http://www.thebmc.co.uk/News.aspx?id=4258We’re now in the midst of the bird nesting season and a number of updates for crags in the Peak District have come to light recently:
Stanage: This year there are five Ring Ouzel territories occupied, but currently restrictions in only two places – Tippler Buttress and Wall Buttress. A pair that were previously nesting on Wall End Slab have now relocated to somewhere between there and left of Tower Face. Once their nest site has been identified a restiction may be necessary. The situation is checked several times a week and changes will be signed on site (with signage always up to date). The position may be relatively stable until first broods are fledged at about the end of May, and thereafter dependent upon location of second broods.
Bamford, Moscar, Derwent and Hallam Moors: Access restrictions have been notified by the landowner for 28 days between 16 May and 17 June due to nesting birds (Sundays, Bank Holidays and most Saturdays are excluded). The land north of High Neb on Stanage is within this area, however the landowner has agreed that climbing is permitted on this section of Stanage, despite the restriction.
Cratcliffe: A Kestrel nest has been reported in the Bower on Suicide Wall - climbers are advised to avoid the route for the time being until the chicks fledge.
Millstone: The Tawny Owl has returned, and has been reported as nesting on Estremo. Beware: Tawnys can be ferocious in protecting their nest from any perceived threat and are recorded as having caused serious injury to experienced bird ringers. It would be wise to stay well away.
Hen Cloud: Peregrines are nesting on the Central Area of Hen Cloud again this year and a voluntary restriction has been agreed from Nutted by Reality to Easy Gully inclusive. The Peak District National Park Authority (PDNPA) have agreed to climbing trials taking place to see if the area of the restriction can be reduced once the chicks have lost their downy feathers and are more resilient to disturbance. It is hoped that this will take place in early/mid June and the BMC will be working with the PDNPA to facilitate the trials.
Bear in mind that the situation can often change with regard to nesting restrictions – birds can move, chicks can fledge early and restrictions may be lifted as a result. As ever, always check the BMC’s Regional Access Database (RAD) for the most up to date access information and agreed bird nesting restrictions for crags in England and Wales.
