The first of tens of thousands of pink-footed geese have touched down at a wildlife reserve in Angus at the end of a gruelling 750 mile migration from the north.
An estimated around 1,075 ‘pinkfeet’ arrived at Montrose Basin, where the the Scottish Wildlife Trust’s reserve is an important haven for the birds who make an annual journey south from Iceland and Greenland to the UK.
Numbers are expected to increase steadily and reach their peak in October. Last year a record 85,632 geese were counted at the reserve.
As well as pink-footed geese the basin is home to a range of winter migrants including wigeon, teal, and greenshank. A resident kingfisher can often be seen feeding in front of the visitor centre.
Scottish Wildlife Trust Ranger Anna Cheshier said: “The reserve is internationally important for pink-footed geese, around one in five of the world population winters here. The sight of tens of thousands of geese taking off and landing en masse is one of Scotland’s natural wonders, and our visitor centre offers people some of the best close-up views of these incredible birds in the UK. Numbers have risen steadily over the last few years, so another record count is possible next month."
The trust is holding three special events to help members of the public learn about the birds, and the visitor centre is open daily throughout September and October.But the hides and walks on the reserve are open 24 hours a day throughout the year with the best chance to see geese at dawn and dusk.
The 'Goose Breakfast and Pink Sunset' events are being supported by the People’s Postcode Lottery.
Clara Govier, Head of Charities at People’s Postcode Lottery said: “Montrose Basin reserve is a haven for wintering birds and people will be excited to hear that the pink-footed geese are back for another season. We’re really pleased that players' support is helping the Scottish Wildlife Trust educate the public about these special birds as well as the importance of conserving their wetland habitat.”
The Scottish Wildlife Trust has over 40,000 members and manages 120 reserves across Scotland
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