A photographer has captured stunning images of a starling murmuration at Ripon wetlands.
Andy O’Brien shot the pictures last week at the site, which is part of the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust.
He said the spectacle had become a regular occurrence and that local bird watchers estimated that some 150,000 starlings can be seen at the wetlands.
Mr O’Brien, who shared the pictures with the Stray Ferret, said:
“It’s virtually an evening occurrence at the moment and incredibly spectacular not just visually but the noise of the birds turning sounds like waves crashing against rocks.”
You can watch the murmuration at Ripon below.
The images come as today marks World Wetlands Day, an initiative aimed at raising global awareness about the vital role of wetlands for people and the planet.
Rachael Bice, chief executive of Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, said it was important to celebrate and protect wetlands, such as the one in Ripon.
She said:
“Today is the day for celebrating our beautiful and wilder wetlands in all of their bountiful variety. A home for wildlife from the common frog right through to the rare bittern and water vole, wetlands are abundant in wildlife.
“Lush pools, lakes and ponds, fringed by golden reeds, meadow or woodland are vital in helping us adapt better to a changing climate, and provide a peaceful place for restoration and relaxation.”
Read more:
Plans for new discovery walks at Ripon wetlands
A new scheme to encourage residents to explore the beauty and heritage in their local area is heading to Ripon.
North Yorkshire County Council is expanding ‘Discoveries on Your Doorstep’ after the success of its walks in Scarborough and Selby.
They range from castle the canal towpaths and give local residents a glimpse at areas they might otherwise overlook.
Wetland walks is the title of the new scheme, which is due to be launched soon at Ripon City Wetlands.
It will focus on nature rather than the heritage theme of the two existing options elsewhere in the county.
Read more:
- Ripon nature reserve gets £132,000 government boost
- Impromptu concert at Brimham Rocks highlights nature and arts
The county council has said it is trying to help areas which have been struggling with exercise since coronavirus struck.
A co-ordinator for the project, Josh Wood, said:
“Research suggests that for some people motivation for wanting to be outside and exercising was driven by discovering the local area, rather than wanting to be outdoors for health.
“Since the coronavirus pandemic struck, data suggests some communities are more affected than others by a lack of physical activity.
“So we think it is most appropriate to target the communities which have missed out most.”
“We want to leave people with fond memories of being outdoors while exercising and being active without that being the main reason for being outdoors.”
It is another boost for nature reserves near Ripon after the Nosterfield Nature Reserve won a £132,000 government grant to enhance wildlife.