December 2018 - Nature Notes

Sickleholme Nature Notes

Although the weather was generally mild during December, a mix of misty and wet mornings during the month did little to encourage golfers or our wildlife. Understandably, there were fewer reports that usual albeit that I have been delighted during the year by the growing number of members that have reported their sightings. All much appreciated.

One bird that did get noticed by many was a male Kestrel (see image) that took on an almost tame persona and managed to look as if it was actually interested in the golf. Angus Clark was able to get a photograph on one occasion, since which John Ellicock has told me that he and his friends have added some 20 Kestrel nest boxes along the Hope Valley in addition to their efforts with Barn Owl boxes. Two boxes close to the course at Nether Hurst and Upper Hurst Farm have both been occupied by Kestrels and have resulted in successful breeding. It is highly likely, therefore, that several  different birds account for the regular sightings on the course.

At least four thrush species (Blackbird, Fieldfare, Redwing and Mistle Thrush) have been feeding on site and I have no doubt that Song Thrushes have been completing their feather moult, whilst tucked away in the ravine and the railway hedges. Robins are in winter song, Wrens are quite vocal still and the club house feeders still attract other species thanks to Patrick’s efforts.

Other than that, leaf fall has produced some nice silhouettes amongst our wide variety of trees. These add considerably to the diversity of our wildlife, as was shown by a study that I read recently. This included a table that showed the number of insects (a valuable part of the food chain) that had been found on each species. The Oak was the most prolific with 284 species, seven more trees hosted 90 or more but Holly held only seven. Fascinating really (well, I think so!) and since certain insects will only occur on one or more tree species, then an interesting indication as to just how many insect species Sickleholme must hold.

I now look forward to 2019 and our finding even more of interest within the rich biodiversity of the course.

Bryan Barnacle