A New Approach to Supporting Wildlife
Birdlife has wasted no time returning to Mooragh Lake in Ramsey after the lake was partially drained as part of an environmental trial. The project, led by Ramsey Town Commissioners in partnership with the Manx Wildlife Trust, is exploring whether allowing water levels to rise and fall naturally with the seasons can create better conditions for wildlife.
Shallow Waters Create Feeding Havens
According to the Manx Wildlife Trust, the lower water levels have transformed parts of the lake into shallow pools and muddy margins. These conditions are ideal for many bird species, providing easy access to food such as insects and small invertebrates that thrive in exposed wet ground.
Rare and Vulnerable Birds Already Spotted
The results have been immediate. Several species have already been seen using the lake, including red-listed birds such as oystercatchers and redshank. Conservationists say their presence is an encouraging early sign that seasonal water management could play an important role in boosting local biodiversity.
