WILDLIFE TRUST OF SOUTH & WEST WALES
SKOMER ISLAND
NATIONAL NATURE
RESERVE
ANNUAL REPORT 2010
Chris Taylor
SKOMER ISLAND NNR ANNUAL REPORT 2010
CONTENTS
Summary
3
1.
Recording I: Biological and Physical
1.1 Habitats and communities
1.2 Flora
1.3 Mammals
1.4 Birds
1.5 Herptiles
1.6 Invertebrates
1.7 Non-biological features
5
2.
Recording II: Visitors, Human impact
2.1 Day visitors
2.2 Overnight Guests
2.3 Human impact
24
3.
Reserve administration
3.1 Finance
3.2 Staff
3.3 Volunteers
3.4 Training
3.5 Health and safety
3.6 Management Committee
3.7 WTSWW recruitment
3.8 Friends of Skokholm and Skomer
3.9 Wildlife Adoption Scheme
28
4.
Reserve management
4.1 Education and Interpretation
4.2 Media and publicity
4.3 Liaison
4.4 Habitat/species management
4.5 Infrastructure
4.6 Machinery and equipment
30
5.
Acknowledgements
35
6.
References
36
Appendix 1
Breeding birds on Skomer Island in 2010
37
2
SUMMARY
The island was inhabited 1st March to 31st Novembert. Chris Taylor took on the role
as Skomer Warden. Jerry Gillham was the Assistant Warden for Skokholm and
Skomer. Amy Corton was the 5 month Skomer Assistant Warden (April – August).
Just over 14,500 visitors landed, slightly lower than last year. A new ticket system
took a while to smooth out but eventually worked.
In general the seabird populations are healthy with good breeding success, with the
exception of Razorbill.Further information can be found in the Seabird report and late
in this report. Kittiwake adult survival also seems to be decreasing. Which could be
indicators of food shortages, this is not represented in other species on Skomer.
Skomer staff were also responsible for carrying out conservation work on Skokholm.
The Skokholm restoration project has began. Skokholm annual report has been
written with further information.
Three Long Term Volunteers were recruited to help throughout the meason from May
through to September.
Rabbit numbers bounced back after the outbreak of myxamotosis over winter 06-07,
although some myxamotosis was seen in spring and early summer. The population
has now returned to its previous high. So it will now be interesting to see how healthy
the population will be in 2011.
Table 1 summarises the qualifying SSSI features and attributes that were not within
acceptable limits in 2010.
Feature
Attribute
Low LAC
2010
level
Notes
Assemblage
nationally
scarce lichens
% dead A.
Maritime
5%
3.87%
Last
within
limits
2008
% bare
coast
grassland
15%
1.57%
1998
Coastal
Invertebrate
Assemblage
Razorbill
Central
fields - %
bare earth
Breeding
success (per
active and
reg site)
3%
0.33%
3
consecutive
years of
<0.55
Herring Gull
Population
0.4
(0.47
2009)
(0.17
2008)
431
Kittiwake
Adult
survival
3 of 5
consecutive
yrs of <500
pairs
3
74.76%
consecutive
years
<79%
Lack of
Rabbit
grazing
2002
2010
2010
???
3
Oystercatcher
Population
Curlew
Breeding
success
Wheatear
Population
(AOT)
Linnet
Population
(AOT)
Rabbit
Pop. In june
Central
grassland
% bare
earth
<80 pairs 3
consecutive
years
<1 per AOT
over 3
consecutive
years
2
consecutive
years of
<15 pairs
2
consecutive
years of <4
pairs
Upper
40/ha
3%
42
???
0.22
2010
10
2009
2
41/ha
2010
0.32%
?
Table 1 Features and attributes outside of Limits of Acceptable change in 2010.
4
RECORDING I: BIOLOGICAL AND PHYSICAL
The following ‘Features’ are based on those which qualify the island as a SSSI as
specified in the 2001 Re-notification (CCW), and those which are thought additionally
important in the NNR Management Plan, currently under review. Removed in the
2001 Re-notification, were Coastal Heathland; Flushes, springs and standing water;
Bracken / Acid Grassland; Marshy Grassland; Wet Heath; the lichen Parmelia
tinctina; Pintail; Peregrine; and Assemblage of ground nesting birds (Oystercatcher,
Lapwing, Curlew, Skylark, Wheatear, Linnet and Reed Bunting).
Black-legged Kittiwake has been elevated from part of the seabird assemblage to a
Feature in its own right (2009) in 2010 Razorbill was also elevated.
Features that do not qualify the island as a SSSI but are listed as ‘Additional
Features’ in the current draft of the Management Plan are Assemblage of Groundnesting Birds (Oystercatcher, Curlew, Skylark, Wheatear, Linnet, Reed Bunting
[Lapwing now extinct as a breeding species]), Assemblage of Breeding Ducks, and
Bluebell. Additionally, Archaeology, Research, Landscape, Public Use, and
Education are also listed as Management Plan Features. At the Islands Advisory
Committee on 23/2/07 it was suggested that Heathland be retained as a
Management Plan Feature.
The Management Plan identifies targets and limits of acceptable change for the
Features of the reserve. The targets and limits define the Favourable Condition of
the features. Most of the figures were agreed by committee during the 1997 revision,
or else set out in the ‘Long Term Vision for the Site and Features’ in the CCW SSSI
Management Statement (2001). The targets provide a yardstick against which the
current status of the features can be measured. This section of the report indicates
whether the features are currently thought to be in a favourable condition.
This section also indicates the condition of the operational limits set for various
“factors” which may influence the condition of the feature.
1.1 Habitats/communities
Feature habitats
Features/Attributes
Maritime grassland
- Extent
- % sward below
“ankle height”
- Presense of Thrif,
Red Fescue, Sea
Campion and
Squill
- % Yorkshire Fog
- % Bracken and
Scrub
Maritime cliff
- Extent
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
100
78
51.3
52.5
81.8
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
7
7
15
4.5
22.6
2.89
25.6
2.93
Within limits of
acceptable change?
Yes (LAC = 75%)
Spring Squill not
present in sampled
areas, other species
all present
Yes (upper limit 33%
Yes (upper limit 25%)
Not mapped but
unlikely to have
changed
5
-
Diversity
No survey
Notes on Feature Habitats
Maritime grassland extent was not measured. The other attributes were measured
through the annual transect monitoring at Wick Basin, Skomer Head and Saunders
Fist (sometimes referred to as Bull Hole). Percentage of vegetation below ankle
height seems to be on a gradual increase, coinciding with the return of rabbit high
rabbit density. Yorkshire Fog cover continues to increase with over three times as
much recorded in the sample transects as in 2007. Bracken cover has again
decreased in the sample transects, perhaps as a result of the dense Yorkshire Fog
cover.
Heathland (non-qualifying feature)
The monitoring of temporary heathland exclosures continued by the repeated
throwing of random quadrats in the autumn.
The exclosure at North Valley Rise was extended at the beginning of 2009 to twice
its original area. It is hoped that the Heather will spread to the newly enclosed area.
This has affected the overall % cover of Heather (see fig 1) as the exclosure is now
larger.
Fig 2 shows the Heather cover for Bull Hole east exclosure. There was an
encouraging increase in pioneer heather in 2009 which has not been repeated in
2010. Bracken was removed from this exclosure several times this season. The Bull
Hole East exclosure clearly shows a massive increase in mature heather and a
decrease in building. This might be a sampling error – either the randomness of
quadrats or more likely due to the subjective nature of classifying between building
and mature heather types which gets harder towards the end of the building phase.
80
Percentage cover
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
2002
2003
2004
Pioneer
2005
Building
2006
Mature
2007
2008
Degenerate
2009
2010
Dead
Figure 1 Percentage cover of Heather and Bracken at North Valley Rise exclosure
2002 - 2010
6
90
Percentage cover
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
2002
2003
2004
Pioneer
2005
Building
2006
Mature
2007
2008
Degenerate
2009
2010
Bracken
Figure 2 Percentage cover of Heather and Bracken at Bull Hole East exclosure 2002
- 2010
In 2010 the average percentage cover for Heather and Bracken in the exclosures
was as follows,
Year
2008
2009
2010
Pioneer
1.95
1.32
0.98
Building
30.36
22.15
4.74
Mature
14.48
37.30
30.16
Degenerate
0.97
0.76
6.18
Dead
7.02
0.67
0.96
Total
Heather
cover
54.78
45.62
45.62
Bracken
2.86
3.87
7.62
1.2 Flora
Features
Features/Attributes
Golden Hair Lichen 2006
(T.flavicans)
- Presence
Yes
- Extent
2007
2008
2009
2010
Yes
Photos
taken
Yes
Casual
ob.s
Yes
Photomonitoring
repeated
Yes
Yes –
extent
maintained
Nationally scarce
plant assemblage
Lanceolate
spleenwort
- Extent (m)
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Limits of
acceptable change
10+
12m
11m
9m
YES
Condition
(%dieback)
Portland Spurge
- NORTH HAVEN
- No. plants (small
80%
16.2
m
3%
10%
60%
40%
YES
11m
ed.
12
small
8
small
1
small
3
small
YES
-
7
-
[<10cm}, med
[10-30cm] and
large [>30cm})
N.Haven and
S.Castle
SOUTH CASTLE
Rock sea-lavender
- Presence
- No. flower spikes
Three-lobed
Crowsfoot
- Extent (m)
- No. flowering
Saxicolous lichen
assemblage
- Quality (no.
species)
- Diversity
(communities
present)
- Presence of
notable species
Terricolous
assemblage
- Extent of
A.maritima >50%
4larg
e
7
med.
3
large
10
med.
5
large
4
med.
2
large
3
med.
2
large
35
small
19
med.
1
large
22
small
25
med.
3
large
Yes
100/
40
Yes
293/
284/
0
Yes
148/
79
Yes
116/
82
Yes
120/
90
YES
YES
30
167
22
18
24
YES
10.2*
11.1*
10.7*
3.60*
?
No
5%
Below LAC of
(*Based on Skomer Head
transect. +Based on mean of
SH and Wick Basin.)
% dead
A.maritima
- %bare coast
grassland
Bluebells
- Extent
- Area >50%
density
9.8+
-
11.4
4.2
10.5
+
2.4
3.87
+
1.2
?
1.57
No Below lower limit
of 15%
Mapped 2001
8
Feature
R. tripartitus,
A. billotii,
lichens
Lichen
assemblage
All features
Terricolous
lichens
Factors (operational
limits) for flora,
combined. Refer to
Management Plan for
details.
Management practises
Notes
Size of seabird
assemblage
Public access
Mostly within limits, but see 1.4.
Hydrology maintained, no bracken
spraying in named sensitive areas
Wardening managed access, but see
section 2
Extent of Silene uniflora
Notes on Flora
All attributes are within limits except for percentage bare coastal grassland.
Three-lobed water crowsfoot flowering spikes were counted on four occasions
through March, April, May and June.
Extent of Armeria was not mapped in 2010.
Percentage cover bare earth
The percentage of bare coastal grassland was below the lowest acceptable limit of
15%. Figure 3 shows that the mean extent has been below the LAC since 2001 and
has shown an overall decline since then. The LAC seems quite high as the
percentage of bare coastal grassland has not been over 15% twice since recording
began in 1997.
30.00
25.00
20.00
15.00
10.00
5.00
0.00
2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
Year
Wick Basin
Skomer Head
Saunders Fist
Mean extent
Figure 3 Percentage cover of bare coastal grassland 2001 – 2010.
9
1.3 Mammals
Features
Feature and Attributes
Skomer Vole - Aug pop
-density Grid C
(voles/ha)
-density Grid E
Grey Seal
- Pups born NNR (MNR
as whole)
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Within limits?
204
27
202
31
310/ha
61/ha
238/ha
34/ha
115/ha
14/ha
Yes
?
162
(241)
137
(209)
141
(236)
159
(241)
164
(267)
?
Factors (operational limits) for Skomer
Vole. Refer to Management Plan.
Distribution of optimum habitat
Distribution of less favourable habitat
Bracken distribution
Notes
See Healing (2004)
Bracken extent above lower limits.
Notes on Mammals
350
300
250
200
150
100
High density plot C
50
Low density plot E
2010
2008
2006
2004
2002
2000
1998
1996
1994
1992
1990
1988
1986
1984
1982
1980
1978
0
1976
150
No. voles/ha
400
No. voles/ha
0
50
100
200
250
300
350
400
1995
1985
1975
Voles
The annual vole census of study plots was carried out by Tim Healing in August with
the help of various volunteers. The population was lower on previous years, but from
personal observations (Tim Healing) this was probably because numbers of breeding
females were lower. However the voles that were trapped were healthy and
breeding.
Figure 4 Skomer Vole density 1976 – 2010
10
Mick Loughran again carried out population monitoring in July and September
Grey Seals
Grey Seal productivity was monitored by WTSWW under CCW contract as an MNR
project. Dave Boyle carried out this work, report submitted to CCW (Boyle 2010).
164 pups were porn in Autumn in 2010 (159 in 2008). Behavioural notes and data on
known animals were also part of the project.
Figure 5 Number of Seal Pups born in Skomer Marine Nature Reserve 1983-2010
164 pups were born on Skomer in 2010, the best year since 2004.
The first pups of the season were born in Matthew’s Wick and Castle Bay on 21
August. 2010 was a fairly typical year timing-wise, with 11 pups born in August, 75 in
September, 50 in October and 28 in November. The busiest week this year was
week 39, between the 27th September and 3rd October, when 27 pups were born.
The most productive beaches were South Haven (37 pups), Matthew’s Wick (31
pups) and North Haven (30 pups). Mortality, at 22%, was average for the last 10
years.
Photo-monitoring continued in 2009 and is starting to show some really good results.
228 seals were photographed in 2009, including 103 (65%) of the pupping cows and
100 individual seals (77 cows, 23 bulls) were positively identified from previous
years.
Seven seals were seen in 2009 with either monofilament or fishing netting caught
around their necks.
Pup 48 was killed by the same bull seal that killed 3 pups last year. See
Photo-monitoring is showing that Skomer does not have an isolated seal population.
An attempt has been made for the last three years to photograph all the pupping
cows on Skomer, but in 2010 only 44 of the 164 pupping cows were known from
previous years and 249 different cows are known to have pupped on Skomer in the
three years 2008-2010.
11
Non-feature mammals
Rabbits
60
Mean no. / ha
50
40
30
20
10
2010
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
2004
2003
2002
2001
2000
1999
1998
1997
1996
1995
0
Year
Figure 6 Mean Rabbit Density (nos. / ha) 1995-2010
(N.B. the crash in Rabbit numbers between 1995 and 1997 was due to outbreaks of
Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease. The 1995 figure was based on only two counts
[August and September]. Prior to 1999, counts were also made at an additional site
near Skomer Head, but this was dropped due to the absence of any photographs
delineating the area).
Evening counts of Rabbits at plots at South Plateau, Wick Grassland and Calves
Park / Shearing Hays area were carried out monthly.
The mean number of Rabbits per hectare in 2010 was 42.21, this is an increase on
2009 which was 35.54. Rabbits seem to have recovered back to pre-myxi outbreak
levels.Regular sightings of rabbits with Myxy were seen throughout the season.
Particular areas included the Wick. This could be a result of a now “high” population
on Skomer. Monitoring will continue in 2011.
Figure 7 shows the monthly averages of Rabbits/ha in the study plots.
12
60.00
2010
2009
No. Rabbits/ha
50.00
40.00
30.00
20.00
10.00
Nov
Oct
Sept
August
July
June
May
April
March
February
0.00
Figure 7 Monthly averages of mean number of rabbits per hectare in 2009
Mice
Mice present throughout the season.
Cetaceans
Daily cetacean records were kept.
Volunteers carried out a weekly cetacean watch for two hours around high tide from
the Garland Stone, Skomer Head and the Mew Stone simultaneously most weeks.
Others
No known sightings of otter or mink in 2010
13
1.4 Birds
Features
Features/Attributes
Manx Shearwater
- Pop. Study plot (responses)
- Adult Survival rate (%)
- Breeding success (per egg
laid)
Storm Petrel
- Breeding pop.
Peregrine
- Pop. (AOTs)
- % Pembs. Pop. (min.
Estimate)
- Breeding success (per AOT)
Lesser Black-backed Gull
- Pop. (Pairs)
- Ad. Survival (%)
- Breeding success.
Kittiwake
- Pop. (AONs)
- Ad. Survival (%)
- Breeding success (per AON)
Guillemot
- Pop. (ind.)
- % UK study plots
- Adult survival rate (%)
- Breeding success (per
act+reg. Site)
Razorbill
- Pop. (ind.)
- % UK study plots
- Adult survival rate (%)
- Breeding success (per
act+reg. Site)
Puffin
- Pop. (ind.)
- Adult survival (%)
- Breeding success (per AOT)
Short-eared Owl
- Breeding pop. ( AOT)
- Breeding success (per AOT)
Chough
- Breeding pop. (AOT)
- % Pembs. Pop (min. Est.)
- Breeding success (per AOT)
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Within
limits?
944
87.99
0.47
918
93.96
0.51
908
78.1
0.68
1191
767
0.59
0.88
?
YES
YES
-
-
160
-
-
3
3
4
3
3
YES
0
1.33
1
2
1.5
YES
10552
90.09
0.27
11817
86.85
0.30
10419
92.24
0.04
10219
10249
0.45
0.89
YES
YES
YES
2067
67.22
1.01
1942
73.33
0.30
2282
74.67
0.39
2046
1922
0.55
0.65
YES
NO
YES
16977
17733
17088
19512
19962
YES
86
0.47
90
0.63
76
0.62
87
0.73
98
0.69
YES
YES
4561
5043
4973
5262
5391
YES
76.95
0.31
85.38
0.56
95.68
0.22
0.39
0.4
YES
NO
10876
86.06
0.73
11821
80.49
0.79
10487
91.87
0.63
13508
12577
0.77
0.8
YES
YES
YES
2
?
2+
1+
3
1.3+
9
2.1
4
1.75
YES
YES
3
3
5
4
YES
0.67
0.67
3
6.9
1.66
1.6
1.5
YES
14
15
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Within
limits?
595
0.20
611
0.35
565
0.26
527
0.27
530
0.41
YES
YES
10
11
11
9
3
YES
55
57
58
55
55
YES
2.0
2.0
2.2
2.48
4.42
YES
529
77.1
0.53
540
81.98
0.83
412
444
431
0.69
0.68
0.56
NO
YES
YES
141
125
108
132
147
Breeding success (per AOT)
1.35
1.04
0.87
1.2
1.03
Ground nesting bird assemblage
(non-qualifying)
Oystercatcher
- Pop. (AOT)
- % Skomer, Skokholm,
Ramsey (use min. Figs.)
- Breeding success (per nest)
Lapwing
- Pop (AOTs)
- % Skomer, Skokholm,
Ramsey (use min. Figs.)
- Breeding success (per nest)
Curlew
- Pop. (AOTs)
- Breeding success (Per AOT)
Skylark
- Pop. (pairs)
- % Skomer, Skokholm,
Ramsey (use min. Figs.)
Wheatear
- Pop. (AOTs)
- % Skomer, Skokholm,
Ramsey (use min. Figs.)
Linnet
- Pop. (AOTs)
- % Skomer, Skokholm,
Ramsey (use min. Figs.)
Reed Bunting
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Within
limits?
70
c.70
Nd
52
Nd
50
Nd
42
Nd
NO
0.94
?
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
NO
0
0
0
0
0
NO
9
?
9
?
11
0.55
9
0.88
6
0.22
YES
NO
20
Nd
31
Nd
33
Nd
23
Nd
26
Nd
YES
18
Nd
19
Nd
12
11.2
10
Nd
10
NO
2
3
7.5
3
Nd
2
Nd
2
NO
Other Seabird Assemblage
Fulmar
- Pop. (AON)
- Breeding success (per AON)
Cormorant
- Pop (AONs)
Shag
- Pop. (AONs) Skomer and
Middleholm
- Breeding success (max.
fledged per AON)
Herring Gull
- Pop. (AOTs)
- Ad. Survival (%)
- Breeding success.
Greater Black-backed Gull
- Pop. (AOTs) +middleholm
-
YES
(Upper
150)
YES
16
-
Pop. (AOTs)
% Skomer, Skokholm,
Ramsey (use min. Figs.)
8
10
8
5
5
YES
17
Assemblages of Breeding Ducks
(non-qualifying)
Shelduck
- Pop. (nesting pairs)
- Breeding success
Gadwall
- Pop. (nesting pairs)
- Breeding success
Teal
- Pop.
- Breeding success (Per AOT)
Mallard
- Pop.
- Breeding success (Per AOT)
Pintail
- Pop. (AOTs)
- % UK breeding population
Shovelar
- Pop. (breeding pairs)
- Breeding success
Tufted Duck
- Pop. (breeding pairs)
- Breeding sucess
Nd = No data
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
2
0
1
1
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1.33
0
1
1
2
1
1.5
8
0
c.10
?
c.6
0.6
c.5
0
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
5
0
3
0
0
0
2
0
2
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
Within
limits?
Notes on Birds
Storm Petrel
No survey or monitoring work was carried out on Storm Petrels this year. Several visits
were made to the North Haven colony to observe the birds and between two and a
dozen were seen on each occasion.
Peregrine
Three pairs of Peregrine nested at Protheroe’s Dock, Double Cliff and around the corner
from High Cliff. Two young fledged from Double Cliff, two from the site near High Cliff but
no fledglings were ever seen from the pair on Protheroe’s Dock.
Lesser Black-backed Gull
Breed success has increase for the second year in a row. The population shows is
stable on the last few years.
Kittiwake
For the second year running there has been a decline in population, this year by 6.06%
(10.43% in 2009). The mean productivity of 0.64 shows a continued improvement on the
poor season in 2006.
Nest building was first seen on April 30th which the same as last year which was eight
days earlier than last the previous. The first egg was on May 21st, 11 days later than last
year but within the normal time frame of the past 5 years.
Guillemot
18
The population showed a 2.31% increase on 2009 and is the highest on record (the
second highest being 19711 in 2005). Study plot populations have not expanded this
year. Productivity at 0.69 was slightly lower than 2009 (0.73). The median fledging date
was in line with last five years, but the year before it was 14 days early.
Razorbill
Whole island population showed a 5.2% increase on 2009 figures and is the second
highest on record since annual records began in 1963. Study plot population increased
by 1.7% making it the highest since study plot counts began in 1987. Productivity was
0.4 (mean since 1993 0.55). In 2000 the median fledging date was 12 days earlier than
last year, this year saw a return to previous date range.
Puffin
The spring count was slightly down by 6.23% on 2009. Productivity was exceptionally
good at 0.8. Plenty of Sand-eels and Sprats were seen being brought ashore and no
Snake pipe-fish were seen. Possibly as a result of increased rabbit numbers meaning
greater black backed gulls were less predatory on pufflings.
Short-eared Owl
After the bumper year in 2008 (9 territories) there were four last year. Territories covered
most of the island including one on the Neck.
Chough
4 pairs nested at the Lantern, Tom’s House, Wick Basin, the Basin and Pigstone Bay.
Two pairs did not raise young successfully; these were the pairs at Pigstone Bay and
The Basin. Six young fledged from the other two sites in total, giving a breeding success
per AOT of 1.5.
Seabird Assemblage
All attributes were within limits.
Seabird population counts and breeding success estimates were completed within the
specified time periods. Full results and discussion are reported in “Seabird monitoring
on Skomer Island in 2010” (Baer, et. al. report to JNCC). Detailed study plot counts (of
Guillemot and Razorbill) and breeding success (of these, Fulmar, Herring Gull, Great
Black-backed Gull and Kittiwake) were carried out by Julia Baer for WTSWW, under
contract to JNCC, as part of their integrated Seabird Monitoring Programme. Razorbill
productivity studies were also carried out.
Breeding seabirds on Middleholm were counted.
Dave Boyle returned for his sixth year as EGI Field Assistant. This work, under Chris
Perrins, was also funded by JNCC as part of the SMP, see separate EGI Report.
Studies were made of the annual survival rates of Herring Gull, Lesser Black-backed
Gull, Kittiwake, Razorbill, Manx Shearwater and Puffin. Breeding success of Manx
Shearwater, Puffin and Lesser Black-backed Gull were also assessed. A repeat of the
Manx Shearwater study plot tape playback census was again carried out by Oxford
University MSc students.
Guillemot productivity and adult and immature survival studies were again carried out by
Katharine Bowgen from Sheffield University, under Tim Birkhead, funded by CCW.
19
Two Phd students, Holly Kirk and Ben Dean, carried on the work with the sensor network
within Manx Shearwater burrows started by Tim Guildford. They also extended the
geolocator work on Manx Shearwaters and Puffins and included Razorbills, Guillemots
and Kittiwakes. GPS tracking of Manx Shearwaters was also extended and included
concurrent tracking of birds from Lundy and Copeland. Shearwaters on Ramsey were
also fitted with Geolocators.
A study was also carried out by Rosemary Walker Brown (Undergraduate with Tim
Guildford) to asses the weights of fledging Manx Shearwater chicks.
Matt Wood (EGI, Oxford) carried out an investigation into the distribution of ‘puffinosed’
shearwaters in mid-September.
Ground nesting bird assemblage
Oystercatcher population below lower limit (three consecutive years below 80 pairs), but
the lower limit seems rather high as Oystercatchers have not been within limits since
2001. A productivity study was not carried out due to time constraints.
Lapwing – No Lapwing bred on Skomer.
Three broods of Curlews were recorded, with only two young surviving in total.
Linnet remains below lower LAC. The propagation (and protection from Rabbits) of
gorse would be likely to increase the population of this species.
20
Assemblage of Breeding Ducks
A second year in a row attempt by teal to breed is promising. Many young from all duck
species are heavily predated. Shelduck possible fledged successfully as the parents and
young were spotted on the east side of the Neck. Their fate was unknown.
Feature
All bird
species
Manx
shearwater,
puffin,
ground
nesting birds
Manx
shearwater,
puffin,
All features
Factors (operational
limits) for birds,
combined. Refer to
Management Plan for
details
Introduced land mammal
predators
Bracken distribution
Notes
Soil erosion
Overall loss of 0.96cm as measured at
Skomer Head
Public access
Island wardened throughout season, but
see Section 2.
2 pairs, within limits.
Ponds retained water, Moorey mere
dried up completely on numerous
occasions.
Storm petrel
Breeding
Ducks
Little Owl population
Pond water depth
LBB gull
SE Owl
SE Owl
Ground
nesting birds
Chough
LBB gull distribution
Skomer Vole density
Wood Mice presence
Rabbit density - June
Bare earth within coastal
grassland
No evidence of introductions.
Bracken mapped 2004 (see above).
Fixed-point photography of whole island
carried out in August 2006.
Vole numbers slightly down on 2009.
Present
43 rabbits per hectare. Above LAC of 5.
1.2 % bare earth in areas sampled.
Below lower limit of 15%, probably due to
lack of Rabbit grazing. The LAC seems
quite high as it has only been exceeded
twice since recording began in 1997.
Non-feature birds
A daily log of all bird sightings and numbers was kept in digital format. A full list of
breeding birds is included in Appendix 1. Monthly bird highlights were published on the
Trusts’ website. And the blog. A separate Bird Report is being written, and all records
will be transcribed to Record Cards. Record cards were digitally photographed as a
back-up. All records and descriptions will be submitted to the county bird recorder for
inclusion in the Pembrokeshire Bird Report.
21
1.5 Herptiles
Non-feature herptiles
Regular checks were made of corrugated sheeting around the farm. Slow worms
present.
1.6 Invertebrates
Features
Key invertebrate habitat
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Within
limits
Clifftop thrif
- Extent ha
- % alive
Saxicolous lichens (as
Section 1.2)
96%
89%
89.4%
96%
90%
YES
Survey
results
currently
being
analysed
40.8
1.6
9.56
35.22
41
NO
0.7
0.1
0.1
3.0
0.06
1.69
0.33
5.37
0.32
4.65
NO
YES
Nest/burrow/carion/dung
- Rabbit pop, study
plots June
no.s/ha
- Seabirds (as
section 1.4)
Central fields
- Size (ha
- % bare earth
- % bracken
Seasonal ponds
- Size
-
Water level
Permanent ponds
- Size
- Water level
Important species recorded
once every 5 years (G.
bilineatus, G. flavipes, M.
wetterhali, M. karavajevi, O.
ventralsi, O. scabricula)
Not
recorded
Not
recorded
Not
recorded
(but no
survey
attempt
made in
last five
years)
22
Factors (operational limits) for birds,
combined. Refer to Management Plan
for details
Public access
Introduced mammalian predators
Pollution/rubbish dumping
Notes
Wardening throughout season, but see Section 2
No evidence of introductions
Minimal amount of litter from day visitors. No
incidences of pollution on the island or its shore
recorded.
1.7 Non biological features
Feature
Objectives met?
Geology – objective to be set
Archaeology – no damage from
management
Research – will not compromise features
Landscape – comprising biological
features of coastal grassland, coastal
heathland, maritime cliff veg, Sea
Campion, Bluebells and ponds.
Public use – see Section 2
Education
Yes
Yes
Yes, refer to Section 1.1 and
1.2.
Yes, refer to Section 2.
Yes, refer to Section 2
Seawater temperature was measured at the landing and submitted to CEFAS.
23
2: RECORDING II: VISITORS, HUMAN IMPACT
2.1 Day visitors.
Table 3 Paying adults visiting Skomer 1993-2010
Mar/Ap
May
June
July
August
1993
733
1748
1565
1396
1311
1994
260
2333
2002
2132
1458
1995
896
1897
1867
1698
2058
1996
499
1136
1753
1674
1439
1997
828
2475
1177
2191
1380
1998
327
2402
1682
1619
1706
1999
744
1955
2375
2588
1675
2000
1152
2257
2123
2265
1903
2001
632
2614
2177
1573
1303
2002
729
1567
2916
2219
1237
2003
1110
2742
2784
2111
1418
2004
824
2796
3202
2228
1086
2005
872
2826
3537
2279
1512
2006
1172
2234
4346
2495
1062
2007
1403
2449
3445
2155
988
2008
857
3358
3019
2678
938
2009
1353
3342
3560
2234
1109
2010
1290
2592
4065
2616
774
Sept
409
335
475
424
376
374
577
373
208
560
477
357
452
358
448
325
321
289
Oct
35
167
162
47
187
86
167
65
93
58
36
19
70
79
179
64
122
77
TOTAL
7197
8687
9053
6972
8614
8196
10,081
10,138
8600
9286
10678
10512
11548
11746
11067
11239
12041
11703
The total number of paying adults, including concessions, students, FSC and those on
National Park walks was 11703 (Table 3), the third highest total ever.
The Dale Princess was scheduled to run from 1st April to 31 October. Bad weather
caused the boat to cancel sailings on 64 days.
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Apr.
4
10
3
9
9
May
9
7
5
3
7
June
2
4
6
6
6
July
3
8
3
7
6
August
4
9
9
7
9
Sept.
9
9
9
8
11
Oct.
18
5
23
13
16
Total
41
52
58
48
64
The island was closed for seabird counts 18-20 May, avoiding the busy bank holiday
week.
The total number of visitors landing on the island in 2009 was 14325. (Figure 9).
24% (23% in 2009) of the paying adults were retired, consistent with the levelling-out of
this category over the past few years, following a general increase prior to that.
Educational groups (Field Studies Council, college and school groups) comprised 6% of
the visitor total (4.8% in 2009), see figure 8 and table 4.
24
70 people landed from private boats (75 in 2009).
Retired
Member
Student
Child
Educational
groups*
Complimentary
Overnight
Total
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
Adults
Table 4 Visitor number, by category, 2005-2010.
7829
8267
7681
7375
8241
7553
2702
2779
2518
2769
2763
2861
186
204
254
233
254
603
514
438
511
530
382
2039
1735
1595
1563
1624
1410
1197
901
768
553
754
923
310
184
258
440
482
245
674
718
707
717
14500
14481
13884
14097
15139
14325
*This includes all individuals on educations groups including FSC Adults, Students and
School Children.
9000
8000
7000
Adults
6000
Retired
5000
Member
4000
Student
Child
3000
Educational groups
2000
Complimentaries
1000
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
0
Figure 8 Number of visitors in each category on Skomer 1990 - 2010
25
18000
16000
14000
12000
10000
8000
6000
4000
2000
1960
1962
1964
1966
1968
1970
1972
1974
1976
1978
1980
1982
1984
1986
1988
1990
1992
1994
1996
1998
2000
2002
2004
2006
2008
2010
0
Figure 9 Total visitor numbers on Skomer 1960-2009
2.2 Overnight Guests
The new visitor accommodation was open for the fourth year, with up to 16 people
accommodated in five rooms.
2008
2009
2010
Available beds
No. sold beds
3210
3424
3397
1785
1912
1867
No. individual
guests
718
707
717
% occupancy
56
42
55
Percentage occupancy (percentage of available beds occupied) was as follows:
April
May
June
July
Aug
Sept
Oct
Overall
2008
45
97
100
99
38
9
1
56
2009
42
100
100
96
36
15
2
42
2010
60
78
99
96
29
19
2
55
N.B. It is extremely unlikely that occupancy would ever reach 100% as that would rely on
every bed being booked in every room all month.
WTSWW staff catered for the week long Cardiff University field course in June – this will
be run on a self catering basis in 2010.
26
2.3 Human impact/disturbance
Visitors
The island was regularly wardened and patrolled – at peak times all volunteers and staff
were on duty. All visitors received an introductory talk, emphasising ‘dos and don’ts’ with
regards to safety and disturbance of wildlife.
Seaborne Disturbance
All incidents of disturbance to wildlife by boats around the island were recorded on CCW
forms and submitted to MNR and pembs marine code co-ordinator.
Only major incident in 2010 involved a cruise ship with 6 Zodiac boats, 3 of which went
into the Wick during July. The boat is returning in April 2011 but has now been educated
about the Pembrokeshire Marine Code and associated MNR by-laws.
Pollution
No tarred seals seen. One minor oil slick was reported to MNR in May.
27
3. RESERVE ADMINSTRATION
3.1 Finance
Landing fees/overnight accommodation fees
Landing fees were remained at the 2008 price (£7 adults, £6 retired, £3.50 student and
member, under-16’s remained free).
For the 2010 season a seasonal pricing system for overnight accommodation had been
introduced. This is to encourage more bookings in our ‘quiet’ season and to make family
visits more affordable in school holidays.
Charges were as follows –
Adult
Under 16
Single occupancy
April
£30
£15
£45
May to July
£45
£22.50
£67.50
August to October
£25
£12.50
£37.50
Gift Aid
At the time of writing the total gift aid received has not been calculated.
Sales
The total amount taken at the sales point in 2010 was £7469.
The amount spent per paying adult (incl VAT) is shown below;
This is a significant reduction on 2009. This has not been mirrored at Lockley Lodge
(increased sales) suggesting that other items are being purchased at the Lodge while
purchasing tickets – namely the “Skomer Guide”.
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
49p
57p
54p
59p
86p
71p
85p
64p
Other income/donations
The binocular hiring scheme was popular with 320 pairs of binoculars hired out, raising.
c. £1049. Thanks to Celtic Vision and Opticron who supported this scheme in 2010.
Other donations included:
28
Books donated by Chris Perrins
Two volunteers donated duvets for the overnight accommodation.
3.2 Staff
Jerry Gillham returned as Assistant Warden for Skomer/Skokholm1st March to 1st
December.
Amy Corton was employed as Assistant Warden Skomer from April – August.
Julia Baer was the Seabird Field Assistant from 13th April to 14th August.
Jonathan Parsons was employed as Visitor Services Officer from Mid April to mid
August.
Dave Boyle returned for a sixth year as EGI Field Assistant, April – August, and carried
out the CCW seal-pupping contract August to the end of November
Long Term volunteers:
Andy Lawton – LTV with Jerry/Skokholm
Nia Stevens – Skomer July-August carrying out a study on Lichens
Lucy Rothwell Skomer August-September carry out a post-puffin marketing survey.
3.3 Volunteers
Up to six Voluntary Assistant Wardens were booked in weekly from late March to
October.
In total c.140 different people volunteered.
The volunteer contribution was very successful with few complaints. The result was that
there was only one no show (31 last season).
Volunteers all received “volunteer t-shirts” for use in the week. Other benefits for the
contribution were an addition to the buildings maintenance fund, sorting out water
pressure issues at the farm.
3.4 Training
Staff and volunteers fully trained in all procedures.
3.5 Health and Safety
All visitors to the island were given a health and safety briefing included in the
introductory talk.
All accidents and near misses were entered onto accident forms kept in the Warden’s
Office and reported to WTSWW using new online system. Incidents were:



A gentlemen fell over at the sales point resulting in some bad cuts
One volunteer fell out of the Skomer boat whilst landing at the steps, no injury
sustained
One volunteer picked up an infection (probably before landing on the island)
which needed immediate medical assistance.
Start of season checks of safety kit on boat – lifejackets, flares etc….
UV lamps/Filters in water sterilisation systems replaced.
First aid kits, emergency bag and eye wash stations checked and re-stocked at start of
season.
29
All GAS SAFE tests completed
Annual service of fire extinguishers.
Annual maintenance on fire alarm and emergency lighting system.
Fire Service returned to complete their checks on the buildings. A few recommendations
are still outstanding.
Pembrokeshire County Council carried out annual water quality testing.
Recommendations made through a full risk assessment. Actions to be implemented in
2011
3.6 Islands Conservation Advisory Committee
There were four meeting of the IAC. (26/02, 25/04, 22/08 and 10/12)
3.7 Trust new member recruitment
Despite new membership leaflet at sales point recruitment was still slow. Members
landing free on Skomer in 2011 should help with this.
3.8 Friends of Skokholm and Skomer
Presentations to be given at the annual reunion in February 2011 by Chris Taylor on the
Skomer and Skokholm season 2010.
Close liaison has been maintained between Wardens and members of the Friends.
3.9 Wildlife Adoption Schemes
Reports completed for the Seal and Puffin adoptions.
There are 100 new Puffins were adopted in 2010. A Seal adoption scheme was started
in 2009 and 9 Seals have been adopted in 2010 so far.
30
4. RESERVE MANAGEMENT
4.1 Education and Interpretation
Various talks given to local groups in Dale and Cardiff and Radnorshire. Guided walks
given for groups who show an interest (Aberystwyth University).
Field Courses run by Oxford, Cardiff and Aberystwyth
4.2 Media and publicity
March
New Warden Articles: News article for BBC Wales, BBC Radio Wales and Radio Cymru,
Radio Pembrokeshire.
Newspaper article in the Western Telegraph, BBC online, Dursley Gazette.
Other news generated included a Western Telegraph for volunteer that left by lifeboat.
Someone who had sold a photo of a puffin with sandeels in its mouth to the Daily Mail,
Times and Telegraph.
April
Several interviews about general progress with Radio Pembrokeshire.
Small article for Country Life Magazine.
Radio interview relating to Skomer MNR 20th Anniversary.
May
7 mentions in various regional and national news articles through MNR photographic
competition.
ITV Wales news piece on “the new warden”
3 radio interview for Radio Pembrokeshire
Piece commented on for “Country Life” magazine
http://www.countrylife.co.uk/news/country/article/471982/Where-to-see-puffins.html
BBC Wales Online – Audio/Visual slideshow about “the new warden and Skomer”
Telegraph travel supplement
June
Interviewed for Portugese travel magazine
Western Press Article about “the new ranger”
One mention on Countryfile (not sur eon content just a report from someone else)
Various items related to First Minister visit
July
August
BBC Childrens programme carried out Snorkling in North Haven
September
BBC Hidden Histories carried out a recording for piece about pre-historic Skomer.
Radio Pembrokeshire – Every other week radio interview.
BBC News Wales – piece about Skokholm filmed and aired.
November
Article written for a new “Marine Quarterly” journal
Interview for Western Mail
31
Other –
Blog continues
You Tube pages added too
4.3 Liaison
The Marine Nature Reserve
A close relationship between the MNR and NNR continued, with the MNR office
continuing to receive some mail and provide support with launching/retrieving boat at
start and end of season and maintaining running mooring for island boat.
Daily boat activity was logged, and MNR boat activity and code contravention forms
submitted at the end of the season.
The Countryside Council for Wales
Good relations have continued with regional and national staff.
Other Islands
Lift to Middleholm given in inflatable to Steve Sutcliffe et al. in June for Shag ringing.
Regular contact with Ramsey Warden and start and end of season updates with Lundy
Warden.
Visit paid by Ramsey Warden.
Shearwater workers visited Ramsey, Copeland and Lundy.
Dale Sailing Co
Good relations were maintained with the Dale Sailing Co and staff, particularly the crews
of the Dale Princess. Help with seabird spectacular guiding was given when other guides
were not available.
Pembs Coast National Park
Good relations were maintained with Jane Hodges and PCNP guided walk leaders.
H.M. Coastguard
The Warden continued the role of Auxiliary Coastguard, and close relations were
maintained with the Operations Centre at Milford Haven.
32
4.4 Habitat/species management
Central Fields
Bracken was ‘bashed’ by volunteers and staff in all of Shearing Hays. Bracken was
pulled from the Rabbit exclosure at North Valley rise. Grow-back was pulled several
times in the Bull hole exclosures. Bracken was also controlled in north haven, after the
puffins had bred.
Species management
4.5 Infrastructure
North Haven
Farm
External
Some minor repairs carried out Investigation
into
damp
infrastructure
to roof
problem in LTV room revealed
a hole in roof found above
damp patch. Next season apply
silicone glue. Expanding foam
to be inserted into roofing felt
overlap/holes and overhanging
area of West facing wall. Works
approved by CCW.
Broadband/Webcam Numerous issues throughout the season including replacement
infrastructure
switchboard for wick camera, replacement socket on microwave
dish, interference with Coastwatch (leading to regular turning off
of the system).
Poor quality images in Lockley Lodge from ALL cameras.
Water supply
Good
Good
Plumbing
Good
Header tanks in overnight
accommodation raised in order
to increase water pressure.
Gas boilers
Good
Good
Gas Fridges
Good
One fridge has broken beyond
repair. Spare in workshop to
replace.
Gas cookers
Good
Replace research farm cooker
Gas
Good
Good
Solar hot water
Good
Good
Photo-voltaic
Good
Good
Electrical
control Generally sound with annual Generally sound.
boxes/batteries
service. Fuse shorting at North
Haven was fixed by warden.
4.6 Machinery and equipment
Tractor
Good all season until October. Replacement starter motor
and ongoing issue with 4 WD not engaging. Therefore we
could not launch boat.
Boat
Fine all season, continuing problems with auxillery engine.
33
Boat Trailer
Boat Mooring
Generators
Small machines
(brushcutter, etc)
Boat left on island for the winter
No problems
No problems
No problems, used regularly at both the farm and north
haven. Only small issues, both generators service
No problems
34
5.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thanks to all island staff and volunteers, and mainland Trust and CCW staff, in particular
the MNR team. Special thanks to Rhys Williams for his mainland support from Lockley
Lodge with the new ticket system. Wendy Barnes-Jones for her administrative support.
Thanks too to Dales Sailing and boat crew – John, Kenny, Karl, Peter P, Peter D,
Malcolm, Malvi and various helpers.
Thanks to all the people who provided data and information for this report, including
Jerry Gillham (Skokholm Assistant), Steve Sutcliffe (Pembs ringers), Katharine Bowgen
and Tim Birkhead (Sheffield Uni), Tim Guildford (Oxford Uni), Chris Perrins and Dave
Boyle (EGI), Kate Lock (SMNR), Jane Hodges (PCNP), Bob Haycock (NT), Tim Healing,
Roddy Mavor (JNCC), Nicola Cornock and Wendy Barnes-Jones (WTSWW)
Finally a massive thank you to my fellow Island staff and resident researchers. Without
whose support and company the 2010 season would not have been so much fun.
6.
REFERENCES
35
Baer, J., et. al. (2010) Seabird monitoring on Skomer Island in 2010 Unpublished report to
JNCC.
36
APPENDIX 1 Breeding and rare birds on Skomer Island in 2010 (2009 totals in
brackets)
FULMAR
530 Apparently Occupied Nest sites (527)
0.41 chicks fledged per AON (0.27).
MANX SHEARWATER
0.88 chicks fledged per egg laid (0.59).
STORM PETREL
(160 AOS)
CORMORANT
3 (9) nests.
SHAG
2-3 nests (2-3), 54 on Middleholm (55).
SHELDUCK
1 pair (1), none fledged.
MALLARD
c.5 pairs (c.5), none fledged
SHOVELER
2 pars .(c.3), none fledged (0)
TUFTED DUCK
No pairs (0), none fledged (0).
TEAL
One pair (1), none fledged.
CHOUGH
4 Pairs (5), breeding success 1.5 (1.6)
CANADA GOOSE
16 pairs (12), 27 young (32)
RAVEN
5 (5) pairs raised at least 8 (8) young
BUZZARD
5 nests (6), 3 fledged (4-6).
PEREGRINE
3 territories (3), 4 fledged (6)
PHEASANT
c.7 pairs (c.6)
OYSTERCATCHER
42 pairs (50).
CURLEW
6 pairs (9), 2 fledged (8)
LBB GULL
10,249 pairs 10,219), 0.89 fledged per pair (0.45)
HERRING GULL
439 pairs (444)
0.59 fledged per AON (0.68)
GBB GULL
118 pairs (106), 1.03 fledged per AON (1.22)
KITTIWAKE
1922 Apparently Occupied Nests(2046)
0.66 fledged per AON (0.65)
GUILLEMOT
19962 individuals (19512)
0.69 fledged per a+r site (0.73)
RAZORBILL
5391 individuals(5262) ,
0.4 fledged per active and regular site (0.39)
PUFFIN
max spring count 12557 individuals (13508)
0.8 chicks fledged per AOB (0.77)
WOODPIGEON
5 pairs (6)
LITTLE OWL
2 pairs (2), 3 fledged (3)
SHORT-EARED OWL
4 pairs (9), breeding success 1.75 (2.1)
SKYLARK
26 territories (23)
SWALLOW
7 pairs (10)
MEADOW PIPIT
c. 75 pairs (79)
ROCK PIPIT
c.30 pairs? (c. 40 pairs ?)
PIED WAGTAIL
2 pairs (3)
WREN
39 territories (67)
DUNNOCK
6 territories (10)
WHEATEAR
10 pairs (10)
BLACKBIRD
10 pairs (12)
STONECHAT
0 pairs (0)
SEDGE WARBLER
15 pairs (20)
WHITETHROAT
2 territories (2+)
JACKDAW
(84 pairs in 2006)
CARRION CROW
10 pairs (14)
LINNET
2 pairs (2)
REED BUNTING
5 pairs (8)
37
38