out under the auspices of a mandatory Disturbance License issued by the Government in accordance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

The wild owl boxes are located in a variety of suitable locations

Barn Owls

Whilst nationally Barn Owl breeding activity has been very poor, in the Eastern region thankfully this trend has not been duplicated with good returns being reported on nest box usage and brood sizes. The Thornham Owl Project can report as having its most successful year to date with 97 pullis being subjected after ringing or banding to normal process of checking weight to establish condition and health followed by ageing. 

Safely secured in a soft muslin bag, the youngster is weighed...

Ageing is carried out and determined by measuring the quill (pin) or emerged feather (unfurled) of the seventh primary and checked off against a graph. In early June when boxes were first checked they were yielding excellent returns with up to five pullis per box but results tailed off with one or two pullis per box when checking into late July and August, possibly attributed to the very cold and wet weather conditions which prevailed during June. Nevertheless an average return of 2.7 pullis per nest site or box was an excellent result and should boost Barn Owl population in the immediate area. 

… measured to determine age …

There was also a further 8 boxes identified as roost sites and 7 additional adults ringed, plus 5 re-traps. The re-trap ring numbers have been forwarded to the appropriate personnel who will establish and plot the movement of these birds. The project now has 166 Barn Owl boxes covering an area from South Norfolk to South Suffolk, mainly centering on the Waveney and Gipping valleys. However the project has and will continue to erect nest boxes in any suitable habitat if identified.

… and carefully ringed for future tracking purposes

Tawny Owls

The project currently has 48 nest boxes designed for this species of which 7 were used, producing 14 pullis. A further 4 boxes were used but these nests were abandoned, possibly due to harsh weather conditions prevailing at the wrong time. This was a disappointing result and down on last years figure of 17, though Tawny Owls continue to show an inclination for using the triangular boxes intended for Barn Owls.

Little Owls

Out of 26 nest boxes only one was used producing three pullis. There definitely appears to be reluctance for this species of Owl to use artificial sites, maybe attributed to the number of natural sites available for these smaller owls

Kestrels

In total the project has 36 Kestrel boxes and we had a reasonably successful year with 11 boxes being used to produce an average brood of 4, with some broods yielding up to 5 pullis, with all young fledging. (We also found Egyptian Geese had taken up residence in one of the boxes - a first for us

Sadly there were some losses - 4 boxes had pullis on our first visit which were too small to ring, but on our second visit none were found, which we assumed to have been predated by either Squirrels and/or Buzzards.

Due to the prevailing weather in early summer the breeding for these birds was inconsistent, with in excess of four weeks difference between egg laying from one clutch to another.

Other Information

Stock Doves still regularly use the Barn Owl boxes with 37 birds being ringed or banded. Approximately one third of the world population for this species of bird breed here in the British Isles with some having the tendency to move South in the winter during an inclement cold period.

Other box residents include both Jackdaws and Squirrels

The project continues to make and erect boxes in suitable habitat and is primarily run on a voluntary basis with the only income being derived from sponsorship of boxes by the general public, if you wish to help by sponsoring a box or you have suitable habitat for a nest box information can be obtained about the Thornham Owl Project by telephoning 01449 711788

During 2012 the project was centered at Thornham Magna with workshop and vehicle kindly being supplied by Mid Suffolk Council. However as of the end of year this facility will no longer be available and we will be based at The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Stonham Barns who will supply transport, workshops, storage and other facilities and with whom the project will run as a joint venture from 2013 onwards.

Thornham Owl Project Annual Review

As you may know, our East Anglian Nest Box Scheme for wild owls and other birds of prey has progressively surveyed and then built, sited, erected and monitored a network of wild owl nesting boxes to replace the diminishing number of derelict barns, outbuildings and natural nesting cavities favoured by raptors in our Mid-Suffolk vicinity.  

Earlier this year we were pleased to announce that we are beginning to amalgamate our efforts with another long-standing regional conservation group - The Thornham Owl Project - in order to strengthen, consolidate & extend the important work of providing safe & secure lodgings for wild birds of prey, especially those species which are under threat.

As winter approaches, Roger Buxton of The Thornham Owl Project reports on activity & findings during the past year - research which was carried out under the auspices of a mandatory Disturbance License issued by the Government in accordance with the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981.

The wild owl boxes are located in a variety of suitable locations

BARN OWLS
Whilst nationally Barn Owl breeding activity has been very poor, in the Eastern region thankfully this trend has not been duplicated with good returns being reported on nest box usage and brood sizes. The Thornham Owl Project can report as having its most successful year to date with 97 pullis being subjected after ringing or banding to normal process of checking weight to establish condition and health followed by ageing. 

Safely secured in a soft muslin bag, the youngster is weighed…

Ageing is carried out and determined by measuring the quill (pin) or emerged feather (unfurled) of the seventh primary and checked off against a graph. In early June when boxes were first checked they were yielding excellent returns with up to five pullis per box but results tailed off with one or two pullis per box when checking into late July and August, possibly attributed to the very cold and wet weather conditions which prevailed during June. Nevertheless an average return of 2.7 pullis per nest site or box was an excellent result and should boost Barn Owl population in the immediate area. 

… measured to determine age …

There was also a further 8 boxes identified as roost sites and 7 additional adults ringed, plus 5 re-traps. The re-trap ring numbers have been forwarded to the appropriate personnel who will establish and plot the movement of these birds. The project now has 166 Barn Owl boxes covering an area from South Norfolk to South Suffolk, mainly centering on the Waveney and Gipping valleys. However the project has and will continue to erect nest boxes in any suitable habitat if identified.

… and carefully ringed for future tracking purposes

TAWNY OWLS
The project currently has 48 nest boxes designed for this species of which 7 were used, producing 14 pullis. A further 4 boxes were used but these nests were abandoned, possibly due to harsh weather conditions prevailing at the wrong time. This was a disappointing result and down on last years figure of 17, though Tawny Owls continue to show an inclination for using the triangular boxes intended for Barn Owls.
LITTLE OWLS
Out of 26 nest boxes only one was used producing three pullis. There definitely appears to be reluctance for this species of Owl to use artificial sites, maybe attributed to the number of natural sites available for these smaller owls
KESTRELS
In total the project has 36 Kestrel boxes and we had a reasonably successful year with 11 boxes being used to produce an average brood of 4, with some broods yielding up to 5 pullis, with all young fledging. (We also found Egyptian Geese had taken up residence in one of the boxes - a first for us

Sadly there were some losses - 4 boxes had pullis on our first visit which were too small to ring, but on our second visit none were found, which we assumed to have been predated by either Squirrels and/or Buzzards.

Due to the prevailing weather in early summer the breeding for these birds was inconsistent, with in excess of four weeks difference between egg laying from one clutch to another.  

OTHER INFORMATION
Stock Doves still regularly use the Barn Owl boxes with 37 birds being ringed or banded. Approximately one third of the world population for this species of bird breed here in the British Isles with some having the tendency to move South in the winter during an inclement cold period.

Other box residents include both Jackdaws and Squirrels 

The project continues to make and erect boxes in suitable habitat and is primarily run on a voluntary basis with the only income being derived from sponsorship of boxes by the general public, if you wish to help by sponsoring a box or you have suitable habitat for a nest box information can be obtained about the Thornham Owl Project by telephoning 01449 711788

During 2012 the project was centered at Thornham Magna with workshop and vehicle kindly being supplied by Mid Suffolk Council. However as of the end of year this facility will no longer be available and we will be based at The Suffolk Owl Sanctuary, Stonham Barns who will supply transport, workshops, storage and other facilities and with whom the project will run as a joint venture from 2013 onwards.

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Sea Eagle Resurgence

A story in the Daily Mail about the resurgence of Sea Eagles in Scotland recently caught our eye as a reminder of now-abandoned attempts to re-introduce this magnificent raptor to our part of the world on the Suffolk coastline.

The mature female sea eagle has a wingspan go up to 8ft (2.5m)

The sea eagle, otherwise known as the white-tailed eagle, is one of the largest in the world and Europe's biggest bird of prey, the females having an impressive wingspan of up to 8 feet (2.5m). Their prey consists of fish, small mammals and they also scavenge carcasses.

“Carefully - and legally - transferred from the Norwegian coastline, the juvenile sea eagles already featured the distinctive hooded eyes and impressive profile of the species”

Hunted to extinction in Britain way back in 1916, successful re-introduction schemes were first initiated in 1975 and over 130 birds were returned to the wilds of West Scotland in the two ensuing decades. Since then further projects have taken place to expand this population, with over 80 juvenile sea eagles - legally collected from nests in Norway - being released along Scotland's east coast. Scottish Natural Heritage and Forestry Commission Scotland - supported by the R.S.P.B. - are behind the scheme and hope that the numbers will grow as the birds that have been released reached sexual maturity.

Each bird was carefully inspected and vaccinated before release on the eastern shorelines of Scotland

Claw Blimey! The powerful foot and huge talons of thewhite tailed eagle, which has evolved for their specialist hunting needs

As reported in The Telegraph at the time, the Natural England sponsored the idea to reintroduce the birds on the area of mixed heath, forest and farmland along the Suffolk coast known as the Sandlings, centring on the R.S.P.B. flagship reserve of Minsmere. However, this proved extremely unpopular with some of the region's farmers and landowners, who feared for the safety of their livestock and much to the disappointment of the Royal Society the decision to scrap it was taken.

Our photographs are published with the permission of wildlife photographer Peter Cairns, who recorded the reintroduction of some of the sea eagles while taking part in the 2020Vision project - the most ambitious nature photography project ever staged in the UK. It aims to engage and enthuse a massive audience by using innovative visual media to convey the value of restoring our most important but often fragmented natural habitats - to show that healthy ecosystems are not just for wildlife, but are something fundamental to us all. Please visit their website for more about the project and some stunning wildlife images.

Sea Eagle Resurgence

A story in the Daily Mail about the resurgence of Sea Eagles in Scotland recently caught our eye as a reminder of now-abandoned attempts to re-introduce this magnificent raptor to our part of the world on the Suffolk coastline.

The sea eagle, otherwise known as the white-tailed eagle, is one of the largest in the world and Europe's biggest bird of prey, the females having an impressive wingspan of up to 8 feet (2.5m). Their prey consists of fish, small mammals and they also scavenge carcasses.

Carefully - and legally - transferred from the Norwegian coastline, the juvenile sea eagles already featured the distinctive hooded eyes and impressive profile of the species

Hunted to extinction in Britain way back in 1916, successful re-introduction schemes were first initiated in 1975 and over 130 birds were returned to the wilds of West Scotland in the two ensuing decades. Since then further projects have taken place to expand this population, with over 80 juvenile sea eagles - legally collected from nests in Norway - being released along Scotland's east coast. Scottish Natural Heritage and Forestry Commission Scotland - supported by the R.S.P.B. - are behind the scheme and hope that the numbers will grow as the birds that have been released reached sexual maturity.

Each bird was carefully inspected and vaccinated before release on the eastern shorelines of Scotland

Claw Blimey! The powerful foot and huge talons of the white tailed eagle, which has evolved for their specialist hunting needs

As reported in The Telegraph at the time, the Natural England sponsored the idea to reintroduce the birds on the area of mixed heath, forest and farmland along the Suffolk coast known as the Sandlings, centring on the R.S.P.B. flagship reserve of Minsmere. However, this proved extremely unpopular with some of the region's farmers and landowners, who feared for the safety of their livestock and much to the disappointment of the Royal Society the decision to scrap it was taken.

Our photographs are published with the permission of wildlife photographer Peter Cairns, who recorded the reintroduction of some of the sea eagles while taking part in the 2020Vision project - the most ambitious nature photography project ever staged in the UK. It aims to engage and enthuse a massive audience by using innovative visual media to convey the value of restoring our most important but often fragmented natural habitats - to show that healthy ecosystems are not just for wildlife, but are something fundamental to us all. Please visit their website for more about the project and some stunning wildlife images.

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Three into Two WILL Go

As regular readers will know, we have been extremely busy over the last nine months in our Raptor Hospital and it has to be said that the up-and-down nature of the weather recently has not helped young birds, who have suffered as a result. 

A consequence of the wet summer has been the resultant profusion of late broods, the health and survival of which have subsequently been threatened by the onset of moulting by the mature birds: this state has weakened the parents, rendering them unable in many instances to provide sufficiently for their offspring who have died of starvation in significant numbers.

This downy youngster was found in a weakened state but was properly nourished before he joined his new family

Such occurrences have frequently been logged by our friends Roger & Chris who - as key members of the Thornham Owl Project, who are partners in our East Anglian Wild Owl Nest Box scheme - have repeatedly come across similar cases in the last few months.

So when we recently received a report of an abandoned young barn owl, on investigation it proved to be just such a case - the survivor of a late brood neglected by parents in moult. Luckily Roger & Chris had just previously recorded a box inhabited by two healthy chicks of a similar age. 

Chris climbs aloft to put return one of the young owlet trio to the nest box.

As a result we were able to introduce the single orphan to this group. To give the trio a better chance of fledging, we are helping the parents out with food by providing extra mice with which to feed the family each day: this should take the pressure off the parents whilst they complete their moult and encourage them to concentrate their efforts on looking after their babies.

All's well that ends well - Maz and Bridget with the trio of owlets.

Our blog here will keep you posted on the outcome, but this close co-operation with other local agencies proves just how valuable such an association can be in our mutual quest for the rescue and re-habilitation of injured or distressed birds of prey.

Three into Two WILL Go

As regular readers will know, we have been extremely busy over the last nine months in our Raptor Hospital and it has to be said that the up-and-down nature of the weather recently has not helped young birds, who have suffered as a result. 

A consequence of the wet summer has been the resultant profusion of late broods, the health and survival of which have subsequently been threatened by the onset of moulting by the mature birds: this state has weakened the parents, rendering them unable in many instances to provide sufficiently for their offspring who have died of starvation in significant numbers.

This downy youngster was found in a weakened state but was properly nourished before he joined his new family

Such occurrences have frequently been logged by our friends Roger & Chris who - as key members of the Thornham Owl Project, who are partners in our East Anglian Wild Owl Nest Box scheme - have repeatedly come across similar cases in the last few months.

So when we recently received a report of an abandoned young barn owl, on investigation it proved to be just such a case - the survivor of a late brood neglected by parents in moult. Luckily Roger & Chris had just previously recorded a box inhabited by two healthy chicks of a similar age. 

Chris climbs aloft to put return one of the young owlet trio to the nest box.

As a result we were able to introduce the single orphan to this group. To give the trio a better chance of fledging, we are helping the parents out with food by providing extra mice with which to feed the family each day: this should take the pressure off the parents whilst they complete their moult and encourage them to concentrate their efforts on looking after their babies.

All's well that ends well - Maz and Bridget with the trio of owlets.

Our blog here will keep you posted on the outcome, but this close co-operation with other local agencies proves just how valuable such an association can be in our mutual quest for the rescue and re-habilitation of injured or distressed birds of prey.

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Bird Crime against Birds of Prey

The R.S.P.B. has recently released its annual report on Bird Crime and the focus of the document this year highlights the disturbing levels of harmful criminal activity to which birds of prey are subjected. In it, harrowing tales of the poisoning, trapping or shooting of raptors quite beggar belief but the report builds up a powerful case for urgent, top-level attention to the many issues raised therein.

The R.S.P.B.'s Conservation Director Martin Harper prefaces the report by outlining the urgent need for government action in reviewing legislation to make it easier for the perpetrators of such crimes to be prosecuted. It also advocates widening the scope of responsibility for those indirectly connected with these crimes under proposals of vicarious liability. 

The R.S.P.B. then sets out a comprehensive "Manifesto For Change" designed to clarify the issues for improvement of the wildlife laws and the reform of policing of wildlife crime, with recommendations as to how various aspects of the issues involved could be changed.

Finally it covers in some detail the incidents of crime and outcome of successful prosecutions, which in 2011 included:

• 100 reports of poisoning incidents, including 52 confirmed incidents of abuse involving the confirmed poisonings of at least 70 individual birds or animals.

• 202 reports of shooting and destruction of birds of prey, with the confirmed shooting of 30 individual birds of prey.

• 18 reports relating to illegal disturbance or photography of Schedule 1 birds including bird of prey species.

• 26 reports of illegal taking, possession or sale of birds of prey.

Andy Hulme, General manager of Suffolk Owl Sanctuary commented: "This report draws attention to many matters which need to be addressed urgently. It goes without saying that we deplore any persecution of raptors especially by poisoning, which is a horrific way for a bird to die. We have seen a huge increase in the buzzard population in Suffolk in recent years but a notable decline in Sparrowhawks and Kestrels, this latter strongly thought to be caused by secondary poisoning. Regarding shooting, following on from the well publicised instance of one of our own Snowy Owls, Fetlar, being shot dead whilst roaming free and other incidents of birds that had been shot being brought to us, we had a wild Buzzard brought into our Raptor Hospital earlier this year which had also been shot, but thankfully we were able to rehabilitate this bird and release it into a safe environment in a healthy condition. That said, the majority of injured wild birds brought into us are the result of road traffic accidents, which are as great concern to us."

You can download the full report direct from the R.S.P.B. site here

Bird Crime against Birds of Prey

The R.S.P.B. has recently released its annual report on Bird Crime and the focus of the document this year highlights the disturbing levels of harmful criminal activity to which birds of prey are subjected. In it, harrowing tales of the poisoning, trapping or shooting of raptors quite beggar belief but the report builds up a powerful case for urgent, top-level attention to the many issues raised therein.

The R.S.P.B.'s Conservation Director Martin Harper prefaces the report by outlining the urgent need for government action in reviewing legislation to make it easier for the perpetrators of such crimes to be prosecuted. It also advocates widening the scope of responsibility for those indirectly connected with these crimes under proposals of vicarious liability.

The R.S.P.B. then sets out a comprehensive "Manifesto For Change" designed to clarify the issues for improvement of the wildlife laws and the reform of policing of wildlife crime, with recommendations as to how various aspects of the issues involved could be changed.

Finally it covers in some detail the incidents of crime and outcome of successful prosecutions, which in 2011 included:

• 100 reports of poisoning incidents, including 52 confirmed incidents of abuse involving the confirmed poisonings of at least 70 individual birds or animals.
• 202 reports of shooting and destruction of birds of prey, with the confirmed shooting of 30 individual birds of prey.
• 18 reports relating to illegal disturbance or photography of Schedule 1 birds including bird of prey species.
• 26 reports of illegal taking, possession or sale of birds of prey.

Andy Hulme, General manager of Suffolk Owl Sanctuary commented: "This report draws attention to many matters which need to be addressed urgently. It goes without saying that we deplore any persecution of raptors especially by poisoning, which is a horrific way for a bird to die. We have seen a huge increase in the buzzard population in Suffolk in recent years but a notable decline in Sparrowhawks and Kestrels, this latter strongly thought to be caused by secondary poisoning. Regarding shooting, following on from the well publicised instance of one of our own Snowy Owls, Fetlar, being shot dead whilst roaming free and other incidents of birds that had been shot being brought to us, we had a wild Buzzard brought into our Raptor Hospital earlier this year which had also been shot, but thankfully we were able to rehabilitate this bird and release it into a safe environment in a healthy condition. That said, the majority of injured wild birds brought into us are the result of road traffic accidents, which are as great concern to us."

You can download the full report direct from the R.S.P.B. site here

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Red Squirrel Update

Earlier this year we completed the renovation and extension to our Red Squirrel enclosures, the result of much hard work by our trusty brigade of volunteers and a generous donation from Adnams Brewery. 

The three large squirrel enclosures allow plenty of space for recreation and seclusion

The colony currently consists of two pairs of squirrels, thanks to recently sourcing a new female from the British Wildlife Centre in Sussex. This summer they have been enjoying their recently redeveloped enclosures, which have been designed to allow us to accommodate an expanding colony in comfort.

The Reds are now refurbishing their dreys in preparation for winter

As we approach the winter months the squirrels here at SOS will start creating food stores and improving on their dreys. Red Squirrels unlike their grey cousins do not hibernate and will be awake most of the winter, only sleeping through some of the worst days.

The Red Squirrels at the centre give our visitors are rare chance to see these fascinating animals, but also have bred regularly, enabling us to provide youngsters for the release projects that are currently take place on Anglesey.

Unfortunately due to the disturbance of construction work in our area this year, 2012 saw no breeding success for us but we are hopeful that next year our clan will again be able to produce some young squirrels to help this and other Red Squirrel conservation projects. Our colony has certainly acclimatised well to their enlarged surroundings and our new female will be old enough to breed - so fingers crossed!

Red Squirrel Update

Earlier this year we completed the renovation and extension to our Red Squirrel enclosures, the result of much hard work by our trusty brigade of volunteers and a generous donation from Adnams Brewery. 

The three large squirrel enclosures allow plenty of space for recreation and seclusion

The colony currently consists of two pairs of squirrels, thanks to recently sourcing a new female from the British Wildlife Centre in Sussex. This summer they have been enjoying their recently redeveloped enclosures, which have been designed to allow us to accommodate an expanding colony in comfort. 

The Reds are now refurbishing their dreys in preparation for winter

As we approach the winter months the squirrels here at SOS will start creating food stores and improving on their dreys. Red Squirrels unlike their grey cousins do not hibernate and will be awake most of the winter, only sleeping through some of the worst days.

The Red Squirrels at the centre give our visitors are rare chance to see these fascinating animals, but also have bred regularly, enabling us to provide youngsters for the release projects that are currently take place on Anglesey.

Unfortunately due to the disturbance of construction work in our area this year, 2012 saw no breeding success for us but we are hopeful that next year our clan will again be able to produce some young squirrels to help this and other Red Squirrel conservation projects. Our colony has certainly acclimatised well to their enlarged surroundings and our new female will be old enough to breed - so fingers crossed!

For more info on how the Red Squirrel Enclosures came about - click here and on subsequent breeding activity click here

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Butterflies at S.O.S.

We have recently had a spell of nice warm weather which brought out some of our native butterflies to feed on the buddleia and lavender which has been planted around the centre, not only for butterflies but also for the bumble bees.

The three species of butterfly we have seen here at SOS this year are the Red Admiral, the Small Tortoiseshell and the Large White - this despite the prolonged rain through the spring and summer, which hit our native butterflies very hard.

A Red Admiral alights on the buddleia

The Red Admiral Butterfly is a frequent visitor to gardens throughout the British Isles and one of our most well-known butterflies. This butterfly is unmistakable, with the velvety black wings intersected by striking red bands.

This butterfly is primarily a migrant to our shores but due to domestic sightings of individuals in the first few months of the year, especially in the south of England, it now is considered by some to be resident, albeit representing only a small fraction of the UK Red Admiral population. This gets topped up every year with migrants arriving in May and June from central Europe. though the majority of these are unable to survive our winter, especially in the cooler regions of the British Isles.

The Small Tortoiseshell Butterfly is another of our most familiar species, appearing in gardens throughout the British Isles. However, this species has suffered a worrying decline over the last few years, especially in the south.

A close-up showing the distinctive colourings of the Tortoiseshell at the rear

This butterfly has always fluctuated in numbers, but the cause of the most-recent decline is not yet known, although various theories have been proposed. One is the increasing presence of a particular parasitic fly, sturmia bella, due to global warming.

The fly lays its eggs on leaves of the food plant, close to where butterfly larvae are feeding: these eat the fly's eggs whole and the grubs that emerge feed on the insides of their host, avoiding the vital organs. A fly grub eventually kills its host and emerges from either the fully-grown larva or pupa before itself pupating. Although the fly attacks related species, such as the Peacock and Red Admiral, it is believed that the lifecycle of the Small Tortoiseshell is better-synchronised with that of the fly and it is therefore more prone to parasitism

Scourge of cabbage-growers everywhere - the Large White or "Summer Snowflake"

Finally, the Large White Butterfly (pieris brassicae) and the small white butterfly (pieris rapae) are commonly seen flying within our gardens and are affectionately called summer snowflakes.

While the Small White is a native species, the Large White usually migrates from southern Europe because they don't often survive a north European winter and have often been seen crossing the English channel in swarms of many hundred individuals to reach our shores.

The Large White's eggs are often laid in batches of 10 to 20 which hatch into yellow and black, slightly hairy caterpillars after about two weeks and feed for a month or more to reach a length of about 50mm before they turn into pupae.

The eggs of the Small White are laid singly and hatch into bright velvety-green caterpillars which burrow into the hearts of cabbages to feed. They leave their food plants when they're ready to pupate and usually attach themselves to a vertical surface such as a fence or wall with a silk girdle before they finally shed their skin in the summer months and hatch into the next generation of butterflies.

As all horticulturalists and gardeners are all too aware, both species of white butterfly can cause extensive damage to cabbages and other brassicas, eating holes in leaves and tunnelling into the hearts. The severity of cabbage white problems can vary considerably from year to year due to weather, immigration and diseases.

Butterflies at S.O.S.

We have recently had a spell of nice warm weather which brought out some of our native butterflies to feed on the buddleia and lavender which has been planted around the centre, not only for butterflies but also for the bumble bees.

The three species of butterfly we have seen here at SOS this year are the Red Admiral, the Small Tortoiseshell and the Large White - this despite the prolonged rain through the spring and summer, which hit our native butterflies very hard.

A Red Admiral alights on the buddleia

The Red Admiral Butterfly is a frequent visitor to gardens throughout the British Isles and one of our most well-known butterflies. This butterfly is unmistakable, with the velvety black wings intersected by striking red bands.

This butterfly is primarily a migrant to our shores but due to domestic sightings of individuals in the first few months of the year, especially in the south of England, it now is considered by some to be resident, albeit representing only a small fraction of the UK Red Admiral population. This gets topped up every year with migrants arriving in May and June from central Europe. though the majority of these are unable to survive our winter, especially in the cooler regions of the British Isles.

The Small Tortoiseshell Butterfly is another of our most familiar species, appearing in gardens throughout the British Isles. However, this species has suffered a worrying decline over the last few years, especially in the south.

This butterfly has always fluctuated in numbers, but the cause of the most-recent decline is not yet known, although various theories have been proposed. One is the increasing presence of a particular parasitic fly, sturmia bella, due to global warming.

The fly lays its eggs on leaves of the food plant, close to where butterfly larvae are feeding: these eat the fly's eggs whole and the grubs that emerge feed on the insides of their host, avoiding the vital organs. A fly grub eventually kills its host and emerges from either the fully-grown larva or pupa before itself pupating. Although the fly attacks related species, such as the Peacock and Red Admiral, it is believed that the lifecycle of the Small Tortoiseshell is better-synchronised with that of the fly and it is therefore more prone to parasitism

Scourge of cabbage-growers everywhere - the Large White or "Summer Snowflake"

Finally, the Large White Butterfly (pieris brassicae) and the small white butterfly (pieris rapae) are commonly seen flying within our gardens and are affectionately called summer snowflakes.

While the Small White is a native species, the Large White usually migrates from southern Europe because they don't often survive a north European winter and have often been seen crossing the English channel in swarms of many hundred individuals to reach our shores.

The Large White's eggs are often laid in batches of 10 to 20 which hatch into yellow and black, slightly hairy caterpillars after about two weeks and feed for a month or more to reach a length of about 50mm before they turn into pupae.

The eggs of the Small White are laid singly and hatch into bright velvety-green caterpillars which burrow into the hearts of cabbages to feed. They leave their food plants when they're ready to pupate and usually attach themselves to a vertical surface such as a fence or wall with a silk girdle before they finally shed their skin in the summer months and hatch into the next generation of butterflies.

As all horticulturalists and gardeners are all too aware, both species of white butterfly can cause extensive damage to cabbages and other brassicas, eating holes in leaves and tunnelling into the hearts. The severity of cabbage white problems can vary considerably from year to year due to weather, immigration and diseases.

For previous info on our Butterfly Garden, click here

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A Fishy Story

The Osprey is a species of bird of prey that is unlikely to ever be brought into the Sanctuary here in Mid-Suffolk: not only is it rare to these shores as a whole but because our regional terrain here is devoid of suitable hunting grounds and nesting environments, which are coastal or situated near any lake or river which is free from disturbance and where fishing is possible. 

As a result we've never run a story on this fascinating bird, but a recent feature in The Daily Mail featuring some amazing photographs by Miguel Lasa, a 49-year-old award-winning photographer who works as a family doctor in north-east England, prompted us to contact him for permission to reproduce them for your benefit. 

The Osprey is a specialist fish-eater which will plunge into the water from about 30ft for his food. Ospreys' feet are specifically adapted to the purpose - they have long, sharp, very curved talons and the undersides of the feet are covered in tiny spikes, which act rather like velcro-fasteners. Ospreys are able to turn their outer toes to the rear, so giving them two opposing pairs of talons to accomplish their challenging hunting task. Sometimes known as a fish hawk, they begin their hunt by hovering as they search for prey - normally salmon or trout - in the water, before executing a dramatic, near vertical, feet-first plunge.

Compared to its body weight of up to 4.51bs, the Osprey has very large wings, with a span of almost 6ft. These it uses to lift both itself and its prey - both soaking wet - from the water's surface, hanging in mid-air after a few strong wing-beats to shed water with a characteristic shake of its body, before flying off to feed.

Ospreys are migratory birds which winter in Africa and southern Europe and migrate northwards during the summer to breed and feed new chicks with fish. They were persecuted to extinction in Britain by 1917 but their British comeback started in 1959 when a pair returned and bred successfully at Loch Garten in Scotland where now about 110 pairs return each year. More success has been enjoyed further south as Ospreys have returned to Rutland Water and been encouraged to breed there.

Miguel travelled to Finland to capture the behaviour and action of fishing ospreys during the summer.

"I took the photographs from a bird hide and waited to photograph them from 6am to 8pm every day for seven days over four summers. I used high camera speed frames and fast focus to freeze the dives and splash.

"They dive from high altitude to catch the fish from lakes and ponds. I was amazed by the beauty and skill of this birds when fishing. I loved photographing the ospreys so close during their amazing splash dives. It was an experience I will never forget.'

You can find more photos of the Osprey hunting and Miguel's fantastic gallery of wildlife images at www.miguellasa.com

A Fishy Story

The Osprey is a species of bird of prey that is unlikely to ever be brought into the Sanctuary here in Mid-Suffolk: not only is it rare to these shores as a whole but because our regional terrain here is devoid of suitable hunting grounds and nesting environments, which are coastal or situated near any lake or river which is free from disturbance and where fishing is possible. 

As a result we've never run a story on this fascinating bird, but a recent feature in The Daily Mail featuring some amazing photographs by Miguel Lasa, a 49-year-old award-winning photographer who works as a family doctor in north-east England, prompted us to contact him for permission to reproduce them for your benefit. 

The Osprey is a specialist fish-eater which will plunge into the water from about 30ft for his food. Ospreys' feet are specifically adapted to the purpose - they have long, sharp, very curved talons and the undersides of the feet are covered in tiny spikes, which act rather like velcro-fasteners. Ospreys are able to turn their outer toes to the rear, so giving them two opposing pairs of talons to accomplish their challenging hunting task. Sometimes known as a fish hawk, they begin their hunt by hovering as they search for prey - normally salmon or trout - in the water, before executing a dramatic, near vertical, feet-first plunge.

Compared to its body weight of up to 4.51bs, the Osprey has very large wings, with a span of almost 6ft. These it uses to lift both itself and its prey - both soaking wet - from the water's surface, hanging in mid-air after a few strong wing-beats to shed water with a characteristic shake of its body, before flying off to feed.

Ospreys are migratory birds which winter in Africa and southern Europe and migrate northwards during the summer to breed and feed new chicks with fish. They were persecuted to extinction in Britain by 1917 but their British comeback started in 1959 when a pair returned and bred successfully at Loch Garten in Scotland where now about 110 pairs return each year. More success has been enjoyed further south as Ospreys have returned to Rutland Water and been encouraged to breed there.

Miguel travelled to Finland to capture the behaviour and action of fishing ospreys during the summer.

"I took the photographs from a bird hide and waited to photograph them from 6am to 8pm every day for seven days over four summers. I used high camera speed frames and fast focus to freeze the dives and splash.

"They dive from high altitude to catch the fish from lakes and ponds. I was amazed by the beauty and skill of this birds when fishing. I loved photographing the ospreys so close during their amazing splash dives. It was an experience I will never forget.'

You can find more photos of the Osprey hunting and Miguel's fantastic gallery of wildlife images at www.miguellasa.com

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Ready for the off!

As you probably know, all animals moult regularly in order to renew skin or fur and birds moult at least once a year in order to renew their damaged feathers: some also use the occasion to change their breeding colours and other bird populations in colder climes lighten the colour of their plumage for winter in order to increase snow camouflage.

Very often some of the birds that come into our charge in a distressed or damaged state are in a moulting state, and so where applicable we keep these for a while even after they have recuperated from their injuries until such time as they have completed their moult and have a refreshed set of feather with which to greet the world.

A local farmer, Francis, allows us to hack recuperated birds back from his land and even helped us in the task of releasing a couple of tawnies this week...

During the past couple of weeks we have been able to prepare some long-term in-mates for release on such a basis, including a barn owl brought into us at the beginning of the year who had lost a fair few feathers and is now back to peak condition, as well as a pair of adult tawnies who are in a hack box getting accustomed to the surroundings of their release location

However, the oily kestrel which came in a few months ago will probably be with us for several months to come as she has yet to start her moult. We need her to do this before release because she needs a whole new set of feathers - she was so oiled up when she came into us that even using the best methods to remove the excess oil we could not remove enough to ensure the original feathers would sustain successful flight.

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On a lighter note, Bradley Heffer sent us this selection of owlish jokes which we are sure you will enjoy - thanks, Bradley!

1. Where do owls do their shopping? Owldy
2. What do owls  say when they get hurt? Owlch.
3. What car does an owl drive? An Owlfa Romeo.
4. What do owls listen to? Owlbums.
5. What do owls drink? Owlcahol!

Ready for the off!

As you probably know, all animals moult regularly in order to renew skin or fur and birds moult at least once a year in order to renew their damaged feathers: some also use the occasion to change their breeding colours and other bird populations in colder climes lighten the colour of their plumage for winter in order to increase snow camouflage.

Very often some of the birds that come into our charge in a distressed or damaged state are in a moulting state, and so where applicable we keep these for a while even after they have recuperated from their injuries until such time as they have completed their moult and have a refreshed set of feather with which to greet the world.

A local farmer, Francis, allows us to hack recuperated birds back from his land and even helped us in the task of releasing a couple of tawnies this week...

During the past couple of weeks we have been able to prepare some long-term in-mates for release on such a basis, including a barn owl brought into us at the beginning of the year who had lost a fair few feathers and is now back to peak condition, as well as a pair of adult tawnies who are in a hack box getting accustomed to the surroundings of their release location

However, the oily kestrel which came in a few months ago will probably be with us for several months to come as she has yet to start her moult. We need her to do this before release because she needs a whole new set of feathers - she was so oiled up when she came into us that even using the best methods to remove the excess oil we could not remove enough to ensure the original feathers would sustain successful flight.

--
On a lighter note, Bradley Heffer sent us this selection of owlish jokes which we are sure you will enjoy - thanks, Bradley!

1. Where do owls do their shopping? Owldy
2. What do owls  say when they get hurt? Owlch.
3. What car does an owl drive? An Owlfa Romeo.
4. What do owls listen to? Owlbums.
5. What do owls drink? Owlcahol!

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Green is the colour...

Last Sunday saw the first of what we hope will be regular "Nature Conservation Days" at the Sanctuary, the brainchild of our administration team Catherine & Anna, who together put in some great work staging the event - thank you, girls!

During the day visitors were able to meet with representatives of a number of local groups and societies concerned with with matters 'green', discuss topics of interest with them and pick up information, hints & tips etc.

The Mid Anglian Bat Group has come together over the last two years, formed by enthusiasts interested in every aspect of this fascinating creature. Potential new members of the society were informed about the habitat, behaviour, and characteristics of this nocturnal native and invited to take part in a variety of exciting activities that compose the group’s annual calendar. Apart from 'bat walks', sightings and audits the group also enjoy socialising with other like-minded naturalists. 

The Mid Anglian Bat Group drew a lot of interest

The RSPB need no introduction as the foremost organisation in the country concerned with bird welfare & conservation, and we were very pleased to have a representative taking part in the event. Their stand appealed to both old and young and the Society were able to sign up some new members during the day.

The RSPB were as popular as ever

Trudy & Duncan from the Suffolk Amphibian & Reptile Group brought along a fascinating collection of native amphibians including lizards, slow worms, grass snakes, greater crested newts, toads and frogs to illustrate their sphere of interest. They also offered some valuable advice on creating the ideal habitat for these creatures in your own garden. Duncan also offered to help us on the management of the ponds and damp areas in our own Woodland Walk area at S.O.S. so we'll keep you updated on progress.

“Newts, Slow Worms & Toads illustrated just a few of the amphibians & reptiles to be found locally”

This part of the country enjoys its own population of wild deer and our visitors were all interested in the activities of The British Deer Society, who brought along lots of information on the importance of protecting our native deer species. They are also very proactive in raising awareness for their RTA Campaign, the aim of which is to reduce the number of deer deaths through road traffic accidents. "Slow Down!" is the succinct message as visitors were made aware that this one simple measure whilst out and about on country roads could reverse this unfortunate, increasing trend.

On a different tack, the Suffolk Greener Homes project brought along useful information on domestic cost-cutting measures - home insulation, fuel economy, alternative energy sources etc. - as part of the local drive to make Suffolk the greenest county in the country. There are valuable subsidies which can be applied for up until the end of September this year - visit http://www.greensuffolk.org/green-communities/support/suffolk-greener-homes-insulation-2012/#Enquiry Form if you'd like to know more.

Our younger visitors were offered a conservation-themed activity to keep them busy - the creation of framed Owl poems using natural materials such as corn grasses, feathers and leaves gleaned from the locality. Meanwhile, also available during the day was information from the Hare Preservation Trust and the Mid Suffolk County Council Recycling team.

Finally, a very special mention must go to Margaret of SARG who sweated her way through the very warm afternoon in her frog suit kindly lent by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust - thank you, Margaret!!

Green is the colour...

Last Sunday saw the first of what we hope will be regular "Nature Conservation Days" at the Sanctuary, the brainchild of our administration team Catherine & Anna, who together put in some great work staging the event - thank you, girls!

During the day visitors were able to meet with representatives of a number of local groups and societies concerned with with matters 'green', discuss topics of interest with them and pick up information, hints & tips etc.

The Mid Anglian Bat Group has come together over the last two years, formed by enthusiasts interested in every aspect of this fascinating creature. Potential new members of the society were informed about the habitat, behaviour, and characteristics of this nocturnal native and invited to take part in a variety of exciting activities that compose the group’s annual calendar. Apart from 'bat walks', sightings and audits the group also enjoy socialising with other like-minded naturalists.

The Mid Anglian Bat Group drew a lot of interest

The RSPB need no introduction as the foremost organisation in the country concerned with bird welfare & conservation, and we were very pleased to have a representative taking part in the event. Their stand appealed to both old and young and the Society were able to sign up some new members during the day.

The RSPB were as popular as ever

Trudy & Duncan from the Suffolk Amphibian & Reptile Group brought along a fascinating collection of native amphibians including lizards, slow worms, grass snakes, greater crested newts, toads and frogs to illustrate their sphere of interest. They also offered some valuable advice on creating the ideal habitat for these creatures in your own garden. Duncan also offered to help us on the management of the ponds and damp areas in our own Woodland Walk area at S.O.S. so we'll keep you updated on progress.

Newts, Slow Worms & Toads illustrated just a few of the amphibians & reptiles to be found locally

This part of the country enjoys its own population of wild deer and our visitors were all interested in the activities of The British Deer Society, who brought along lots of information on the importance of protecting our native deer species. They are also very proactive in raising awareness for their RTA Campaign, the aim of which is to reduce the number of deer deaths through road traffic accidents. "Slow Down!" is the succinct message as visitors were made aware that this one simple measure whilst out and about on country roads could reverse this unfortunate, increasing trend.

On a different tack, the Suffolk Greener Homes project brought along useful information on domestic cost-cutting measures - home insulation, fuel economy, alternative energy sources etc. - as part of the local drive to make Suffolk the greenest county in the country. There are valuable subsidies which can be applied for up until the end of September this year - visit http://www.greensuffolk.org/green-communities/support/suffolk-greener-homes-insulation-2012/#Enquiry Form if you'd like to know more.

Our younger visitors were offered a conservation-themed activity to keep them busy - the creation of framed Owl poems using natural materials such as corn grasses, feathers and leaves gleaned from the locality. Meanwhile, also available during the day was information from the Hare Preservation Trust and the Mid Suffolk County Council Recycling team.

Finally, a very special mention must go to Margaret of SARG who sweated her way through the very warm afternoon in her frog suit kindly lent by the Suffolk Wildlife Trust - thank you, Margaret!!

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