23 Feb Life on the Edge – ‘Hotspots’

Yesterday, we had the pleasure of going around the project ‘hotspot areas’ along the South Devon Heritage coast.

After a few weeks of being cooped up with report writing it was very nice to be out getting well accustomed to the sea breeze and the visual spectacle of our rugged coastline. The project has 5 different hotspots, Wembury, Erme, Bolt Head to Bolt Tail, Prawle point to start point and Brownstone to Berry head. Collectively they cover nearly 4,000 hectares (roughly 4,000 football fields). This is our focused project work area, and in the delivery phase of the project we will be doing some exciting things for nature here.  

Yesterday’s task was introduce new team members to the coastline, looking at all its interesting features. Walking about it struck me that its all too easy to take this stunning coastline for granted. Along with the beautiful vistas, we really were spoilt with some stunning nature sights; – a pair of peregrine falcons hunting, plunging down along the strandline spooking shorebirds like oystercatchers, alarm calling as they take flight.

A large pod of dolphins, presumably hunting shoals of fish off Berry head. Gaggling Guillemots on the sheer cliffs, while others raft out on the seas with a lone Great northern diver. And a very early singing Blackcap (presumably an overwintering bird).  

Start Bay

Our summer insects may still be a few months off but we were still very lucky to be treated to some of South Devons fantastic wildlife.  

We are fortunate to have the South West Coast path, allowing access right to the rocky edge of Devon. So what are you waiting for, best get out there and see it for yourself. There’s never been a better time to appreciate the nature on our doorstep!

Photos:    Rob Skinner