Written by: Rowan Rumball
2021
Golf clubs provide valuable habitat for many of the worlds most protected species. Sand martins (Riparia riparia), protected by the Wildlife and Countryside act 1981, have taken a liking to the bare sand faces at Dunbar golf club. This has not gone without being noticed by the local fox populations who enjoy predating on them while they nest.
The greenkeepers at Dunbar golf club have installed protective barriers to prevent foxes from reaching the nests. These barriers are built up of sand mounds that keep the sand martin nests out of reach while being sympathetic to the local environment. This shows not only forethought, recognising the sand martins' vulnerability, but also the innovation in the creation of protection.
