Islay Birder

Transfer of entries!

2012-01-12T11:24:00.000Z

Having noticed that there is still an amount of "traffic" linked to this site may I advise that , for the foreseeable future , I shall be using my new Blog title given below.

http://www.birdingodyssey.blogspot.com/

I hope that this assists in avoiding unnecessary visits to this site and may I encourage to visit the above "new" address. Enjoy!

John Armitage.http://www.birdingodyssey.blogspot.com/

A time for change!

2011-12-31T11:03:00.000Z

Way back in late October I made a temporary halt to entries on this Blog as I was inundated with work, and other commitments, and needed to free up some time besides getting some computer problems sorted out.
The solution worked well and I'm currently within reach of being up to date ( that is, well, almost! ).
Given my future plans in various birding and lobbying issues I'm changing the name of the Blog to better reflect that approach and to give it a bit of a facelift. It will provide a basis for wider coverage , both in the UK and abroad, as opposed to entries mostly being linked to Islay and Jura. At least that's the plan.
Hopefully you'll enjoy " A Birding Odyssey " and enjoy the direction that the journey takes! The new site reference is http://www.birdingodyssey.blogspot.com/ so, hopefully, you'll bookmark the site and enjoy regular visits. In a couple of days I'll essentially be "closing down" the Islay Birder site with all entries being on the new Blog above.

All best wishes to everyone and many thanks for reading Islay Birder over the years. May I take the opportunity of wishing you a HAPPY NEW YEAR and good birding in 2012 and beyond.

Quick update!

2011-10-30T18:27:00.001Z

Hi everyone! After some consideration on what might be the potentially negative implications I've taken a decision to close this site down, temporarily, until the end of 2011. I'm overburdened at the moment with a whole variety of commitments and have decided to get all such "out of the way" to allow an unfettered entry into 2012. Whilst birding goes on I've simply not the time to write about it at present. It's sad in a way as there's plenty to write about with American Wigeon and Lesser Canada Geese present on the island and the usual array of "good" wintering species around. Something had to go, and rather than do a half hearted job I'm taking the risk of setting things aside for a couple of months and clearing up things before the onset of the New Year.

Bear with me and watch out for 1.1.2012!!

Throwing light on a couple of things! 27th September. 2011.

2011-09-28T09:00:00.000+01:00

Out early with the dogs I was intrigued how quiet it was on the outward leg of the walk. An odd Robin "ticked" and the Yellowhammers remained in roost and consoled themselves with very quiet "chic" calls , as opposed to erupting as they normally do when we're slightly later. On the return leg, and with the first rays of sunlight appearing, all was different and calls and activity were as expected. Whilst we're used to the "dawn chorus" in the breeding season, when birds are declaring their territoriality at the onset of light, it seems outside of this period things may be a bit more relaxed and linked to increasing light intensity. Something to check on further.

Included in the upsurge of activity was a tit party from which came a couple of phrases of song of a Chiffchaff. Despite best efforts on my part it refused to show itself!

Later, in the evening, and whilst I was waiting to give my daughter a lift,I was fascinated by the behaviour of a Common Buzzard. It appeared out of a small plantation and commenced to slowly "hover" over a nearby stubble field, first at around 60 feet , and then at half that height. It changed location a few times. The interesting fact was that daylight was drawing to a close, cars on the nearby A9 were all using headlights and distant hedgerow lines with standard trees were all in silhouette. To all intents and purposes it was dark!! Casting my mind back I don't believe I've ever noticed crepuscular activity before by Buzzards. It looked like some great owl as it circled around and returned to cover over the car!!!

A bit of variety. 26th September,2011

2011-09-27T09:06:00.000+01:00

Decided I'd have a trip out to Munlochy Bay and see what was in the offing. Unfortunately the bright sunlight wasn't too kind and the sheltered bay was bathed in bright light throwing everything into silhouette on the surface of the dappled waters. All very atmospheric and contextual, but not much good for viewing birds. I'll have to remember to visit in the afternoon or evening in future!! Small parties of Wigeon were flighting in to join numbers of birds already present, together with Mallard and Teal. A few Oystercatcher, Curlew and Redshank roosted and fed on the adjacent margins and odd Grey Herons stood patiently on vantage points.

I then moved on to Chanonry Point, although I didn't expect any particular movement to be occurring given the wind direction. A few Gannets circled around and then headed back out to the sea, odd Cormorant were in evidence, a Red-breasted Merganser and a couple of Razorbill were all that was on offer. Travelling back I noticed some good "accumulations " of Black-headed Gulls on stubble fields already being put to the plough, which perhaps accounts for the absence of birds the other day! Nowadays the turn around time associated with arable fields is so short in places where planting of spring crops can occur, contrasted against the stubble fields being left in situ on Islay where the practice is not followed. Such rapid usage of the land and the absence of stubble habitat for birds must have had a profound effect on various populations over the years, coupled with the use of much more efficient harvesting machinery and less grain spillage. The price of progress!

Slow progression into autumn. 25th September, 2011.

2011-09-26T08:50:00.000+01:00

Circumstances dictate that the majority of time I'm "out" is within either woodland or open countryside at the moment. However, some time down on the nearby Firth showed few waterbirds about, the odd Grey Heron and an extraordinary absence of gull numbers. In fact it was pretty quiet all round!

The only real indicator of autumn at the moment appears to be the numbers of presumed "continental! Robins which are around. Early morning has calling birds seemingly everywhere, with few showing themselves. Presumably these are those within the initial phase of what will prove to be numbers of birds arriving to winter with us.

Autumn cometh! 23.9.2011.

2011-09-24T11:10:00.000+01:00

According to my diary the 23rd September is the "official" date on which autumn commences. Up here near Inverness conditions are certainly quintessential from the point of view of weather.....some misty mornings, mellow, sunny with odd showers and breezy conditions aiding the commencement of leaf-fall. Some cereal fields have not yet been cut, but others are finished already, with straw bales now awaiting collection. As yet I've seen none of the usual wintering goose flocks in evidence, but I suspect their arrival is imminent. Many of the fields demand a second look, as with extremely short stemmed crop varieties being used nowadays it's difficult to determine whether odd fields are stubble or remain uncut. The days of "waving fields of corn" are now despatched to history it seems, but with the memory of those circumstances being depicted in some of the great landscape paintings of the past.

As might be expected finch numbers are evident with the calls of Chaffinch ever present, mostly from unseen birds, as autumn movements proceed coupled, contrastingly, with the absence now of the few hirundines which were present earlier in the week. The usual complement of hedgerow and woodland birds abound locally, including a nice flock of Yellowhammer, but the Tree Sparrows usually present in the immediate vicinity are obviously using a different area altogether as none are in evidence.

Enforced downtime!

2011-09-22T10:52:00.000+01:00

On the mainland at the moment, but coming across little of particular interest from a birding point of view. Much involved in putting together ideas etc relating to a possible future "campaign" relating to birds of prey, which is proving more demanding than first thought! In the meantime, the reportage of persecution incidents carries on as ever before!

Amidst reports of reducing numbers of birds in the US of A, the disease affecting birds like Greenfinches in this country now being detected in Europe, increasing costs affecting the attendance of birders on the Scilly Isles, a sense of doom and gloom appears to surround the resource we all hold dear! Still, we could live in Greece.......

Baird's Sandpiper relocated. 10.9.2011.

2011-09-11T08:08:00.000+01:00

I'm now returned to Islay from "the south" and have commenced a week's birding on home turf with a visiting friend. The weather promises a fairly mixed bag of conditions with today being fine, except at the very outset, but with a stiff south east wind.

Whilst we did some seawatching in the morning , nothing particularly exceptional was happening, although the procession of Manx Shearwater, Fulmar, Gannet, a few Kittiwake and an odd Red-throated Diver provided interest. Four obvious "Greenland" Wheatear were near to Portnahaven ( as were two later at Gruinart ) but little else appeared on the Rinns.

After an initial scrutiny of Loch Indaal we moved to Loch Gruinart which was alive with waders! Several hundred Dunlin and Sanderling fed out on the exposed Flats together with lesser numbers of Redshank, Curlew, Bar-tailed Godwit and Ringed Plover. Out on the merse 16 Barnacle Geese were feeding and resting and we had a nice party of five Pintail feeding below us in a channel All in all we located at least five Greenshank, possibly seven, feeding along one of the longer lenses of water before we left to go back to Loch Indaal and catch the tide coverage in an optimum state (we didn't ).

Unfortunately the south esat wind had forced the tide well in to the upper parts of Loch Indaal and waders were all over the place. We set up close to one of the usually favoured roost positions where numbers of Dunlin and Ringed Plover were in evidence along with a couple of groups of Common Gull and Black-headed Gull. Suddenly a more interesting wader walked slowly across the sand and shingle, along with a Ringed Plover and Dunlin, and settled behind a line of detritus to gain a little shelter. Its slim shape, smaller size than Dunlin, and, most importantly, attenuated wings, indicated the Baird's Sandpiper, which had been around in this area a few days ago, was obviously still here!! Great stuff. Whilst we had reasonable views of it the blustery conditions weren't very kind and eventually all the waders moved off elsewhere and couldn't be located. A good start to the week!!

In the ornithological doldrums! 1.9.2011.

2011-09-02T09:29:00.000+01:00

After the indication of the evening previous that an east wind might be rising , it was disappointing that it then died down overnight! I still followed my intended plan of going to Holme NWT Reserve in the hope that something had arrived in the scrub along its coastal boundary. In a word....nothing! To add insult to injury, whilst going through a fabulous wader roost on a spit off the coast I missed a Honey Buzzard overflying. Not a good omen.

The wader roost was good with large numbers of Knot and Bar=tailed Godwit, many in summer plumage ,or its remnants, in addition to Grey Plover, Turnstone, Ringed Plover, Curlew, a grewat assemblage. I then moved east along the coast, dipping into various sites but not coming across anything new. The numbers of Little Stint at Cley had increased and a couple of Spoonbill showed well. A seawatch , as before, produced very little with 5 Arctic Skua, all young birds close in to the coast, <15 Common Scoter west, an Arctic Tern .....and that was it for just over two hours of effort. The most encouraging thing was a rising easterly wind (F4+ ), which was promising. An even better end to a good week anyway?

Things seem static at the moment!! 31.8.2011.

2011-09-01T09:25:00.000+01:00

I've long promised myself a visit to Holkham Hall Park where I had the time to do a full circuit of the area, as opposed to a walk through the woods and along the lake. So this was the day, plus I considered the exercise would do some good. It was really enjoyable, with a selection of woodland birds and endless encounters with fallow Deer. One major attraction for me is simply walking within tracts of mature deciduous trees of varying species which is not something on offer back home.

Around the back of the Estate and back towards the house, the residence of the Earl of Leicester, and a fine example a building in Palladian style. I stopped here to sit and watch over the lake, which had the usual species for late summer. I'm not sure about the reference to wintering Barnacle Geese from the Arctic, but having said that then saw a Little Egret on the shore opposite. Ten years ago I suppose we'd have suspected the origin of that species to possibly have been a local collection!! Having taken all that in I suddenly found moving off was a problem and had to remain "fixed" for quite a while (damned backs!). It took a while, within which time I could have been suspected of being a sculpture within the Park ("Man in Prone Position" by Rodin!! ).

Eventually moving on, and encouraged by a probable Hawfinch overflying the area, I drove on to Cley again. Little appeared to have changed so I settled in for another seawatch. Over the three hours 4 Great Skua and 27 Arctic Skua went through east, an adult Red-throated Diver and 5 Common Scoter flew west and a couple of Whimbrel went east. The most bizarre sighting was seeing a rather bloated dead grey seal moving westwards in the current offshore. Atop it was a very determined G.B.B.G attempting to feed while the carcase rolled and moved with the tide. After half an hour it what still persisting with its quest as I lost it to view!

A more limited day! 30.8.2011.

2011-09-01T08:21:00.000+01:00

Truth is over the last couple of weeks I've had trouble with my back. This was a bad one with my walking around slowly, very slowly. Not something I suffer from so no idea what the remedy is. For this morning, at least, I decided a good session of photography at Titchwell would be a sensible remedy.

It turned out to be a routine day with a Cetti's Warbler singing off the main track and waders everywhere. Having settled in the first thing that happened was that a Greater Flamingo flew in from the south and landed on one of the pools. Who's lost that one then? The waders were a bit skittish and moved around quite a lot. Best of all, for me , were the Curlew Sandpipers!

The morning progressed on with nothing new moving through but with other opportunities arising , particularly with the Ruff that were ranging over the whole freshwater marsh.

Eventually I made my way off site and parked up for quite a while at various vantage points , although to no avail. I then went to Cley again and did a seawatch, the lure of messages of Long-tailed Skuas further north being too much to ignore. Sadly, precious little was on the move although a Manx Shearwater flew west and odd Arctic and a couple of Great Skua moved east. As I returned along the edge of Arnold's Marsh several Bearded Tits appeared in the reed beds below the path and showed well for a short time. Of further interest was a young Black=tailed Godwit carrying leg flags about which I'll get the details of its movements in due course. A day that eventually turned out better than forecast!!

A mixed day. 29.8.2011.

2011-08-31T08:28:00.000+01:00

A fine day but with a cool edge to the westerly wind, but thankfully , despite threatening clouds, no rain developed.

Called in to see a friend who works at the RSPB Titchwell Reserve and then commenced to gradually go around the reserve. I watched a Water Vole for ages as it fed immediately within the outer edge of a reed bed.....not something I see that often nowadays given the drastic reduction in its population. As I made my way down the path to the coast I caught a glimpse of a Muntjac making its way across the adjacent marsh in a series of leaps. Suddenly all hell let loose as a Curlew rose in its path, my feeling being that the animal had almost landed on the hapless bird, which took some time to circle around ,uttering its alarm call all the while.

Birds were much as before with perhaps wader numbers altering around. I managed to get a photograph of a Little Stint which conveniently landed nearby and was the first I'd seen this year.

A seawatch showed very few birds on the move, but a Great crested Grebe and a couple of Eider were off shore and then, somewhat surprisingly, a female Long-tailed Duck. A very early bird to return for winter , which I learned later has been around for about ten days already. At that point I learned that the Wryneck seen at Wells yesterday was still around so I made my way westwards. And so it was, present in a few bushes on the edge of the playing fields near the harbout. A very active and showy bird which showed all its plumage details off to good effect. At one point it sat in a nearby bush eyeing up the birdwatchers present before moving out into the open !

As the afternoon was pressing on I went through to the Cley reserve and called in at the reserve's cafe. A little later, and whilst browsing through the books on sale, I found myself standing next to Mike Peacock (RSPB Warden Oronsay) the next island to the north of Islay. Small world, but with the surprising twist that I'd not seen him for about four years despite being a "neighbour".

A seawatch on the rising tide saw a few Gannets on the move , Sandwich and Common Terns around generally and 13 Arctic Skua and a single Great Skua moving east before I called it a day at 1830 hours. Certainly one of contrasts and surprises!

A day at Titchwell. 28.8.2011

2011-08-30T08:21:00.000+01:00

Given it was the Bank Holiday I decided to forgo the potential traffic and crowds and simply spend the whole day at Titchwell. The woods near the Centre had a couple of Chiffchaff, both singing intermittently, and a male Blackcap seemed to be associated with a mixed flock of Blue and Long-tailed Tits, but otherwise it was fairly quiet.

The real bonanza was on the fresh-water marsh with waders and duck in profusion. Curlew sandpiper, Little Stint, Ruff, Black-tailed Godwit, Dunlin galore, Ringed Plover, Redshank, Lapwing, Oystercatcher all fed with determination, occasionally spooked by a returning female Marsh Harrier. Odd Herring Gull and many B,H,G loafed on one of the islands along with Mallard and Shoveler. As ever numbers of Grey lag Geese were present and restlessly moving around the site.

A long period seawatching produced very little other than a few Gannets, but I suspect conditions would have been much better a bit later on the rising tide. Mid afternoon the wind began to rise until a F5/6 blustery westerly was sweeping everywhere. Not the conditions to bring in drift migrants!!

Moving operating base! 27.8.2011

2011-08-28T08:06:00.001+01:00

Following yesterday's deluge the morning was clear and bright , although rain clouds appeared and threatened all day. As intended I moved southwards to Norfolk, not terribly logical in some ways but linked to the availability of accommodation. The journey went well and I was there way before lunchtime to be met by sunny conditions.

I'd headed for Cley so that I could make my way back to Hunstanton, where I'm staying. The first bonus was a juvenile Red=backed Shrike at Walsey Hills showing extremely well and obviously hungry with its level of alertness and frequent feeding forays. A Marsh Harrier circled high above and headed off east and a Hobby flashed through eastwards too. Not a bad start.

On to the Centre to call in and see a friend ( Patrick ) and then spent virtually the rest of the day looking at the various scrapes. Eight Spoonbills slept throughout the whole period and, by contrast, a juvenile Red-necked Phalarope fed incessantly with its energy output never seeming to diminish. Waders were present in profusion with Dunlin, Curlew Sandpiper, Ruff, Little Stint, Knot, and Black-tailed Godwit all giving good views with an accompaniment of the calls of Sandwich Tern feeding off the nearby coast. Across the site numbers of Grey lag Geese fed along with Teal, Mallard, Shelduck and Wigeon. I never did get round all the hides but the forthcoming week awaits.

Stopping off at various points on my way westwards produced nothing extraordinary but I was delighted to see a covey of 12 Grey Partridge nearby to where I am staying. Nice end to the day.

Rather a wet experience. 26.8.2011

2011-08-26T22:16:00.000+01:00

Before leaving for Norfolk tomorrow ( Saturday ) I'd promised myself a visit to Flamborough and Bempton on Yorkshire's east coast. The day commenced with rain and, sadly, got steadily worse.

Setting such conditions aside I decided to go direct to Flamborough and , hopefully, see the Greenish Warbler reported from Old Fall Wood. Well, it was raining as I got there, and raining far worse when I left three hours later, and it hadn't stopped raining in between.! I heard the bird twice, but never saw it, so ,all in all it was a complete failure of a day. The sum total of birds seen was Garden Warbler, Blackcap, Willow Warbler, Robin, Blue Tit, Blackbird, Kestrel, Linnet and Meadow Pipit......not a good outcome when linked to an absolute drenching!! Driving conditions back to base were absolutely horrendous and it was a relief to get to the end of the journey. Are we due for a Bank Holiday I ask myself? Incidentally, I'm unsure of what WiFi access I may have access to next week , so bear with me.

East coast again! 25.8.2011.

2011-08-26T21:54:00.000+01:00

Looking at the weather, taking into account what had occurred elsewhere along the east coast of Britain, I judged that the rain overnight and early morning might have resulted in night passage migrants being grounded and so I went to Spurn again. I was wrong, as little of note was in evidence, although a Pied Flycatcher turned up around lunchtime. Compared to other places, Yorkshire has missed out in some respects as far as good passerines are concerned, but that's birding. A few Black Terns moving southwards over the sea were nice, but little else. Again, waders were worth looking at with Knot and Bar-tailed Godwit showing birds in partial summer plumage with, again, Grey Plover being seen in full resplendent breeding dress. By contrast all Sanderling I saw were in winter plumage!

Mid afternoon saw me move northwards to Hornsea to hopefully witness something I've never had the privilege of witnessing, the presence of massed numbers of Little Gulls on the Mere.This is something which only happens in late summer/early autumn, but numbers have reached a mind boggling 500 on occasions. Filling in the time before the "reputed hour" I managed to find the reported two Black-necked Grebe, and also four Red-crested Pochard and then settled in for the evening arrival. Little did I know that the site where the car park is situated closed at tea time, is gated off, so I had to leave a little prematurely. However, the guy in charge was extremely helpful and explained the best site from which they can be seen and counted. He also put me on to a resting out place that they use regardless of their feeding movements in the evening. And so I had brilliant views of seven juvenile birds and three adults on one of the yachting piers within the "marina part" of the Mere. Small beer compared to the 300/400 birds which can descend on the area in the evenings on some occasions, moving , presumably, from the areas offshore where they feed during the day. Their arrival can take place any time from 1600 to 2000 hours, all of which is somewhat unpredictable. After hanging on for a while, it seemed this day fell into the latter category, and so I left unrewarded with a desired phenomenon still a future diary entry.

Spurn Point. 24. 8.2011.

2011-08-26T21:23:00.000+01:00

From around 1958 I spent an inordinate amount of time at Spurn. It was the location of my first "independent" holiday away from my family and I can still remember the shock horror of my parents when I announced I was going there one Christmas and New Year. The insensitivity of teenagers! Whilst I've been back on many occasions , today was a relaxed solo pilgrimage, full of nostalgia, and never designed to be anything less. I was enthralled throughout the whole day, which I spent alone, perhaps on occasions in the remembered company of long past friends, some of whom can no longer benefit from such indulgences.

A good walk up to the Canal Zone, down past the Tank Blocks, up the remnants of Big Hedge to the coast and back to the Blue Bell took all morning. There was little of especial note , but I enjoyed it all. Waders abounded, especially some Grey Plover in full summer plumage and a whole selection of other wading bird species. A couple of Yellow Wagtail on the scrape were nice to see, but little moved over the sea. The latter figures large in my memories, not just for "big" days of passage, but because the coastal profile has changed so much in my lifetime as a result of its activities with around 100m. of this coast, at least, being eroded away since the 1960's, scary stuff!!

A walk along Beacon Lane northwards yielded virtually nothing except a series of repetitious expectations of old as the odd Whitethroat or Blue Tit moved within the bushes. The warm weather was not only a welcome tonic ( almost tropical to me! ) but was good for a variety of butterfly species encountered along the sheltered double line of hawthorns. In retrospect, I'm pleased I didn't see anything special as I don't think the sheer deep, inner joy of reliving so much of value would have been the same had it been overtaken by the transient presence of some notable migrant. It was my selfish day and I enjoyed it to the full.

Hornsea Mere. 23.8.2011.

2011-08-26T20:53:00.000+01:00

A nice afternoon, preceded by a busy morning of meetings, saw me travel over to Hornsea on the east coast of Yorkshire. My first duty was to take on the challenge of a "Whopper" breakfast at a local cafe, £5 worth of absolute value that saw me sustained for the rest of the day , all washed down with a pot of scalding hot tea!!

Hornsea Mere is vast, remains in private ownership although it used to be an RSPB reserve, under a form of licence, in past years. Its wintering duck populations are legendary, as are its rarities, and it's worth a visit at any time of year. I simply parked and took in the various sights on offer from duck and geese, to a variety of hirundines and a fly over Whimbrel. Nice relaxing birding at its best. Unfortunately the weather turned foul coinciding with a very convenient seawatching spot I'd found a bit further south down the coast. Nonetheless I had good views of feeding and passage Sandwich Terns off shore, a few Common Terns and odd Little Gulls. This episode proved to be the end of activities as the poor weather persisted and caused a premature "return to base". Ah well, a good day.

Blacktoft Sands Nature Reserve. 22.8.2011

2011-08-26T09:05:00.000+01:00

After getting through some personal business I spent the whole day at the RSPB Blacktoft Sands Reserve on the south bank of the Humber. I'd transferred up to East Yorkshire on the Sunday evening and was now within striking distance of a few important sites in that part of the County.

Blacktoft is the largest intertidal reedbed in England and has saline lagoons too, which are quite a rare habitat in Europe. Plastered with different designations it demands extremely careful management which has ensured its key species have prospered over the years. Last year 12 pairs of Marsh Harrier nested there and produced 27 young. This year 12 pairs have been present and the outcome of their breeding efforts are eagerly awaited. Other species like Bearded Tit, Bittern, Avocet and up to eight warbler species can breed on the reserve. Other claims to fame include a list in excess of 300 moth species, 75 species of fly, the rare Marsh Sow -thistle and Harvest Mice, Water Voles and water Shrews. A great site!

At this time of year waders are flooding through in numbers and that was my main reason for visiting. Seven hides ensure you can work your way through the feeding birds in comfort. I wasn't disappointed as Redshank and Spotted Redshank fed side by side, Greenshank and Green Sandpipiers appeared tucked away on every pool and a couple of Wood Sandpiper were present for comparison with their near relatives. A couple of Water Rail probed furtively within the very edge of a reedbed showing off their striped flanks, a bonus arising from this time of year when water levels recede a little. Additional members of this wader extravaganza ranged from Black-tailed Godwit, Dunlin, Common Snipe, Lapwing and lots of Ruff. Duck were here too with Mallard, Teal and Shoveler present , although as yet their usual plumages were still obscured by them being in eclipse. As I left several Tree Sparrows were present in the feeding area along with a selection of other passerines adding another pleasant dimension to a worthwhile visit.

British Birdwatching Fair

2011-08-26T08:39:00.000+01:00

This year's Birdfair was held over the weekend of 19th-20th August at the usual venue at Rutland Water. It gets bigger every year and I defy anyone to do it justice nowadays in a single day's visit. For me, an equally enjoyable experience was being able to stay with friends, David and Amanda, near past familiar territory at Sandy. Present too were Steve and Sarah so the whole visit was a laugh from end to end! I even got to witness the winding up of the Abbotsley church clock which is done on a daily rotation basis by the community, as is checking on Michael Palin's Mother-in-law, a delightful lady in her nineties!! Good times.

I helped on a couple of stalls and thoroughly enjoyed the full three days. Meeting friends aplenty, foreign contacts from yesteryear , browsing endless stalls offering travel details to exotic places and trying desperately hard to be disciplined when looking at the many bookstalls present! Thankfully the weather was kind and no persistent rain or torrential downpours saw fit to turn the site into a quagmire. With seven large marquees to visit, the Art Marquee and all the networking I never managed to get to one lecture, for which I noticed there was at least two marquees this year!

For me it was an occasion of reflection, as I haven't been for about five years, but came away full of resolve to ensure I never miss in future. A necessary social topping up essential to placing focus on the rest of the year's birding activities.

Enter the Green Warrior. 18th August,2011.

2011-08-26T08:22:00.000+01:00

Now I'll not bore you with the whole saga but my departure from Islay for a couple of weeks or so had been riven with some uncertainty and regret. Circumstances then conspired to persuade me that my thinking was right and I went ahead and changed my car!! Routine, easy you might think.....well yes, but it had been a faithful steed for around eight years and I was tremendously attached to it. We had been up mountain tracks, through bogs, very bad snowy conditions and the like, which always generates respect for a vehicle that successfully gets you there. But it was beginning to age and things were never going to be the same as the inevitable signs of such began to emerge. Above all else it was a 4X4!

This always presented me with some guilt given the environmental disclosures attached to such vehicles. So I thought hard! With diesel at £1.53 per litre on Islay, compared to much less on the mainland, and a halter of environmental guilt around my neck I decided to do the decent thing! I am now the proud owner of a 1.4 TDI Ford Fiesta whose carbon emissions are very low and whose Road Fund Licence costs £30 per year , as opposed to £269!! I've just done 301 miles on half a tank of diesel and have willingly joined the ranks of the Green Warriors!! In fact , I shall turn the complete hypocrite and condemn all those with Chelsea tractors, unless they really need one, which some do. I'm pleased with the change, although worried about coping with the abysmal road conditions on Islay at present, matched equally by the abysmal track record ( forgive the pun ) of the Local Authority, Argyll and Bute, in dealing with them. On the last disclosure, the distilleries on Islay contributed £145 million per annum in "tax" generated from whisky to the Exchequer, and yet little of this bonanza finds its way back to the island! There'll be places I can no longer get to, and odd things I never do again I suppose, and there'll be cleaning and polishing obligations, something you can get away with with a 4x4 unless you live in urbansville. So, raise the flag and take succour from the fact the air is cleaner and a blow has been smitten against climate change. Oh , and it's saved me a few pounds as well!!

A question of what lies ahead?

2011-08-16T12:23:00.000+01:00

2011 hasn't been the best of years in some respects when it comes to enjoying the smooth progression of life!!! The last week or so has epitomised this with , in addition to frustrating problems associated with my PC, I've also ( again, I know ) had problems with the car. So, time to face up to reality.

Later today I shall be on the ferry to the mainland with the express intention of sorting out car problems!! Bear with me as entries on this Blog might be a little intermittent, but the situation can only improve. Beyond that I have "plans" that, if everything works out , will provide more than enough raw material for the Blog and lead to a resumption of being able to make daily entries. Watch this space!

Moths are dull.....don't you believe it!! Part two.

2011-08-16T12:15:00.000+01:00

Following on from the piece I put out on the 20th July, this final invitation to "getting involved with moths" dwells on the enjoyment that can be derived from being involved in recording the various species. It's a natural step after becoming absorbed by moths and learning about them to then begin recording what you find. Given moth recording has not been as popular as, say , bird recording over the years there remains much to be done.

Submitting records of what you find, and where, is important as there are still many places where year round records of the likely species to be encountered are missing. Coupled with this are the records of migrant moths from the Continent and, more recently, evidence of some species colonising, or re-colonising, parts of the UK as the effects of climate change appear to arise.

At the end of 2010 a landmark publication emerged, the " Provisional Atlas of the UK's Larger Moths ". This was the result of years of recording and resulted in the first up to date maps in 30 years for 868 macro-moth species ( the maps for the Geometridae {over 300 species } were the first ever to be published ). See Butterfly Conservation's web site for how you can get your copy!

The records had been lodged in the database associated with the National Moth Recording Scheme (NMRS ) and the maps were produced from the 11.3 million records which were held within it. The NMRS was one of the initiatives within the Moths Count project run by Butterfly Conservation and the production of the Atlas after only four years was a remarkable milestone. The project will continue and the NMRS database extended still further over ensuing years ( hence the Atlas being described as "Provisional"). Since its publication a further 700,000 records have already been received giving an indication of the emerging interest in the subject and the hard work too of many, many volunteer recorders.

A further component of the Moths Count Project was to improve and extend the "presence" of Moth Recorders in each of the Vice Counties in the UK, which resulted in 34 new individuals being recruited to fill the gaps. The role of these individuals is to act as a focal point in a given area and for them to be the recipient of records generated locally, to encourage people further , promote the NMRS and so on.

The maps themselves will fill a variety of purposes. They provide a current indication of where individual species can be found, i.e. their national distribution. The requisite map for the Small Ranunculus shows it to be widely distributed but, within the dots where presence has been determined, there are gaps indicating the species has not yet been recorded. It may be absent, of course, or simply, as yet , evaded the efforts of those involved in recording in that area. Such "white areas" on a map can, in effect, act as an indication of where future recording efforts might be targeted.

By the same token, some of the maps show a very restricted distribution for certain species given, in turn , the restricted availability of the specialised habitat upon which they rely. Such maps and records are important in guiding conservation efforts aimed at protecting these very specific sites that continue to hold unique examples of our biodiversity. Eventually, of course, the maps can be used in a comparative context where an historical analysis is applied aimed at establishing where the range of a species has retracted or, indeed, enjoyed some expansion. Loss of habitat will inevitably be linked to the former, but the colonisation of specific niches by "new" species will not just indicate the timing and extent of their spread but perhaps introduce new conservation priorities dependent on their status and the availability of their chosen "home".

So, obviously many challenges lie ahead. The more people become involved, the quicker we will more fully understand a whole variety of questions raised in the past and be better equipped to address the inevitable conservation tasks which develop within our dynamic world. It is something which can take you to far flung places, or become an increasingly absorbing feature of your local environment. It is a fascinating hobby and gives a lot of pleasure so....take the plunge!!

First "sign in " with Grey lag Geese.

2011-08-07T18:48:00.000+01:00

It didn't start off that way, but a young Grey lag Goose walking along the road above the house, which leads across a section of grass moor, suggested I perhaps ought to check on the overall situation as far as emerging numbers were concerned. The young bird flew off strongly incidentally, goodness knows what the story was behind that situation!!

So I visited a variety of areas in NW Islay and counted the Grey lag Geese on show. As yet they don't seem to have joined up together and formed the composite flocks which have been a feature of years previously. Having said that , birds are mobile and parties flying across Loch Indaal, southwards down Loch Gruinart and across the wide vicinity of Loch Gorm proved that to be the case. Totals in the Loch Gorm/Gruinart area were in accord with recent observations and, otherwise, all over, parties appeared to be very much hefted to their usual area be that at Ellister, Claddach or around Loch Gorm. Strangely enough, at least today, none appeared to be utilising the saltmarsh flats at Bridgend.

The most interesting observations otherwise were a Greenshank heard at Loch Gruinart and a couple of immature Wigeon on a lens of water on the otherwise rather lushly vegetated pools at the RSPB Gruinart Reserve.

A reasonable day spoiled! 6.8.2011.

2011-08-07T08:28:00.000+01:00

Calm conditions early morning persuaded me to have a walk out locally first , and then go seawatching, leaving later in the day to develop its own plan. The sea was almost calm, a sullen band of grey extending to a misty horizon. All intentions worked well, with eventual activity taking in most of Loch Indaal too. Sitting at the head of Loch Indaal in the early afternoon it was obvious a big storm was coming in with "blot out" visibility from the south. No sooner had I decided to return home than a pretty vicious cyclonic storm opened up with large rain droplets and volumes of water pouring down. Headlights on and caution reigned through some quickly developing floods on the main road. Horrendous..........and a few miles further on , it was dry!! Ah well!

Both pairs of Swallows in the barn now have flying young, so the vicinity of the house is a permanent maelstrom of activity! First thing over 40 Meadow Pipits were on the telephone wires to the house, which suggests they've had a good season. warbler movement has suddenly stepped up with several Willow Warbler and Whitethroat noted.

Seawatching was rewarding, but not exceptional, with numbers of Gannet and Manx Shearwater in evidence, a few 10's of Kittiwake but little else in numbers. Both Arctic and Great Skuas went through, as did a party of Dunlin, two Whimbrel and a Red-throated Diver. Most revealing was the absence of local terns who must have cleared out after breeding. Oh, and embarrassingly folks, I had a single Basking Shark offshore of the new spot I was trying out. It would happen , wouldn't it!!

A gradual progression northwards along Loch Indaal saw very little of note in the Outer Loch other than a juv Red-throated Diver. Further in moulting Red-breasted Mergansers again showed numbers lower than in previous years , which appears to be an ongoing trend. A good selection of waders was present with several parties of adult Dunlin present, ringed Plover, Oystercatcher, Curlew, Bar-tailed Godwit and a single , almost pristine , Sanderling in full summer plumage. A handful of Arctic Tern, several young Black-headed Gulls ( for once ) , a couple of Sand Martin and several Pied Wagtails feeding around a pool completed the picture before the rains came!!

On the way back, on higher ground and in the lee of "the storm", a brief view of a Wheatear showed a large, very bright, robust bird that immediately brought a reaction of " Greenland", but such would seem to be very early?

Basking Sharks not much in evidence!

2011-08-05T09:30:00.000+01:00

I have recently finished reading the first book written by Gavin Maxwell, in 1952, " Harpoon at a Venture". It relates to his ill-fated attempts to set up a sharkfishing enterprise in the late 1940's based on Soay, off the southern coast of the Isle of Skye, Scotland. These endeavours came to an end in 1949, but his connection with the Highlands and its wildlife remained long after, out of which his association with Otters began and culminated in the seminal work, "Ring of Bright Water" that sold 2 million copies in the 1960's and 70's.

This is not a review of the book, whose contents relating to the killing and processing of Basking Sharks I found particularly unappealing at times. Such content must necessarily now be viewed from a perspective sixty years on and the fact that, following such times, attitudes to wildlife have since changed dramatically, not least because of the efforts of Maxwell himself in later years. Within the book there is much that can be judged extremely useful if comparisons are made to current times and the status of Basking Sharks.

When first I came to Islay in the late 1990's sightings of Basking Sharks were extremely rare. Last year (2010) was perhaps the best in recent yeras and similar experiences arose from places like Tiree and Coll too. Local feedback suggests they were seen reguarly a few decades ago, particularly off SW Islay. Whether their population then declined in the final few decades of the last millenium, or that they were simply elsewhere, who knows, but certainly 2010 saw their regular appearance around Islay and Jura and the sightings being commented on by many. Now, 2011 appears to be a somewhat fallow year again. Various people have commented on the absence of records from previously favoured haunts, so we are left with a bit of a mystery. Doubtless someone will pop up now and announce they saw individuals on particular dates but, generally speaking, I think it can be taken as being a quiet year!

Acknowledgement must be given to the photographer, R.Pickering , and to Morvern Summers ( Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust ) for permission to use this image.

Up to around 2008 only single specimens were recorded locally, but then instances of two , and even three together, were reported. In 2010 up to six were seen together and more reports than ever arose. Maxwell mentions a shoal of 80+ and relates how such might roam over many miles of sea. Of interest are his comments relating to the seasons of occurrence and regularity. They never started seeking them out until the last week in April and ended their catching season in mid-September, both dates close to the limits of occurrences arising here.

That this huge leviathan of the oceans has brought enjoyment to many is in no doubt. That they will ever again be viewed as a pest by virtue of their breaking through herring nets is also in doubt given new sensitivities directed towards wildlife and the relative demise of herring stocks too!! That Maxwell saw commercial and economic opportunities in their slaughter is without question. That he also debated with himself the question of pain associated with such activities is provided in an exposition of what pain can encompass, is revealing of the man who later became a leading conservationist.

All in all a fascinating read and a book raising many of the self same questions that we often pose about the species today. On this basis I would urge that you access the web site of the Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust (www.hwdt.org ) to glean up to date information about this species and its presence in Scottish waters. Various trips offshore are now arranged in west Scotland to allow sightings of a variety of marine wildlife and an endless array of excellent photographs are available on many cetacean species and other animals on the website.. May I again express my thanks to Morvern Summers ( HWDT ) for the assistance given and urge everyone who might have records of Basking Sharks and cetaceans to submit them via the website ( but look at it anyway!!).

Finally, may I offer my thanks to Ian Turner ( Librarian, Islay ) who initially brought my attention to the book , provided comment on occurrences in past years and who has been responsible for the reportage of many of the records from SW Islay, often from the close vantage point of his own fishing boat!!

Announcement !!!!

2011-08-03T17:20:00.000+01:00

I've just had a run of bad days as far as computer facilities are concerned. OK, it happens to all of us , but perhaps not to the extent that you consider replacing all your hardware!! But, persistence, or a Yorkshireman's reticence towards monetary outlay ( a very solid trait ), suddenly saw all systems restored. Whilst I've tweaked, reloaded, amended systems and spent countless hours "investigating" the problem, the ultimate frustration is that, suddenly, the whole system came right. And I've no damned idea what was the cause in the first place.

So, not a lot of "field action" as a result but, hopefully, all that is now history. Over the last few days, including long nights, the most apparent aspect has been the obvious movement through of warblers locally. Sedge, Willow, Grasshopper and Common Whitethroat have all been encountered, plus Northern Wheatear, Whinchat and House Martin also obviously moving southwards. Autumn migration is clearly in action.

So, hopefully succeeding days will now proceed without interruption and various pieces I've drafted can now see the light of day. A question! In the mornings do you switch on your computer around the same time as your kettle, or is your cyber time more compartmentalised!! I'm utterly amazed at how much I've been fazed by the lack of availability of computer facilities, an admission I suspect many of us would admit to in this techno age!! Think about it!

Can "strategic visions" be of any use?

2011-07-21T09:12:00.001+01:00

VITAL UPLANDS. A 2060 VISION FOR ENGLAND'S UPLAND ENVIRONMENT.
NATURAL ENGLAND. 2011

This 14 page document aims to promote Natural England's vision for an upland environment in just under 50 years time! It expresses ambitions for change, which contain a series of preferences all of us would find laudable. Doubtless it will be criticized by some who miss the point of its strategic emphasis and its deliberate omission of detailed policies on key matters affecting the uplands like raptor persecution, planning issues and land management. As a summary document it does its stuff, but can we accept any of it other than being the sincere expression of a "wish list scenario"?

My worries surround the almost naive assumptions which are made, as opposed to the nature of the objectives themselves. Fifty years ahead, really! Perhaps we ought to turn the clock back 50 years and take heed of the changes which have occurred in that period and whether any of us can afford the luxury of crystal ball gazing. In very general terms the 1960's followed on the heels of the 1954 Protection of Birds Act, the creation of the Nature Conservancy and the National Parks legislation, but little else of a similar nature. Set this against the plethora of changes since then , much of which has been beneficial , but all in some way has had an effect on our environment. Designations, regulation guidelines, European influence and other strategic outpourings which now appear to be the norm. The next fifty years will be no different and doubtless many measures will emerge that serve to frustrate the optimum visions of the present.

Consider some of the negatives of the last fifty years! First amongst equals must be the actions of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. Policies, urged on by subsidies, which saw immense and irrevocable change to our landscapes, particularly from the retention of our natural heritage. Think also of afforestation, supported by Government and doubtless proceeding in the face of opposition from the Nature Conservancy Council....but it happened! I'm sure there are many other examples but, simply put, a period of 50 years can embrace such far reaching changes emanating from political initiatives that a vision extending that far ahead can carry little credibility in my opinion. Such thinking has its value though, as I point out later. In this instance I hesitate to cast Natural England in the role of a fortune teller crouched over a crystal ball, but the image keeps springing to mind!

Having made that somewhat flippant remark there is, nonetheless, a serious aspect to trying to perceive what is the optimum situation which might be achieved through the positive application of sustainable management practices and planned approaches. In my view the element that frustrates this process, utterly, is the absence of stability. All such visions can only be created based on "an all things being equal" basis and, therefore, one must question their potential usefulness in the face of undoubted change. Life no longer appears to have the stability and tranquillity of yesteryear. Global events and change, political will and, even , "electorate whimsy" can all play a part in altering , even reversing, well intended goals, besides apparent major physical influences like climate change.

However there is a place for such "blue sky thinking" in our culture. It represents what might be termed "the best" for everyone and , in that context, should not be diminished nor rejected. What we really need to pursue is the element of stability within our national framework when it comes to environmental matters, as opposed to a never ending changing of goal posts, reduction of budgets, and a generally held view that anything " environmental" is second best and first to go!! This is not a suggestion for our fossilising our environment, but one to award the subject area the respectability and recognition it deserves. With an ever increasing town-based population that particular public needs to better understand the needs and challenges of the environment, not feel confident it knows already ( the Countryside Alliance would have a view on this I suspect! ). But similarly, political parties need to robustly embrace such principles such that they form a basis of action be they in Government or Opposition. When will there be a general acceptance that the quality of our environment is key to most other elements affecting our lives? When will we afford it the investment it deserves, as opposed to treating it as a never to be depleted bank account from which we can draw reserves. Of course there are positive things happening, and such will continue to happen via an increasing raft of sustainable practices. But is it enough? In many respects it's "wing and a prayer management" despite the positive initiatives. Exercises, such as outlined in the above document do, therefore, have value, not in the specifics , but in being a salutary reminder we need "joined up thinking" , a holistic approach for everything, along the lines advocated for the uplands.

A title to the document simply expressing the hope, " A Vision For Our Future Uplands" would probably have been more easily understood. But whatever the shortcomings, the vision acts as a reminder that, if we continue to inflict upon our environment a status of low priority this is the wonderful diversity and quality we will lose and it will be our children who will be the biggest losers of all.

However, even with all this well researched advice, is our natural heritage any more secure than it was previously? Given the many recent improvements it might seem churlish and pessimistic , even defeatist, to suggest otherwise. Sadly environmental quality is the one subject area upon which I have diminished optimism. Parallel to any positives, the seemingly endless reports on "loss of this", "reduced that" , "need for protection" and so on suggest it appears it might be little more than an indulgence we award ourselves when visualising the future. Currently , in the absence of any real allegiance to our natural environment by successive Governments, the matter is in our hands and we need to act accordingly to ensure environment and wildlife matters are endlessly to the fore.

Moths are dull........don't you believe it!! (Part one ).

2011-07-20T07:56:00.005+01:00

For many people the beauty of moths is something they miss out on. Encounters are limited to the odd individual which gains access to the house , and that's it!

Well, there's certainly more to them than that , which I suspect most people would appreciate should they see some of the more attractive, iconic individuals. Subtle colours, intricate patterns, even intriguing shapes are all exhibited by some of the species we have in the UK. Admittedly some of them are best left to the enthusiasts, as their more subdued colours and patterns dictate more than a little knowledge is needed before determining what species they might be.

As we all know , the majority of moths are nocturnal and, therefore we need a suitable trap into which we can entice them. A variety exist, and without getting technical, they comprise two main types.

This type runs off mains electricity, or can be powered by a generator, and is obviously best suited to being run near to home , a field centre or somewhere similar. Inside can be seen a "supply" of egg boxes under which the moths can seek out some secure nook and cranny.

This type, an Actinic lamp, is far more portable as it is powered by a car battery ( or rechargeable caravan battery in this case ). It means trapping can take place in more out of the way places and provides much more flexibility. In each case the moths can be examined and identified in the morning and then released. An ideal opportunity to involve children.

All the following species have been caught on Islay and are pretty widespread, but not necessarily universal, in their distribution within the UK. To get a real impression of them , click on each photograph to get a full screen view and better appreciate the tremendous colours, the shapes or the patterning.

The first, an Elephant Hawk Moth, shows off some really subtle colours, followed by a Garden Tiger Moth illustrating the intensity of contrasting colours and pattern designs which can arise and, finally, a Puss Moth, showing off an intricate web of lines in the patterning on its wings.

Admittedly these are examples of some of our larger sized moths that show off their features to best effect, they by no means eclipse the beauty of many of the smaller individuals. So, if any of this grabs your imagination, keep an eye open for one of the public events run at your local Country Park or Nature Reserve or take a look at the Butterfly Conservation web site which gives details of events being held by their local groups.

In the second part I'll outline some of the fascinating results which have been accomplished and that have emerged from the moth recording schemes which have been operating in the past few years.

Different ends of the spectrum!!

2011-07-18T09:57:00.000+01:00

News has emerged that the Maltese court system has imposed prison sentences of two years and one year respectively on two hunters who, in May of this year, targetted their efforts on White Storks. In addition fines of $9000 and $5000 were imposed on the two men and their hunting licences revoked.

All this, contrasted against the situation which held until recently, is a well received shock! Remember all the fuss about birds being shot, petitions to the European Parliament, arguments about shooting seasons and the like and even initiatives to dis-suade tourists to visit the island. Suddenly all appears to have changed, and quite drastically too. How permanent such a shift might be is anybody's guess, but the precedent has now been set and we should offer our congratulations on a courageous move to put an end to the senseless slaughter which has gone before.

What is it about this obsession with birds?

2011-07-16T20:02:00.000+01:00

A rather mixed week wherein tourist type duties were to the fore and much emphasis on computer outpourings (concentrated on in the hours pre elevenses , which are certainly not the territory of teenage ladies)!! Good in a way as it provides an opportunity to get work done, but not the greatest atmosphere for birding! Never mind, it's a great time when my daughters are here.

I did , however, think my powers of persuasion were improving with promises of a good ramble in "les espaces nostalgique" being well received, within which time, I admit, I stood a good chance of seeing the Rose-coloured Starling that's present. God forbid, it rained overnight, and during the day, and I'd left the wellington boots outside as well, upright, which became full of water. Young ladies and wet wellingtons are not a marriage made in heaven, even when the weather improves!! I've seen at least two Rose-coloured Starlings on Islay and endless ones abroad, including a colony of 10,000 + in Kazakhstan. So why the concern?

Why do we get so obsessed with these damned things called birds? Answers on a post card, the most interesting of which will be from wives and girlfriends!! But, enter, the lady lister!! No longer is it the much maligned male who abandons domestic duties to flee for some avian imperative! I suppose the ladies will claim all the "dom " stuff is sorted beforehand, against which the only (poor) excuse is that we're ill equipped for multi tasking!!

It does seem to take us lot over though! And how many times have those spontaneous mantras echoed through households across the land, " Oh , for goodness sake, go on and see your damned bird, and stop going on about it!!". True or not true?

The thing is, I've still not seen this Rose-coloured Starling!!!!!!

Grasping the nettle at last......but with gloves on!!

2011-07-13T10:30:00.002+01:00

Recent days has seen the promotion of different initiatives variously aimed at improving biodiversity in the Scottish landscape and the Peak District National Park in England and generally providing a framework within which "conflicts between different interests can be resolved". So far so good one could say and, in fact, I'm actually impressed because something, finally, is happening to confront the deplorable situation relating to raptor persecution.

In Scotland the "Wildlife Estates Scotland Initiative", WES for short, has been launched. It's actually been around since late 2010 when it was hurriedly cobbled together by furious landowners in a knee jerk reaction to the possibility of licensing being proposed for Scottish shooting estates. The scheme is intended to show they can be both trustworthy and effective acting under the banner of self-regulation and that biodiversity, the rural Scottish economy, habitat management practices and the usual raft of positive outcomes will result. The initiative has gained the support of the Environment Minister, MSP Stewart Stevenson and we are told that over 200 estates and farms have already signed up, although the list of participants is not yet available. All very laudable stuff, particularly when linked to an objective buried within their declared list of standards that all aspects of wildlife legislation will be upheld. The overriding intention would seem to be to provide " a framework within which new initiatives designed to resolve conflicts between different interests and species, can operate".

Well done, chaps, we'll see how it goes. BUT it's hoped that perhaps you might actually mention raptor persecution from time to time, even have a declared policy on it so members of the public are left in no doubt as to your position. Oblique references to intended good behaviour aren't enough I'm afraid. Grasp the nettle and stand up for a squeaky clean operation throughout Scotland that also does deliver biodiversity and improves landscape quality and economic benefits at the same time. May I ask that your organization condemns the actions of those who step across the line and break any aspect of wildlife law, so that we all then know you really mean business. And what of those who we know have committed such crimes, is there a policy wherein they are debarred membership or is a conversion process to be offered? A real grasping of the nettle!

I sincerely hope it works, as I've long suggested that there needs to be action "from within". Time will tell!

Southwards to the Peak National Park and we see an initiative aimed at improving the status of certain birds of prey ( Merlin, Peregrine and Short-eared Owl ). The whole is overseen by a group comprising the National Park, the Moorland Association, RSPB and the National Trust. Now it's more than ten years ago since the area was within my "Regional RSPB bailiwick", but in the twenty years previous to that immense effort had been put into maintaining the Northern Goshawk population within the Peak and fighting (usually) rearguard actions relating to Hen Harriers. While I would again wish the scheme well, I'm genuinely,utterly perplexed that no commitment has been issued towards the above species. Northern Goshawk has all but been wiped out in the Peak and a number of high profile cases relating to its persecution have occurred over the years, so why no mention? A declared intention to include Hen Harrier in the efforts to be made would have also seemed logical, rather than give an undertaking that it will be dealt with in a similar initiative intended for the SW Peak. Whilst odd breeding attempts have centred on that area what is the justification in only considering that part of the Park? There's endless hectares of suitable habitat for the species in the Peak, so why not have a Park-wide policy to try and improve things? The declared intention to have a " more harmonious future" smacks of politics and nettles to me!!

Finally may I draw your attention to a new blog, " Standing up for Nature", being issued by Mark Avery. Until recently Mark had been the Director of Conservation ,RSPB , but he has decided to go independent, with recent outpourings suggesting this could be a good thing! He's a good bloke for whom I've a great deal of admiration, mainly because he speaks his mind ( he could even be a Yorkshireman, we'll perhaps offer Honorary status!! ). In a recent Blog entry he criticises Simon Jenkins, Chairman of the National Trust and labels him a raptor hater based on comments made within his writings, where he describes raptors as "avian terrorists". Notwithstanding the fact that the National Trust has declared policies linked to wildlife management associated with its landholdings, such expressed opinions from the Chairman of a membership based organisation are surely ill conceived in many ways. Fabric of England , and all that, of which our natural heritage is as important a constituent member as is the built heritage and what it contains! But then be aware that , on one of their properties in the Peak Park, a gamekeeper of the National Trust's tenant, ( himself a Purdey Award winner ), was prosecuted successfully on several counts for offences associated with wildlife legislation. Read, digest and consider! If the Chairman publicly condemns certain elements of our natural heritage, it's hardly a good example to others!

Much to consider and "patrol" it would seem within coming months!!

Cambodian Green Tourism prospers.

2011-07-11T23:46:00.000+01:00

Anybody who has followed this Blog will have seen references I've made from time to time about Cambodia. The country made a big impression on me and has some iconic bird species that many birders would like to see. News has just emerged of a new website giving details of the facilities and tours associated with Tmatboey village, which provides the base from which you can venture out and see both Giant and White-shouldered Ibis. It's a tremendous place, the food is out of this world, and the people friendly, helpful and never to be forgotten. They deserve success. Read more on the site and certainly consider the possibility of a trip.

http://www.cambodia-wildlife-adventures.org/

As I write this I'm looking northwards on to a dark night sky in the hope of seeing some indication of the Aurora borealis strutting its stuff across the heavens. The alert service issued an E-mail today suggesting an "Amber alert status" might be anticipated. It's now 2345 hours and there is still a faint red band of light settled on the horizon to the west , above which is a lighter band of blue sky before it then grades into a midnight blue covering. To the south a very hazy moon is not yet making great strides on the illumination front but may yet confuse the situation! I'm beginning to suspect it's time for bed as opposed to another dram!

A different day----no birds!

2011-07-10T22:06:00.000+01:00

Away early to get the first ferry to the mainland to pick up my youngest daughters and bring them across to Islay after they'd attended the T-in-the-Park music festival. Spent the whole outward voyage talking to a colleague about the Tour de France and conservation matters, so much so that I never had an opportunity to explore "the new ferry". I have to say, pretty splendiferous!!

Ever onward I then went through to Crianlarich and effected a perfect pick up , dead on time with the arrangements. As you might imagine T-in-the -Park figured in our return conversations discussing groups I'd never really heard of , even given my fastidious preparation by watching TV coverage of the renowned Glastonbury Festival ( actually I really enjoyed it! ). A speedy return ensured I could complete a supermarket shop ( always a "must" if you're off island ) and then we all returned on "the new ferry". It is rather fine , lots of steel, reflective surfaces, ultra modern everything!! The only criticism I would have is about the seats ....none are really comfortable! Sorry, but it's true. A bit of a dis appointment set against everything else which is pretty mega!

And so the day ended with the only recollection of anything avian of interest being a Jay fleeing a stretch of woodland between Inverary and Tomatin.

Slight changes afoot? 9.7.2011.

2011-07-09T19:07:00.001+01:00

Out early and had the "reward" of coming across three different male Hen Harriers hunting over separate and previously known breeding areas , which was quite encouraging as the season so far has been far from uplifting. Hopefully they've all got good broods!

A migration watch over the Sound of Islay showed a definite movement north (?) of adult Common Gulls ( no southward moving birds at all! ) and a couple of small parties of immature Eider moving through. Contrasted against personal studies looking at movements off the west coast of Islay these movements are really intriguing, maybe little more than local , but somehow I don't think so given the Common Scoter which went through recently. Some birds do seem to use the Sound as a short cut through to feeding areas in the more open waters to the SE of Islay between us and the mainland, others appear to use it as a direct migration route ( Common Scoter, Grey-lag Goose, Arctic Terns , Kittiwake). Friend and colleague , James Wolstencroft, completed various studies off mainland Argyll coast a few years ago and had very little moving in what is the Sound of Jura and yet the remaining member of the questioning triumvirate interested in this subject, Andy Schofield, had Arctic Skuas moving east along the south coast of Islay in spring that were obviously going to move northwards through the Sound of Jura. If you're confused at this point, then I recommend a peep at a map ( the Sounds in question are either side of Jura ). Certainly few, if any, Arctic Skuas move through the Sound of Islay in any season and the once thriving colonies on Jura are now a thing of the past. So more work needed I think!

The new ferry, Finlaggan, appears to be back in service after a couple of failures since its inauguration, its more rapid appearance up the Sound disturbing a Red-throated Diver , which I'd not located previously so a bit of a win-win situation!!

Mixed situation with warblers! 7.7.2011

2011-07-07T21:09:00.000+01:00

Yesterday I had the first young Common Whitethroat of the season in the garden, a species which usually appears to move through a bit later and certainly after the appearance of young Willow Warblers , of which I've seen none as yet. Then today I had a Blackap singing its heart out and a rather more reluctant Sedge Warbler uttering a minimal set of notes! Certainly a strange season , both in the dates on which birds first arrived and then what has happened since. Whilst a crop of young birds of various species seemed evident a couple of weeks ago, activity has significantly quietened in recent days.

Today perhaps epitomised the season so far.......somewhat mixed. I was seriously drenched by 1100 hours , although the afternoon proved to be more pleasant! Things generally are still a little quiet with no real evidence of birds on the move. However, having said that, the young Wheatears that were so obvious previously appear to have left.

My best sighting of the day was of a Golden Eagle, stoically sitting it out atop a trig point in the midst of a storm ( I could barely see it) which, at the end of it all, put on a show of shaking off all the excess moisture worthy of a disco exhibition presentation!!

Disaster in Ethiopia. 5/7/2011.

2011-07-05T20:36:00.000+01:00

Ethiopia is a phenomenal country for birds, but also for varying cultures and presents opportunities where we in the West can be confronted with something very different in a whole manner of respects.

Recent reports of the impending disaster about to engulf parts of that country , Kenya, Sudan , Djibouti and Uganda raise real feelings of concern within me given I've had the privilege of visiting several of the areas. In 2008 I visited southern Ethiopia and doubtless touched on some of the areas now affected by the drought, wherein no rain has fallen in two years! Even then we were dismayed to find we had to spend a significant amount of time one morning hunting down water in one of the villages we had stayed in. A realisation of how close to the cutting edge of survival one was approaching!! In one area to witness that people were collecting waste water from elsewhere in order to survive was a more than a bit of a leveller! To also realise, elsewhere, that the camel and cattle herders had driven their beasts a considerable way simply to water them was another hard learned lesson. Now the situation is far worse and animals are actually dying due to a lack of water, animals that are the lifeline for so many communities. Nobody ever mentions the harsh surroundings such husbandry is usually carried out in. Anybody conversant with a trip to such habitats will be familiar with the thornbush landscape, harsh, and relatively unproductive such that nobody ought to be attempting to derive a living from such an unrelenting landscape. But people are eking a living out for themselves and their families!!

In an utterly selfish way I have to admit I saw some particularly brilliant birds in those surroundings.........Ruspoli's Turaco, Streseman's Bushcrow, White-tailed Swallow etc and many others. That's all very well from my currently comfortable surroundings considering entering such a list on Bird Base. But what of Ethiopia? Well, should you wish to contribute to the various appeals that are ongoing, I can only encourage you to do so. It seems to me that one aspect that is important, after all the concern has died down, and that is that interest in the area doesn't die away. Very seldom do we see reports that say circumstances are back to normal. When it's sensible to do so , consider a trip to Ethiopia , it's a tremendous place and you'll be helping various people from guides, to drivers, accommodation providers, cooks, shopkeepers and so on. I met a family who oversaw an eagle owl site, ensured its protection and relied on contributions from birders to maintain their family. Touching, yes it is, but it's the reality of how things operate outside of many structured economies. Go there!!

A few international perspectives! 5.7.2011

2011-07-05T19:30:00.000+01:00

In what I suspect may end up being more than a couple of Blog entries today, it's relevant perhaps to commence with comments associated with the wider canvas!!

May I recommend to all readers an organisation, TRAFFIC, centred on Britain, but with various national constituent members ( see http://www.traffic.org ). Trade in wildlife , and its eradication, is its mission and I'm amazed nowadays how much effort is emerging in other countries and the amount of international co-operation taking place.

A series of newsletters recently highlighted both success and disappointment! In India a reported 12% increase in Tiger numbers has occurred, with a country total now being considered as 1706. Encouraging I accept , but nonetheless look at some of the areas India plays host to and possibly what the total ought to be . A travesty and damning judgement on past activities but, nonetheless a very positive sign and a tribute to all the effort being made on the species behalf.

Perhaps less encouraging was a report on Alexandrine Parrots in India and activities that appear to be impacting on their population. There are 12 parrot species in India but the Alexandrine is a popular constituent of the pet market trade. Seizure reports suggest overseas trade is occurring and that such activities are now beginning to affect the overall population numbers.

A report that I found somewhat bizarre due to its apparent lack of logic!! In Asia the demand for rhino horn products is resulting in a poaching spree in southern Africa with 333 killed in South Africa alone in 2010. Time magazine then, apparently, discovered an initiative in China aimed at a captive breeding process that would have fed the market and, one hopefully, assumes led to poaching being a thing of the past. Such has been vehemently denied by Chinese authorities and a whole plethora of parallel issues have emerged. Personally I feel a captive breeding programme aimed at eliminating the cruelty and population reduction of wild animals is to be encouraged. Surely , rhino horn is rhino horn if you believe in that sort of thing!! I well remember a few years ago my Chief Executive ( RSPB ) making a presentation at an international conference on animal trade issues by saying that if we could solve the problem of the male ego, and its need for artificial stimulus, many of our conservation problems would be improved!! She was that type of cookie!! But think about it, hunting, trophies, potency... it's all in there!

But what about this! A U.A.E. guy arrested at Bangkok airport had 4 Leopard cubs, a bear cub, a gibbon and a marmoset in his luggage. My thoughts extend to the Customs officials!!

Finally, something that needs fairly drastic action. Go on to the Humane Society International's web site and support the following if you feel you can. Very shortly ( a matter of days ) the 63rd International Whaling Commission meeting will take place. There is a proposal that a whale sanctuary be recognised in the South Atlantic where, obviously , no whaling activities would take place. Such an area is adjacent to Caribbean waters where many people enjoy their holidays and many take whale watching trips. And yet four nations ( St.Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Barbuda, St.Vincent and the Grenadines and St.Lucia ) vote against whale protection proposals year after year after year. By contrast one of their near neighbours , Dominican Republic, has been a leading light in such initiatives. Clearly politics are at play, but politics which must be exposed so that better protection can be afforded these magnificent animals that are a part of our international fauna and, therefore, a responsibility of all nations.

Many of these organizations ask little of us other than our support for petitions and, if you can afford it, some modest contribution to their activities. My fix on this is to simply , and gently , remind everyone that, the next time you go abroad to somewhere exotic, the reason you can enjoy the sight of something equally appealing is because of the efforts that have gone before. I know from being in bird protection most of my life, such efforts are demanding, generally go unrecognised, can be very rewarding, but do deserve support.

Is Aberdeenshire set to be labelled the U.K's "killing fields" ?

2011-07-03T21:08:00.000+01:00

News has emerged that the young female Hen Harrier ringed ( FP 67025) in Glen Tanar on 29.6.2010, and fitted with a satellite tag ( 51894 ), has suddenly and mysteriously disappeared after returning to her natal area, and other adjacent upland areas, and being tracked for several days ( see www.raptortrack.org/category/hen-harrier/tanar/ ). Such are the circumstances that Roy Dennis ( Highland Foundation for Wildlife ), who is central to the research, has reported the matter to the local police and asked for it to be investigated.

Having a life-long passion for harriers the bird had given me a lot of personal pleasure when following the results of her travels via the above web site. From a pure research point of view the details of her activities, daily distances travelled etc , broke new ground, details which now are no longer to be available. Sadly her brother, also marked and equipped with a satellite tag, similarly disappeared!

As is usual the reportage of such incidents immediately generates suspicion of persecution activities and the intolerance of shooting estates towards raptor species , all of which has been repeatedly tabulated and published by bodies such as the Scottish Government , the RSPB and by a plethora of incident and court case reports in the media. I am sure some people would argue this conclusion is terribly circumstantial and subjective, but it's worth taking a look at the background information.

The web site, Raptor Persecution Scotland, in an article issued on the 5th March, 2010 under the title "Named Estates" presents details of the individual estates on which incidents have been reported( alleged persecution incidents, wildlife crime incidents or other alleged criminal activities ) or estates that employ staff who have a conviction for work related offences, details of which have appeared in the public domain.

It must be said that Aberdeenshire figures prominently within what, sadly, is a very extensive list!! To bolster this up the web site contains details of an endless series of incidents of one kind or another, of which the details relating to the above will no doubt be added in the fullness of time. I'm very much a believer in the old adage, "What goes round, comes round" and am becoming firmly convinced that the persistent, arrogant, flouting of the law by sporting estates will result in them taking a step too far and generating such negative PR that there will be a public demand for extensive restrictions on shooting itself.

Half way through the year!! 1st July,2011.

2011-07-02T08:10:00.002+01:00

Whilst it's still a bit early for much to be happening I had a lengthy, largely unproductive spell of seawatching during the first part of the day in what was very nice weather. The dark, hazy backdrop of Ireland provided a useful screen against which to pick out birds moving over a lumpy sea.

Endless strings of Gannets plied north and south, a stream, albeit in low numbers, of Manx Shearwaters moved south, with lesser numbers of Kittiwake, Fulmar , Shag and Razorbill. A single Puffin flew south raising the vexed question of whether odd pairs are present on Islay. Of more note was the incessant movement of Arctic Terns from a couple of colonies on the islets off the southern tip of the Rinns. This species generally seems to be more in evidence this year, although nowhere in big numbers, but certainly noticeable at various sites around the island. As the sun lifted young Shags stood out on rocks and activity levels generally increased!

This breeding season seems to have had a confusing edge to say the least. Very young Lapwing chicks yesterday suggested retimed breeding locally but, despite the dreadful weather at odd times, certain species appear to have done well. Wheatear young are now very obvious but Swallows seem to have faltered and House Martins simply disappeared!!

For people interested in Chough a fascinating paper is presented within the June edition of British Wildlife ( "Supplementary feeding of sub-adult Choughs" by Caitlin and Eric Bignal. British Wildlife Vol.22, No5. June 2011 ). Based on work carried out on Islay the paper describes efforts to provide food for sub-adult Choughs at critical periods, i.e. during periods of poor weather or when food sources are thought to be low, following a realisation that survival rates of the birds had decreased significantly. In 2009 and 2010 44 nests were monitored which, overall , produced 143 young. These were duly marked using unique combinations of plastic rings which allowed them to be discretely monitored. From these the only known survivors are the 28 birds which regularly fed on the mealworms provided, a situation against which the alternative doesn't bear thinking about!! Over the years Eric and members of his family have spent an enormous amount of time monitoring this species from which the outcome of this particular work seems a fitting accolade.

Disaster in Africa averted? 26.6.2011

2011-06-26T22:44:00.000+01:00

Whilst national governments in Africa are often criticised for inappropriate actions of various kinds, some positive recognition needs to be given to the Tanzanian Government for turning down a road proposal that would have bisected the Serengeti National Park. The proposal would have seen the construction of a tarmac road across the park the use of which, one imagines, would have interfered greatly with renowned natural rhythms and mass movements of the animals across the area. And all in the cause of convenience to tourism! I feel strongly that we should resist all such attempts to turn world value wilderness areas into places little better than theme parks. Well done Tanzania!

I have to admit that I have increasing reservations about the level of expectations visitors have relating to access to "natural areas", even in this country, demands that all too often are met with in the cause of facility provision, insurance considerations and income generation. Will there be a time when we've ruined everything? Well, perhaps not directly through facility provision, as a whole raft of major land use issues and resource extraction demands will ensure that happens! However with an increasing proportion of countryside users being town dwellers there needs to be some effective exchange of information, both at home and abroad, about the real needs of the natural environment that we all require to subscribe to. OK, some would say it happens already, if so then it's not enough! None of this is new, of course, but sadly repeated stories of habitat losses, near extinctions, pollution incidents and the like mean that, increasingly, we're moving towards a "common denominator" situation where the wonderful diversification present on this planet, constituent parts of which are dependent on specialist habitat types, will eventually disappear and we'll be left with the familiar only. Like the Tanzanian Government we too need to take the necessary , and repeated, steps to ensure respect for our environment is paramount in our approaches.

Squeaky clean birding. 25.6.2011

2011-06-25T19:40:00.000+01:00

The weather forecast suggested conditions were likely to be less than optimum for some "formal" survey work I had planned so I fell back on Plan B and, as one might have guessed, the weather became better as time went on!!

Pursuing my continuing hunch of locating an elusive species on Islay I spent the very early morning ( up to 0800 hours ) tramping around suitable woodlands attempting to locate any crow's nests and, thereby, the outside possibility of hearing the squeaky "begging calls" from young Long-eared Owls. Well, whilst the phenomenon of such calling hungry owls might be a feature of this time of year, the survey "method" is not to be recommended. Better to let sheer serendipity, , good luck, coincidence, or whatever, take over!! The nearest I got was disturbing a couple of bewildered Hooded Crows, no mean feat in itself, and witnessing the crashing exit of what was undoubtedly Red Deer within the conifer woodland blocks I explored.

So I retired for a cooked breakfast (mega!) and a self-imposed "team talk" about the need for focus, directed attempts and such like. So, out I went for a few more hours but...nothing!! Perhaps said youngsters don't call within the day, and only in the evening, when they get really hungry? They're there, I'm convinced of it, but proving it is a different matter. However, as an illustration of owl enthusiasm, recent work in Turkey has resulted in the location of Brown Fish Owls to which some very regulated visits are now allowed ( see BirdFinders UK for details....this must be worth 5% Vaughan! ). Look at the Collins Field Guide for what is a very exciting status assessment. Always a species I've wanted to see , I've every intention of joining one of the trips in 2012 to experience what is an utterly iconic species within the family.

One aspect of interest is that I've recently come across locally three pairs of adult Stonechats chasing around and acting as if spring had just emerged. But no young from early breeding attempts in evidence. Does this suggest early breeding attempts have failed and that they're settling down for a second attempt? The encouraging element is that they are actually there, in residence and were not cleared out by the ferocious weather of last winter!!!

Disappointing outcome! 24/6/2011

2011-06-25T09:28:00.000+01:00

For once a day simply devoted to birding!! An early look at the sea off Portnahaven showed repeated groups of Gannets plying back and forth and a few Manx Shearwater moving south offshore. The sea was quite calm and, despite a slightly hazy view across the azure waters to Northern Ireland, various features such as cut silage fields and white cottages could be picked out clearly. All this provided an opportunity to appreciate the extent to which Gannets move back and forth within the whole divide and the numbers which must be involved!!

Given the calm conditions an opportunity presented itself to count birds in the outer reaches of Loch Indaal. Predictably bird numbers were low, although odd Razorbill and Guillemot were feeding in the entrance to the loch. Further in, off Bruichladdich , a single Red-throated Diver fed offshore and 17 Arctic Terns were out over the loch or present on the exposed rocks north of the village. Good numbers of Common Gull are around at present, some breeding, but others gathered in groups.

A look over several lochs, and corresponding WeBS counts, produced little of significance except a reminder that Grey lag Geese and their growing broods are beginning to be in increasing evidence. It's that time of year again!! Following a call to see friends I continued around Loch Indaal , but things were very quiet.

Regrettably the Ring-necked Duck reported yesterday from Ballygrant Loch couldn't be located. Time was taken to carefully scrutinize a distant group of Tufted Duck, but without any luck. Most are now moving into eclipse and one sleeping individual raised hopes for a while, but to no avail. Whilst several of the male birds were beginning to show differential colouring to their "side panels", all had crests, were the wrong shape, and sadly exhibited a black tip to their bills as opposed to any white band either there or at the base!! As some form of slight compensation a Bullfinch called repeatedly nearby and a male Yellowhammer was seen later along the lane back to the village.

Sounds of summer. 23/6/2011

2011-06-24T08:17:00.000+01:00

Routine day mopping up on some survey work in what was extremely pleasant weather. More young birds are now begining to appear which allows for "solid" confirmations on breeding for the BTO Atlas.Despite some periods of bad weather, where one might have expected ground nesting birds to be washed out in places, some waders seem to have done alright if their agitated behaviour is anything to go by. Odd birds are still in song , but the prevailing sounds are of young birds uttering somewhat feeble contact calls or their parents going ballistic at some element of disturbance!!

Good news on the discovery of the breeding grounds of White-faced Plover in Southern China. A tribute to diligence and good hunches! This should now provide a discrete opportunity at last to sort out the taxonomy of a bird which may yet be a species in its own right as opposed to a very distinctive relative of Kentish Plover.

Early bonuses to a dismal day.

2011-06-21T18:39:00.000+01:00

Basically the first part of the day was OK, the second half less so with showers and misty conditions in some places. Out and about early in the north east of Islay and on Jura I suspect I took benefit from the best part of the day.

The Sound of Islay showed a pair of feeding Red-throated Diver feeding, placidly, close to the shore and showing off their subtle summer plumage to good effect. Later a party of seven male Common Scoter flew south suggesting summer was already on the wane and some bird movements in place. However, an earlier observation of a Cuckoo being pursued by a Meadow Pipit confirmed that this early migrant hadn't yet departed and suggested we are on the cusp of such movements. With the weather moving in, some prolonged views of an adult male Golden Eagle sitting , somewhat disconsolately, close to its eyrie as things deteriorated, still showed its golden head standing out clearly within the dim conditions.

News that the EU are possibly considering cuts to the UK funding that supports farmland natural habitat diversification is worrying, given the obvious major conversion to a more monoculture approach in the last thirty years or so , which has seen a concomitant parallel reduction in farmland bird populations in a wide context. The various subsidised schemes have been successful and seen some notable successes in the improvement of hitherto reduced bird populations such as Grey Partridge and Skylark. I felt that the view of the National Farmers Union in recognising we should best attempt to achieve balance between food production and such measures was,at least , encouraging !! Such considerations perhaps reflect other major changes that might yet arise given the emergent and repeated crises surrounding the European "Single Currency" sparked by the national problems being experienced in Greece and elsewhere !! Whilst we might like to think otherwise, conservation is obviously not inured to such influences, what ever we'd like to apply!

Late hunting by Hen Harrier. 15.6.2011

2011-06-16T09:30:00.000+01:00

Other than a single male Whinchat locally the day produced little that was of much significance despite a few hours involved in fieldwork. The weather was kind and will doubtless help those broods of youngsters coming through.

The most interesting observation arose at the very end of the day! As I said a few days ago, it gets light very early in the morning here at this time of year, pre 0400 hours, and, correspondingly is light in the late evening as well. Last evening was no exception, despite it being rather cloudy. Preparing for bed around 2200 hours, I looked out of the bedroom window and was a little surprised to see the "local" male Hen Harrier hunting out over the open grass moor opposite the house. He is a very distinctive pale, ghost of a bird and always catches attention.

Two or three things sprang to mind as I'd seen the bird hunting early on in the day and then, again, in the early evening. Contrary to the conclusion I'd come to previously, it seems likely the pair have bred successfully and are now beginning to feed young, which is good news. The other thought was "What on earth could the bird actually catch at that time"? Despite it still being light enough to see outside the level of general bird activity reduces quite significantly. Species like Meadow Pipit and Skylark have "given up" by then so , one imagines, effort was being put into surprising them out of roost, when they'd probably be slower off the mark too. And of course, I suppose there's always the possibility of coming across some young Pheasant or Snipe. Strangely enough it's almost as if an invisible boundary exists eastwards, perpendicular to the house, creating a line which the bird never crosses as , immediately beyond this "border", and on slightly higher ground, pairs of Lapwing and Curlew breed. At this time of year any incursion onto "Curlew ground" results in the most horrendous fuss and draws attention to the offender, usually Hooded Crows!! I guess the bird gets full marks for effort!

Is the shooting fraternity losing the plot? 14.6.2011

2011-06-14T15:56:00.000+01:00

Reading through a variety of reported incidents on raptor persecution, and meeting up a couple of nights ago with two friends who made a critical contribution to Hen Harrier protection in the 1980's and 1990's, has caused me to reflect further on the situation we currently find ourselves in as far as raptors are concerned.

I know I bang on about raptor persecution! My contributions to various web sites and my own Blog have probably provided little that was absolutely new, or brought about change, other than keeping up a consistent condemnation of those responsible, but I suddenly feel optimistic.

It stems from the fact that the subject is remaining alive, gaining continuing media support and exposure and that the "defensive remonstrations" from the shooting fraternity are doing little other than make them look foolish. Surely they can do better?
First amongst equals is Alex Hogg, Chairman of the Scottish Gamekeepers Association. I actually have some sympathy with his position, but not his views. How can somebody maintain that "its unfair to accuse gamekeepers of wildlife crime"! when it has been reported by the BBC, when it recently reported on the successful prosecution, on seven charges , of a keeper in Derbyshire, England, that he was the 100th gamekeeper to be convicted of crimes against birds of prey. In the light of such disclosure it's approaching the time when Nero might usefully hand over his fiddle to the SGA!

Would it not be better to acknowledge there is an unwilling minority of gamekeepers who are prepared to continue, deliberately and illegally, to persecute birds of prey. Forging an active "partnership of principles" between the SGA and the conservation lobby, however loose, would lend credibility to their position and publicly affirm that organization's wish to see persecution end ( otherwise do they ? ). To skirt around the subject, and attempt to deny obvious connections, when keepers employed within the shooting industry are being successfully prosecuted, is naive in the extreme. The public will undoubtedly absorb such ambiguity and come to a view that all shooting enterprises are "iffy". Is that really what the SGA and legitimate shooting enterprises want? I doubt it!

Town dwelling residents increasingly feel that they can legitimately offer opinion on the countryside from which they gain a recreational "return", either at weekends on when on holiday. It's not too much of a quantum leap for the great British public to then turn its opposition towards institutions and management practices which they find unacceptable in terms of their effects on the natural heritage. The next step is an outright condemnation of shooting. Remember foxhunting ......

That is not an outcome to consider and encourage, as the recent statements of Natural England on the value of our uplands outline,in terms of the unique aspects of the habitat and the biodiversity it supports. Much valued habitat is maintained by upland and lowland estates in all parts of the UK and it is difficult to determine who would maintain and manage such areas in the absence of shooting interests. However, rather than feeling comfortable with the implications of the previous observations, it is important to eliminate the elements of estate practices which the public find unacceptable in order to avoid the possibility of outright opposition and condemnation emanating from their interest.

I often conclude the shooting lobby is a victim of its own arrogance which, potentially, could be its undoing. Stop being blinkered, for Heaven's sake, take stock of the elements present upon a much wider canvas or, otherwise, pay the price. General opinion is not (yet) against shooting
per se, but against actions which arise from within its management practices, i.e. raptor persecution and persistent assertions from within the industry that it's nothing to do with them. Some positive and transparent attempt to clean up such practices and put things right, as opposed to continually appearing to be in denial, would assist enormously. At present, even an unconnected bystander would interpret the stance as being somewhat vacuous.

Having said all that I have little confidence that the protestations and denials will alter, a situation which actually does provide me with optimism.

Activity meltdown! 12.6.2011

2011-06-14T12:50:00.000+01:00

I have to say that the most auspicious aspect of today was my eldest daughters birthday, important on its own account, but also because the day was so very quiet ( other than , I imagine, at the celebrations! ). I was again over at the Sound of Islay but, contrasted against yesterday, activity levels had simply been switched off! I don't think I have ever experienced things as quiet.

On that basis I've precious little to offer in terms of comment. However, by way of general interest, I can show you a picture of "our" new ferry boat coasting at noticeable increased speed northwards up the Sound.

It seems to have a blunter bow, and a corresponding larger bow wave that I scoured in vain for Bottle-nosed Dolphins making a run up the Sound, and its coastal "wash" seems stronger than before but, otherwise , an impressive boat indeed.

Later I met up with two past colleagues who are here on holiday. Both were involved in the Forest of Bowland, Lancashire in the past and, therefore, we had shared many disappointments relating to breeding Hen Harriers and ,correspondingly, insufficient successes over the years. It was good to have a chat about old times, but also reflect on how, even thirty years on from the outset of our first meeting, the situation has changed so very little and the age old prejudices still remain. News of other colleagues was welcome as, over the past two decades of the last millennium , a whole host of friendships had been forged. Many are still involved in conservation; none, it seems , have suffered any diminution in character that was the mainstay of our focus and strength throughout those challenging times. Good days.

As I returned home with, by then , the rain pouring down, one of the Short-eared Owls I'd spoken to someone about as I left for Jura in the morning, flew parallel with the car for quite a distance. Doubtless hunting for its recently hatched young, its best efforts would be seriously put to the test in the circumstances......

Odd surprises and a few concerns! 11.6.2011.

2011-06-14T12:19:00.000+01:00

A day on Jura in fine weather but a keen NNW wind through the Sound. Whilst presence and movement of birds was a bit "limited", the sight of an adult Great Northern Diver flying north at around 200 feet was quite exciting as it went the whole length of the Sound. The large feet "dangling" from the rear and its full summer plumage all showed to good effect, plus it carrying its bill open as it moved through in very determined fashion, provided an entertaining interlude. Later I found another bird, feeding in the Sound, but not quite as advanced in plumage. Black Guillemots were quite active and in evidence with birds feeding at various spots, sitting out on rock slabs or moving around with their whirring flight.

Later a pod of at least seven Bottle-nosed Dolphins moved southwards, fed for a while in the central Sound, and then continued on their way. All appeared to be full adults, with the exception of one which was slightly less in size and bulk.

Later on I had the opportunity of checking out a Golden Eagle territory and was a little concerned to see both adults sitting out close to one another for quite a period and then the female soaring around at a distance from where the traditional eyrie is located. Because observations have to be carried out from a distance it's easy to miss one of the birds, but little attention appeared to be forthcoming from either of them with regard to their nest area and I finally wondered if they'd failed. Certainly there appears to be fewer Hen Harriers in evidence this year but, I guess on both accounts, the next few weeks will provide proof positive of the actual situation.

Routine day but enjoyable! 10.6.2011.

2011-06-14T11:42:00.000+01:00

A really nice day that begged to be made use of! Sadly things seemed to be rather quiet which allowed a relaxed approach and provided an opportunity to explore a few "corners" that otherwise get neglected. Certainly Loch Indaal held little, although an interesting aspect is the presence of a number of widely spread, small breeding groups of Arctic Terns, which might afford them a better chance of success. The "traditional" colony at the head of Loch Indaal has long suffered from the area being a popular dog walking stretch, leading to repeated disturbance, and being an area selected for camping. Ideally the area should have been roped off, and disturbance limited, but the distributed nature of those breeding this season might now have found its own solution.

Further on I was captivated by this "stand" of Cottongrass amidst a shallow area of marsh. The colour contrasts within the landscape were superb , but I also then noticed the extent to which the trees in the background showed the effects of the recent storm, an outcome several people have commented on.

One of the things which struck me, when looking across Inner Loch Indaal eastwards, is how shallow this part of the loch actually is. Obviously this provides the attraction for the hordes of waders and dabbling duck in the winter months. Whilst the deposition patterns appear to alter slightly from time to time, and provide different lenses of shallow water or more exposed banks of mud and sand, the area largely remains the same and provides a very convenient haven in which many species can be seen.

So, a very pleasant day , with not a great deal of exceptional interest (I always feel guilty at saying that when we're surrounded by so many iconic species we end up taking for granted in some respects!! we don't actually! ), but a reminder of what a beautiful place Islay can be.

Rock Dove conundrum. 9.6.2011.

2011-06-10T09:53:00.001+01:00

A half reasonable day which got even better towards evening. Some showers were a bit heavy but, thankfully, of short duration.

Things are somewhat quiet as birds are occupied with feeding or protecting young. The Flats at Bridgend looked somewhat desolate with only the odd Oystercatcher and Shelduck in evidence and occasional gulls overhead. The vast majority of high Arctic waders will now have gone through except for odd stragglers and non breeders.

I'm intrigued by Rock Dove behaviour at the moment. There's been an obvious lull within which odd birds or pairs could be seen zipping about to and from nesting sites in old buildings or coastal caves. Within the last few days I've had several small flocks of birds feeding at locations where they might more readily be seen in winter, e.g a foddering out site at Tormisdale Croft. Do they use communal feeding sites when raising young or are these accumulations of adults and young birds already? Seems a bit early! Rock Dove is a species that , sadly, seems to be somewhat neglected as far as attention goes, probably because of its close resemblance to feral pigeons elsewhere in and around our mainland towns that nobody gets enthusiastic about except, perhaps, the local Peregrines ! Reports of these latter birds being in residence on high rise buildings, cathedrals or other suitable buildings in several of the UK's towns and cities appears to grow by the year. Whilst away I saw birds in central Sheffield and watched the birds on Norwich Cathedral on a live video stream. How things change! By contrast, the situation here ( proper Peregrine country after all!! ) appears to have deteriorated with fewer occupied eyries than , say, ten years ago despite a plentiful food supply!

Cuckoos on the move!

2011-06-08T08:54:00.000+01:00

Given it was raining for most of yesterday , and it's raining this morning again, it suggests it might be another computer day if the electricity supply holds up ( that's another story! ).

Foremost amongst things of interest is reportage from the British Trust for Ornithology on some research it's conducting on Cuckoos. Basically the Cuckoo population has decreased by 65% in 25 years. Given we don't really know where they winter in Africa, efforts are being made to determine such information so that it can be established whether factors within the wintering areas are contributing to the decline or whether there are other reasons.

Birds have been trapped in Norfolk and Suffolk and tracking devices fitted to address this intriguing question. The devices weigh 4.5 to 5.5 grams and are only fitted to birds weighing over 115grams, so a very small amount of payload indeed given it's a question that's always asked. The devices cost £2500 each and there is a charge of £50 per month for tracking services.

Five birds are currently transmitting and they are proving to be extremely mobile to say the least. One bird has moved to Sussex and another has moved over to France!! Quite soon all adult Cuckoos will be departing the UK anyway so the journeys , routes and eventual wintering quarters of these birds are going to be extremely interesting. It's hoped the scheme proves to be a resounding success and finally unlocks the mystery of where these birds actually winter in Africa or whether they perhaps remain on the move during those months.

Wakey, wakey!!

2011-06-07T10:40:00.000+01:00

This time of year sees bird activity "kicking off" in this part of the world very early indeed. 0403 hours proved to be the time at which a local Cuckoo commenced to call, which then continued intermittently over the next two hours. Only shortly after this bird first called a couple of Pheasant added their territorial efforts to the day!

Currently most local activity is directed at raising young with Curlew, Lapwing and Ringed Plover amongst others all having youngsters, although some early Mallard broods are now well grown. In many respects this is a quiet time of year for birding, but a time to enjoy more fully the birds in residence.
Locally, around the coastal strip, a variety of breeding birds can be seen. I was relieved to see that the recent major storm, which occurred whilst I was away, appeared not to have had any gross effects. Local Arctic Terns still graced the air and were in good voice, a species that can so easily be "spooked" and abandon its colonies. Fulmars, Shags and gull species were all in evidence, seemingly undeterred by the violent interruption of extremely strong winds and salt spray being carried across the island resulting in a loss of leaf vegetation or it turning brown. A local neighbour lost all his potato crop, the vegetation simply going black with the battering it received and from the ample dosing of salt spray.

At the opposite end of the day, dusk tends to be rather late too and conditions can still be quite good at 2200 hours depending on the type of day and cloud cover. Bird activity seems to gradually ebb away through the evening compared to the more frenetic activity in the hours after dawn.

And so to bed........and then a Grasshopper Warbler started singing!

Spoon-billed Sandpiper initiative.

2011-06-04T09:51:00.000+01:00

Amongst many other iconic species in the world the Spoon-billed Sandpiper must surely rank within the highest echelon as a species deserving of our attention and support. Thankfully that support now appears to be emerging after a period given over to surveys establishing the pitiful state its population has regrettably reached in recent years.

In 2009 an assessment of its population suggested this to be between 120 and 200 pairs only. Now that figure is believed to be as low as 60 pairs! Breeding in the highest reaches of the Russian Arctic coast the species then winters in areas like Thailand, Vietnam and Bangladesh at inevitable low densities. It would seem to me that it is within such wintering areas that the problems begin. Trapping larger birds in nets apparently, inadvertently, sees this small bird caught up too which, gradually, is contributing to its demise. Loss of habitat, presumably in wintering areas, and the arduous 8000km flight to these wintering grounds are also being blamed as contributory factors.

International efforts are being made this summer to locate birds in the Arctic and to set up a captive breeding programme, aimed at boosting numbers, leading to such birds then being released to the wild. At present no details are available which suggests some attention will also be directed at the "social" aspects contributing to the birds demise, namely getting the trappers on-side and eliminating the devastating contribution such activities make in this sad scenario. Having seen some of the schemes in SE Asia wherein local communities are enlisted to maintain bird species they previously preyed on and, in turn, benefiting from the (birding) tourist income generated, this may well be a candidate for that approach in certain wintering areas. It would be nice to think so.

Raptor persecution still obviously endemic.

2011-06-01T18:03:00.000+01:00

Catching up on various things which have happened over the past fortnight it seems I've missed a number of really crucial items that have emerged. The results of the Moy Estate prosecution and, similarly, the results from the Skibo Estate case, coupled with the reportage within the BBC 2 Scotland "Landward" programme on the vicarious liability clause within the Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011. All these and more are ably reported on within the Raptor Persecution Scotland website, which I would encourage everyone to read, not least because there are E-mail links to "key Establishment players" allowing one to raise queries about non action on cases or similar.

With successful prosecutions confirming persecution activities are happening, now is the time to keep up pressure on the various authorities involved. That Alex Hogg ( Scottish Gamekeepers Association) acknowledges there is a minority involved in such activities is a cockshy. They are an effective minority nonetheless , undertaking activities that must be brought to an end rather than the matter being swept under the carpet under some justification that there will always be "bad apples". The whole subject is being increasingly aired and it is important that such impetus is not lost.

In the piece I put out on the 12th May on another Blog site I run ( Conservation Concerns ..... see the link on this site) I argue that Scottish sporting estates should not be allowed to consider themselves as exceptional cases and that their call for licences to legally reduce raptor numbers should be nipped in the bud. That is now an imperative!

Return northwards. 29/5/2011.

2011-06-01T17:11:00.000+01:00

An early start with an obvious long journey ahead. After such an intense and rewarding fortnight this day was something of an anticlimax. A mid morning message , as I passed northwards of Carlisle, that Long-tailed Skuas were again passing eastwards through the Solway Firth caused me to look skywards and muse that perhaps I was closer than I'd ever been previously and question how high they might be in their migration over land. I guess migration will always be one of the main motivating factors in my love of birds and birdwatching. Simply saying it's fascinating is a wholly inadequate description of such an absorbing, demanding , and still mystifying, activity taken by many of our bird species. Great stuff.

The journey proved uneventful, my arrival back at the house found no problems or surprises following the obvious battering the island had taken in the storms of the weekend before and I suppose now are two or three days ahead sorting out the inevitable jobs that arise following an absence and its constituent activities.

The final chapter ( at least on this occasion ). 28/5/2011.

2011-06-01T16:57:00.001+01:00

Early morning saw us set off again into the Peak District in a quest to see Ring Ousel. The weather was not kind with low cloud, drizzle, poor visibility and the like. We parked up near to Stannage Edge where we could usefully keep a fairly extensive length of the gritsone outcrop under surveillance. When all seemed likely to end in frustration a male Ring Ousel saw fit to swoop down, across an expanse of emerging bracken on to an area of relatively open grassland below. Whilst we lost it, the flight views were more than satisfactory, particularly in the conditions. Patience had paid off with, to boot, another couple of Stonechat nearby suggesting this quite local population was more than holding its own.

An amusing interlude amongst all this was when a cat , clearly from the farm just down the road, emerged from the bracken after unsuccessfully stalking the Stonechat pair, only to be chased down the road by two sheep who put some serious effort into their pursuit!

More formal matters then overtook the day......collecting the car, whose problems were thankfully resolved and having a new tyre fitted. Whilst we did fit in a visit to a couple of sites within our return journey, and went through some of my old "stamping ground" locations within the northern part of the Peak Park, for the present time this particular adventure now had to close. Successful, enjoyable and very memorable with many thanks to the Controller in the first week.

The evening ended with a family dinner, Matthew and Rose, Ashley and Mike and myself with a good time being had by all. We didn't know the Man United v Barcelona result at that point........

A more routine day. 27/5/2011.

2011-06-01T16:34:00.000+01:00

Flushed with the excitement of yesterday we had no great expectations for today, as little was likely to compare. Whilst there was nothing of especial interest on the east coast we decided to have a visit nonetheless.

Our first port of call en route was North Cave, a Yorkshire Wildlife Trust Reserve with an accompanying local community involvement. Always a pleasure to visit, I was interested in the presence of several Pochard, as I had been at some sites in East Anglia, wondering whether this is a species that is possibly increasing its breeding numbers?
We moved on to the Tophill Low Reserve, administered by Yorkshire Water. Again it was interesting to see Gadwall and Pochard numbers, species that, when first I started travelling around Yorkshire, weren't at all prevalent. As usual we had a wide variety of species given the various lagoons are surrounded by woodland and other cover. Finally , after walking the whole site , we had a single Turtle Dove overflying us and heading for cover. This is certainly a species not met up with as easily or frequently as in the past. Of accompanying interest was the presence of Marsh Frogs, and their cacophonous calling from one of the areas near the car park, and Grass Snakes, who appear to make their home deep within the piles of grass clippings which are stacked up on the site.

Our final visit was to Bempton Cliffs RSPB Reserve, the home of Guillemot, Razorbill, Kittiwake Fulmar ,Gannets and , not least, Puffins. Excellent views can be had from the cliff top viewing platforms and it's always a fascinating experience to watch the behaviour of any of these species from such close vantage points. Of equal interest were tremendous views of a singing Grasshopper Warbler, in fact the best I've ever had. It persisted in sitting out atop vegetation and in full view, and singing for quite long intervals. Whilst we're all conversant with the species turning its head whilst singing in order to "distribute" its song more effectively I didn't realise that, whilst singing, its tail was visibly trembling or vibrating throughout. A great experience to bring a good day to a close.

Ornithological retribution. 26/5/2011.

2011-06-01T16:08:00.000+01:00

One advantage of being based in South Yorkshire is that it is easy to reach a huge variety of nature reserves and other areas without travelling too far. Today we visited the Whisby Nature Park in Lincolnshire which, in relative terms, is not that far from Sheffield. I'd never been there before and , therefore, was eager to visit as I'm a sucker for taking in new areas and exploring. It's a reclaimed area of gravel pits whose various lagoons are regulated to support both recreation and conservation.

It's a really pleasant site to visit whose several claims to fame include the presence of a few pairs of Nightingale. In addition to hearing partial song ( given it was around 0800 hours by then ), we had a couple of birds buzzing around clearly feeding a nearby brood of young in woodland cover alongside the path. Given the recent reports of an ever reducing national population ( 90% in 40 years ) it was a pleasant relief to find birds in residence.

On various ones of the pools there are islands supporting breeding Black-headed Gulls and Common Terns.

A more recent aspect of interest at the site is the presence of visiting Yellow-legged Gulls, of which we recorded three. Sadly poor weather started to intervene , although it improved later, and interrupted our scrutiny of a number of other gulls present. All in all it was an interesting visit with a wide variety of species seen , be they duck, passerines, resident or summer visitors and somewhere I will certainly visit again.

With improving weather we moved on to Hatfield Moors where we had excellent views of Woodlark, Yellow Wagtail and Grey Partridge. This is a really enticing site , a National Nature Reserve and vast in extent but with huge potential and interest. Given the weather was holding up we went on to a site where 5 or 6 Black-necked Grebe are present. The site has little emergent vegetation, as far as we could ascertain from the point we viewed it, and one wonders whether these birds will suddenly move off and breed at a more suitable location in the nearby area despite the relatively late date. An intriguing species to say the least.

Moving on we called in at a well known site, which held our quarry, a male Ruddy Duck. I've never been truly comfortable with the policy being adopted by DEFRA towards the extermination of the species in the UK because of its alleged inter-breeding with White-headed Duck in Spain. Having travelled widely and regularly in Spain previously I've yet to see the species in that country and continue to have serious doubts on the subject. For that reason the location will remain undisclosed.

And so on to our final destination, Old Moor RSPB Reserve. Now , if I'm honest , we only really called in the main car park to see if Lesser Whitethroat was singing in the scrub nearby. But, at the very point of our departure, a pager message suggesting the presence of Temminck's Stint galvanised Matthew into remaining (given he's missed many of those occurring this spring.). Such was fortuitous in many other ways as I bumped into various friends I'd intended to visit , but hadn't due to not having transport. These latter suggested there was some debate ongoing about the ID of the bird and so we sped on to the hide with more than a little curiosity developing.

Such was no Temminck's Stint! The lack of any primary projection, the eye stripe , the back pattern , the rich colouration, the rusty ear coverts, the heavily streaked breast. It didn't look right for any number of considered alternatives and, eventually, all agreed it was a Least Sandpiper. The news was put out and people commenced to arrive in increasing numbers. After my exchanging greetings with a few more past friends we set off home feeling pleased and more than recompensed for the gut wrenching disappointment associated with the skua day! Given there's been less than 40 seen in Britain , and only about 4 in Yorkshire, this was a seriously worthwhile species to connect with. Sometimes there is justice in this world......

Return to the fray. 25/5/2011.

2011-06-01T15:00:00.000+01:00

Despite the shattering disappointment of the day previous early morning saw us visiting Padley Gorge in the Peak District National Park on the Yorkshire-Derbyshire border. This mixed deciduous woodland abounds with birds and in improved weather we revelled in the songs of Wood Warbler, Redstart, Spotted Flycatcher, and Pied Flycatcher. Pairs of the latter were attending nest sites and besides these we also had Lesser Redpoll, Nuthatch and Green Woodpecker as well as a supporting cast of titmice species.

Out on the nearby open moor we had Whinchat and at least one pair of Stonechat with young. Transferring across to the nearby Burbage area our attempts to locate Ring Ousel where we have previously found them met with no success but, again, we had Stonechats, which was very encouraging given widespread reports of various local populations having suffered due to the bad winter. Our journey back to the car around 1300 hours saw a Red Kite flying high to the SW after possibly moving over Sheffield itself.

Further walks in the Stannage Edge area brought no success with Ring Ousel but tantalising views of a Weasel moving its kits, its swift bounding gait across a wide path swinging the small offspring to and fro in what must have been a scary transfer! Further in to urban Sheffield we stopped at Tyzack's Dam where we had 5 male Mandarin Duck tucked along one of the small feed channels. This put the single bird we saw last year to shame and raises expectations of a thriving breeding nucleus begining to form. A single Grey Wagtail overflew the site as we took in the gaudy colours and patterns of the ducks' plumage.

An examination of Sheffield's General Cemetery, ostensibly for Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, also generated the products of Matthew's humour with ribald references to prime viewing plots being available, good area to be in residence to start your year list and so on. I told him I'm much converted to the effects of haunting! Having survived all that (!) the area is actually good for birds. It's fully abandoned I believe, but maintained by volunteers with some Local Authority support, and presents some great swathes of dense cover out of which rise some magnificently mature trees, the canopy of which , for some , must be around 40 feet. Such areas must be a haven for birds in severe winters, to which the numbers of Blackbird, Song Thrush, Robin, Treecreeper and Wren lent some credibility separate from the attendant summer migrants which were present.

Long held dreams dashed. 24/5/2011.

2011-06-01T14:27:00.000+01:00

I have long wished to visit the Solway Firth in spring, when there is an appropriate "big blow", to witness the passage of skuas eastwards along the Firth out of the Irish Sea, where they then rise abruptly in the farthest ,narrow confines and continue their journey overland to the North Sea and beyond. Matthew was similarly enthused by the prospect, given the right conditions appeared to be in play, and so we had decided to indulge in a very long day and , hopefully, witness the phenomenon.

An early start saw us call in first at the viewing point associated with the breeding OSPREY at Bassenthwaite. Unfortunately the birds have decided to choose a different nesting tree so views are a little distant and unsatisfactory. Things will improve once the pair are feeding young and more activity is in evidence.

Onward to the Solway where we stationed ourselves at the appointed spot and waited for the anticipated mixture of Arctic, Pomarine, Great and Long-tailed Skuas that must surely flood through given the previous and existing weather conditions. Reports of numbers of Long-tailed Skuas off the Ayr coast ensured our expectations and enthusiasm remained high. Seven hours later, and two ARCTIC SKUA, and we began to flag a little. Then a report of a Ross's Gull a couple of miles down the road came through which, given the lack of activity, obviously caught our interest. Arriving on site all that was to be seen were four LITTLE GULL, with no sign of the rather rarer relative! We fast concluded some mistake had arisen and returned to our previous spot only to discover a small party of Long-tailed Skua had gone through!! Mid evening saw us returning home, dreams and expectations dashed given the surrounding circumstances had been so perfect for not just a good day , but a truly exceptional day. Whether some future opportunity might arise when weather and convenience coincide is anybody's guess.........

The necessary palliative of an Indian take away did little to quell our disappointment, but it restored our energy levels after a rather long day.

Both Dipper and dipped. 23/5/2011.

2011-06-01T14:05:00.000+01:00

Early morning showed the wind still to be somewhat fresh and blustery , even within the confines of urban Sheffield. Nonetheless we set off to look at some local areas. Whilst it was difficult to pick up any calls or song due to the breeze within the trees a local woodland near Wortley did produce a large party of Long tailed Tit and a Dipper along the stream. Examining other areas for known resident Little Owl brought no success and, in the time we had available ,we "dipped" on every initiative we took to locate birds. So, in the end, domestic needs took charge, and matters relating to cars ,the location of particular parts and so on took over, plus some necessary shopping. The day did allow time to catch up on things and to plot and plan for the rest of the week, taken by Matthew as holiday with the express intention of us intensively birding throughout.

Obvious change afoot. 22/5/2011.

2011-06-01T13:53:00.000+01:00

Reports suggested it was worthwhile spending time at Cley given a couple of interesting birds had turned up. Our walk along the East Bank was wind blown to say the least with an ever increasing westerly impeding progress. None of the reported species could be found ( Little Gull and Little Stint )and so we left a very wind swept marsh behind.

Following this we spent quite some time attempting to see Montagu's Harrier, but without any success. Repeated glimpses of several Marsh Harriers at different places momentarily raised our hopes, but eventually we conceded defeat. The westerly wind was continuing to rise and we discovered that the interior of the car was beginning to gather a film of fine dust as opaque clouds of soil was lifted from the fields. Moving on to Titchwell and the safe confines of the various hides we did obtain good views of BITTERN, ,a pair of PINTAIL, and views of the female RED-CRESTED POCHARD who shortly afterwards flew off towards the reed bed and pool where the male had been loitering earlier in the week. Time and weather suggested we now start to head for home which we reached in the early evening after traversing a rather windy Fens!

End to end success! 21/5/2011

2011-06-01T13:26:00.001+01:00

As had always been intended the day proved to be intense but extremely rewarding. Early morning saw us at the RSPB Lakenheath Reserve where we had exceptionally good views of a male GOLDEN ORIOLE, BITTERN, GARGANEY, HOBBY, CETTIS WARBLER, as well as of a Barn Owl repeatedly bringing back prey to its nesting site , including a Water Vole.

Moving on to Weeting Heath, a NWT reserve, we had reasonable views of a couple of STONE CURLEW and their youngster, all accompanied by information provided from an undoubted military gentleman complete with a spectacular moustache, "regulation" shorts, impeccable manners and a very useful commentary and background.

Calling in at Santon Downham we caught a party of 8 Common Crossbill in trees nearby to the bridge together with a Kingfisher, Green Woodpecker and Nuthatch. Farther north we scoured unsuccessfully a couple of areas for Montagu's Harrier before moving on to Burnham Norton so that Matthew could see the Red-necked Phalarope. Returning to the car , and after standing listening at various points , we encountered a single calling QUAIL at a point when we'd virtually abandoned hope! Later, near to Holkham, a single HOBBY floated through checked for a moment by a Kestrel risng from within its territory.

Moving on to Cley we managed to see one of the Shorelarks, and whilst looking, had a couple of adult MEDITERRANEAN GULL moving west above us. several sandwich Tern moved west along with a couple of Little Tern. Time then dictated that we report to our B and B accommodation, which we did before moving off to one of the nearby heaths located slightly inland. With the weather turning cool, and the wind rising, we soon came across one of the adult DARTFORD WARBLER which are present in the area. Surprisingly it was virtually the only bird we saw! In time honoured fashion we then returned to a nearby pub for a well earned meal and drink after a somewhat exhausting but very rewarding day.

One lost, one gained! 20/5/2011.

2011-06-01T12:24:00.000+01:00

I spent the whole morning looking for Montagu's Harrier, unsuccessfully, and even took in a site where three birds had been seen displaying yesterday! Such is the variable pleasure of birdwatching and it's good to be confronted by the reality of things not always being handed across on a plate!

Having realised that time was creeping on and that it was already early afternoon, I decided to go to Burnham Norton where a RED-NECKED PHALAROPE had been seen yesterday and was being reported as still present. The pools concerned were located within what is the vast National Nature Reserve located along Norfolk's north coast and required a "walk in" towards the sea embankment. The area concerned in winter is wind swept and echoes to the call of geese , wildfowl and wading birds. By contrast was much quieter, although groups of Grey lag Geese ,odd Mallard and a few waders provided a fitting background to what was a sunny summer's day. The bird showed well and displayed its bright plumage to good effect. It was never still and either fed with frantic intensity or bathed and preened with equal verve and energy. Mallard, Gadwall, Shelduck, Tufted Duck, Avocet, Redshank also shared the pools and watching over the area in splendid weather was a real tonic.

A mistake on my part in missing the required footpath, and going out of my way along the sea wall by at least a couple of miles, produced little else of note other than excellent views of Stoat and a single Marsh Harrier! Given late afternoon had arrived I began to weave my way southwards towards Thetford where I was to rendezvous with Matthew at Ely railway station in the late evening. Checking in at the Travelodge, doing some shopping for "stores" we'd need over the weekend, 2200 hours soon came around and a successful meet up completed. On our way back we attempted to locate some Quail which had been reported, but were unsuccessful, if indeed we were ever at the right spot! Using a web based GPS system in Norfolk's agricultural countryside, or was it Cambridgeshire, is not without difficulty given the number of tracks, dead ends etc! Midnight soon arrived and we reminded ourselves that little time remained before we embarked on a busy weekend's birding!

Both pleasure and frustration. 19/5/2011.

2011-06-01T11:52:00.000+01:00

On what was a really pleasant morning I set out to visit Sculthorpe Moor Reserve, a site run by the Hawk and Owl Trust ( www.sculthorpemoor.org ) and an area I'd never visited until a couple of winter's ago. It's one of those woodland/wetland areas that is just a joy to be within, even if you don't see very much. Justifiably it boasts the presence of both Marsh and Willow Tit complemented by a wide variety of other passerine species, breeding Marsh Harrier, Barn Owl and Golden Pheasant. Whatever the provenance of the latter the male bird is an absolute gem to behold, but very often proves elusive and demanding of a patient stake out at one of the hides. As previously I thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

After lunch I moved on to Cley on Norfolk's north coast, a site run by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust.
After calling in at the modern, self sustaining eco-friendly Centre to see a friend who works there, I set out along the East Bank adjacent to the vast reedbed.

A leisurely stroll provided views of a pair of BEARDED TITS and a further single male, always a species I enjoy catching up with. The paired birds were indulging in an energetic round of chasing, possibly a precursor to them settling down to breed.

Continuing on I reached the famed "North Bank", its shingle line extending as far as the eye can see in both directions.

An examination of the history of this area is spellbinding, indeed in the Three Swallows pub in the village there is a fascinating collection of old photographs of the area and its inhabitants. In the Middle Ages the Cley Marshes were covered by the sea at high tide and boats could navigate along channels into a harbour located near Cley Church. A series of banks were built in more recent times to protect the village from flooding, and to create more areas for grazing and such assisted in the establishment of what is now a premier reserve. Recent extreme weather events have seen the reserve flooded as the fury and force of the North Sea surged over and through the protective "North Bank". A simple visual assessment of how tenous is the permanence of the reserve can easily be arrived at by looking along the shingle embankment and imagining how circumstances must be in the midst of a winter storm.

Today, however, was pleasant, sunny and allowed full benefit to be taken by walking along the raised embankment, which I did all the way to Salthouse and back. My efforts were directed at seeing a couple of SHORELARK which have been in the area for some time. Usually a winter visitor these birds have hung on way beyond the usual time of departure. As can be seen from the photograph the landward side of the bank plays host to a variety of vegetation, squatting low as it does away from the force of the wind. Eventually the birds were pinned down within an area of this cover close to the access point from the East Bank showing that , somehow , I had initially walked past them! Whilst it had been a frustrating afternoon I suspect the bracing atmosphere had been of more than a little benefit and had acted as the prelude to the final reward.

Yet another good day!

Hectic, but successful, day. 18/5/2011.

2011-06-01T10:55:00.000+01:00

A further visit to Titchwell RSPB Reserve provided much the same species but with markedly better views of 3 Temmincks Stints, the male Red-crested Pochard, several summer plumage Black-tailed Godwits and an absolutely resplendent Grey Plover in full summer plumage. The occasion also provided an opportunity to obtain photographs of the new, almost futuristic, Parrinder hide which has taken place alongside major habitat and flood protection work which was completed recently.

Very modern and poised , I suspect , to receive some recognition award from the architectural community. My only major gripe is that there is no longer a sill on which one might rest a telescope given the "big sky" viewing windows. It's now necessary to use a tripod ( not always easy in a packed hide ) or to have the piece of kit that clamps onto the shelf below the windows
( another bit of equipment to carry!).

Whilst there I received a call from my son, Matthew, advising a Gull-billed Tern had been picked up at Kelling flying in a westerly direction and that there was a good chance of it reaching Titchwell. Alerting other people I waited for well over an hour, but with no luck, only to find out later it had flown past ten minutes after my departure.

I'd moved elsewhere and had the benefit, somewhat deflated after receiving the news about the tern (!),of seeing several SPOONBILLS at a site where they were present last year too. A measure of compensation in some respects and an opportunity to have a chat with the warden as well. Other birds present were Little Egrets and Egyptian Goose, besides a variety of wetland and woodland species. On returning to the car I got a further call from my son, ably acting as Controller in far off Sheffield, that the tern had reappeared at Titchwell.

A somewhat focussed journey followed, together with a splendid response from the short, fat hairies as I negotiated the main footpath of the reserve at "retirement speed" and there it was, GULL-BILLED TERN, resting up on a small island and providing excellent views. The wholly black, stubby bill, shallow fork to the tail and stocky or robust appearance all came through well from a bird that was doubtless from one of the north European breeding colonies. And then , after only a few minutes, it flew off, disappeared , but then re-appeared and flew off to fields south of the reserve where it proceeded to systematically quarter the area. A narrow escape for me, as views were then somewhat distant and nothing approaching the magnificent lens filling images of the foregoing few minutes. Phew!

And so the return journey to "base" in the early evening was much more jubilant than had been that taken in the afternoon.

Perspectives on Frampton Marsh RSPB Reserve.

2011-06-01T10:03:00.000+01:00

I was so taken with my visit to the above reserve that I thought it worth setting out a selection of photographic shots I took whilst I was there. It's certainly worth a visit!

This is just a general view across the site with the reserve Centre in the far background and an impression of the site's features.

Another general view of the site in a different part of the site which also shows the retining embankment giving prtection too from any incursion of the sea across this very flat and exposed landscape.

The site's drainage is managed by an intensive pattern of ditches, which also play host to species like Sedge Warbler and Reed Warbler and doubtless many others too during migration times.

One of the interesting features on this reserve is this artificial "wall" which provides breeding sites for a very thriving colony of Sand Martin.

The reserve itself is located in a very open landscape and every effort has been made to provide nesting sites for bird species not directly associated with the wetland habitat. This nestbox "city" obviously serves such a process and assists in widening the species diversity of the reserve.

All in all an interesting site in a fascinating part of the English countryside.

Incursion into Lincolnshire! 17.5.2011.

2011-05-25T20:17:00.000+01:00

For some time I've been meaning to arrange a trip to Frampton Marsh RSPB Reserve on the western side of The Wash. What a superb site! Essentially it's a wetland site behind a saltmarsh area with accompanying grassland areas and a variety of hedge lines and more composite areas of scrub cover. All the usual facilities are available at the Centre, together with several hides, making up for a site that it's very easy to spend a whole day at. I did , and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

For me the highlights were species like Corn Bunting, Tree Sparrow and Yellowhammer, which are absent or in low numbers on Islay. Added to this were three Temminck's Stints , Wood Sandpiper, Ruff, Little Ringed Plover, a flock of Black=tailed Godwits, Avocet, numbers of Ringed Plover and Redshank, Lapwing, Oystercatcher, Snipe and several Dunlin. Duck included Mallard, Gadwall, Shelduck, Tufted Duck, Shoveler, Wigeon, plus Grey lag, Canada and dark bellied brent Geese, little and Great crested Grebe, Coot, Moorhen and Mute Swan. Complementing these were Sedge and Reed warblers and several Whitethroat plus Little Egret. A fascinating, artificial "wall" for breeding Sand Martins was something to admire as well as the dyke system which allows management of the various wetland.

A day well spent!

North Norfolk introduction! 16.5.2011.

2011-05-23T20:47:00.000+01:00

The north Norfolk coast has such a plethora of good sites on offer it's always difficult to decide where to go each day! After an al fresco breakfast on the edge of a saltmarsh with accompanying yelping Redshank, overflying Avocets, some absolutely stunning summer plumage Grey Plover, displaying Shelduck, nearby feeding dark-bellied Brent Geese that have not yet undertaken their return journey to their distant breeding grounds in Russia, the time was ripe to visit one of the real hotspots of the area, Titchwell.

The RSPB reserve produced some fine birds: Red-crested Pochard, Marsh Harrier, warblers aplenty ( Reed, Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Sedge, Whitethroat } and a good variety of waders ( Lapwing, Turnstone, Common Sandpiper, Sanderling, Dunlin, Black and Bar=tailed Godwits, Ringed Plover and a Whimbrel} and a similar array of waterbird species, Gadwall, Mallard, Tufted Duck, Pochard, Shoveler, Canada Goose, Grey lag Goose, Brent Goose, Great crested Grebe and Little Grebe.

Later a trip to Cley Reserve produced a Lesser Yellowlegs, a couple of Wood Sandpiper, Greenshank and the first Little Egret of the trip. Not a bad day!

Southward ho! 15.5.2011.

2011-05-23T19:39:00.000+01:00

Previous to an early start, and in the quiet hours of a Sunday morning, it was interesting to see a Lesser Black=backed Gull collecting nesting material from an area of derelict land within the built-up outskirts of Glasgow, a rather apt reminder that, if allowed to do so, birds will live in routine harmony with ourselves.

Journeying southwards on our busy motorway network usually holds little of interest, and today was no exception, although commoner species like Woodpigeon and various corvids occurred throughout. Stopping off in Sheffield provided the first Swifts and a welcome break to sort out various arrangements re cars, Matthew meeting up with me in Norfolk and an opportunity to catch up on the latest bird news, of which there was a tantalising excess of news!

Late afternoon saw my departure on the final leg of my journey into north Norfolk and an increasing number of species being picked up from roadside locations, ranging from Blackcap and Reed Warbler to Kestrel, Stock Dove and Red -legged Partridge. A not altogether disappointing start!!

The adventure starts! 14.5.2011.

2011-05-23T19:10:00.000+01:00

A busy day getting everything ready before being away, ostensibly to get some work completed on the car, see family, shop (!) and, of course ,carry out some intensive birding. Whilst Islay is a wonderful place in some respects, its location means that many of the migrants that regularly occur on the east coast of Britain only reach Islay very occasionally, and the celebrated "falls" of Continental migrants are not really experienced at all. So the main objective of the next couple of weeks is to try and connect with a few of these migrants, as well as visiting a number of celebrated birding spots to pick up on a whole variety of species with a more southern distribution. I suspect this is when the action starts on Islay!!!

The late ferry and subsequent journey through to Glasgow provided very little of interest but the time was invaluable as far as "planning and plotting" ahead was concerned. More encouraging was news of a whole variety of good birds in different parts of the country which served to whet my appetite!! Ever onward!!

Somewhat sour skua watch.

2011-05-12T20:09:00.000+01:00

Sour, well wouldn't you be? Out at just after 0500 hours, after plans to be on Jura had necessarily to be altered, with the intention of gaining some respite by completing a seawatch and, hopefully , connecting with some of the various skua species that have been passing the Outer Hebrides or even turning up in the Solway. All the usual "culprits" were in evidence.... Manx Shearwaters , Fulmars, Gannets , Kittiwakes, Shags, Arctic Terns, passing Whimbrel, passing Red-throated Diver, Auks galore but of skuas, not a smell, hint, raised expectation or even a mis-identification!!

Back for breakfast at 0800 hours and then a further three hours. Nothing!! I am convinced skuas, other than the odd bird, pass to the west of Ireland and cut across to the Outer Hebrides, unless they decide to cut across the bottom of Ireland , enter the Solway and take the overland route. However, in times past , colleague and friend, one Andy Schofield used to have skuas passing east along the southern shores of Islay. Whether these then went up through the Sound of Jura and gained height to pass NE above the Great Glen is a matter for conjecture. Certainly something similar happens in autumn with birds passing Chanonry Point, Inverness and continuing WSW into the Great Glen area, although we never appear to receive the benefit of "descending" birds along our north coast so they possibly continue west at height along the north coast of Ireland. Fascinating stuff!

as far as today goes, yours well and truly skewered!!

Waders to the fore! 11/5/2011.

2011-05-12T18:50:00.000+01:00

A bit of a mixed day weatherwise but generally acceptable!!

A couple of small parties of "Greenland" Wheatears near home, all females as far as I could establish, showed migration still to be in full swing. Suddenly too, Swallows appear to be in increased numbers and generally distributed. On Loch Indaal a flock of around 80 Bar-tailed Godwits , all still in winter plumage, were avidly feeding prior to continuing on migration and a party of Whimbrel in nearby fields showed their passage still to be continuing and vocal Arctic Terns moved mechanically to and fro along the shore.

At the RSPB Reserve at Gruinart the Wood Sandpiper was still present along with a number of resplendent male Shoveler, several Wigeon , both males and females, and at least three male Gadwall. Several adult Grey Heron hunted over the pools and periodically departed back to their nest areas. Throughout a Corncrake called incessantly as if spurred on by the occasional rain showers.

As I returned home two Cuckoo erupted from the garden followed, soon after,, by the wonderful bubbling call of the female bird. Later news that at least four Corncrake ae now in the general vicinity of the village which suggests birds have arrived in the last few days.

May I take this opportunity to make mention of the American Birding Association. At the beginning of the year I renewed a previous membership which, for whatever reason, went astray. On querying what happened I received a personal E-mail from the new President, Jeff Gordon, putting things right and passing on good wishes. May I simply say that it's a great organization and if you're interested in American birds then join! Regular magazines , occasional conventions, a regular Newsletter and an infrastructure that is geared to support birders and with a good web site. Follow it through!!

May I also draw your attention to a critique ( bit of a rant I suppose ) that I've put on one of my other Blogs ( Conservation Concerns.....see the link opposite or http://www.conservationconcerns.blogspot.com/ ) that deals with Scottish sporting estates and raptor persecution, as dealt with in a recent BBC TV documentary. Blood boiling stuff!

10 th May,2011. Divers save the day!

2011-05-11T10:13:00.000+01:00

The strong winds of late finally appear to have settled down somewhat having provided another period of easterlies and south easterlies in spring, a sure fire invitation for us to receive a period of westerlies!!

The day provided an opportunity to be on Jura , although the outcome was a little quiet in many respects. Best of the bunch were two Greta Northern Divers during the day, one in full breeding dress and the other not quite there and looking a little scruffy. Two or three Red-throated Divers were around, including one that flew past very close at eye level calling and then completed a U-turn and disappeared back up the Sound.

A lot of birds are now on breeding territories with Common Sandpiper in good numbers along both shores. At the beginning of the day the fresh southerly wind encouraged both Buzzard and Sparrowhawk into display over the Islay coast. Of interest was a small movement of Swallows south down the Sound, almost as if they had overshot on their first attempt at returning to their breeding grounds and were readjusting. By contrast a pair of Canada Geese had no doubts about their conviction towards their final location as they flew north along the Jura coast all the way up the Sound and beyond. An examination of records on Islay over, say, the last five years would show a small, but well defined migration or temporary presence of birds developing in spring. Last summer also showed breeding birds and an itinerant party of non-breeding birds on Jura suggesting a gradual extension from the mainland.

As the afternoon closed so did the weather, with a heavy downpour and more cloud in evidence. It's to be hoped that, even with the recent cold winds , the bright and dry weather of late is not the only prolonged interval we receive! Certainly as I listened for Corncrake from home around 2215 hours the calling of a lone Cuckkoo inserted some optimism towards this still being summer!!

3 rd May,2011. More routine day.

2011-05-04T10:14:00.000+01:00

Spent day locally or seeking out breeding evidence for a couple of species for the BTO Atlas survey. I still harbour thoughts of Long-eared Owl being present on Islay given there is a small population on Colonsay!

Northern Wheatear pairs now seem to have reached usual numbers locally, but Meadow Pipit numbers and Stonechat have taken a tumble! Feedback suggests that this species has not fared too well in other parts of the country either. A Cuckoo called throughout the day, presumably not yet having attracted a mate. I was intrigued by the behaviour of a lamb when confronted by two feeding Chough that had swooped down and commenced to probe the thin soil between an outcrop of rocks it was lying near. Clearly it had not been in the close proximity of such "large" birds before and its behaviour suggested it was utterly bewildered. It stood up, it laid down, it backed off, all the while watching the birds intently. When finally they flew it ran back to its mother! It does actually make you wonder what goes through the minds of animals as they serenely, at least usually, survey the landscape around them. A bit like me after my dinner I suspect!!

Migration in full swing? 2nd May,2011.

2011-05-03T10:42:00.001+01:00

Another glorious day with the wind easing slightly, although surface conditions out on Outer Loch Indaal still not calm enough to get a good survey completed, particularly combined with the sun dappling effects on the surface!

MIGRATION
A male Whinchat near home and a pair later near Coull were the first I'd seen this year. A couple of groups of "Greenland" Wheatears at the tip of the Rinns suggested passage and more Whitethroat and Sedge Warbler appear to be present. A Golden Plover flew north near Portnahaven, as did a Ringed Plover, and 3 Sandwich Tern and 5 Arctic Tern were present within Loch Indaal. A single male Garganey at the RSPB Loch Gruinart Reserve was also new.

Whimbrel were much in evidence with passage near Portnahaven and birds at several points around Loch Indaal and near Ballinaby. Of 45 that were resting at the head of Loch Indaal , 40 suddenly rose and made their way north east, climbing at a very steep angle. In early May, 2008 (see archives), I made various comments about Whimbrel spring passage and their intended breeding areas. Of the birds passing north up the west coast of Islay I think we can be sure their eventual breeding area is in Iceland. Birds that are heading north east are possibly part of the Shetland or Scandinavian breeding population, in this case their intended flight line having been affected by the seriously strong and persistent easterly winds we are experiencing. That these birds use the Great Glen as a "lead line" is of alternative interest given the obvious benefit taken from this "short cut" by skuas and terns in some autumns as observed at Chanonry Point near Inverness. I have observed this choice of NE direction before by Whimbrel,therefore, birds passing up the west coast of Britain, and using Islay as a staging post, may then opt for the two route choices more commonly than we think!

GENERAL
A seawatch produced nothing of particular interest with all species seemingly involved in feeding movements. A couple of groups of Dunlin ( 19 and 10 ) were resting up around Loch Indaal, a sure sign they were on the move, and a single Greenshank near Bridgend, but generally wader numbers were low. The low tide conditions and bright sunlight prevented any useful examination of the wide expanse of sand and mud at the head of the loch.
A group of 23 Red-breasted Merganser enthusiastically fed on a near surface food source accompanied by 3 Arctic Terns simultaneously exploiting the prey! Two Barnacle Geese on the open sands near Bridgend were clearly injured, but may yet survive the summer as has been seen to happen previously. Numbers of Shelduck (110 ) and Oystercatcher (140 ) were of note, although more of the latter could have fed way "offshore".
At Gruinart resplendent Pintail, Shoveler, Teal, Wigeon, a Red-breasted Merganser and a Tufted Duck were all on show together with the handsome male Garganey. Sadly breeding wader numbers seem to be reduced this spring, but time will tell, certainly some replenishing rain would not go amiss!
At Ballinaby the Curlew Sandpiper present yesterday was still around together with some striking "Northern" Golden Plover, a few Dunlin and a group of Whimbrel.

So, all in all, not a bad day!

Glorious 1st May, 2011!

2011-05-02T09:09:00.000+01:00

What a tremendous day, although spoilt slightly by the persistent easterly wind , which was quite strong at times. Variety of things covered locally without unearthing anything special. The early evening then saw me meeting up with the Army Orn.Soc., a party from which had been camping out on Jura for the last couple of days assisting with BTO Atlas work. Well done to Roger Dickey and the team whose efforts have now seen some of the less easily accessed areas of Jura adequately covered.

We all met up and went to RSPB Gruinart in the hope of picking up one of the early arriving Corncrakes, but to no avail. It was good to see a variety of summer migrants, a lingering Whooper Swan and a magnificent overflying male Hen Harrier, but of Crex crex there was no sign! So, in the face of disappointment, we retired to the pub and had a pleasant couple of hours with some traditional Islay culture thrown in too!

Again, many thanks indeed lads. Much appreciated.

29th April, 2011.

2011-04-29T18:38:00.000+01:00

Some form of resurrection you might say!! Apologies for the last couple of weeks, but I've had little to tell in a regular context, as I've been stricken down by a virus. Thankfully whilst the girls were here things were OK and, thankfully again, they've escaped picking up on its effects.

After taking them back to Inverness I did manage a couple of intensive days in the Strathspey area, watched Capercaillie at the Loch Garten lek organized by the RSPB, similarly watched Black Grouse in display and, after some considerable effort, managed to locate a couple of Scottish Crossbill. Following that weekend things weren't as successful, although I managed to complete the necessary work spells on Jura that were allocated to me. Whilst not wishing to revert to the vernacular I must simply say that, until now, I've felt absolutely ........ shattered, even when doing nothing!! Not good news when strong easterlies in evidence!

So, back to business.

Return to normality 10.4.2011.

2011-04-13T17:41:00.000+01:00

The day dawned bright and fine in total contrast to what had gone before. The early morning walk provided an uplifting comparison to yesterday with both dogs appearing to be in a more enthusiastic mood. Whilst it was clear and calm, even slightly warmer, the snow atop the hill summits to the north attested to the fact that winter was not left far behind, nor may have withdrawn its final effects even!

Yellowhammers sang and "twicked", Tree Sparrows called, as did a couple of Bullfinches and a Great Spotted Woodpecker, all species that , on Islay, are only met with occasionally. Great, Blue and Coal Tits called from the woodland or hedgerow, and, most encouragingly of all, several Greenfinch whose numbers generally now seem to be depressed. A little later one of the Red Kites, which are settling nearby, flew languidly across an open field near to the house and , as we left, a Goldcrest sang from a conifer close to the garden. This in itself seemed such a positive portent following the understandable concerns over their status after the crippling winter. It reminded me that I'd also had several Wrens singing out from the nearby woodland edges that morning and that perhaps we should be optimistic that the situation wasn't perhaps as bad as feared.

As ever the journey was necessarily drawn out, but the sun shone, the sea passage was fine and we eventually reached home on Islay as the final vestiges of light were lost. On the adjoining moor Lapwing and Curlew called and a Common Snipe drummed and called from the bog opposite. a wilderness welcome!

I now understand retail therapy! 9.4.2011.

2011-04-13T17:18:00.000+01:00

I have to confess my mood matched the conditions of the day. Outside it was thickish mist blanketing everything and providing a calm silence over the landscape that was ethereal in its overall effect ( well I did say I felt evil!).

Very little called, never mind sang, as I took the dogs out for an early morning walk that was chilly and strangely disorientating. They didn't seem to notice, but I wonder what effect the veneer of visible dampness has on the scent left by "passing mammal traffic" and the like.

All this persisted until lunchtime, hardly lifted even then and returned threateningly in the evening. So, what to do when feeling foul, no birds, no visibility etc ? Retail therapy, the final descent into desperation. I went and bought a new telly , better to watch nature programmes and football!! Did it make me feel better? Not really when revisiting the cost, but that's an inbuilt problem Yorkshire-men have to bear. All I actually seemed to have seen in the day was a couple of skeins of Pink-footed Geese winging their way eastwards over the Forth calling all the while as they appeared and disappeared in the mist.

And so home to feed dogs, daughters , fish and then get increasingly frustrated at reading an instruction booklet for the new television using the rules of Swahili grammar and couched in a language not yet hitherto revealed to mortals!

Highland journey 8.4.2011.

2011-04-13T16:50:00.000+01:00

Spent the day travelling through to Inverness and fighting off the best efforts of some virus infection, which left me feeling somewhat close to evil! However, the journey was uplifting in many respects , although it was largely misty and the grandeur of the Highlands was never apparent.

I have to confess the only observation that drew me out of my focussed and moronic concentration on the road was seeing the "Snow Goose" at Craobh Haven that a couple of winter's ago was being acclaimed as genuine and then was cast into the relegation league at a later date. On this occasion, presuming it to be the same bird, it was the sole occupant of the "usual" field, its accompanying consorts of Grey lag and Canada Geese from past times being elsewhere!

The weather was intriguing in one aspect. At various places, but particularly noticeable over Loch Linnhe on the approach to Fort William, the mist hung in huge,long blocks over the centre of the loch, although nowhere did it extend over the road running in parallel along its length. The mist banks had almost vertical sides and gave a reasonable impression of being the next best thing to large ice floes residing in the centre of the loch waters concerned. Fascinating!

Six pack of goose species. 5.4.2011.

2011-04-13T16:25:00.000+01:00

Mixed day as far as weather was concerned but, generally, the penultimate goose count wasn't too dreadful. Allocated the Laggan and Glen route, which is a bit protracted, but which carried fewer geese than normal, so not quite as intensive as in mid-winter.

In some senses it proved to be an interesting day with two separate "hutchinsii" Canada Geese, three separate Pink-footed Geese plus the usual Barnacle, Greenland White-fronted and Grey lag Geese throughout. A few Light-bellied Brent Geese on the way home brought the day total to six , which is not bad for a day tally. Some years ago I did manage seven different species in the day when we had single Snow Goose and Red-breasted Goose on the island , but it was hard work and I couldn't find the single "Canada" on that occasion that was here. Islay can seem a big place at times!.

A remnant flock of ca. 150 Rock Dove was at Gartbreck and a couple of places had 60+, which is in stark contrast to the pairs which are around at other locations. A few Wheatear noted, but little else. Noticeable was the amount of land under the plough that, presumably , will be put down to barley destined for the local distilleries given current transport costs or even for the open market given the soaring prices of grain. Whatever the intention, stubble fields are good news as far as Islay's birds are concerned as they are generally left overwinter and play host to Skylark and other passerines unless the weather really closes in.

Still no real breakthrough! 3.4.2011.

2011-04-04T10:31:00.000+01:00

An early sea watch showed all the usual species evident but with some Kittiwakes moving south and a single Manx Shearwater flying north. The wind was a fresh F5 south westerly on the coast, and cold, and its efforts sang in the roadside telephone wires. Sadly no surprises emerged so I moved northwards up the Rinns.

An examination of Loch Indaal showed some Great Northern Divers to be present, but the conditions weren't really conducive to counting. Various areas were visited but nothing out of the ordinary arose. It was nice, finally, to find three locations where Stonechat was present, hopefully representing a better winter survival than first feared. A good flock of Twite, with some Linnet included too, provided a bit of sport with Lapland in mind, but to no avail.

Some large packs of geese in the northern part of the island lent weight to their preparing to move at some point in ensuing days. The "washed out" individual reported at various intervals was present at Sunderland along with many of its more normally plumaged relatives!

Gruinart had its usual assortment of duck but nothing new, so I eventually returned home to find the Wheatear still present outside the kitchen window. Well done, mate, I could quite have savoured an African winter holiday myself, but not achieved through self transportation!!

Surprisingly quiet day! 2.4.2011.

2011-04-04T10:10:00.000+01:00

After a period of poor weather it dawned surprisingly bright and clear and relatively calm. capitalising on the opportunity I spent a day completing some observations on the Sound of Islay. Little did I realise how quiet it would be! I'd presumed the much improved weather conditions would initiate some migration, but no, virtually nothing. The Sound itself was also strangely devoid of birds in some senses, but a distant Golden Eagle and a count of seven, possibly eight, soaring Buzzards made up for things.

A Wheatear, seen from the house in the early evening atop a much used rock used persistently in a couple of past seasons, suggested the local male had returned! Perhaps not.

Changing weather. 30.3.2011

2011-03-31T10:21:00.000+01:00

In marked contrast to yesterday today was misty, colder and wet at times with a forecast of worse to come overnight and into tomorrow! Certainly not a day to encourage any wintering geese to vacate their wintering quarters! Later in the day a "window" of fairly pleasant weather emerged as a period of respite between fronts!

Covering the whole southern sector of the island the day was more one of simply locating and counting the geese as little was to be gained otherwise. Whilst there seems to be a lot of Grey lag Goose pairs generally, there was also a number of groups of birds present in various places. The extent to which these might be birds from elsewhere is a matter for conjecture, if not I suggest our local breeding population is set to make a quantum leap in numbers! Certainly the numbers of birds remaining with us through the winter has been noticeable. It will be interesting to examine the counts and compare any trends which are beginning to emerge over, say, the past three winter periods.

Routine goose count. 29.3.2011.

2011-03-31T10:07:00.000+01:00

The first of what will probably be the final four days of goose counting this winter, two of them being next week. The geese seem to be a little restless and certainly some of the Barnacle Geese appear to be forming "packs" prior to departure but, generally, everything seemed to be as normal. The Greenland White-fronted Geese at this time of year always look absolutely stunning and it's certainly the best time to see them at their most pristine, the splendid weather of the day helping in this respect.

Covering a large chunk of the northern part of the island we didn't actually see much else of particular note. A few Northern Wheatear were on some of the open ,higher pastures as their numbers very gradually build. As I returned home the small party of Light-bellied Brent Geese fed at the head of Loch Indaal, very often these being some of the very last to leave in May, when we can also get birds "calling in" following them having already completed part of their journey from further south in Ireland.

Divers galore! 28.3.2011

2011-03-31T09:54:00.000+01:00

From SW Islay the coast of Northern Ireland showed as a dark silhouette across a milky grey sea carrying some mist in the distance. Despite this the visibility was remarkably good, with no wind and a calm sea that allowed birds to be picked up much further out than normal.

Over a couple of hours the most significant movement was of Auks, predominantly Razorbill where they could be identified, flying north in long lines with a final total being between 550/600. Gannets were also on the move with small groups totalling around 250, mainly moving north in leisurely fashion on what was presumed to be feeding movements. Black Guillemots were much in evidence with displaying birds buzzing about and an estimated 30+ being involved. Far out offshore a skein of 24 Grey lag Geese made their way northwards, doubtless on their return journey to their breeding grounds in Iceland.

Following this, and given little systematic coverage is often given to the whole of Loch Indaal ( it's big and takes several hours!! ), I spent most of the day covering the Outer Loch and then the Inner Loch areas. My main interest was with diver numbers given the conditions were perfect for counting.

I wasn't disappointed as Great Northern Divers appeared to be everywhere , particularly in the most central area. In all I had 101, many of which were like the above in plumage which, to some extent made them look a bit scruffy. Others still remained in full winter plumage which I suspect are sometimes considered by some to be Black throated Divers given they appear so well "demarcated" in their markings!! In addition to these 25 Red-throated Divers were present, one party of which were all asleep suggesting they were new arrivals and resting after a long journey. Of similar interest was a total of about 190 Common Scoter spread out over quite a distance in the central loch.

Later in the Inner Loch 4 Long-tailed Duck and 4 Greater Scaup were found, possibly the final remnants of our wintering birds. Despite a search no Slavonian Grebe were found but, as with a precise count for divers, the area is vast and individuals can easily be overlooked!

A quick visit to RSPB Gruinart Reserve showed some splendid Wigeon, Pintail, Shoveler,and Teal to be present , a couple of Gadwall and Red breasted Merganser and a single Moorhen ( not the most common species on Islay!! ). High overhead a party of 15 Sand Martin and a single House Martin circled over the pools. All in all a very satisfying day!

And talking of Whooper Swans! 26.3. 2011.

2011-03-27T11:27:00.000+01:00

A day on Jura, albeit rather quiet in many respects. The weather in the first part of the day was glorious, even to the extent of "caps off" for a couple of hours! An essential turning point in any spring in my case! Numbers of birds in the Sound have somewhat reduced, other than Shag, but the variety of species has improved as species move north or return to their breeding haunts.

There was little wind and the overall atmosphere was tranquil most of the day. Set against this was a high flying party of 14 Whooper Swans moving north against a blue sky peppered with light cloud. Their effortless and soundless progression, other than the musical, but low, bugling calls of seemingly reassurance and encouragement they exchanged, was almost ethereal as their equal spaced line moved north. A fine sight and the type of experience of migration I have never ever found other than uplifting!

Good views of Golden Eagle, its head and nape glinting in the sun as it wheeled around and of several Great Northern Divers in various stages of transitional plumage all served to provide an enjoyable day.

Departure of winter visitors.

2011-03-27T11:09:00.000+01:00

Whilst the whole morning and early afternoon were taken up with an appointment I had an opportunity to have a general look around on my way home. I sometimes think that our reportage of birds is a little unsystematic in several senses , particularly that associated with the departure of our migrants and more local winter visitors. For example, the excellent concentration of Whooper Swans on Loch Skerrols this winter is now reduced to two birds only, with the vast majority having commenced their journeys north to their breeding grounds as sightings of passage birds over the past ten days or so has shown. The numbers of Wigeon that were similarly congregated on the loch have also diminished almost to nil, as has most of the numbers of this species which remained faithful to Loch Indaal.

The Common Coot which have been present during the winter also appear to have departed. It's a fascinating species with many of our wintering birds emanating from North west Europe and substantially swelling our mainly sedentary population of breeding birds. Ringing records have assisted in interpreting what Coots are up to, but they are not the easiest bird to catch and their movements all appear to happen at night, so sightings of birds "on the move" are virtually non existent.

Weather of late has been beneficial to night migrants with clear skies and light winds, some of which have been southerly thereby assisting both northward departing migrants and those arriving from the south. A party of Northern Wheatear near Machir Bay had obviously just arrived, although no others appeared evident on the Rinns.

Thursday, 24th March, 2011. The muti-various effects of weather!!

2011-03-27T10:45:00.000+01:00

A day that didn't turn out as intended due to a strange "banded" weather system which affected the island! Setting out with the intention of travelling to Jura I discovered the ferry wasn't running due to the fog which absolutely filled the Sound of Islay. On the journey various parts of the island were similarly affected, but not to the same extent. So, after waiting for over two hours I ditched the proposition and retraced my steps, only to find that the central part of Islay was bathed in glorious sunshine!!

Taking advantage of the opportunity I went into various woodland blocks simply to see what the situation is with various common species following the vagaries of the winter. At this stage, and I should emphasize that given it was late morning and song and activity were beginning to wane a little, I should say that the Wren population appears to be reduced by 60-70%, no Goldcrests or Long-tailed Tits were recorded but, by contrast, both Blue and Great Tits appeared in unusually good numbers! This situation could improve and I'll be doing a repeat of the self same survey in late April and in May, so a better idea of the situation will be gained then.

Meadow Pipit and Pied Wagtail numbers appear late in terms of their usual numbers arriving at this time of year. Whilst it's speculation , I suspect they were forced south much farther south than in mild winters due to the general distribution of the bad weather and could be faced with a slightly longer than normal return migration. As yet Stonechat numbers still appear to be very much depressed and one wonders the extent to which they may have been badly affected by the bad winter.

As a final commentary on the weather my eventual journey home saw rolling banks of mist in the southern part of Loch Indaal, sunshine bathing parts of the southern Rinns but thick fog offshore! Ah well1.

A final vigil...18th March,2011.

2011-03-21T13:35:00.000Z

A severe overnight frost was soon cleared by the sun leaving a bright and glorious, albeit cold, day.Visibility was excellent and we used the opportunity to visit the Clatteringshaws Loch area again to scan for Black Grouse. Clearly it was not meant to be but the magnificence of the area was brought out to the fullest extent by the wonderful sunlight. Having moved on we were compensated by views of Golden Eagle a little later, not always a species you can automatically anticipate even by dint of deliberate and prolonged effort.

We then journeyed on to the Wigtown Peninsula. We soon discovered the Wigtown Harbour Reserve, an absolute gem of a site with extensive views over an area of merse with its braided drainage channels and of a pool immediately adjacent to a hide. Both Barnacle and Pink-footed Geese were feeding fairly close by on the merse until a Peregrine spooked them and they moved farther away.On the pool a good variety of waterbirds was present including Shoveler, Pintail, Wigeon, Mallard, Teal, Goldeneye, Moorhen and Little Grebe. All were close and the site would be a veritable treasure trove for any beginner to birdwatching!

From there we moved south to Garlieston, a picturesque, quiet harbour and village which belies its bustling history as a key port for the hinterland. Key too as the area in the Second World war where the Mulberry Harbour structures were assembled previous to the Normandy landings. The whole penninsula has a Heritage Trail the primary site of which is St. Ninian's Cave , the site of the first Christian settlement in Scotland in 397 AD.

Garlieston's ornithological claim to fame is its wintering Greenshank of which we found two, although numbers can be higher. Of equal interest were 21 Light -bellied Brent Geese and 14 Gadwall (8 M 6F ). The latter don't appear to be that common on the Solway although, strangely enough, we found a further two birds on a pool next to the B7063. This whole area seems likely to lack any intensive coverage by birders due to its inherent geography, but it has a variety of habitats and, I suspect, plays host to a wide variety of birds. It is extensive, but certainly warrants patient examination as its coast carries breeding seabirds and open views of Luce Bay too. A caravan park at Burrows Head would provide a suitable base for a "get away from it all" holiday and doubtless repay the attention by providing some really enjoyable birdwatching.

Surf Scoter finally reeled in!

2011-03-21T12:21:00.000Z

Our initial plans to spend a couple of days on the Firth of Forth had fallen through but were saved by Matthew's insistence that we should have a day out there from our base in Dumfries-shire. What you need to know is that this has been a species that has eluded me many times, despite targeted visits, and that I so much wanted to see. Over the years different birds have been involved, but the added attraction to this individual is that it is an adult male. Do I need to say more?

So we left in mist and rain, which gradually diminished and was replaced by much brighter, dry, but cold, weather, albeit it with perfect viewing conditions. We finally arrived at Lower Largo, Fife and had a preliminary look at what the Firth might offer whilst we had breakfast. A few Velvet Scoter and odd Slavonian Grebe offered a flavour to what lay beyond so we transferred around to Ruddon's Point. After a preliminary look a walk to the Point showed various groups of Velvet Scoter to be present and showing well. Shortly afterwards the single male Surf Scoter showed itself within one of the groups, an absolute dream of a bird. The white patches on the nape and forehead gleamed in the bright sunlight and the distinctively shaped bill and its colours showed to full effect. What a bird, and one worth waiting for, even to the extent of the various disappointing visits made in previous times!! { Matthew's reward is that (he says) I will now no longer grumble about my previous misfortune, but, in reality, its my thanks for his being willing to act as chauffeur. It could have been a very silent journey back had we not seen it!! }. We also had some great views of Long-tailed Duck, Slavonian Grebes and Velvet Scoters, a species that never fails to please! As we left the site a couple of Grey Partridge lifted from some rough grassland, a species met up with all too infrequently nowadays!

A quick journey around to the Eden Estuary provided views of the wintering Black-tailed Godwit flock, a couple of individuals of which showed almost full breeding plumage. As we viewed the estuary, overflying aircraft from nearby RAF Leuchars provided a fine display of formation flying. Little did we know at that point that a decision was being reached by various governments relating to Libya that might actually see such aircraft in combat in the near future. A sobering thought set against the enjoyment of our trip.

Vain search for Black Grouse!

2011-03-21T11:38:00.000Z

An early start, frustrated in part by fog until around 0800 hours, led to a very enjoyable day despite our not seeing everything we'd hoped for. Within the Galloway Forest Park is the Raiders Road, a ten mile drive though the forest for which there is a charge, but which is closed between November and April. Prompted by details within the guide I mentioned we elected to walk along the road and look for Black Grouse within a couple of areas that have been cleared in recent times.. The road takes you into the quiet wilderness of Galloway and is an absolute joy to be within providing , as it does, all the quintessential elements of solitude, scenery , the sights and smells of the forest and the pleasure of its wildlife. Whilst we didn't see any Black Grouse, nor many of the other specialities either, the walk was a real tonic and good sightings of Common Crossbill added to it all.

On to Loch Ryan at Stranraer amidst glorious sunshine and a host of good birds. Most noticeable was the numbers of Red-throated Diver, with various groups in a differing array of plumages being present. Added to these were Long-tailed Duck, Common Scoter, Greater Scaup, Pintail, Eider, Red-breasted Merganser and Shelduck, various common waders, both Black Guillemot and Common Guillemot, a small flock of Light-bellied Brent Geese, Slavonian Grebes as well as a fantastic collection of gull species. Whilst we dutifully went through the latter the recently reported Mediterranean Gull, Iceland Gull and Yellow legged Gull eluded us!! At the Wig a good flock of Twite was still present along with odd Linnet.

Our final "move" was to the West Freugh area to watch for roosting Hen Harrier. This roost is much reduced in its numbers of birds compared to past years but, nonetheless, it produced an absolutely stunning female bird, which delighted us by passing within around 30-40 metres of our vantage point. Select stuff added to by a fly past male Peregrine! A solid day.

15th March, 2011.

2011-03-21T11:09:00.000Z

A calm day, but with a front moving through ever so slowly ensuring that the rain just kept falling! Eventually, with the day drawing to a close , it finally cleared up!

As it was we had to travel across to Gretna Green where Rose was meeting up with a friend and travelling back to South Yorks, albeit in pretty miserable weather. This left "the boys" to birdwatch in all available daylight hours, indulge in "man food", which left the cottage smelling like the Orient, and watch football each evening!! Well, something approaching that!!

Leaving Gretna Matthew and I decided to look at the various sites from which skuas are observed in spring. These birds move westwards into the Solway, and can be observed where the channel is at its narrowest previous to them then gaining height before making the overland crossing north eastwards and on towards their Arctic breeding grounds. Thus we visited Seafield and Newbie both of which we resolved to return to during May some year. In varying numbers, and differing each year too, the whole array of skua species can be encountered here, namely Pomarine, Great, Arctic and, most enticingly, Long-tailed!!! Further visits to Powfoot and to Caerlaverock NNR produced a few sightings but the conditions were pretty dire.

Raptors in full splendour! 14.3.2011.

2011-03-21T10:46:00.000Z

A glorious day, but cold with an occasional rather cutting breeze!

Our first port of call was Loch Ken again where we could spend more time than previously. The visit yielded up a few Greenland White-fronted Geese, Willow Tit, Nuthatch and several Red Kite as specialities which can be met up with in that area. From the hide Black-headed Gulls were already in possession of their territories on the islands provided and the penetrating calls of Teal and their frantic pursuits were ever present as a background. Titmice, a few winter thrushes and the emergent song of several of our own resident passerines provided a backdrop to a pleasant walk added to by the drumming of a couple of Great Spotted Woodpeckers.

A deliberate "time out" within Laurieston Forest, casting our eyes skyward, produced several Buzzards and a couple of Red Kite in a clear blue sky together with a single male Goshawk for a short period. A real reward to perseverance! Around us several Common Crossbill fed and the calls of Siskins were ever present. We moved location a couple of times, but gained little improvement against our initial efforts. A single Magpie on the very edge of the forest together with a lone Red Grouse on the moors above Gatehouse of Fleet added further variety to the day. The former species is not that common on the Solway and, at the end of the week, I felt its present status is little different to that of twenty years ago!!

Time spent around and within the Cairnsmore of Fleet N.N.R was a real pleasure. The weather was magnificent and abundant frog spawn in various pools around the Field Centre pain further testimony to "Spring". The above Centre is well worth a visit with some modern and impactive displays. The forest by now was becoming quiet but Jay, Common Crossbill and Siskin were noted and, on the nearby open upland areas, Skylarks sang and doubtless newly returned Meadow pipit and Pied Wagtails were busily feeding.

Onward to an all time favourite area, that around Murray's Monument in the Galloway Forest Park.
Patience was finally rewarded with both Peregrine and Golden Eagle being seen within the sweeping vistas available from this vantage point. Another very fulfilling day!

13th March, 2011.

2011-03-21T10:09:00.000Z

And, yes, the weather was dry at last! Grey, rather cold but calm and with conditions improving throughout the day such that we finally had a little sun in the late afternoon.

First spell out from Kirkgunzeon was to the Carsethorn/Southerness areas. A bit of a favourite of mine given that, years ago, it had proved possible to rent a cottage a couple of times or so at Carsethorn and which had a huge picture window looking out on the estuary. Little had changed and we had a fine array of duck and waders which included a single Whimbrel, odd ones of which winter in the area. An ever changing tabloid of Wigeon, Pintail, Shelduck, Red-breasted Merganser and a few Greater Scaup entertained us with a supporting cast of Oystercatcher, Curlew, Knot, Redshank, Dunlin and Turnstone being found. A backdrop to all was the presence of a few groups of Barnacle Geese, a party of Pink-footed Geese and a couple of overflying Canada Geese.

Southerness Point produced some offshore Great crested Grebe, a Black-throated Diver and a fine female Merlin sitting out on some rocks. Various passerines locally included some handsome male Greenfinches which were quite a treat given their spasmodic appearance at home in recent months. Following this we did a "round Robin" visit to the Mersehead, Kippford and Rockcliffe areas and a convoluted journey around various woodland blocks before returning for a late breakfast!

An afternoon outing took in various lochs ( primarily Milton, Auchenreoch and Carlingwark ) where we had a good variety of duck. Goldeneye winter in good numbers here, but Tufted Duck, Wigeon, Teal, Goosander, a single Pochard were all present along with Whooper and Mute Swans and Grey lag Geese. At Carlingwark Loch at Castle Douglas the chilly afternoon welcomed three Sand Martin as evidence that spring was actually on its way! A later visit to Loch Ken produced nothing new, but brought closure on what had been an immensely enjoyable and rewarding day!

12th March,2011.

2011-03-21T09:36:00.000Z

As promised a series of somewhat belated postings giving the details of a week spent on the Solway Firth. In many respects it was a "memory lane" holiday given the number of winter breaks spent there in past years. There have been changes admittedly, but birdwatching facilities are much better than ever with a whole succession of new reserves in place.

May I mention the recent appearance of an absolutely stunning guide to the area. Published by the Buckingham Press "The Solway", written by John Miles, details the best birdwatching sites on both sides of the Solway Firth and is an indispensable aid to making a visit to the area. The details are concise and directions and likely sightings are precise and realistic. It enhanced the week and led to visits to areas I'd never encountered before when, somewhat immodestly, I thought I knew the best sites!!

The departure, nor the journey southwards, was encouraging with snow falling as I left home at 0530 hours to catch the early ferry. This mainly continued as sleet all the way to Dumfries, other than the Rest and Be Thankful Pass, near Arrochar, which was being kept open by a snow plough tooing and froing up and down each side! Given the conditions birds were virtually absent and, after meeting up with Matthew and Rose, we concentrated on getting all the necessary unpacking, shopping and such like out of the way in the hope the weather would improve.

Friday, 11th March, 2011.

2011-03-11T18:28:00.000Z

Just a brief second post!!

Always a good idea to switch back to normal text after utilising italics. Apologies!

Not sure whether I shall have WiFi facilities from tomorrow. Watch this space or pick up on a week of reports after the 19th!!