Autumn Time
Autumn is a special time of the year for one of Pembrokeshire’s amazing little birds. Skomer Island supports half the worlds’ population of Manx Shearwaters with over 120,000 pairs nesting in early summer. As autumn approaches young Shearwaters take their first stage of an epic journey, which will cover 7000 miles from their birth- place until they reach the shores of South America.
Adverse weather conditions can blow many of these young birds off course and some become ‘grounded’ and unable to take off again. Manx Shearwaters are very shy and will hide away from predators. They seek out quiet dark places and may hide in basements, under parked cars, in gardens, grass verges, shorelines and other hidden areas. This is why many of us are completely unaware of these pigeon-sized black and white nocturnal seabirds.
If you are lucky enough to find a Shearwater, please put the bird into a cardboard box with air holes (if no box is available hold the bird close to you in your jacket) – they are very gentle and will generally not move if they feel safe. Next, contact Jean Hains at The Oiled Bird Rescue Centre, West Williamston, Carew. Tel 01646 651236. If you are unable to deliver the bird please ring Jean who will arrange for one of her volunteers to collect it.
At this time of year our thoughts are turning to autumn woodland walks and cosy evenings by the fireside but please don’t forget – keep an eye open for the Shearwaters that have just fledged and may be needing your help to get their journey off to a flying start.
Jean Hains can be contacted on 01646 651236 (Answer phone service available)
Mark & Sue Brindley
Penally.
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