27/08/12 - A first for the LDV

Last week we carried out the first ever swan round up in the Lower Derwent Valley, this was created as a result of the summer flooding which caused the non-breeding Mute Swans to stay in the LDV and then moult on site for the first time - usually they depart to other sites to moult including the Humber, Hornsea Mere, Lincoln and Berwick-upon-Tweed, this is usually in April/May as the water recedes. 

Therefore this was the first ever swan round up on the site and it was expertly done - the plan was to guide the birds up a steep sided dead end ditch, and once they reached the end a wooden board was placed behind them creating a pen to keep them in until each one was safely lifted out of the water.

Most of the Mute Swans were first and second year birds as expected. A total of 18 swans were caught which included 2 re-traps and a control. The re-traps were two of Jean’s birds which were released on site during July. Jean had cared for them after they were brought to her with burns on their necks from flying into over head wires. It was great to see them doing well, and to see that the burns on their necks are now undetectable, nice also for Jean to see them and to know that all her hard work, knowledge, skill and sheer dedication has paid off - well done Jean.

Jean also brought with her a young female Kestrel and a House Martin which were ready to be ringed and released. The Kestrel was brought to Jean after being found on the roadside, she was thin, bruised and her feet were scuffed. A few weeks on she's in fine form and flew off like a good 'un, nice one Jean.