Oystercatcher Resides at SCT

A feathered friend, often seen around Southampton Water, has been discovered nesting in a container down at SCT.

The Oystercatcher, which was discovered by a Terminal Operator working at SCT, is currently residing on a skip container that is used for waste materials.To protect the precious eggs, it has been agreed to isolate the container until the eggs have safely hatched and the new fledglings have flown the nest.

Commenting on the terminal’s temporary resident, Michelle McFarlane, Quality & Environment Co-Ordinator, SCT, said:

“The wildlife in and around Southampton Water sometimes does make it onto the terminal.The skip will remain in place until it has been confirmed that the chicks have flown the nest.We are pleased to report that the Oystercatcher seems very happy and content in her temporary home.”

During breeding, Oystercatchers typically lay between two and three eggs which are then incubated in the nest for between 24-27 days before they hatch.Once hatched, the fledglings will remain in the nest for between 34-37 days.