Sunday, April 13, 2008

12th April.2008.

An enforced day behind a desk completing survey forms , or similar, despite the great weather. It provided the opportunity to keep an eye on the open moorland opposite and the bird feeders. April signifies a light, but very noticeable, passage of Goldfinch occuring here and yesterday provided ideal weather conditions. At least three parties arrived/fed and then left the garden flying directly northwards. A single White Wagtail locally was the first I've had this spring.

Managed to complete most of the paperwork!!! The British Trust for Ornithology is currently organizing a huge survey , lasting through from 2007-2011, mapping out the wintering and breeding distribution of Britain's birds at tetrad level (2x2km ). A huge undertaking , but already 1000's of records are flowing in from enthusisatic volunteers. As their representative for Islay, Jura and Colonsay the task of gaining coverage, collecting forms , contacting volunteers etc falls in my lap but has its compensations of gradually seeing the overall picture emerge. As we have only a few resident and active birders on the islands anyone contemplating visiting on holiday is encouraged to contribute!!! Please get in touch by E-mail if you can assist as your contribution will be invaluable, particularly on Jura.
Well, folks, that's the end of the commercial!! Now off birding!!

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