Award for Gordon's work at Culzean Country Park

Mar 12 2010 by Edwin Lawrence, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

HE’S our very own kestrel expert.

And Gordon Riddle has received a top award for his incredible research.

Thousands know him from more than 30 years at Culzean Country Park.

But for even longer – 37 years – Gordon has methodically studied kestrels in South Ayrshire.

Gordon, who lives in Kirkmichael, is chairman and a founder member of the South Strathclyde Raptor Study Group.

He has published a series of papers, as well as writing two books about kestrels.

And his amazing work was recognised at the Scottish Raptor Study Group’s annual conference.

Gordon was presented with the prestigious Donald and Jeff Watson Memorial Award for outstanding services to raptor work in Scotland.

The citation describes Gordon as ‘a great ambassador for not only the kestrel but birds of prey in general’.

It goes on: “His approach has done raptor workers and raptors a great service, and underpinning it all is a love and knowledge of raptor fieldwork.

“His passionate and detailed work on the kestrel is a great example of what can be achieved on the ground in our field and deserves recognition.”

Gordon received his award from Chris Rollie, the chairman of the Dumfries and Galloway group.

The award commemorates the contribution of the father and son team of the late Donald and Jeff Watson from Dalry, Kirkcudbrightshire, whose monographs on the hen harrier and golden eagle are classic works of their kind.

Gordon is currently working on a third kestrel book – a follow-up to previous success with Seasons with the Kestrel and Kestrels for Company.

It is due to be published later in the year.

Gordon said: “I’m delighted to receive this honour from other raptor fieldworkers.

“And I was lucky enough to know Donald and Jeff, for whom I had the greatest respect.”

Grandfather Gordon, who retired as Culzean Country Park chief in 2005, is also a renowned wildlife photographer.