A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE - SKYLARKS

If you were to ask which bird would be most associated with Montrose Links then the Skylark would be one of those at the top of the list. We have good numbers that appear to be thriving, with the birds likely to be seen on many of the holes. Their characteristic song can often be heard as they hover high overhead.
We are very lucky to have such a good population, as nationally they are decreasing in numbers with a decline of over 50% in the last 25 years. The Skylark is on the Birds of Conservation "Red List" as giving cause for concern for their future.

One of the many Skylarks that can be seen on the golf courses.

We are very aware of the need to ensure that we protect the habitat that these birds require. Our grassland management policy takes this into account.  We aim to leave all out of play grassland as ecology rough which provides homes and cover for many small mammals and provides nest sites for a number of ground nesting birds including the Skylark. Areas of rough that caused concern for golfers last year were cut back in autumn. The aim of cutting back these areas early was to deter birds from nesting there, allowing us to mow again without the fear of destroying any nests.

Skylarks nest in the rough close to the 1st Medal hole.

Skylark chicks in a nest to the right of the 17th Medal fairway.

We are in the middle of the nesting season and the nests shown above are only 2 of many that will be hidden within the tussocks of the rough grassland.This is one of the reasons that we ask that ride on golf buggies are not driven through the rough but are kept to cut areas of the courses.

Les Rae,

First Assistant.

Montrose Golf Links Limited.