You know it’s spring

When you see the first movements of Edinburghus Tramus. This creature became extinct in 1956. There was much talk of a re-introduction of the species from its European heartland. This never really gathered much momentum until a scheme began in the new millennium. An ambitious target of linking Edinburgh airport to Leith and then utilising the old railway system to cross the city from north to south foundered in a morass of discussion, nimbyism, lawers bills and apathy. However, a dedicated group of tram enthusiasts, convinced Edinburgh Council and the Scottish Government that a re-introduction of a more modern subspecies, Edinburghus Tramus Expensiveus, would be a great idea. As with many re-introductions, the road, or should that be rail, has been rocky at times. Preparation for the line began 6 to 7 years ago, but geological, political and monetary problems plagued the early days before stability was achieved and the lines were finally completed in the autumn of 2013. But what of the creatures themselves; an expedition to Europe, where the tram has been seen commonly in the past 60 years, identified a source of potential trams in Spain. Along with help from tram experts in Germany, a great number of young trams were brought to their quarantine zone near the Gogar roundabout. They remained there for many months, and were only allowed a little exercise, in a controlled manner, from their base at Gogar to the airport and could be regularly be seen resting from their exertions at Gorgarburn tramstop. Late last year they became restless and exhibiting nocturnal habits, there were rumours of sightings in Edinburgh, although they were never seen moving. People spoke of coming out of drinking establishments and seeing trams, surrounded by people in high viz jackets to protect them from the curious tramspotters. Nobody saw them leave, but they were gone in the morning. Then, in late winter the trams became diurnal and I saw them near Edinburgh Park, actually moving. They seemed a little shy and soon retreated to the comfort of their home at Gogar. But, like all children, they got a little bolder and flew further from their nest and were spotted at Haymarket in early March, but still a little tentative as they were resting. I guess they must be stronger now as I saw this one in full flight having made it up the hill from Haymarket Yards. What are the characteristics of the species? They are very quiet and surprisingly quick on their wheels. They have small flashing orange and white eyes near the ground and one bright white, Cyclopean eye on their forehead; their call is bell like, but not particularly loud. They have fine plumage, but may get angry if anyone gets in their way. I look forward to seeing more in the future and photographing them again in their natural habitat. Welcome back Edinburghus Tramus Expensiveus.