Protected nets of eggs from oyster catcher found by worker at Mossmorran

Project planners at Fife Ethylene Plant considered many different scenarios in the run up to the current £140m upgrade – but discovering a protected bird’s nest wasn’t one of them!
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The nest on the fringes of the Mossmorran site contained three eggs, belongs to an oyster catcher. They are protected by law.

A bird-loving contractor working for Bilfinger immediately put up a cordon and sign to keep workers away from the area.

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He sought advice from environmental advisors, who confirmed that the nests and eggs are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

The oyster catcher's nest is fenced off and a sign tells workers to stay away.The oyster catcher's nest is fenced off and a sign tells workers to stay away.
The oyster catcher's nest is fenced off and a sign tells workers to stay away.

It will not be disturbed until after the baby birds have flown.

Michael Ridgewell, contact engineer, who was with the contractor, said: “This was a great spot by our colleague who acted quickly to ensure the nest and eggs’ safety.

The oyster catcher's nestThe oyster catcher's nest
The oyster catcher's nest

“It is not uncommon that birds choose to make their nests on our towers and land, and the barriers will be kept in place until the hatchlings have left the nest.”

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