Here are a few shots taken by Scott Nimmo, Quarry Manager, and John Buchanan, Assistant Quarry Manager, at Hyndford quarry. The quarry attracts a lot of birds during the summer including many types of ground nesting species.

Here we have an Oystercatcher which chose to build a nest on the edge of a large gravel stockpile. It may seem an odd place to do this but the eggs are speckled so blend into the background making it hard for predators to spot them.

The Shovel Drivers were very careful not to disturb them and we are pleased to report the eggs have now safely hatched. The chicks are doing well and have been kept safe and sound. It’s an example of staying alert so we can help protect wildlife at our sites.

The Oystercatcher is a species which has a conservation concern status of ‘Amber’ so it is good to see the new arrivals.