Birds

Perhaps the first image of harbourside wildlife we conjure is that of the gulls, which may seem abundant. Herring gulls are, however, faring quite badly nationally. Coastal populations are in severe decline and this species is now Red Listed, meaning they are at risk of going extinct in this country.  Happily though, here in Bristol, they are faring much better, and researchers believe this is due to the number of flat rooves and lack of predators.

On our walks, we were treated to views of a cormorant several times. This beautiful black bird with pale green eyes is often seen stood drying its wings. This is because it isn’t actually waterproof, in the way that most other waterbirds are. This allows it to sit lower in the water and dive for its prey, making it an extremely talented fisher.

Fish

In 2022, an eDNA survey completed by Bristol Avon Rivers Trust looked for genetic material of organisms in the floating harbour and river Avon. This relatively new survey technique is a fantastic way of discovering what is living in the water. Amazingly, 36 unique fish species were found to be present in the water, including bream, carp, dace and perch, as well as an abundance of the critically endangered European eel. You may catch a sight of them over by the floating reed bed where the water is shallower.

Wildflowers

Once you start noticing the wildflowers peeking out of every crack in the walls, railway lines and paths, you really can’t stop! Scarlet pimpernel, St John’s wort, Black medic, Pineapple weed and much, much more, all provide food for our struggling pollinators and, in some cases, birds. Stopping to notice some Prickly lettuce led us to discover over a dozen camouflaged caterpillars happily having a feast, a great reminder that if you stop and take notice you will see that wildlife will make a home if it is left to flourish and has the right food or habitat, even in a concrete wall.

Bats

Around 9:30pm one night in June, with the help of a bat detector, we were delighted to hear the clicking of some pipistrelle bats over by The Pump House and in the trees opposite. These bats enjoy feeding on the insects above the water and are a joy to see if you are ever around there just after sunset.

Time spent walking around the harbourside this summer showed me how valuable certain areas are for wildlife. The floating reed bed, opposite the SS Great Britain for example, is a much-needed edge habitat for a lot of our birds and aquatic invertebrates who need a softer, shallower habitat next to the water to nest and forage. The same can be said of the scruffier tree areas, for example the area behind the M Shed, which is where a colony of house sparrows can be seen.

Avon Wildlife Trust is working with the team at SS Great Britain Trust to explore what activities and information would help to create a nature-rich marine environment in the harbourside for all to enjoy. Your answers will help to shape the next stage of this exciting project. 

Visit avonwildlifetrust.org.uk/harbourside-wildlife to share your ideas.