An opportunity to see Sandwich Tern, and potentially Little Tern, that should just be arriving on the Ayres NNR from their wintering grounds. April is also a good time to see passage waders stopping off on the NNR to refuel before heading further north. Rue Point is the most rapidly growing section of Manx coastline; find out why this is so special for wildlife. A short walk back through the dune grassland looking out for passage Wheatear, resident Curlew, Stonechat, Skylark and Meadow Pipits.
The walk itself will be 2km (1.25 miles) on shingle beach and dune grassland and led by Louise Samson, Biodiversity Warden, Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA). The ground is mostly flat, easy walking but may be uneven in places. Unfortunately, this walk is not suitable for wheelchair users. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent/guardian (children are the responsibility of the parent/guardian for the duration of the event).
Numbers limited to 15 please book a free place by emailing ecopolicy@gov.im. This event will be cancelled if rain or strong winds are forecast. Meeting point: Beach gate, just off Smeale Beach Road, Smeale, Grid reference: NX 41322 03294, W3W: respectfully.overdrive.ovens
If you’re not able to make the walk but would like to find out more about the Ayres NNR and the wildlife that lives there, then please see the Biosphere Ayres NNR resources web page: https://www.biosphere.im/resources/ayres-national-nature-reserve-. Keep up to date with what’s happening on the NNR by checking the regular updates.
Image copywrite: Louise Samson
