Summer surveys revealed 33 bird species on site earmarked for salmon farm
A SERIES of five bird surveys on a site in Grimsby earmarked for construction of an indoor salmon 'farm' recorded no fewer than 33 species.
The research was conducted by eco-consultancy Aecom on five dates between April and July this year.
The report says: "The surveys identified a breeding bird assemblage within the site consisting of relatively widespread and common passerine species, including both ground-nesting and scrub / tree nesting species.
"A total of 33 species were recorded, of which at least ten were not breeding (i.e. flying over the site, or visiting the site to feed only).
"Of these, two species (herring gull and lesser black-backed gull) were breeding colonially on the rooves of the adjacent cold storage and Grimsby Seafood Village buildings, as were carrion crows.
"The breeding assemblage for the site is likely to be of no more than local value as it is relatively limited and includes no more than nine Priority Species."
The location of the proposed £75-million project, which would use boreholes to provide both fresh and salt water, is redundant railways sidings close to the sea wall.
The site is designated of being of Wildlife Interest in the North East Lincolnshire Council Local Plan.
A planning application is expected to be submitted to NELC Council in the New Year by the firm behind the scheme, London-based Aquacultured Seafoods Ltd.
The Wryneck says: When the application is submitted, here's hoping precise details are revealed of the bird species for which this site is a breeding, feeding or resting habitat. The consultant classifies them as "relatively widespread and common" but that may be the other side of saying they are in steady decline. The further description of them as "of no more than local value" is patronising. If they are of value anywhere, they are of value - and worthy, therefore of being cherished and safeguarded.
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