Autumn is a wonderful time to explore the Melrose paths in the Scottish Borders. From ripening sloes and brambles to visiting thrushes, waxwings and Pink-footed geese, the local routes are full of seasonal wildlife and colour.
Autumn colours and berries around Melrose
“A season of mist, colour and fruit” is a good way to describe autumn around Melrose. As the days become shorter and the air turns cooler, the paths take on new colours, sounds and scents. There is plenty to enjoy, whether you are a keen birdwatcher, a nature lover or simply someone who enjoys a walk outdoors.
One of the first signs of autumn is the ripening of the berries along the paths. Blackthorn bushes become heavy with sloes and the brambles produce deep purple-black fruit. These berries are perfect for making sloe gin, pies and jam, but it’s important not to pick them all! They are a valuable food source for wildlife, especially as the colder months approach.
Leaving plenty behind means there will be berries for birds, small mammals and other creatures that depend on them to survive the winter. The paths provide fruit for all, from local wildlife to passing migrant birds.
Farewell to the Swallows of the Scottish Borders
The end of summer and arrival of autumn also brings the departure of our local swallows. After a busy breeding season, these small, energetic birds begin their long journey south.
One particular male swallow, recognised and known locally as Forky Tail because of his distinctive tail feathers, had a remarkably successful summer. He helped raise two broods of five young, with nests at two different sites.
Swallows are fascinating summer visitors and their journeys are truly impressive. They travel vast distances across Europe and the Sahara before reaching southern Africa. There, they spend the winter months feeding and preparing for their return journey.
It is amazing to think that the birds seen swooping over the Melrose paths in summer may soon be travelling thousands of miles. We look forward to welcoming them back next year.
Winter Birds Begin to Arrive
As the swallows leave, other birds begin to arrive in autumn. Fieldfares and redwings come from Scandinavia and further north to spend the winter in the Borders.
They feed on the berries found in hedgerows and woodland, including rowan berries, sloes and rose hips. Keep an eye out for flocks moving through the trees or gathering in open fields. Their arrival adds new life and movement to the autumn landscape.
Look Out for Waxwings
Another exciting visitor is the waxwing. These beautiful birds don’t appear every year, but when the weather is especially cold in the Arctic, large numbers may reach our shores.
Waxwings can quickly strip a berry tree before moving on in search of more food. Their soft colouring, pointed crest and bright wing markings make them a real treat to see. If you spot one, take a moment to enjoy it—and, if possible, capture a photograph.
Examine the Autumn Fungi Safely
Autumn is also the season when mushrooms and fungi appear in abundance along the Melrose Paths They come in all shapes, sizes and colours, making them excellent subjects for photographs.
However, please do not pick or eat wild mushrooms unless you are an expert. Some poisonous species look very similar to edible ones, and even experienced foragers can make mistakes. It is far safer to enjoy wild mushrooms with your camera and buy edible varieties from a shop.
The Geese Signal the Start of Winter
Later in the season, the arrival of winter geese gives us another reminder that colder weather is on the way. Pink-footed geese can often be heard before they are seen, with their distinctive calls as they pass overhead in formation.
Watch and listen for them crossing the sky near the Eildons and Melrose. Their arrival is one of the familiar signs that winter is just around the corner.
Autumn on Your Doorstep
As we’ve said, Autumn is a wonderful time to explore the well-laid-out Melrose paths. Wrap up warmly, bring your camera and take your time. There is always something new to notice—and plenty of nature waiting to be enjoyed right on our doorstep.