Saturday, May 29, 2010

28th May,2010.

A reasonable day for weather but still plagued by light northerlies which, by and large, are destined to remain over the next few days.

Local birding produced precious little in reality! A singing Whinchat near the house has been there all week, and throughout the day, suggesting it hasn't yet secured a mate. Before being away Grasshopper Warblers had arrived, and were still arriving, but there is now no evidence or their presence. Discussions with a colleague had made him suspect the majority had actually passed through so quick was the transition.
Similar discussions with contacts suggests this spring has been very poor for skua passage. Monitoring on the Solway has produced few birds compared to other years and limited passage has been in evidence off the Outer Hebrides and certainly few birds have been noted off Islay. Two Corncrake are present almost within the centre of Portnahaven such that they are a talking point amongst local people, which is good. A full "all island" survey should be happening soon which will give an insight into their status this season. Hopefully we will see yet further increases and presence in new areas.

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