Nature Notes - May 2023
Sickleholme Nature Notes
The course added much colour during May, as more wildflowers appeared. In addition to those mentioned last month, a quick survey on the 4th revealed Bluebells, Red Campion, Cuckoo Flower, Red Clover and Broom, as well as a good number of Hawthorn trees in bloom and our specimen Whitebeams at their annual best (the two behind the 7th green again look particularly spectacular). By mid-month, Yellow Rattle, Greater Stitchwort, Ragged Robin and White Campion were also in flower and some splashes of bright blue in the edges of the rough were compact growths of Germander Speedwell.
There were plenty of bird records too, with up to eight Blackcaps holding territory and possibly as many Chiffchaff in song. Len Hadfield reported a further Red Kite sighting, whilst Sue Hoyland saw and heard a Green Woodpecker; a species that it is becoming much scarcer in our valley.
A number of members commented on the pair of Pied Wagtails that are roaming the course and they are now nesting again around the barn. That allows me the perfect excuse to share Hilary Tann’s superb image of a female with a beak full of Mayflies see photo image. Following April’s ground feeding Buzzard, Matt then found an early morning Grey Heron stalking the practice ground. Possibly heading for a look at the pond now that Patrick has removed some of the vegetation.
Alan Kydd and Steve Clarke did the first round of the nest boxes during the month and using new technology that saves carting ladders or the need to open the boxes. The number of boxes occupied is a little down on last year but stories from elsewhere suggest that the spell of cold weather had delayed activity with some species.
All in all, lots to be grateful for and much reward for those who tend the course. After more external recognition and the splendid publicity gained when we were featured in Midlands Golfer Magazine, I confess to disappointment that the committee reports to the AGM did not feature our sustainability and conservation efforts. We have a great golf course and a rich biodiversity, so let’s be proud of it all. Thanks, as ever, to everyone who has contributed to the notes.
Bryan Barnacle
