14th August 2015
Merlin chick. Credit Steve Round
Gamekeepers from the Peak District’s grouse moors and local bird groups are celebrating the fantastic breeding success of local merlins.
The best ever figures – 16 nests producing 63 young – have been achieved despite difficult spring breeding conditions.
It is mostly down to a unique partnership and improved moors management.
The nests, including some at Glossop’s Chunal and Snake Pass moors, were closely watched by game keepers and bird groups.
Game keeper, David Beaumont, said: “Chicks were fitted with unique leg rings to help us understand this often secretive bird.
“Merlin is the UK’s smallest bird of prey and the Peak District is an important stronghold for this rare and beautiful species.”
Of the 16 nests, 15 were on moors managed for grouse shooting.
David believes one of the best ever breeding seasons has been helped by good land management.
Ground nesting merlins have been at particular risk from rats and foxes. The Peak’s raptor monitoring group identifies possible risks to the birds as they arise.
The result is a growing number of merlins making our moorlands their home.
Merlin chick being ringed. Merlin are four times more likely to nest on moors with grouse moor keepers than moorland without keepers.
