Merkinch GreenGym were out working at Merkinch Local Nature Reserve today, moving shrubs, and clearing paths.
One group dug up some more of the shrubs and replanted them near another enterance to the LNR, while another group clear gorse and brambles etc. that were overhanging the main path through the LNR on the sea wall.
After our tea break we were joined by Katie, a Highland Council Ranger, who gave a talk on non-native invassive species, while we walked around the LNR and she pointed out to the group some plants that had invaded the LNR and tried out our knowledge of 4 of the most hated invaders. (Japanese Knotweed, Himalayan Balsum, Giant Hogweed & Rhododendron ponticum).
As well as the plants, Sitka Deer, Harlequin Ladybird, Mink, New Zealand Flat Worms and Grey Squirrel were talked about. All of these are in the Inverness area, but the Grey Squirrel is not here in any numbers at present, with only 1 spotted this year!
