Sightings archive: 2018
26th-31st December
Happy New Year to all the readers of the FIBO website, hopefully you've all had a good Christmas and are looking forward to 2019. We're hoping to see plenty of you (and plenty of birds!) on the Isle during the year. With a few reasonable birds overwintering, hopefully the Year List will get off to a good start tomorrow...
Weather: generally SW and wet at times, although some drier spells. Quite mild for the time of year, although with winds increasing throughout from the west on 31st it started to feel a bit brisker.
Highlights:
Iceland Gull: an adult past South Light on 31st
Glaucous Gull: 1CY at Ditfield on 31st
Tundra Bean Goose: one still present throughout
Coot: present throughout on Da Water
Other sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum during the period):
Pink-footed Goose, European White-fronted Goose (still present until 27th at least), Whooper Swan (the bird in the North was reloacted near Wester Lother, but both of the birds in the south appeared to have vanished after they finally met up with each on 22nd), 2 Wigeon, 6 Teal, Common Scoter (female again in the North), 2 Water Rail, 2 Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Woodcock (28th), Black-headed Gull (1CY 31st), Merlin, Peregrine, 2 Carrion Crow, Robin, Chaffinch (Jivvy Geo, 27th), 5 Snow Bunting.
Final Year list total for 2018 (subject to acceptance of rarities etc): 203
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21st-25th December
Weather: Although big SE storms at first, a settled day on 22nd then a more SW and occasional showery system settled in.
Highlights:
'Todd's Canada Goose': still present until 23rd at least
Tundra Bean Goose: one from 22nd-25th
'European White-fronted Goose': one from 22nd-24th at least
Glaucous Gull: 2 (1CY and 2CY) on 24th
Coot: one still on Da Water throughout
Tundra Bean Goose and 'European White-fronted Goose', 22nd December, Utra (David Parnaby)
Other sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum during the period):
Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 12 Wigeon, 9 Teal, Great Northern Diver (North Haven on 21st and South Harbour on 22nd), 2 Water Rail, 2 Oystercatcher, 8 Lapwing, Ringed Plover (Muckle Uri Geo, 22nd; a rare winter occurence), Dunlin (22nd; first of the month), Woodcock (Obs, 24th), Kestrel (Obs, 21st), Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow, 3 Robin (Obs, Stackhoull and Busta), 9 Twite, 10 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 203
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15th-20th December
Weather: a couple more days of stormy weaher (especially 16th and 18th), with a S or SE origin. Regular spells of heavy rain and feeling rather wintry in the grey (and very short) days.
Highlights:
'Todd's Canada Goose': one found with the Greylags along the west end of Meadow Burn on 16th was present to 19th at least. potentially the first record of this subspecies for the Isle
Glaucous Gull: 3 on 16th (2 x 1CY and a 2CY)
Coot: still present on Da Water
'Todd's Canada Goose' Branta canadensis interior with Greylag Geese, Mires, 16th December (David Parnaby)
Other sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum during the period):
Pink-footed Goose, 3 Whooper Swan, 15 Wigeon, 27 Mallard, 11 Teal, Long-tailed Duck, Common Scoter, 2 Water Rail, Oystercatcher, 8 Lapwing (arrival on 17th), Woodcock (16th), Guillemot (good numbers offshore), Short-eared Owl (Quoy, 20th), Kestrel (still in Obs area), Merlin, Carrion Crow (Setter), small numbers of thrushes, Robin (Obs), 5 Twite.
Year list: 203
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10th-15th December
Weather: some strong SE then S winds before winds increased to Storm Force from the SE on 15th.
Highlights:
Iceland Gull: 2CY sheltering on Buness on 15th
Glaucous Gull: 2CY on 12th and 2 (adult and 1CY) on Buness on 15th
Little Auk: 2 off South Light on 11th with one there the following day
Coot: on Da Water still
Other sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum during the period):
266 Greylag Goose, Pink-footed Goose, 3 Whooper Swan, 4 Wigeon, 25 Mallard, 5 Teal, 2 Long-tailed Duck (Furse), Red-breasted Merganser (male, South Harbour), 'blue' Fulmar (12th, South Light), 3 Water Rail, Moorhen (Burkle throughout), Oystercatcher (North Haven 14th-15th), Lapwing, Guillemot (lots offshore on 11th-12th), Kestrel (one at Double Dyke on 14th then over Obs on 15th), Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow (Utra), Skylark, Robin (Busta), 2 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 203
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6th-10th December
Weather: blustery conditions with the wiond moving to the NE or N later in the period, bringing some wintry showers and feeling cold.
Highlights:
Coot: still on Da Water
Other sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum during the period):
223 Greylag Goose, Pink-footed Goose, 3 Whooper Swan, 6 Wigeon, 3 Teal, 'blue' Fulmar (7 moved east in a 20 minute seawatch from South Light on 8th), Cormorant (1CY, South Harbour 9th ), Sparrowhawk (6th), 3 Water Rail, Moorhen (still Schoolton/Burkle area on 6th at least), 2 Lapwing, 238 Turnstone, Peregrine (male, Obs, 10th), Carrion Crow (Setter), Skylark, Robin (Obs), Dunnnock (Nether Taft, 10th), 5 Twite, 2 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 203
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1st-5th December
Weather: Starting with strong SSW winds and rain, easing, then after a day of strong NW winds on 3rd becoming lighter from the SW with temperatures dropping and frost later in the period.
Highlights:
Iceland Gull: 1CY in gull flock behind Upper Stoneybrek on 3rd
Coot: still present on Da Water throughout
Other sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum during the period):
253 Greylag Goose (3rd; an arrival was noticeable in the NW winds), 4 Pink-footed Goose (the 2 winters joined by 2 more on 3rd), 'European White-fronted Goose' (2nd), 3 Whooper Swan, 8 Wigeon, 2 Teal, Common Scoter (1st), Slavonian Grebe (North Haven until 4th), Grey Heron (2nd), Cormorant (1CY South Harbour 3rd), Sparrowhawk (5th), 7 Water Rail (singles at Shirva, Obs, Schoolton, Haa and Walli Burn and 2 at Burkle), Moorhen (still Schoolton/Burkle area), 2 Oystercatcher, 2 Lapwing, 180 Turnstone, Long-eared Owl (Chapel Plantation on 2nd), Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow (still present around South Light), Skylark, much smaller numbers of thrushes now present, Robin (Obs), 2 Meadow Pipit, Chaffinch (5th), 7 Twite, Yellowhammer (4th), 35 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 203
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Friday 30th November
The end of an interesting month, during which a few species reached their autumn peaks as some easterlies finally arrived (although too late for most of the staff and for most of the migration unfortunately). A total of 95 species were recorded, including four new additions to the year list (an above-average total for November). Only 91 birds of 19 species birds were ringed, taking the total to 4273 for the year (there are typically only single-figures of birds ringed in December). With migration realistically now at an end, the latest sightings page will be updated less frequently (we'll aim for an update every 5 days or so), although we'll still break any major bird news on Twitter or Facebook (previous December highlights include Ivory Gull, a couple of Gyr Falcons, King Eider and Black-throated Thrush, although admittedly, they're few and far between).
Weather: SW6-8, heavy showers.
Highlights:
Little Auk: one moved east past South Light.
Glaucous Gull: 1CY near Easter Lother
Coot: still present on Da Water.
Other sightings:
143 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 4 Whooper Swan, 7 Wigeon, 2 Teal, Slavonian Grebe (still in North Haven), Woodpigeon (Obs), 2 Merlin, Peregrine.
Year list: 203
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Thursday 29th November
Despite the windy start to the day, a plane made it in, but generally it was poor weather and, other than perhaps a handful more Blackbirds, there was little sign of arrivals.
Weather: SE6, easing somewhat, then increasing from SW later in the evening. Heavy rain from midday.
Sightings:
2 Pink-footed Goose, 5 Teal, Slavonian Grebe (North Haven still), Water Rail (Skerryholm), 7 Purple Sandpiper, Woodcock (Gully), Merlin, 2 Skylark, Snow Bunting.
Year list: 203
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Wednesday 28th November
A day of really horrible weather as heavy rain and gales dominated, with the School closing because of the conditions. It didn't appear that much had arrived (although there were a few bits sheltering around the coast), although most things would have been keeping their heads down. Definitely more a day for enjoying the spectacular seas and skys than anything else!
Weather: SE7-9, heavy rain regularly throughout.
Sightings:
181 Greylag Goose, 'European White-fronted Goose' (Boini Mire), 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 4 Long-tailed Duck (Furse), Red-breasted Merganser (male, North Haven), Slavonian Grebe (North Haven), Water Rail (Obs), 2 Oystercatcher, 2 Lapwing, 9 Purple Sandpiper, 3 Skylark.
Slavonian Grebe, North Haven (David Parnaby)
Year list: 203
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Tuesday 27th November
A chilly day with ice on the runway at Tingwall, that thankfully cleared before the wind picked up too much for the flight. We may be struggling for transport for a few days now though.
Weather: NE2-3 increasing 4-5, some showers.
Highlights:
Coot: still present on Da Water, although elusive.
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 3 Teal, Common Scoter (female South Harbour again), 3 Long-tailed Duck (Furse), Water Rail (Schoolton), 2 Skylark, 3 Meadow Pipit, 15 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 203
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Monday 26th November
With Susannah heading out the Isle for a short break there'll be even less coverage now, although remarkably there was another new bird for the year. The last of the calm conditions for a while saw the Good Shepherd out on a run to Grutness, whilst the planes also went according to plan, but with a warning of SE gales from tomorrow evening, it's likely to feel a bit more wintry soon.
Weather: NE2-3, cloudy with showers and a few brighter spells, but cool.
Highlights:
Coot: one at Da Water; the first record since January 2016. Most recent records have arrived in winter, although the species is more typically an early spring migrant on Fair Isle and this is the first autumn arrival since 2002 (and only the 7th November arrival in FIBO history).
Velvet Scoter: still present off the South Light area
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 3 Teal, Long-tailed Duck (Ditfield), Goosander, Moorhen (Schoolton), Long-eared Owl (Gully), Merlin, Chaffinch (male, Plantation), 3 Twite, 15 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 203
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Sunday 25th November
Not a lot of birding done, although it was calm enough to get the nets open for a while, but there was a surprise addition to the year list .
Weather: NE1-2, cloudy with some sunny spells
Highlights:
Velvet Scoter: one in Muckle Uri Geo then drifted off Skadan; first record since October 2016
Velvet Scoter, Muckle Uri Geo (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
150 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 3 Wigeon, Goosander, 3 Water Rail (Obs, Schoolton, Burkle), Moorhen (Burkle), Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, Long-eared Owl (Obs), Merlin, Blackcap (male Plantation), Black Redstart (South Haven), 11 Twite, Yellowhammer (schoolton), 15 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 202
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Saturday 24th November
Highlights:
'Siberian Chiffchaff': one at the Obs in what has been a quiet autumn for the species
Sightings:
2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 5 Wigeon, 27 Mallard, 5 Teal, Common Scoter (South Harbour), Red-breasted Merganser (female), Moorhen (Meadow Burn), 9 Lapwing, Ringed Plover, Woodcock, Guillemot (lots at sea), 4 Long-eared Owl (Plantation, including 2 new birds trapped and ringed), Merlin, Chaffinch (female), Brambling (male, Obs), Siskin (Obs; first of the month), Yellowhammer (2 Quoy), 11 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 201
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Friday 23rd November
Another cool and cloudy day, but the planes went, which meant the schoolchildren got a day-trip to Lerwick to get a swimming lesson with Olympian Hannah Miley.
Weather: E3-4, cloudy with showers
Sightings:
2 Pink-footed Goose, Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon, Teal, Common Scoter (South Harbour), Goosander, 2 Great Northern Diver (one south over the School and another headed east off South Light), Slavonian Grebe (South Harbour), Water Rail (Obs), 2 Oystercatcher, 27 Guillemot (in c20 minutes off South Light, indicating decent numbers in Fair Isle waters), 2 Long-eared Owl (roosting in Plantation), Short-eared Owl, Merlin, Starling (one 'in-off' at South Light, showing that they're still on the move), Chaffinch (Setter), Twite, 3 'Mealy Redpoll', Snow Bunting.
Long-eared Owls, Plantation (David Parnaby)
Year list: 201
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Thursday 22nd November
Weather:E4, cloudy, showery and cool
Sightings:
2 Pink-footed Goose, Goosander, Water Rail (Obs), Woodcock, 2 Woodpigeon (Obs and Gully), 2 Long-eared Owl (Plantation; including a Finnish-ringed bird), Merlin, Blackcap (female, Gully), 2 Chaffinch, 2 'Mealy Redpoll'.
Year list: 201
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Wednesday 21st November
A day of not so good weather, but still birds about. The walk to School was enlivened by an interesting trap round - not everyone gets to see a Long-eared Owl in the hand on their way in to School!
Weather: SE5-6, cloudy with showers and some heavier rain later.
Sightings:
'European White-fronted Goose', Water Rail (Obs), 4 Lapwing, 2 Woodcock, Woodpigeon (trapped in the Gully), 2 Long-eared Owl (Plantation, including one trapped and ringed), Chaffinch (male, Shirva).
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Long-eared Owl, Plantation (Grace Parnaby)
Year list: 201
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Tuesday 20th November
Still birds about, including a couple of new migrants. We could have done with this weather during October when there were a few more people to take advantage of it! The Good Shepherd returned from her annual refit today - it's always good to have her (and her crew!) back.
Weather: SE3-5, cloudy with sunnier spells.
Sightings:
3 Whooper Swan, 3 Teal, Goosander, 3 Water Rail (Obs and 2 Schoolton), 2 Woodcock, Woodpigeon (Obs), 2 Long-eared Owl (both in the Plantation area), Peregrine (female), 2 Chiffchaff (Obs and Skerryholm), alba wagtail (one over Vaadal), 2 Chaffinch (Setter), 12 Twite, 3 'Mealy Redpoll', 88 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 201
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Monday 19th November
A clear arrival of birds today, with a total of 17 birds caught in the traps (2 Woodcock, 9 Blackbirds, 3 Robins, 2 Redwings and a Song Thrush, so all migrants!), a good total, especially for this time of year.
Weather: SE3-5, mostly cloudy with good visibility. Cool.
Highlights:
Little Auk: 2 moved east together off South Light
Tundra Bean Goose: 2 still opposite Stackhoull
Other sightings:
3 Whooper Swan, 8 Wigeon, 6 Teal, Goldeneye (female past South Light), Goosander, blue Fulmar (past South Light), Grey Heron, 2 Water Rail (Obs and Walli Burn), 40 Purple Sandpiper (South Light; minimum count), 12 Woodcock, Woodpigeon (one came in off the sea at South Light), Long-eared Owl (one.arrived in from the south at South Light), 2 Blackcap (male and female, Obs), Starling (four went south off South Light), 12 Robin (North Light to trapping area only, suggesting a reasonable arrival), Chaffinch (Bergaroo), 'Mealy Redpoll' (Setter), 31 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 201
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Sunday 18th November
A quieter day for coverage, with a couple of hours checking the south.
Weather: SE3-4, cloudy patches, mild.
Highlights:
Little Auk: one off South Light
Glaucous Gull: 1CY at South Light
Tundra Bean Goose: 2 still
Other sightings:
204 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 'European White-fronted Goose', 2 Whooper Swan, 9 Wigeon, 5 Teal, Common Scoter (past South Light), 2 Long-tailed Duck, Goosander (male), Grey Heron, Water Rail (Obs and Schoolton), 3 Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Purple Sandpiper, Woodcock, Goldcrest (Gully), Chaffinch (Schoolton).
Year list: 201
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Saturday 17th November
A sweep of the beaches from South Harbour to Hjukni Geo failed to turn up yesterday's sandpiper although there were still migrants around.
Weather: SE or ESE 3/4, cloudy with some rain early on and moderate visibility at time.
Highlights:
Tundra Bean Goose: the 2 still present
Other sightings:
2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 'European White-fronted Goose', 4 Wigeon, 25 Mallard, 3 Teal, Long-tailed Duck (past South Light), Goosander (male), Water Rail (Obs and Utra), 3 Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Golden Plover, 6 Purple Sandpiper, Woodcock, Long-eared Owl (still around the traps), Blackcap (female Gully), 37 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 201
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Friday 16th November
An attempt to get round all the crofts was stymied by an elusive Actitis sandpiper in South Harbour, but there was still coverage of the Obs, traps, SW crofts and a section of west cliffs, which showed a reasonable arrival had taken place.
Weather: SE2 increasing to 4, mostly clear with good visibility.
Highlights:
'Northern Bullfinch': female at the Obs
Tundra Bean Goose: two still present
Other sightings:
147 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 'European White-fronted Goose', Whooper Swan, 6 Wigeon, 28 Mallard, 7 Teal, Goosander (male still present), Grey Heron, Water Rail (School), Lapwing, 3 Golden Plover, 3 Ringed Plover, 5 Purple Sandpiper, 3 Woodcock, Common Sandpiper (one seen briefly at South Harbour before heading towards Skadan. It would easily be the latest Fair Isle record if the views are considered good enough to exclude Spotted Sandpiper), Long-eared Owl (again in the trapping area), 2 Merlin, 20 Skylark, 6 Blackcap, 64 Blackbird (which, along with the other thrush counts, was only from c1/3 of the Isle, suggesting that good numbers were present), 27 Fieldfare, 138 Redwing, 10 Song Thrush, 8 Robin, alba wagtail (one south overhead), 7 Meadow Pipit, Brambling, 16 Twite, 'Mealy Redpoll', 70 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 201
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Thursday 15th November
A pleasant day with a freshening wind that saw the planes go, so it's just the Parnabys in the North of the Isle now! Coverage from now on in will therefore be much more limited - although with the Isle's weatherman telling us today that it will be a bit cooler next week as easterlies from Asia arrive, there'll certainly still be plenty of incentive for getting out in the field. Remarkably, Fair Isle hasn't recorded a rare Wheatear since 1998, so perhaps it's time to break that unwanted record.
Weather: SSE4-5, increasing slightly. Largely sunny.
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Water Rail (Obs), Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover (both this and the previous species usually abandon the Isle entirely in the winter), Guillemot (exhausted bird in South Haven), Kestrel (Swey), Peregrine (female over Swey dogfighting with the previous species), 4 Twite.
Year list: 201
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Wednesday 14th November
No planes as the visibility wasn't quite good enough, so the visiting ex-staff were stranded for another day, but failed to turn up anything too unusual on their last day. The forecast is now looking quite interesting from later in the weekend for a while. It's pretty late for most stuff, but a bit of late wildfowl movement, thrush passage or something similar may still surprise us yet.
Weather: SSE5-6, cloudy, with some lingering over the hills at times.
Highlights:
Glaucous Gull: 1CY by Easter Lother Water
Tundra Bean Goose: 2 still with Greylag flock
Other sightings:
176 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon, 3 Teal, Goosander (male off Shalstane), Water Rail (Obs), 3 Oystercatcher, 3 Golden Plover, 155 Turnstone, Long-eared Owl (Gully), 51 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 201
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Tuesday 13th November
A quiet day with little coverage.
Weather: SSW 4-5, sunny spells.
Highlights:
'Northern Bullfinch': female still at the Obs
Other sightings:
Common Scoter (female), Goosander (male still present, off Mid Geo), Sparrowhawk (went high south over Schoolton), Blackcap (female Schoolton), Stonechat (Quoy), 40 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 201
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Monday 12th November
The last full census of the year, as a couple of visiting ex-staff were roped in to enable full coverage of the island. The last dribbles of autumn passage were noted, so there's still a chance of something good sneaking through, although as the wind is set to switch back to the west, it seems likely that we're pretty much done for the autumn now.
Weather: SE5-6, cloudy with sunny spells.
Highlights:
Tundra Bean Goose: two still
Other sightings:
200 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 'European White-fronted Goose', 3 Whooper Swan, 6 Wigeon, 25 Mallard, 14 Teal, 2 Common Scoter (females off Furse and Dronger were the first records since 10th April), 5 Long-tailed Duck, Goosander (male still near South Light), 2 Grey Heron, 3 Water Rail (Obs, Chalet and Burkle), 6 Oystercatcher, 6 Lapwing, 225 Turnstone, 10 Woodcock, 4 Jack Snipe, 100 Snipe, 59 Redshank, Long-eared Owl (Gully), 2 Merlin, Peregrine (adult), 48 Skylark, 2 Chiffchaff (Dronger), 4 Blackcap, 6 Goldcrest (highest count of the month), 175 Blackbird (highest count of the autumn), 186 Fieldfare, 145 Redwing, 23 Song Thrush, 27 Robin, Stonechat (Male in the Wirvie Burn), 30 Meadow Pipit, 3 Chaffinch, 4 Brambling, 24 Twite, 2 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll, 101 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife: Silver Y (Dronger)
Year list: 201
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Sunday 11th November
Icelandic grey goose count and Shetland swan survey today, and in the course of those wildfowl counts there were some interesting other birds turned up.
Weather: SSE5-6, sunny with occasional cloudy patches.
Highlights:
Tundra Bean Goose: two still present, opposite Stackhoull
'Northern Bullfinch': female again at the Obs
Other sightings:
228 Greylag Goose, 2 'European White-fronted Goose', 2 Whooper Swan, 7 Wigeon, 5 Teal, 3 Long-tailed Duck, Goosander (male, Muckle Uri Geo), Red-breasted Merganser (North Haven), Red-throated Diver (South Light; first of the month), Great Northern Diver (Furse), 2 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 4 Water Rail (Obs, Chalet, Lower Stoneybrek and Schoolton), 4 Lapwing, 3 Golden Plover, 2 Woodcock, Long-eared Owl (Gully), Kestrel (over Obs; latest record since 2015), Peregrine (female over Obs), 4 Skylark, 3 Blackcap (2 males and a female, Obs), 4 Meadow Pipit, 49 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife: Silver Y (Easter Lother)
Year list: 201
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Saturday 10th November
Not quite full census, but fairly good coverage that produced some reasonable counts.
Weather: SSE5-6, cloudy with heavy rain at first, but fine later.
Highlights:
Tundra Bean Goose: two still present
Other sightings:
202 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 'European White-fronted Goose', 2 Whooper Swan, 7 Wigeon, 25 Mallard, 11 Teal, 6 Long-tailed Duck, Water Rail (Obs), 2 Golden Plover, 20 Woodcock, 3 Jack Snipe, 63 Snipe, Long-eared Owl (Gully), Merlin, 12 Skylark, Blackcap (male Easter Lother), 150 Blackbird, 145 Fieldfare, 216 Redwing, 21 Song Thrush, 20 Robin, 2 Dunnock (Plantation and Troila), White Wagtail, 7 Meadow Pipit, 4 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling, 5 Twite, 44 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 201
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Friday 9th November
A quiet day, with strong winds making birding difficult.
Weather: SE6-8, cloudy and generally quite a gloomy day.
Highlights:
Tundra Bean Goose: two still present around Meadow Burn
Other sightings:
2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 6 Wigeon, 5 Teal, Goldeneye (male Golden Water), Water Rail (Obs), 2 Woodcock, Long-eared Owl (Gully), Short-eared Owl (Gilsetter), Merlin, Goldcrest, Stonechat (Boini Mire), 32 Snow Bunting.
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Short-eared Owl, Obs (Ciaran Hatsell)
Year list: 201
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Thursday 8th November
It's goodbye to Hannah, Richard and David Roche as there was finally a plane - thanks for all your work this year gang. With rather pleasant weather there were birds in, although coverage was limited now that the team has gone.
Weather: S becoming SE calm at first, increasing later. Sunny.
Highlights:
Tundra Bean Goose: two still present around Meadow Burn
'Northern Bullfinch': female still at the Obs
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Tundra Bean Goose (with Greylags), Meadow Burn (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
184 Greylag Goose, 2 'European White-fronted Goose', 2 Pink-footed Goose, 3 Whooper Swan, 12 Wigeon, 24 Mallard, 3 Teal, Grey Heron, Cormorant, Hen Harrier (ringtail), 2 Water Rail (Schoolton and Obs), 2 Moorhen (singles at the Meadow Burn and Chalet, with the latter caught at North Grind), 7 Lapwing, Dunlin, 6 Woodcock, Jack Snipe, 2 Long-eared Owl (one at the Gully was presumed to be the bird seen later at Pund, whilst another spent all day at School), 2 Short-eared Owl, 2 Merlin, Peregrine (one took a Woodcock by the Mast), 9 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest, 84 Blackbird, 389 Fieldfare (highest count of the autumn), 284 Redwing, 6 Song Thrush, 13 Robin, Black Redstart (male at School Brae), Stonechat (Boini Mire), Dunnock, 9 Meadow Pipit, Chaffinch, Brambling, 7 Twite, 'Mealy Redpoll', 2 Yellowhammer, 2 Reed Bunting, 80 Snow Bunting.
Long-eared Owl, School (David Parnaby)
Year list: 201
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Wednesday 7th November
With the strong winds keeping everyone here, it was another chance for a full census. Not too much new, but another addition to the year list and still birds about. Tomorrow's weather looks better, but that should mean that the AWs finally get the chance to head home, so birding will be more limited, but we'll keep looking.
Weather: SE6-7, drizzly rain occasionally throughout and low cloud over a lot of the North for most of the day. Rather difficult birding
Highlights:
Tundra Bean Goose: 2 in the Greylag flock below Shirva; first of the year
'Northern Bullfinch': female still around the Double Dyke and Gully area
Glaucous Gull: 1CY at Easter Lother
Other sightings:
108 Greylag Goose, 2 'European White-fronted Goose' (two with the Tundra Bean Geese below Shirva; first White-fronts of the autumn), 2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 12 Wigeon, 12 Teal, Grey Heron, Water Rail (behind Wester Lother), 64 Purple Sandpiper, 23 Woodcock, 72 Snipe, 3 Short-eared Owl, Merlin, 27 Skylark, Blackcap (male at Hesti Geo), 2 Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel (Double Dyke), 61 Blackbird, 266 Fieldfare, 138 Redwing, 13 Song Thrush, 4 Robin, 2 Grey Wagtail, 13 Meadow Pipit, 10 Chaffinch, 4 Brambling, 13 Twite, 2 Reed Bunting, 70 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 201
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Tuesday 6th November
South-east winds, birds in and a full team to pick from for census - an ideal combination! Nothing particularly startling, nor any very impressive numbers, although a few species recorded their highest counts for two or three weeks. The concentration of birds along the west and, particularly, North coast was noticeable and is likely to be just as pronounced tomorrow with the winds set to strengthen.
Weather: SE 5-6, cloudy with drizzle throughout a lot of the morning with low cloud lingering over the hills and visibility moderate at best.
Highlights:
'Northern Bullfinch': ringed female again around the traps
Glaucous Gull: 1CY in the south
Other sightings:
126 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 3 Whooper Swan, 12 Wigeon, 19 Mallard, 10 Teal, Great Northern Diver, 2 Grey Heron, Cormorant,Water Rail (Obs), 50 Woodcock (highest count of the autumn so far), 2 Jack Snipe, 135 Snipe, Merlin, Peregrine, 17 Skylark, Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap (male and female at Guidicum), 2 Goldcrest, 99 Blackbird, 278 Fieldfare, 360 Redwing, 14 Song Thrush, 8 Robin, 2 Dunnock (one still in Plantation and a new migrant at Copper Geo), 2 Grey Wagtail, 38 Meadow Pipit, 4 Chaffinch, 5 Brambling, 21 Twite, 2 'Mealy Redpoll', Goldfinch, 2 Reed Bunting, 139 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 200
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Monday 5th November
A frustrating day, with a rainy start and then the plane 'going tech', so the last of the departing staff very much didn't depart (and aren't likely to for a couple of days at least looking at the forecast). There were obviously a few birds about and, when the news finally came through that there was no chance of a plane, there was only an hour or so to rush around as much of the island as possible. And there was an interesting selection to be found. So we may well get a full census in tomorrow, with birds arriving and the last hope of something really rare to round off the season - every cloud and all that!
Weather: S becoming SE 4-5, cloudy at first with rain then clearing later.
Highlights:
Barred Warbler: one at Skerryholm then Haa; latest ever Fair Isle record
Glaucous Gull: 2; both 1CY birds
'Siberian Chiffchaff': one at North Light
Other sightings:
162 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 3 Whooper Swan, 14 Wigeon, 22 Mallard, 4 Teal, Grey Heron, 6 Water Rail (Obs, School, Schoolton, Quoy, Burkle and Haa), Moorhen (opposite Chalet), 13 Woodcock (highest count of the month so far, presumably the total present was much higher), Jack Snipe (Haa), Chiffchaff (Haven), 2 Blackcap (male and female at the Obs), 4 Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel (Gilsetter; first of the month), 10 Robin, Black Redstart (Setter; first of the month), Dunnock (still in Plantation), Grey Wagtail (Haa; first of the month), 2 Pied Wagtail, 2 Chaffinch, Brambling, Redpoll sp, Goldfinch (Chalet; first of the month), Reed Bunting (Meadow Burn), 40 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 200
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Sunday 4th November
It was the day of the Harvest festival on Fair Isle, having been delayed whilst people were off the Isle. As it turned out, with the plane 'going tech' on Friday (leaving the boat crew stuck on Shetland) we were still a few people short, but it was still a good day, with a substantial amount raised for charity.
Weather: S becoming SE 4-5, cloudy at first with rain then clearing later.
Highlights:
Little Auk: one off North Light; first record of the year
Iceland Gull: 1CY bird over Furse
Other sightings:
Pink-footed Goose, Whooper Swan, Water Rail (Obs), 2 Golden Plover, 3 Woodcock, 60 Kittiwake (mostly heading south past Buness, mostly), Black-headed Gull, 7 Bonxie (at sea), 2 Merlin, Blackcap (male, Obs), Dunnock, Chaffinch, 50 Snow Bunting (North Light).
Year list: 200
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Saturday 3rd November
Weather: SW3-5, cloudy with some rain early on.
Highlights:
'
Northern Bullfinch': female trapped in the Vaadal; a large bird with a wing of 94mm and also showing notable white ovals in the outer tail feathers (a feature often associated with birds from further east in their range)
Waxwing: one showed well at the Obs
Waxwing, Obs (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 2 Long-tailed Duck, Water Rail (Obs), 3 Woodcock, 2 Goldcrest, 70 Fieldfare.
Year list: 199
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Friday 2nd November
A lot of the end of season jobs have been ticked off, it doesn't like the season is going to finish with a flourish before the AWs leave on Monday and there was little to report in the way of new birds, although that may have been different if Richard's large pipit (which was not necessarily a Richard's Pipit) flushed from near Bergaroo had not disappeared.
Weather: S3, patchy cloud with an occasional showers.
Highlights:
'Northern Bullfinch': the female was seen again at the Obs
Other sightings:
240 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 10 Wigeon, 9 Teal, Grey Heron, 4 Water Rail (Obs, Plantation and 2 Schoolton), 4 Woodcock, Jack Snipe, 2 Merlin, Peregrine (1CY male), 4 Blackcap (3 females around the Obs and traps and a male at Stackhoull), 2 Goldcrest, Stonechat (still present around Schoolton), Wheatear (one at Dumlin's Sink), Dunnock, 5 Chaffinch, Brambling, 5 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll, 54 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 199
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Thursday 1st November
And so, goodbye to the domestic team and Ranger, who left on the Good Shepherd IV as the forecast looked poor for planes (although one made it in in the afternoon). Thanks to Michael, Inessa, David, Joe and Viv for all their work during the year - it's been a busy one so we hope they all get to relax for a while at least over the winter. Birding was restricted to a couple of hours in the afternoon when the weather improved and there were a few birds around, although it is feeling rather like the autumn is done now (although still plenty of tmie for a surprise to be sprung of course).
Weather: very calm, with just a breath of light, variable wind later on. Cloudy all day, with constant rain until 1pm, then a rather pleasant afternoon.
Highlights:
Glaucous Gull: 1CY
'Northern Bullfinch': the female at the Obs then later back down the Isle at Burkle
'Northern Bullfinch', Obs (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
88 Greylag Goose, Pink-footed Goose, 3 Whooper Swan, 5 Wigeon, 10 Teal, Long-tailed Duck, Grey Heron, Water Rail (Obs and Burkle), 12 Woodcock, 6 Jack Snipe, Great Skua (3 south over Malcolm's Head could turn out to be the last of the year), 2 Short-eared Owl, 2 Merlin, Peregrine (1CY male), 4 Blackcap (3 females around the Obs and traps and a male at Stackhoull), 2 Goldcrest, 10 Robin, Chaffinch, Brambling, 3 'Mealy Redpoll', 3 Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting, 4 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 199
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Wednesday 31st October
A pleasant start to the day, although quiet around the nets and traps, before a refreshing run around the North to round up the hill sheep and then the last official census of the season. With the kids going back to school, the doctor visiting for flu jabs, the last visiting birders leaving and Halloween guising it was certainly a full day's worth, although the birding generally reflected a bit of a clear-out.
Weather: S2 increasing slightly with sunny spells.
Highlights:
Glaucous Gull: 2; adult at Easter Lother and 1CY in the south
'Northern Bullfinch': female still at Burkle
Other sightings:
95 Greylag Goose, Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 8 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 2 Long-tailed Duck, 3 Grey Heron, 4 Water Rail (Obs, Burkle Schoolton and Chalet - all of which have been wintering sites for the species in recent years), 12 Woodcock, Jack Snipe, 73 Snipe, 2 Merlin, Peregrine (1CY male), 35 Skylark, Blackcap (female still at Obs), Goldcrest, 51 Blackbird, 72 Fieldfare, 81 Redwing, 16 Song Thrush, 18 Robin, 2 Dunnock, Yellow Wagtail (one around Burkle was an extremely late record, but was a typical 'western' bird in plumage and call), 32 Meadow Pipit, 5 Chaffinch, Brambling, 10 'Mealy Redpoll', 2 Goldfinch, 3 Yellowhammer, 7 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 199
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Tuesday 30th October
Not a huge number of birds, but the continued redpoll movement paid off. Generally a nice (albeit cold) day for being out, and we got a plane for the first time in a few days.
Weather: E3-4, becoming more NE later, a few cloudy spells at first then largely sunny.
Highlights:
COUES'S ARCTIC REDPOLL: one at the airstrip with a small group of Mealy Redpolls was the first of this Arctic Redpoll of this subspecies since 2016, but just the fifth record since 2005
Waxwing: one at the Obs in the morning
Northern Bullfinch: an unringed female at Burkle
Coues's Arctic Redpoll (left; with Mealy Redpolls), Airstrip (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
106 Greylag Goose, 3 Whooper Swan, 9 Wigeon, 10 Teal, 2 Long-tailed Duck, 'blue' Fulmar, Slavonian Grebe (off Hjukni Geo), 3 Grey Heron, Water Rail (Obs), Moorhen (still at Meadow Burn), 29 Woodcock, 4 Jack Snipe, 45 Snipe, Long-eared Owl (Burkle), Merlin, Peregrine, 2 Jackdaw, 31 Skylark, Blackcap (female at the Obs), 3 Goldcrest, 82 Blackbird, 107 Fieldfare, 77 Redwing, 21 Song Thrush, 29 Robin, Stonechat (female still around Quoy), 2 Dunnock (one still at Obs and another ringed at Burkle), 40 Meadow Pipit, 4 Chaffinch, Brambling, 58 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll (and 4 unidentified redpolls), 3 Yellowhammer, 49 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife: Green Lacewing (Obs)
Year list: 199
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Monday 29th October
A much more difficult day of birding, with a strong, biting wind. There were birds in, the majority on the more sheltered north and west cliffs, so hoperfully as the wind drops a bit tomorrow there'll be more to see.
Weather: SE6-7, cloudy patches with a few driving, wintry showers but also some sunny spells.
Highlights:
Waxwing: one at Schoolton in the morning may well have been the same bird later seen over Hoini then at the Obs
Glaucous Gull: 1CY in large gull flock on Byerwalls
Other sightings:
84 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 12 Wigeon, 8 Teal, 6 Long-tailed Duck, Red-breasyed Merganser, 4 Grey Heron, 34 Woodcock (highest count of the autumn), 3 Jack Snipe, 67 Snipe, Long-eared Owl (Setter), Merlin, Peregrine (1CY male), 2 Jackdaw, 42 Skylark, Blackcap, Garden Warbler (Pund), Goldcrest, 71 Blackbird, 54 Fieldfare, 59 Redwing, 8 Song Thrush, 15 Robin, Stonechat (female still around Quoy), Dunnock (Obs), 36 Meadow Pipit, 8 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 48 'Mealy Redpoll', 'North-western Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll (and 3 unidentified redpolls), 2 Yellowhammer, 10 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 198
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Sunday 28th October
A day full of promise and boy did it deliver! An absolutely top-drawer rarity found by Susannah and enjoyed by just a handful of people in the sunshine.
Weather: NE becoming more E or SE later, 3/4 decreasing then freshening again later. Just occasional clouds, largley sunny and rather pleasant.
Highlights:
SIBERIAN RUBYTHROAT: male at Meadow Burn and Midway area. The 8th Fair Isle record (subject to acceptance) from a UK total of 14. Beautiful.
Bluethroat: a 1CY bird, proably a male at Quoy then between Burkle and Busta (first of the autumn)
'Northern Bullfinch': 1CY female trapped in the Vaadal in the morning (first of the year)
'Siberian Chiffchaff': 2; singles at Midway and Chalet in the afternoon (first of the autumn)
Siberian Rubythroat, Midway (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
317 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 11 Wigeon, 26 Mallard, 13 Teal, 8 Long-tailed Duck, Red-breasyed Merganser, 6 'blue' Fulmar (from the Good Shepherd IV), 2 Slavonian Grebe (South Haven), Grey Heron, 2 Water Rail, Moorhen, 12 Woodcock (highest count of the autumn so far), Jack Snipe, 95 Snipe, Bonxie (one from the Good Shepherd IV was the only sighting), Woodpigeon, Long-eared Owl (Obs, with presumably the same bird seen later at Setter then Nether Taft), Merlin, 2 Jackdaw, 57 Skylark, Chiffchaff (one nominate bird in addition to the two tristis), 2 Blackcap, 8 Goldcrest, 36 Blackbird, 12 Fieldfare, 48 Redwing, 20 Song Thrush, 31 Robin, Stonechat (female still around Stackhoull and Quoy), Wheatear, 42 Meadow Pipit, 75 Rock Pipit, 18 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, Greenfinch (female still at Obs), 'Mealy Redpoll', 'North-western Redpoll' (and 3 unidentified redpolls), 105 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 198
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Saturday 27th October
A few more bits on the move, not much, but perhaps hinting that there might be birds as the winds switch to the east next week....
Weather: N5-6, some wintry showers and sunny spells. Still cold!
Highlights:
Glaucous Gull: 1CY again present
Other sightings:
3 Barnacle Goose, 562 Greylag Goose, Pink-footed Goose, 7 Whooper Swan, 20 Wigeon, 8 Teal, 9 Long-tailed Duck, 4 Goldeneye, 2 'blue' Fulmar (off Buness), 4 Grey Heron, Cormorant, Hen Harrier, Moorhen (still present), 5 Woodcock, Jack Snipe, 89 Snipe, Long-eared Owl (Plantation), Short-eared Owl, 2 Merlin, 2 Jackdaw, 48 Skylark, 16 Blackbird, 12 Fieldfare, 32 Redwing, 9 Song Thrush, 14 Robin, Wheatear, Grey Wagtail, 37 Meadow Pipit, 6 Chaffinch, Greenfinch (female at Obs), 'North-western Redpoll', Goldfinch, 31 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 196
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Friday 26th October
The merest hint of one or two birds off the northerlies, but mostly feeling rather wintry with little to show for it.
Weather: N6-8, cloudy patches with an occasional light shower, but also some sunshone. Cold.
Sightings:
340 Greylag Goose, 9 Whooper Swan, 15 Wigeon, 7 Teal, Tufted Duck (female, Buness), 9 Long-tailed Duck, 2 Goldeneye, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 'blue' Fulmar (off Buness), 2 Grey Heron, 2 Cormorant, Hen Harrier, 3 Woodcock, 2 Jack Snipe, 44 Snipe, 3 Merlin, 8 Jackdaw, 62 Skylark, Blackcap (Meadow Burn), Ring Ouzel (Skadan), 27 Blackbird, 21 Fieldfare, 150 Redwing, 19 Song Thrush, 14 Robin, Stonechat, Wheatear, 60 Meadow Pipit, 5 Chaffinch, 4 Brambling, 'Mealy Redpoll', Reed Bunting, 7 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 196
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Thursday 25th October
A better day of weather that saw the planes running and a few birds moving. Looks like it's going to get colder tomorrow but there are still easterlies on the horizon (please).
Weather: W5-6, cloudy at first with some light rain then a few sunny spells later.
Highlights:
Glaucous Gull: 1CY bird went north over Buness
Other sightings:
3 Barnacle Goose, 371 Greylag Goose, 7 Pink-footed Goose, 9 Whooper Swan (the same lingering adults), 30 Wigeon, 23 Mallard (an obvious arrival of migrants), 18 Teal, 5 Long-tailed Duck, Goldeneye (male in the North Haven), 2 Red-breasted Merganser, Cormorant, 2 Hen Harrier, 2 Water Rail, Woodcock, Jack Snipe, 99 Snipe, Kestrel, 2 Merlin, Peregrine, 7 Jackdaw, 83 Skylark, Ring Ouzel (still at Skadan), 54 Blackbird, 25 Fieldfare, 451 Redwing, 40 Song Thrush, 21 Robin, Stonechat (still at Stackhoull), 62 Meadow Pipit, 3 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling, 'Mealy Redpoll' (Obs), Reed Bunting, 27 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 196
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Wednesday 24th October
Not a great day. Strong winds and rain throughout the day saw census cancelled. Good for the paperwork at least and gives us a chance to get rested before the big rush of birds next week. Maybe.
Weather: SW 5-7, rain throughout with low cloud.
Sightings:
263 Greylag Goose, 3 Pink-footed Goose, 9 Whooper Swan, 7 Teal, 4 Long-tailed Duck (male in South Haven, two males and a female in Furse), Goldeneye (Furse), Kestrel, 2 Merlin, Chaffinch, 3 Brambling, Reed Bunting.
Year list: 196
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Tuesday 23rd October
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. When the weather gives you NW winds, enjoy birds from Iceland.
Weather: WNW 7/8, cloudy with a few sunny spells and showers, with a spell of more regular rain in the afternoon
Sightings:
3 Barnacle Goose, 584 Greylag Goose (highest count of the autumn so far), 5 Pink-footed Goose, 9 Whooper Swan (including a darvic ringed bird that was first caught in Lancashire [where it regualrly winters] in November 1999 and has been seen a couple of times on its Icelandic breeding grounds since then), 18 Wigeon, 14 Teal, 2 Long-tailed Duck, Grey Heron, Sparrowhawk (female), Hen Harrier, 3 Lapwing, 37 Golden Plover, Jack Snipe, 67 Snipe, Kestrel, 2 Merlin, 8 Jackdaw, 89 Skylark, Blackcap, Ring Ouzel (Skadan), 37 Blackbird, 23 Fieldfare, 512 Redwing (including our 5th ever Icelandic-ringed bird, caught in the Gully just after breakfast), 34 Song Thrush, 6 Robin, Stonechat, Wheatear, 67 Meadow Pipit, 2 Chaffinch, 8 Brambling, 2 Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting, Lapland Bunting (Wirvie), 7 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 196
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Monday 22nd October
A windy start to the day, but that was better than the gale-driven wash-out that occurred from around midday onwards. There's still perhaps a chance of something from the west, but we'll admit to clinging on the to the scrap of hope that some of the forecasts are showing, with south-east winds being suggested for Monday/Tuesday of next week...
Weather: Strong WSW winds, increasing to gale force in the afternoon. Cloudy, following some heavy overnight rain, then heavy rain again from around midday. Generally unpleasant!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Little Gull: presumably the same 1CY as seen on 17th-18th was with a flock of gulls feeding distantly in the swell off Linni Geo and the north side of Malcolm's Head
Other sightings:
3 Barnacle Goose, 242 Greylag Goose, 3 Pink-footed Goose, 15 Whooper Swan, 12 Wigeon, 13 Teal, Grey Heron, 2 Hen Harrier, Water Rail, 19 Golden Plover, 2 Jack Snipe, 52 Snipe, Short-eared Owl (Da Water), 2 Merlin, 9 Jackdaw, 70 Skylark, Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel (Skadan), 48 Blackbird, 8 Fieldfare, 207 Redwing, 15 Song Thrush, 8 Robin, Grey Wagtail (Vaadal), 59 Meadow Pipit, 4 Chaffinch, 4 Brambling, Reed Bunting, 5 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 196
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Sunday 21st October
Weather: SW or WSW 6 increasing 7, cloudy at first with persistent rain from mid-morning until late-afternoon with some sunny spells later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Yellow-browed Warbler: one still present at Meadow Burn
Other sightings:
3 Barnacle Goose, 69 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, 8 Whooper Swan (Golden Water), 20 Wigeon, 12 Teal, Long-tailed Duck, 2 Grey Heron, Sparrowhawk (1CY female trapped in Vaadal), Hen Harrier, Water Rail, 32 Golden Plover, 5 Jack Snipe, 64 Snipe, Long-eared Owl (trapped in Vaadal in morning), Short-eared Owl (near Pund), 2 Merlin, Peregrine, 10 Jackdaw, 127 Skylark, 2 Chiffchaff, 6 Blackcap, 5 Goldcrest, 65 Blackbird, 31 Fieldfare, 293 Redwing, 45 Song Thrush, 16 Robin, Stonechat (female at Aesterhoull), 2 Wheatear, 90 Meadow Pipit, 5 Chaffinch, 11 Brambling, 2 Reed Bunting, 11 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 196
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Saturday 20th October
Weather: S4-5, cloudy with a spell of rain during the morning
HIGHLIGHTS:
Yellow-browed Warbler: 2 at Meadow Burn later moved into the crofts
Other sightings:
3 Barnacle Goose, 107 Greylag Goose, 3 Pink-footed Goose, 9 Whooper Swan, 18 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 2 Long-tailed Duck, Red-breasted Merganser, Sparrowhawk, 2 Hen Harrier, 2 Water Rail, Moorhen (juvenile caught and ringed at Meadow Burn), 42 Golden Plover, 5 Jack Snipe, 61 Snipe, 2 Merlin, Peregrine (adult female), 10 Jackdaw, 2 Carrion Crow, 100 Skylark, Chiffchaff, 11 Blackcap, 8 Goldcrest, 47 Blackbird, 33 Fieldfare, 269 Redwing, 52 Song Thrush, 23 Robin, Wheatear, Dunnock, 69 Meadow Pipit, 3 Chaffinch, 13 Brambling, Common Crossbill, 3 Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting.
Year list: 196
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Friday 19th October
Weather: SW5-6, cloudy at first with some heavy rain from mid-morning until lunchtime.
Sightings:
26 Barnacle Goose, 205 Greylag Goose, Pink-footed Goose, 46 Whooper Swan, Shelduck, 17 Wigeon, 12 Teal, Tufted Duck (Easter Lother Water), 3 Long-tailed Duck, 2 Grey Heron, Hen Harrier, 30 Golden Plover, 6 Jack Snipe, 74 Snipe, 3 Long-eared Owl, Short-eared Owl, Kestrel (male), 3 Merlin, 10 Jackdaw, 2 Carrion Crow, 89 Skylark, Chiffchaff, 6 Blackcap, 9 Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel, 84 Blackbird, 79 Fieldfare, 629 Redwing, 54 Song Thrush, 20 Robin, Grey Wagtail, 72 Meadow Pipit, 6 Chaffinch, 8 Brambling, Reed Bunting, 19 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 196
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Thursday 18th October
Very much the 'day of the Redwing' with a hefty passage of Icelandic birds that saw over 180 ringed (that's more than the annual total in over half of the years in the Observatory's history!), with wildfowl passage also in evidence.
Weather: Veering between SW amd W 3/4, 5 at times, mostly cloudy with a couple of light showers
HIGHLIGHTS:
Red-breasted Flycatcher: a showy 1CY bird at Swarzie Geo; just the second of the autumn
Little Gull: the 1CY bird was seen over Meoness
Other sightings:
33 Barnacle Goose, 380 Greylag Goose, 51 Whooper Swan (although a similar total to yesterday, both days involved birds passing through the Isle rather than lingering), Shelduck, 17 Wigeon, 5 Teal, Long-tailed Duck (male, Pietron), 2 Grey Heron, 2 Sparrowhawk (including a smart adult male trapped in the Vaadal just before dinner), 2 Hen Harrier, 68 Golden Plover, 8 Jack Snipe, 110 Snipe, 10 Black-headed Gull, 8 Common Gull, 3 Long-eared Owl (two at the Obs in the morning may have been responsible for later sightings at Field Ditch, School and Shirva, whilst another was on the cliffs near North Light), 3 Merlin, 11 Jackdaw, 3 Rook, Carrion Crow, 117 Skylark, Chiffchaff, 10 Blackcap (mostly at the Obs), 13 Goldcrest, 104 Blackbird, 49 Fieldfare, 2674 Redwing, 79 Song Thrush, 48 Robin, 5 Wheatear, Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, 102 Meadow Pipit, 14 Chaffinch, 79 Brambling, 4 Yellowhammer, 4 Reed Bunting, 12 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 196
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Wednesday 17th October
The year list received the biggest fillip since 8th September, with three species added. None were the big national rarities that were hoped for, but there was a major Fair Isle bird amongst them. There was a general clear-out of thrushes, but still plenty of birds to sift through. With lighter winds tomorrow, there may be more things to be picked out yet...
Weather: SW becoming more westerly, 4-6, a couple of nasty showers but otherwise dry, and sunny at times
HIGHLIGHTS:
Mediterranean Gull: a 1CY bird off Kroga Geo; just the third Fair Isle record (subject to acceptance) following a 2CY on 25th October 1995 and an adult on 2nd July 2016. It lingered for some time, allowing several people to get a Fair Isle tick.
Olive-backed Pipit: after a possible that flew out of Easter Lother yesterday, another possible was seen as it flew south past South Restengeo this morning, it proved to be third time lucky when what was presumably the same bird was found on th ecliffs at Finnequoy. The second of the year and 112th Fair Isle record (subject to acceptance).
Shorelark: one was at the base of Hoini in the afternoon; a species going through a slight resurgence in records, this represents the third consecutive year of occurrence
Little Gull: the 34th record for Fair Isle, a 1CY bird was found feeding off Kroga with the Mediterranean Gull!
Shorelark, between Pund and Hoini (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
2 Barnacle Goose, 172 Greylag Goose, 19 Pink-footed Goose, 54 Whooper Swan, Shelduck, 14 Wigeon, 7 Teal, 2 Long-tailed Duck (females), 2 Grey Heron, Cormorant, Sparrowhawk, Hen Harrier, 40 Golden Plover, 4 Woodcock, 8 Jack Snipe, 58 Snipe, 16 Black-headed Gull, 22 Common Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, 2 Long-eared Owl (Gully and Klinger's Geo), 3 Short-eared Owl, Kestrel, 2 Merlin, 8 Jackdaw, 4 Carrion Crow, 127 Skylark, 3 Chiffchaff, 7 Blackcap, 27 Goldcrest (highest count of the autumn), 3 Ring Ouzel, 124 Blackbird, 92 Fieldfare, 663 Redwing, 163 Song Thrush, 49 Robin (highest count of the autumn), Redstart (Furse), Whinchat, Stonechat (still around Stackhoull), 4 Wheatear, Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, 121 Meadow Pipit, 7 Chaffinch, 71 Brambling, 'Mealy Redpoll', Common Crossbill (female over Furse), 2 Yellowhammer, 3 Reed Bunting, 22 Snow Bunting.
Greylag Geese, off Dronger (David Parnaby)
Year list: 196
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Tuesday 16th October
All about the thrushes today as large numbers arrived, particularly along the west cliffs. There were a few other new birds, although there was an interesting arrival late on in the day, which gives a bit more hope for tomorrow despite the westerly forecast.
Weather: SSE 5-7, cloudy with occasional showers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Waxwing: one over Field; first of the year
Other sightings:
3 Barnacle Goose, 83 Greylag Goose, 32 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Shelduck, 9 Wigeon, 14 Teal, 2 Long-tailed Duck (males), 2 Great Northern Diver, Grey Heron, Sparrowhawk, Hen Harrier, Water Rail (Lower Stoneybrek), Moorhen, 40 Golden Plover, Sanderling, 17 Purple Sandpiper, Woodcock, 7 Jack Snipe, 95 Snipe, Arctic Skua (1CY off South Light; first record of the month), 107 Rock Dove, 3 Long-eared Owl (Plantation, Buness and South Naaversgill), 2 Short-eared Owl, 2 Merlin, Peregrine, 9 Jackdaw, 3 Carrion Crow, 121 Skylark, Chiffchaff, 12 Blackcap, 16 Goldcrest (comfortably the highest count of the autumn, with some having seemingly arrived in the afternoon), 2 Ring Ouzel, 145 Blackbird, 365 Fieldfare (highest count of the autumn), 2935 Redwing (highest count of the autumn), 143 Song Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher (Hjukni Geo), 29 Robin (including several 'new' birds in the afternoon), 2 Redstart (in the North in the afternoon), Whinchat, Stonechat, 3 Wheatear, 169 Meadow Pipit, 12 Chaffinch, 107 Brambling (including a flock of 70+ that has been feeding on Greenholm and High Holm for the last few days), 'Mealy Redpoll', Yellowhammer, Reed Bunting, 16 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 193
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Monday 15th October
The forecast wasn't especially promising, but an increase in the number of warblers around kept hopes up. Most of them were concentrated around the Obs, where the nets were again fairly productive in the morning. All the days planes made it in and out, so we had a bit of a turnover of guests as a few more folk arrived hoping for the big end of season rarity...
Weather: SSW 3/4, increasing 4/5 for a while before easing again later on. Cloudy but some sunny spells and no rain.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Yellow-browed Warbler: 5; four between the Obs (where two were trapped) and Bull's Park, with another at Walli Burn
Other sightings:
3 Barnacle Goose, 23 Greylag Goose, Shelduck (one touring the south of the Isle), 11 Wigeon, 12 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Grey Heron, 2 Cormorant, 2 Hen Harrier, Water Rail (one seen being carried off by a Carrion Crow), Moorhen, 46 Golden Plover, Woodcock, 4 Jack Snipe, 125 Snipe, Long-eared Owl (one at School, with presumably the same bird in the Gully in the evening), 5 Short-eared Owl, 4 Merlin (including a group of three seen heading out to sea off South Light), Peregrine, 9 Jackdaw, 3 Carrion Crow (including a presumed new migrant with a flock of Hoodies in the North), 151 Skylark, 4 Chiffchaff, 13 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest, 68 Blackbird, 34 Fieldfare, 692 Redwing, 156 Song Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher (1CY in Hjukni Geo), 16 Robin, 3 Whinchat, Stonechat (Sschoolton then Lower Stoneybrek), 5 Wheatear, 3 Dunnock, 3 Grey Wagtail, 221 Meadow Pipit, 14 Chaffinch, 63 Brambling, Linnet, 'Mealy Redpoll' (two caught at the Obs), 'North-western Redpoll' (one at the Plantation), 4 Siskin, 5 Yellowhammer, 10 Reed Bunting, 18 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife: Hummingbird Hawk-moth (one at Easter Lother is the latest ever Fair Isle record by 5 days and an unusual autumn occurrence)
Year list: 192
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Sunday 14th October
A quieter day than hoped for, although there were still a few new birds around, including over 30 Bramblings caught at the Obs in the evening which included a Norwegian-ringed bird.
Weather: NW becoming SW 2-3, although there was a little light rain early on, this cleared and there was sunshine later on.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Yellow-browed Warbler: one at Barkland
Other sightings:
60 Barnacle Goose, 107 Greylag Goose, 8 Pink-footed Goose, 20 Whooper Swan (a few small groups moving south), 33 Wigeon, 13 Teal, 9 Red-breasted Merganser, Great Northern Diver, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Cormorant, 2 Sparrowhawk (male and female), Hen Harrier (ringtail still present), 2 Water Rail (one trapped in the Gully and another by the Double Dyke), 46 Golden Plover, 4 Dunlin, 5 Woodcock, 11 Jack Snipe, 165 Snipe, 39 Common Gull, 4 Woodpigeon, Long-eared Owl (one showed well at Upper Leogh), 3 Short-eared Owl, 3 Merlin, 27 Jackdaw, 243 Skylark, 2 Chiffchaff, 8 Blackcap, 5 Ring Ouzel, 138 Blackbird, 66 Fieldfare, 1139 Redwing, 149 Song Thrush, 27 Robin, 3 Whinchat (including a presumed new migrant in North Haven), 11 Wheatear, 3 Dunnock, 194 Meadow Pipit, 26 Chaffinch, 208 Brambling, 133 Twite, 2 Linnet, 2 Lesser Redpoll (Setter), 4 Common Crossbill, 2 Siskin, 2 Yellowhammer, 5 Reed Bunting, 31 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife: Large Wainscot (the second of the year was found in the Obs)
Year list: 192
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Saturday 13th October
A brilliant day, with much better weather for seeing what was around, and it resulted in a top-drawer rarity. There was a feeling of more birds arriving later in the afternoon, so tomorrow could also be interesting...
Weather: the wind started in the south and went round to the north via the east and stayed fairly calm throughout at about 2-3. Cloudy throughout with light rain from 1400hrs that became heavier a couple of hours later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
WHITE'S THRUSH: the fourth in the last six years (and 16th Fair Isle record subject to acceptance) was found at Wester Lother before relocating to the Lower Station where it showed off its bobbing and shimmies to a small but happy crowd. The fourth record in a row to occur in the North census area (although the previous one to that was in South-west and before that there were five in a row in South-east).
Olive-backed Pipit: one discovered late in the afternoon opposite Stackhoull; first of the year and 111th Fair Isle record (subject to acceptance)
Yellow-browed Warbler: one at Easter Lother
Other sightings:
210 Barnacle Goose, 126 Greylag Goose, Pink-footed Goose, 27 Wigeon, 30 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Red-throated Diver, Great Northern Diver, 4 Grey Heron, 2 Cormorant, Sparrowhawk (1CY male), Hen Harrier (ringtail still present at the Obs), Water Rail (Vaadal), 2 Moorhen, 42 Golden Plover, 269 Turnstone, 2 Dunlin, 2 Woodcock, 5 Jack Snipe, 132 Snipe, 60 Redshank, 421 Common Gull (a pronounced southerly passage throughout the day), Short-eared Owl, Merlin, 26 Jackdaw (first of the autumn and by far the highest count since 2012), 179 Skylark, Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 15 Blackcap, 6 Goldcrest (highest count of the autumn), 8 Ring Ouzel (including 2 trapped and ringed at the Obs), 168 Blackbird (highest count of the autumn), 56 Fieldfare, 739 Redwing, 191 Song Thrush (highest count of the autumn), 36 Robin (highest count of the autumn), Whinchat, 9 Wheatear, 6 Dunnock (the first autumn migrants), Grey Wagtail, 272 Meadow Pipit, 121 Rock Pipit, 31 Chaffinch (highest count of the autumn), 161 Brambling, 2 Linnet, 2 Redpoll sp?, 3 Siskin, 4 Yellowhammer, 11 Reed Bunting (highest count of the autumn), 2 Lapland Bunting, 22 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife: Silver Y
Year list: 192
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Friday 12th October
Birds! More than yesterday, although with a lack of many highlights. This was presumably down to the weather conditions, with strong winds likely keeping many birds hidden down the cliffs (which were not always easy to see down with a 50mph wind at your back!) and those that were on the island top difficult to see as they sought shelter (or blew away!).
Weather: SE7-8, cloudy with a couple of showers in the morning and heavy rain from c1630hrs but decent visibility for most of the day.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hawfinch: one flew south over South Naaversgill and was then seen over Gunnawark
Other sightings:
77 Barnacle Goose, 3 Greylag Goose, 7 Wigeon, 24 Teal, Long-tailed Duck (North Haven), Red-breasted Merganser, 'blue' Fulmar (off Buness), 3 Grey Heron, Cormorant, Sparrowhawk (1CY male), Hen Harrier (a ringtail around Dronger and Ward Hill), Bar-tailed Godwit (South Light), 2 Dunlin, Woodcock, 6 Jack Snipe, 68 Snipe, 72 Common Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull (adult), Woodpigeon, 2 Long-eared Owl (Shirva and Vaadal then Gunnawark; first of the autumn), 5 Short-eared Owl, Merlin, Peregrine, 108 Skylark, 4 Chiffchaff, 18 Blackcap (highest count of the autumn so far), 5 Goldcrest (highest count of the autumn so far), 8 Ring Ouzel (highest count of the autumn so far), 108 Blackbird (highest count of the autumn so far), 63 Fieldfare (highest count of the autumn so far), 1609 Redwing (highest count of the autumn so far), 164 Song Thrush (highest count of the autumn so far), 28 Robin (highest count of the autumn so far), Whinchat, Stonechat (female Suka Mire; first record since July), 5 Wheatear, 144 Meadow Pipit, 23 Chaffinch (highest count of the autumn so far), 284 Brambling (highest count of the autumn so far), 2 Siskin, Yellowhammer (Upper Stoneybrek; first of the autumn), 7 Reed Bunting (highest count of the autumn so far), 10 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 190
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Thursday 11th October
Wa'hay, birds! OK, so nohing yet in the way of rarities, and the counts weren't huge and the weather was a hinderance to birding, but there were birds at last and a real feeling that there could be some good stuff to be found when the cloud clears and the wind drops a bit.
Weather: SE 5-6, increasing 7-8, cloudy with low cloud on the hills throughout and some drizzly rain in the morning and more persistent rain in the afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Yellow-browed Warbler: 2; one at Meadow Burn and another at Easter Lother
Other sightings:
5 Barnacle Goose, 10 Greylag Goose, 13 Wigeon, Pintail, 11 Teal, Goldeneye, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Grey Heron, Sparrowhawk (female at Chalet that then roosted at the Plantation; just the second of the autumn), Moorhen (Chalet; first of the autumn), 289 Turnstone, Sanderling, Dunlin, 2 Woodock (North Raeva and Guidicum; highest count of the autumn so far), 6 Jack Snipe, 65 Snipe, Lesser Black-backed Gull (1CY), Short-eared Owl (North Light), 2 Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 176 Skylark, 2 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 5 Blackcap (joint highest count of the autumn so far), 4 Goldcrest (highest count of the autumn so far), Ring Ouzel (Hoini; first of the autumn), 19 Blackbird (highest count of the autumn so far), 16 Fieldfare (highest count of the autumn so far), 147 Redwing, 17 Song Thrush (highest count of the autumn so far), 8 Robin (highest count of the autumn so far), Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, 188 Meadow Pipit, 2 Chaffinch, 20 Brambling (highest count of the autumn so far), 2 Siskin, 4 Reed Bunting, Lapland Bunting (Shirva area), 5 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 190
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Wednesday 10th October
A nice day's weather, rather summery in fact, but sadly not many birds took advantage of the conditions to move and there were only a couple of new species seen. The quiet afternoon meant that the Plantation roof (which had taken a hammering in the gales earlier in the month) got an extensive rebuilding - hopefully this time tomorrow we will be celebrating all the birds it has caught as the much longed-for south-easterlies finally arrive...
Weather: SW3, sunny and rather warm.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Richard's Pipit: one flushed from near Steensi Geo flew towards Leogh but could not be relocated
Yellow-browed Warbler: 2; singles at Burkle and South Naaversgill
Other sightings:
5 Barnacle Goose, 7 Greylag Goose, 2 Wigeon, 6 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Great Northern Diver (off Meoness), Grey Heron, Cormorant, Sanderling, 4 Dunlin, Woodock (Easter Lother), 2 Jack Snipe, 62 Snipe, c1300 Great Black-backed Gull (an impressive count considering the rather calm conditions; such large gatherings are usually associated with stormy weather), 2 Merlin, Peregrine, 2 Carrion Crow, 156 Skylark, Swallow, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 5 Blackbird, 8 Fieldfare, 91 Redwing, 3 Whinchat, 6 Wheatear, 2 Grey Wagtail, 242 Meadow Pipit, 89 Rock Pipit, 3 Chaffinch, 4 Brambling, 122 Twite, 2 Linnet, Common Crossbill (Easter Lother then probably the same bird south over Hoini), 10 Goldfinch (a flock at School; the joint third-highest count for the Isle), 9 Siskin, Reed Bunting, 12 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Shetland Bee: 2 still on the wing
Year list: 190
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Tuesday 9th October
A few more birds, although not many. The plane flew again and the Good Shepherd sailed with the last of the sheep for the year (and a new freezer, tumble driers and beer and food order for the Obs on the way back in!). Although there are finally south-easterlies in the forecast (starting later on tomorrow), we'll be honest, we're worried about the fog that is forecast for Thursday - potentially devastating weather for our chances of seeing birds (and for them finding us). Surely after what feels like a month of constant westerlies we don't deserve that?!
Weather: W3, cloudy with persistent rain early on then clearing to a reasonable day with a few lighter showers later on.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Yellow-browed Warbler: one at Burkle
Other sightings:
18 Barnacle Goose, 175 Greylag Goose, 9 Pink-footed Goose, 19 Wigeon, 9 Teal, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, Great Northern Diver, 2 'blue' Fulmar (singles off Buness and Meoness), 3 Grey Heron, 35 Golden Plover, 214 Turnstone, Sanderling, 4 Dunlin, 10 Jack Snipe, 95 Snipe, Woodpigeon, 2 Merlin, Peregrine, 3 Carrion Crow, 21 Hooded Crow, Swallow, 2 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 5 Blackcap, 7 Blackbird, 11 Fieldfare, 115 Redwing, Song Thrush, 3 Whinchat, 6 Wheatear, Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, 3 Chaffinch, 8 Brambling, Lesser Redpoll, 2 Siskin, Reed Bunting, 9 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Risso's Dolphin: 6 moved slowly past South Light in the afternoon.
Year list: 190
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Monday 8th October
A better day of weather, with all planes flying, some wildfowl passage and one or two new migrants, although the birding was mostly still rather slow going. Census was postponed to the afternoon after a morning spent rounding up the hill sheep - always a fun day! The moth trapped at the Obs window late in the evening was probably the rarest sighting of the day and, interestingly, it was exactly five years since the last record (which was also found at an Obs window). The following day there was Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Short-toed Lark and Little Bunting found on the Isle - we'd certainly settle for those tomorrow!
Weather: SW3/4, cloudy with occasional showers.
Sightings:
82 Barnacle Goose, 47 Greylag Goose, 76 Pink-footed Goose, 7 Whooper swan (the party of 4 adults was present in the morning and there was then a pair and a juvenile in the afternoon), 6 Wigeon, 7 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Grey Heron, Cormorant, Lapwing, 31 Golden Plover, Sanderling, 6 Jack Snipe, 85 Snipe, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Woodpigeon, 2 Merlin, Peregrine (adult), 5 Carrion Crow, Hooded Crow (a flock of 18 in the south of the Isle, with 3 Carrion Crows and a hybrid, showed there was some migrants of this species around), 215 Skylark, 2 Swallow, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, 4 Blackbird, 11 Fieldfare, 157 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 2 Whinchat, 4 Wheatear, Grey Wagtail, 2 White Wagtail, 213 Meadow Pipit, 2 Chaffinch, 4 Brambling, 60 Twite, 2 Linnet, Lesser Redpoll, 2 Siskin, Reed Bunting (Field Ditch; first of the autumn), 22 Snow Bunting.
Jack Snipe, Obs (David Parnaby). With three square miles of essentially Jack Snipe-coloured island to aim for, quite why this one decided to pitch up in the Obs compound (just below the research office window) is anyone's guess.
Other Wildlife:
Large Wainscot: attracted to the Obs windows in the evening; just the 10th or 11th Fair Isle record, although only the fourth year in which the species has occured, with previous records in 1992 (3), 2006 (5 or 6) and 8th October 2013.
Year list: 190
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Sunday 7th October
A stinker of a day weather-wise that put paid to any real chance of birding. All our hope is now in the easterlies forecast from Wednesday afternoon onwards...
Weather: S 4/5 first thing, but increasing 7/8 later. Cloudy throughout with heavy rain from just after 9am until well after dark.
Sightings:
5 Greylag Goose, 4 Whooper Swan (all adults), 8 Wigeon, Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Grey Heron, Cormorant, Lapwing, 2 Golden Plover, 3 Jack Snipe, 23 Common Gull, 2 Merlin, Carrion Crow, 2 Swallow, Blackcap (male at Obs), 2 Blackbird, 7 Fieldfare, 2 Wheatear, 2 Chaffinch, Brambling, 5 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 190
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Saturday 6th October
A much better day of weather, with the Good Shepherd completing its final lamb run and planes moving everyone who was due to travel (and shifting those who had been waiting since Thursday). Some species had obviously taken advantage of the conditions to move out, whilst there were only a few new arrivals other than an obvious, rather noisy, increase in geese.
Weather: NW3-4, sunny spells with just an occasional shower.
Sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 168 Greylag Goose, Pink-footed Goose, Wigeon, 3 Teal, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 4 Great Northern Diver, 2 Grey Heron, Cormorant, Lapwing, 32 Golden Plover, 7 Jack Snipe, 49 Snipe, Woodpigeon, Short-eared Owl, 2 Merlin, 2 Rook, 2 Carrion Crow, 175 Skylark, Swallow, 2 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 2 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, 69 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, Robin, 3 Whinchat, 6 Wheatear, Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, 285 Meadow Pipit, 5 Chaffinch, Brambling, 112 Twite, Lesser Redpoll (Chalet; first of the autumn), 2 Siskin, 47 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Risso's Dolphin: 2 off South Light.
Year list: 190
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Friday 5th October
No planes, but a reasonable day saw a few birds on the move.
Weather: SW5-6, cloudy with sunny spells and just occasional showers.
Sightings:
6 Barnacle Goose, Pink-footed Goose, 10 Whooper Swan (the lingering 6 plus a new group of 4, including one juvenile), 7 Wigeon, 5 Teal, Scaup (the lingering bird was found dead), Long-tailed Duck (Furse; first of the autumn), 2 Red-breasted Merganser (one of which was caught and killed by a Bonxie), 3 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 32 Golden Plover, 218 Turnstone, 2 Sanderling, Woodcock (one at School; first record since July), 5 Jack Snipe, 66 Snipe, Short-eared Owl, 3 Merlin, Peregrine, 2 Carrion Crow, 275 Skylark, Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, Blackcap, 3 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, 260 Redwing (all Icelandic birds), Song Thrush, Black Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 10 Wheatear, Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, 228 Meadow Pipit, 3 Chaffinch, 82 Twite, 2 'North-western Common Redpoll', Siskin, Lapland Bunting, 20 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 190
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Thursday 4th October
Back to rubbish winds and a slightly soggy afternoon, with little in the way of movement or excitement on the bird front, but thankfully some pre-breakfast cetacean action livened things up a bit.
Weather: SW4-6, cloudy with drizzly rain for much of the afternoon.
Sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 6 Pink-footed Goose, 6 Whooper Swan, 9 Wigeon, 4 Teal, Scaup (still present on the Obs scrape), Goldeneye (first of the autumn), 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 'blue' Fulmar (Buness), 3 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 26 Golden Plover, Sanderling, 8 Jack Snipe, 67 Snipe, 2 Woodpigeon, 2 Merlin, 2 Peregrine, 2 Carrion Crow, 218 Skylark, Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 3 Blackcap, Garden Warbler, 3 Blackbird, Fieldfare, 53 Redwing, Song Thrush, Black Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 13 Wheatear, 2 Grey Wagtail, 306 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit (Linni Geo), 4 Chaffinch, Brambling (Haven), 64 Twite, 'North-western Common Redpoll', 3 Siskin, Lapland Bunting, 9 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Killer Whale: a group of 5-6 individuals first seen off the North end of Buness at about 8am then powered up past North Light and out to the west.
The distant, but unmistakeable, fin of a bull Killer Whale off North Light (David Parnaby)
Year list: 190
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Wednesday 3rd October
At last, birds! By no means a huge fall, but it was great to be out and about with a bit of hope again.
Weather: W1 becoming SE or E 4/5 later, cloudy with constant drizzly rain from midday.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Yellow-browed Warbler: one at Field then Chalet and Barkland
Common Rosefinch: presumably the lingering bird was seen again at Leogh
Other sightings:
25 Barnacle Goose, 3 Greylag Goose, 37 Pink-footed Goose, 6 Whooper Swan, 32 Wigeon, 11 Teal, Scaup (still present), 27 Red-breasted Merganser (including a flock of 19 that flew down the island; a record count for the island), 5 Red-throated Diver, 'blue' Fulmar, 7 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 4 Lapwing, 25 Golden Plover, 3 Sanderling, 14 Jack Snipe, 58 Snipe, 20 Common Gull, 8 Bonxie (not many left now), Puffin (one from Buness), Woodpigeon, 3 Merlin, Peregrine, 3 Carrion Crow, 321 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 2 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 4 Blackcap, 3 Garden Warbler, 4 Blackbird, Fieldfare, 72 Redwing (all Icelandic birds, with all of the trapped birds showing good fat reserves and being a good weight), 3 Song Thrush, Black Redstart, 4 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, Dunnock, 3 Grey Wagtail, 3 White Wagtail, 470 Meadow Pipit, 9 Chaffinch, 71 Twite, 3 Linnet, 'North-western Common Redpoll', 2 Siskin, 2 Lapland Bunting, 41 Snow Bunting.
Red-breasted Mergansers heading south over Schoolton (David Parnaby); in itself, this would have been a record-breaking flock but another 8 were also around the Isle to smash the previous record.
Year list: 190
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Tuesday 2nd October
Weather: WNW 7-8 (occasionally 9), cloudy with some horrible stinging rain.
Sightings:
7 Greylag Goose, Pink-footed Goose, 6 Whooper Swan, 4 Wigeon, 7 Teal, Scaup (still on the Obs scrape and Haven), Red-breasted Merganser, Grey Heron, 3 Cormorant, 3 Lapwing, 24 Golden Plover, 224 Turnstone, 2 Sanderling, Dunlin, Jack Snipe, 3 Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 2 Swallow, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Redwing, Song Thrush, Robin, Whinchat, 6 Wheatear, White Wagtail, Chaffinch, Lapland Bunting, 6 Snow Bunting.
Snipe, South Restensgeo (David Parnaby)
Year list: 190
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Monday 1st October
Weather: W4-5, partially cloudy with a few showers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Common Rosefinch: one still present
Other sightings:
40 Greylag Goose, 7 Pink-footed Goose, 16 Whooper Swan (including two family parties containing 3 and 4 cygnets respectively, whilst the other group were seen too distantly to age), 4 Wigeon, Teal, Scaup (still present), Red-breasted Merganser, 2 'blue' Fulmar, 3 Cormorant, 4 Lapwing, 28 Golden Plover, 4 Sanderling, Jack Snipe, Kestrel, 3 Merlin, Carrion Crow, 196 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 2 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 2 Blackbird, 3 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, Black Redstart, 3 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, White Wagtail, 306 Meadow Pipit, Chaffinch, 59 Twite, Linnet, 'North-western Common Redpoll', 2 Lapland Bunting, 23 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 190
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Sunday 30th September
A less horrible day than yesterday. The westerly theme continued but, despite this day in history having turned up Savannah Sparrow, Blackpoll Warbler, and Grey-cheeked and Swainson's Thrushes, there was nothing American to be found. A White-crowned Sparrow on Foula was a positive sign that there's a chance of something from across the Atlantic, so we'll keep trying, surely we've got to get something eventually... The guests currently at the Obs certainly deserve it, they're all still putting in the miles and staying cheery in, it has to be said, sometimes difficult circumstances. Ah well, there's always tomorrow...
Weather: SW6-7, becoming NW7-8 later. Showers, visibility good.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Common Rosefinch: one still in the Quoy area
Other sightings:
14 Greylag Goose, 24 Pink-footed Goose, 5 Wigeon, 11 Teal, Tufted Duck (the male had moved to the Gully), Scaup (still in North Haven and on scrape), Red-breasted Merganser, Grey Heron, 2 Cormorant, 3 Lapwing, 21 Golden Plover, 3 Sanderling, Kestrel, 2 Merlin, Peregrine, Carrion Crow, 217 Skylark, Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 3 Blackcap, Blackbird, 3 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush, Robin, Black Redstart (Jivy Geo), 3 Whinchat, 6 Wheatear, Dunnock, 3 White Wagtail, 392 Meadow Pipit, Chaffinch (South Ramnigeo), 136 Twite, 2 Linnet, 2 'North-western Common Redpoll', 2 Lapland Bunting, 18 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 190
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Saturday 29th September
A pretty horrible day of weather, with some vicious showers and not many birds to show for it. Sunderland managed not to spoil the Warden's birthday by losing (the last year that Sunderland drew at Coventry in the league was also the year that there was Savannah Sparrow and Siberian Rubythroat on the Isle in October, whilst other pointless statistics include the fact that the last time Sunderland drew on the 29th September was in 1979, a month in which 'westerly winds and rain predominated' but which saw the following month produce 'the largest thrush movements ever recorded on the island' with the 14th October seeing the Isle 'seething' with birds including 65,000 Redwings, 2,000 Fieldfares and 300 Blackbirds').
Weather: SW7-8, showers throughout, with some very heavy in the afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Common Rosefinch: one still present
Other sightings:
11 Greylag Goose, 2 Wigeon, 17 Teal, Tufted Duck (male in South Haven), Scaup (still on Obs scrape), Red-breasted Merganser, Slavonian Grebe (off Buness), Grey Heron, Cormorant, 4 Golden Plover, 323 Turnstone, 5 Sanderling, Jack Snipe, Arctic Skua, Merlin, Peregrine, 2 Carrion Crow, Swallow, 3 Blackcap, Black Redstart (Gully), 3 Whinchat, 5 Wheatear, Dunnock, White Wagtail, 'North-western Common Redpoll', Siskin, 3 Lapland Bunting, 7 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 190
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Friday 28th September
Just one or two birds with a north-westerly flavour, including a duck that made its first appearance on the Isle since 2014 (the last year we had an American passerine in the autumn if you're looking for omens/grasping at straws...).
Weather: SW4/5, mostly cloudy with a few showers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ortolan Bunting: still present around Gilsetter, although still generally not showing well.
Common Rosefinch: one still present around Leogh
Other sightings:
85 Greylag Goose, 11 Pink-footed Goose, 4 Wigeon, 5 Teal, Scaup (a 1CY off Buness moved round into North Haven before making it onto the Obs scrape), 'blue' Fulmar (Buness), 2 Slavonian Grebe (off Buness; first of the autumn), 2 Grey Heron, 28 Golden Plover, Knot, 7 Sanderling, Merlin, Peregrine, 3 Carrion Crow, 151 Skylark, Swallow, 4 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 3 Blackcap, 2 Blackbird, 2 Redwing, Song Thrush, Robin, 4 Whinchat, 5 Wheatear, Dunnock, 5 White Wagtail, 348 Meadow Pipit, 4 'North-western Common Redpoll', Siskin, 3 Lapland Bunting, 15 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 190
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Thursday 27th September
A day of two halves, one very wet, the second windy and wet! Not much change on the birding front either unfortunately, but we'll keep looking...
Weather: WSW 4-5, increasing 6-7 later. Rain at first clearing to showers (often heavy) later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ortolan Bunting: still present in the Gilsetter area and generally flighty and elusive, although most folk managed decent (albeit often distant) views.
Common Rosefinch: 2; one at South Ramnigeo may have been the Bull's Park bird, with another still in the Quoy area
Other sightings:
2 Pink-footed Goose, Shoveler, 4 Wigeon, 16 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, 'blue' Fulmar (Buness), Grey Heron, 2 Cormorant, Lapwing, 20 Golden Plover, 2 Sanderling, Kestrel, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 203 Skylark, 3 Swallow, 5 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 3 Blackcap, 2 Blackbird, Redwing, Song Thrush, Robin, 2 Black Redstart (Hjukni and Kirn o' Skroo), 4 Whinchat, 13 Wheatear, Dunnock, 2 White Wagtail, 454 Meadow Pipit, Linnet, 2 'North-western Common Redpoll', Goldfinch, 3 Siskin, 2 Lapland Bunting (near Obs), 4 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 189
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Wednesday 26th September
The forecast at the start of the week suggested that Tuesday and Wednesday would be write-offs in terms of transport and possibly birding, with strong winds set to sweep the Isle. However, that turned out to be far from the case, with planes on both days and a reasonable, albeit slightly blustery, day today. There were a couple of new birds, with at least one from the NW and, given that there's been a couple of Red-eyed Vireos on Iceland in the last two days, maybe there's still hope. Tomorrow morning looks set to be wet, although the afternoon should give us the chance to see whether anything new has come in.
Weather: W 5-6 freshening a bit later on, just a couple of showers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ortolan Bunting: after a couple of days in which it had obviously remained hidden, the Ortolan reappeared around the Ringing Hut marsh, although it was flighty and elusive as it roamed as far as Tarryfield
Common Rosefinch: 2; singles still at Klinger's Geo and in the Leogh area
Corncrake: one at Meadow Burn and Quoy was presumably the same as one seen near Busta in the afternoon. Although being typically elusive for most of the time, several people did manage to catch up with it
Other sightings:
12 Barnacle Goose (went south over the Isle in the morning), 5 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, Shoveler, 3 Wigeon, 20 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, 4 'blue' Fulmar (Buness), Grey Heron, 2 Cormorant, Lapwing, 36 Golden Plover, 255 Turnstone, Knot, 8 Sanderling, 2 Dunlin, 2 Kestrel, 2 Merlin, 4 Carrion Crow, 196 Skylark, Sand Martin, 2 Swallow, 5 Willow Warbler, 4 Blackcap, 2 Blackbird, 3 Redwing, 3 Whinchat, 11 Wheatear, 7 White Wagtail, 466 Meadow Pipit, 2 Linnet, Common Redpoll (a North-western bird at Buness then the Obs), Goldfinch, 8 Siskin, Lapland Bunting (over Chalet), 10 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Harbour Porpoise: two off Buness
Year list: 189
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Tuesday 25th September
A rather quiet day for new arrivals as westerly winds continued to dominate. A plane was an unexpected bonus, although strong winds prevented the Good Shepherd IV from sailing (although it made it to Grutness yesterday, so food supplies are fine!). A bit tough going on the birding front at the moment to be honest, but it's Fair Isle in late-September, so you have to keep the faith!
Weather: SW4 increasing 6/7 later, with rain from late-afternoon onwards.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Common Rosefinch: 3; the ringed bird still in Bull's Park, with unringed birds at Klinger's Geo and the Schoolton/Taft/Leogh area
Other sightings:
14 Pink-footed Goose, Shoveler, 3 Wigeon, 8 Teal, Tufted Duck (male still), Great Northern Diver (off Buness), 'blue' Fulmar, Grey Heron, 3 Cormorant, Lapwing, 36 Golden Plover, 207 Turnstone, 4 Sanderling, 2 Dunlin, 2 Kestrel, 2 Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow, 149 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 5 Willow Warbler, 4 Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Blackbird, 2 Song Thrush, 2 Whinchat, 9 Wheatear, Dunnock, 7 White Wagtail, 412 Meadow Pipit, Chaffinch, Goldfinch, 11 Siskin, Lapland Bunting (Setter), 18 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 189
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Monday 24th September
A calmer day at last and there were a few drifty birds on the move - slim pickings, but some pickings at least!
Weather: SW3-4, sunny wth occasional heavy showers drifting through.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Richard's Pipit: one near the Mast in the afternoon
Common Rosefinch: 3; one at Bull's Park was later joined by another in the Plantation, with one at Sma' Trinket and Klinger's Geo
Other sightings:
13 Greylag Goose, 2 Pink-footed Goose, Shoveler, 2 Wigeon, 6 Teal, Tufted Duck (a male touring the Island; first of the autumn [and a useful addition to the kitchen window list]), 'blue' Fulmar (off Mopul), Manx Shearwater (off Buness), Grey Heron, 4 Cormorant, Lapwing, 36 Golden Plover, 3 Sanderling, Lesser Black-backed Gull (adult), 3 Kestrel, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 260 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 7 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush, Robin, 3 Black Redstart (2 in Kirn o' Skroo and one at Hoini), 4 Whinchat, 13 Wheatear, 7 White Wagtail, 580 Meadow Pipit, 7 Chaffinch, 156 Twite, Linnet, Goldfinch, 14 Siskin, Lapland Bunting (Setter), 20 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Risso's Dolphin: at least two were off Buness in the afternoon
Year list: 189
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Sunday 23rd September
The westerlies continue, with very few migrants (although a decent new scarcity amongst the couple that did arrive).
Weather: WNW 4-5, cloudy patches with occasional showers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ortolan Bunting: one found near the Plantation on morning trap round roamed in the area between there and Setter. Two in an autumn is the best showing in this season since 2008 for this declining species (which, in recent years, has failed to appear on the island at all in 2007, 2009, 2011, 2014 and 2017).
Common Rosefinch: one still around Bull's Park
Iceland Gull: a 1CY on Greenholm was a relatively early record
Other sightings:
2 Pink-footed Goose, Shoveler, 2 Wigeon, 14 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Red-throated Diver, Grey Heron, 3 Cormorant, 35 Golden Plover, Ruff, 5 Sanderling, Jack Snipe, 2 Kestrel, Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow, 372 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 4 Blackcap, Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush, 5 Whinchat, 11 Wheatear, Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, 3 White Wagtail, 534 Meadow Pipit, 124 Twite, Goldfinch, 14 Siskin, Lapland Bunting (Setter), 8 Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Risso's Dolphin: around 6 were seen off Buness and in Ditfield
Year list: 189
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Saturday 22nd September
A fairly similar day in most respects, with just a couple of new birds in (and no transport
due to the wind).
Weather: WNW 5/6 increasing later, sunny spells and occasional heavy showers with good visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Common Rosefinch: one at Bull's Park was later trapped in the Plantation
Other sightings:
8 Greylag Goose, 5 Pink-footed Goose, Shoveler (Da Water), 6 Wigeon, 16 Teal, Red-throated Diver, 2 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 44 Golden Plover, Ruff, 6 Sanderling, Jack Snipe (Upper Leogh), Kestrel, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 314 Skylark, 3 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 2 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush, Robin, 4 Whinchat, 10 Wheatear, 8 White Wagtail, 480 Meadow Pipit, 139 Twite, 2 Linnet, Goldfinch (Upper Leogh), 15 Siskin, Lapland Bunting (Setter), Snow Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Killer Whale: a male seen briefly a couple of times off the east coast
Shetland Bee: one still on the wing
Year list: 189
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Friday 21st September
A plane made it in for the morning flight, but with conditions deteriorating slightly, that was it for the day. There were few new birds, although an arrival of Skylarks was interesting given the weather - where have they come from?
Weather: NW5/6, cloudy with occasional showers but good visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Common Rosefinch: one at Bull's Park
Other sightings:
6 Greylag Goose (first record of the month), 9 Pink-footed Goose, 11 Wigeon, 16 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Great Northern Diver (past South Light), 'blue' Fulmar (one drifted past Meoness then South Light), 2 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 53 Golden Plover, 7 Knot, 2 Ruff, 6 Sanderling, Woodpigeon, Kestrel, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 482 Skylark (including several seen coming in off the sea along the south coast), 3 Swallow, 2 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 5 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat (Haa), Blackbird, Redwing, Song Thrush, Robin, 3 Whinchat, 13 Wheatear, Dunnock (Gully), Grey Wagtail, 7 White Wagtail, 648 Meadow Pipit, 89 Twite, Linnet (first of the month), 14 Siskin, 3 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 189
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Thursday 20th September
Another very windy day, although a plane made it in late in the afternoon as conditions improved. A couple of new birds, and a calm night gives just a smidgtilla of hope that there may be a few more things tomorrow, although with the wind set to strengthen from the north then north-west we might have a new flavour of arrivals soon.
Weather: SW8 decreasing to 4/5 later, when it became more WNW. Cloudy with some heavy showers, although the sun broke through later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Barred Warbler: 2; one at the Obs and another still at Burkle
Other sightings:
80 Pink-footed Goose, 6 Wigeon, 16 Teal, Grey Heron, Cormorant, 2 Knot, 2 Ruff, 9 Sanderling, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Arctic Skua, 2 Kestrel, 2 Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow, 4 Swallow, 5 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Obs), 6 Blackcap, Blackbird, Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 4 Whinchat, Dunnock (Gully), Tree Pipit, Goldfinch (one in Gilsetter; first of the autumn), 4 Siskin.
Year list: 189
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Wednesday 19th September
Not a nice day, census was truncated to get round the main areas before the worst of the weather came in and, despite a few hints from the early trap round that there were maybe a few birds to be found, it was rather quiet for new arrivals.
Weather: SSE becoming SW 7/8, heavy rain from midday onwards with poor visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Blyth's Reed Warbler: still present at the Obs
Common Rosefinch: one at the Obs was presumably one of the two present at Schoolton in the afternoon.
Other sightings:
7 Pink-footed Goose, 7 Wigeon, 9 Teal, 2 Sooty Shearwater (Buness), Grey Heron, Cormorant, 6 Knot, 9 Sanderling, 7 Arctic Skua (past Buness), 4 Kestrel, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 3 Swallow, 3 House Martin, 2 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Obs), 5 Blackcap, Whitethroat, Blackbird, Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrush, Robin, 4 Whinchat, Grey Wagtail (first record of the month), 13 Siskin (first record since 4th August).
Year list: 189
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Tuesday 18th September
A change in the weather, but not a 'grab a Mars Bar on your way out 'cos there's so many birds you're not coming back until its dark' kind of change unfortunately. The wind dropped, but rain made the birding difficult at times. Still, there were clearly a handful of birds in, with a trap round just before dinner producing a rarity. There's not been much good weather this autumn, but when there has been even the hint of decent conditions there have been birds, just imagine what it will be like when we get the easterlies...
Weather: SW1, increasing slightly, cloudy with rain all morning and rain most of the afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
ARCTIC WARBLER: still present around Midway
Blyth's Reed Warbler: one trapped in the Gully in the evening; third of the autumn
Barred Warbler: 2; one still in the south and a new bird trapped in the Plantation in the evening
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Blyth's Reed Warbler, Obs (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
71 Pink-footed Goose, 4 Wigeon, 5 Teal, 2 Storm Petrel (from the Good Shepherd), Grey Heron, 2 Cormorant, 12 Golden Plover, 6 Knot, 9 Sanderling, Jack Snipe, 63 Snipe,4 Puffin (from the Good Shepherd), 2 Kestrel, 3 Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow, 104 Skylark, Swallow, 8 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Sedge Warbler (Wirvie Burn and Walli Burn), Reed Warbler (Obs), 10 Blackcap (highest count of the autumn so far), Whitethroat, 2 Blackbird (including a 1CY in Hesswalls), Fieldfare (first of the autumn), 3 Song Thrush, 2 Spotted Flycatcher (Buness and South Ramnigeo), Robin, Black Redstart (Boini Mire), 3 Whinchat, 22 Wheatear, Dunnock (Gully), 11 'White Wagtail', 900 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit (Boini Mire),Chaffinch (female in Sma' Trinket Geo), 121 Twite, 2 Lapland Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Risso's Dolphin: at least 6 moved slowly south of the Rippack
2 Green Lacewing
Year list: 189
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Monday 17th September
A slightly better day of weather, but still not much doing in teh way of new arrivals. Still, there were maybe a couple of new migrants in and news of Little Bunting on Unst and Bluethroat on Skerries showed that some stuff was battling through the weather, so there's still hope. All it takes is one bird...
Weather: SW4-5, cloudy with rain fairly constantly throughout the afternoon when visibility decreased.
HIGHLIGHTS:
ARCTIC WARBLER: still present at North Shirva
Barred Warbler: one still around, at Vaila's Trees
Other sightings:
89 Pink-footed Goose, 7 Wigeon, 4 Teal, Red-throated Diver (South Light), 2 Cormorant, 45 Golden Plover, 9 Knot, 6 Sanderling, Jack Snipe, 26 Snipe,Woodpigeon, 3 Kestrel, 3 Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 103 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 7 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler (still in Wirvie Burn), Reed Warbler, 5 Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, Robin, 4 Whinchat, 17 Wheatear, 194 House Sparrow (the largest count since 1992), 17 'White Wagtail', 994 Meadow Pipit, 2 Lapland Bunting (Sheep Cru and Burn of Vatstrass).
Year list: 189
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Sunday 16th September
Windy.
Weather: SE6-7 becoming SW or WSW 7-8 for a while before easing. Showers in morning.
HIGHLIGHTS:
ARCTIC WARBLER: still present at Shirva, although elusive
Barred Warbler: one at Upper Stoneybrek
Other sightings:
95 Pink-footed Goose, 5 Wigeon, 8 Teal, Grey Heron, 5 Cormorant, 30 Golden Plover, 199 Turnstone, 6 Knot, 7 Sanderling, 2 Dunlin, 46 Snipe,Common Sandpiper, 47 Redshank, 4 Kestrel, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 91 Skylark, 3 Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Goldcrest, Redwing, Robin, 3 Whinchat, 18 Wheatear, 4 'White Wagtail', 984 Meadow Pipit, Lapland Bunting (Sheep Cru).
Year list: 189
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Saturday 15th September
Planes, a Good Shepherd run and some sunny weather. Not a bad day all-in-all, with everyone getting to where they needed to go (including the children on their school trip) and a restocking of the Obs food supplies. The birds were pretty quiet unfortunately and there's no doubt that the next few days are not forecast to be classic conditions, but it's the second half of September on Fair Isle, so anything is possible...
Weather: W or SW 3-5, generally sunny with a few (slightly wintry) showers
HIGHLIGHTS:
ARCTIC WARBLER: still present at Shirva before relocating to Midway
Barred Warbler: three still present
Yellow-browed Warbler: one still elusively in the Obs garden
Other sightings:
8 Pink-footed Goose, 11 Wigeon, Teal, 2 Cormorant, 36 Golden Plover, 6 Knot, 2 Sanderling, 45 Snipe, Short-eared Owl (Wirvie), 3 Kestrel, 2 Merlin, 4 Carrion Crow, 137 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 11 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler, 2 Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, Goldcrest, 2 Blackbird, Redwing, Robin, Pied Flycatcher (Furse), 4 Whinchat, 18 Wheatear, 19 'White Wagtail', 1644 Meadow Pipit, 166 Twite, 5 Lapland Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Silver Y (one that was swiftly predated by a Barred Warbler!)
Year list: 189
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Friday 14th September
Another day with no transport, although the weather on Fair Isle wasn't too bad in the end, so at least it was a pleasant day to explore the island some more for those who were stuck!
Weather: still westerly wind, although calmer than recent days. Fewer showers, with a sunny afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
ARCTIC WARBLER: still at Shirva
Richard's Pipit: again present, near Ditfield
Barred Warbler: three still present
Common Rosefinch: two in the south
Great Spotted Woodpecker: the 1CY still present
Other sightings:
30 Barnacle Goose (headed south in the morning; first of the autumn), 6 Pink-footed Goose, Whooper Swan (just three days after the long-staying bird was found dead, the first of the autumn was seen), 6 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 3 Grey Heron, 2 Cormorant, Hen Harrier, 37 Golden Plover, 9 Knot, 2 Sanderling, Jack Snipe, Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, 3 Kestrel, 2 Merlin, Peregrine (adult female), 4 Carrion Crow, 85 Skylark, Sand Martin, 2 Swallow, 11 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, Goldcrest, Redwing, Robin, Redstart, 3 Whinchat, 41 Wheatear, 25 'White Wagtail', 2034 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, 110 Rock Pipit, 177 Twite, 2 Lapland Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
A c30cm Eel in the Vaadal
Year list: 189
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Thursday 13th September
A surprise couple of planes made it in during the morning before conditions worsened again and birding was similar to recent days
.
Weather: the weather continued in a similar vein, with strong westerly winds and heavy showers
HIGHLIGHTS:
ARCTIC WARBLER: one at Shirva was presumably a lingering bird from earlier in the week
Richard's Pipit: again around the Gully
Yellow-browed Warbler: one in the south
Barred Warbler: one still present
Common Rosefinch: one still
Great Spotted Woodpecker: the 1CY still present
Other sightings:
440 Pink-footed Goose, 6 Wigeon, Teal, 3 Grey Heron, Cormorant, Hen Harrier, 32 Golden Plover, 163 Turnstone, Knot, Ruff, Sanderling, 12 Purple Sandpiper, Jack Snipe, 2 Common Sandpiper, Swift, 2 Kestrel, 2 Merlin,4 Carrion Crow, 35 Skylark, Swallow, 6 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 3 Reed Warbler, Grasshopper Warbler (Wirvie Burn), 3 Blackcap, 3 Garden Warbler, Goldcrest, Blackbird, Redwing, Robin, 2 Redstart, 4 Whinchat, 15 Wheatear, 11 'White Wagtail', 969 Meadow Pipit, 201 Twite.
Year list: 189
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Wednesday 12th September
Very little in the way of new birds - it feels like it will be an American wader or nothing out there at the minute! Who knows though, maybe there's an even bigger surprise lurking out there somewhere. No planes or ferry again today, but the food (and beer) stocks are holding up at least.
Weather: W6-7, sunny spells and scattered showers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
PALLID HARRIER: the 1CY still present
Yellow-browed Warbler: one still at the Obs
Barred Warbler: at least two still present (at Quoy/Burkle and Stackhoull)
Common Rosefinch: two still present in the south
Great Spotted Woodpecker: the 1CY still roaming the Meadow Burn area
Other sightings:
81 Pink-footed Goose (the first of the autumn involved a couple of flocks heading south late in the day), 10 Wigeon, 20 Teal, Sooty Shearwater (South Light), 4 Grey Heron, 4 Cormorant, Hen Harrier, 27 Golden Plover, 5 Knot, Ruff, Sanderling, Little Stint (juvenile again on Easter Lother Water), Swift (Obs), 3 Kestrel, Merlin, Peregrine (adult female; first of the month), 4 Carrion Crow, 92 Skylark, 3 Swallow, House Martin, 11 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler, 4 Blackcap, 3 Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, Goldcrest, Spotted Flycatcher, Robin, Black Redstart (Kirn o' Skroo), Redstart, 4 Whinchat, 33 Wheatear (mostly 'Greenland' birds), 16 'White Wagtail', 367 Meadow Pipit, Brambling, 213 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
Brindled Ochre in the Obs
Year list: 189
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Tuesday 11th September
A difficult day with the weather not being very conducive for migrants yet, remarkably, amongst the few that appeared was another top-class rare. Day two of no transport however.
Weather: SW4 rapidly becoming W7/8, with heavy showers becoming more frequent as the day progressed. Visibility generally good although dropping during the squalls.
HIGHLIGHTS:
LANCEOLATED WARBLER: one trapped in the Vaadal Heligoland trap after being seen to fly out of the willows around the reservoir and into the ditch between the trap and the Plantation. A 1CY carrying no fat (and virtually the same weight as the earlier bird), it may well have been freshly arrived. The 97th record for Fair Isle (if accepted) and the joint sixth-earliest (including this year's previous bird).
PALLID HARRIER: the 1CY still present and roaming the south
Richard's Pipit: one at Pund in the morning was later at Johnny Arcus's Park and, what was presumably the same bird, was caught at the Gully in the evening (the 15th to be ringed on Fair Isle).
Yellow-browed Warbler: an unringed bird at the Obs
Barred Warbler: 3; two at Burkle and one at Schoolton
Common Rosefinch: one still around Schoolton
Great Spotted Woodpecker: the 1CY took to carrying out work on the footbridge over the Meadow Burn
Lanceolated Warbler, Obs (Tom Gale)
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan (the long-staying bird was sadly found dead), 5 Wigeon, 10 Teal, 6 Grey Heron, 4 Cormorant, Hen Harrier (still present), 7 Golden Plover, 152 Turnstone, Knot, Ruff, 2 Sanderling, 4 Jack Snipe, Common Sandpiper, Short-eared Owl (Furse), Swift (still over the Obs), 2 Kestrel, 2 Merlin, 4 Carrion Crow, 31 Skylark, 3 Swallow, House Martin, 11 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 3 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Whitethroat, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, Robin, Pied Flycatcher, 2 Redstart, 6 Whinchat, 18 Wheatear, flava Wagtail (one at the Walli Burn), 13 'White Wagtail', 328 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, Brambling, 168 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
Dolphin sp.: one briefly off South Light
Year list: 189
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Monday 10th September
The start of some westerly based winds that will make the birding no doubt slow up a bit. There were certainly few new arrivals today, although still a fantastic set of birds present in conditions that were difficult at times.
Weather: SW or WSW 5-6, heavy rain early on and showers throughout the day.
HIGHLIGHTS:
PALLID HARRIER: the 1CY still present, although generally elusive
ARCTIC WARBLER: one still in South Raeva
Blyth's Reed Warbler: 2; after sightings in the previous days at Schoolton and Springfield, both were seen today at the same time, confirming the presence of two birds rather than a roaming individual
Yellow-browed Warbler: 2; singles at the Obs and Meadow Burn
Barred Warbler: 4; singles at the Obs, Burkle, Kenaby and Stackhoull
Common Rosefinch: 3; singles at Plantation, Schoolton and Skadan
Great Spotted Woodpecker: the 1CY still present and roaming the south
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 5 Wigeon, 13 Teal, 3 Red-throated Diver, Sooty Shearwater (South Light), 5 Grey Heron, Cormorant, Hen Harrier (at least one still present), Water Rail (one found dead in Field Ditch), 3 Golden Plover, 89 Turnstone, 7 Knot, 2 Ruff, 3 Sanderling, Little Stint (juvenile still at Easter Lother then North Haven), Jack Snipe, Common Sandpiper, 20 Razorbill (South Light), Swift, 4 Kestrel, 2 Merlin, 4 Carrion Crow, 50 Skylark, 3 Swallow, 15 Willow Warbler, Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 3 Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Blackbird, Song Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher, Robin, Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, 7 Whinchat, 18 Wheatear, flava Wagtail (one at the Obs in the morning and Walli Burn in the afternoon), 12 'White Wagtail', 294 Meadow Pipit, Brambling, 107 Twite.
Year list: 189
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Sunday 9th September
Weather: SE3 becoming SW4, cloudy with persistent rain from mid-morning until late afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
PALLID HARRIER: 1CY still roaming in the south
ARCTIC WARBLER: 2; one still in South Raeva and another at Field then Pund
Blyth's Reed Warbler: one at Schoolton was presumably yesterday's bird relocating
Richard's Pipit: one in Gilsetter then Pund; second earliest ever record for Fair Isle after one on 8th September 1968
Yellow-browed Warbler: 5
Barred Warbler: 3
Common Rosefinch: 2 at the Obs, including one trapped and ringed
Wryneck: one trapped at the Plantation later relocated to Setter
Great Spotted Woodpecker: 1CY still present in south
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 4 Wigeon, 8 Teal, 7 Grey Heron, 8 Cormorant, Hen Harrier (1CY still present), 6 Golden Plover, 5 Knot, 3 Ruff, 2 Sanderling, Little Stint (juvenile at Easter Lother Water), 2 Jack Snipe (singles in Gilsetter and Vaadal stream; first of the autumn), 49 Snipe, Common Sandpiper (Gully), Greenshank (first since 13th August), Woodpigeon, 3 Kestrel, Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow, 57 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 22 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler (Obs), Reed Warbler, 7 Blackcap, 5 Garden Warbler, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 3 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Robin, 5 Pied Flycatcher, Black Redstart (Easter Lother), 6 Redstart, 8 Whinchat, 32 Wheatear, Dunnock, flava Wagtail (one at Haa was probably the one that then flew over the traps; first of the autumn), 9 'White Wagtail', 428 Meadow Pipit, Brambling, 240 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
Silver Y, 3 Diamondback Moth
Year list: 189
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Saturday 8th September
Another great day's birding, with a new rare or two, good numbers of scarcities and a pleasant selection of common migrants.
Weather: W3, cloudy throughout with some low cloud over the hills and becoming increasingly murky in the afternoon, when fog dominated.
HIGHLIGHTS:
PALLID HARRIER: a 1CY male first seen over Da Water spent the afternoon touring the classic harrier 'hot-spots' of Boini Mire, Walli Burn and Da Water, giving good views at times. There are five previous records for Fair Isle; May 1931, Aug 2011, Sep 2011, Sep 2014 (also found on 8th) and Sep 2015.
ARCTIC WARBLER: 2; singles at Chalet (then Pund and Setter) and South Raeva were assumed to be birds relocating from yesterday.
Blyth's Reed Warbler: a very elusive bird at Springfield
Yellow-browed Warbler: 3 (Obs, Meadow Burn and Walli Burn)
Marsh Warbler: one still present at the Meadow Burn
Barred Warbler: 3; probably all lingering birds
Common Rosefinch: 3; presumed to all be lingering birds
Wryneck: one flew from Bull's Park to Setter
Great Spotted Woodpecker: 1CY at Schoolton then Springfield; first record since 2015
Pallid Harrier in the mist over Boini Mire (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 4 Wigeon, 7 Teal, 'blue' Fulmar (one off the Good Shepherd), 12 Grey Heron, 8 Cormorant, Hen Harrier (1CY still present), Water Rail (Field Ditch; first of the autumn), 7 Golden Plover, 5 Knot, 3 Ruff, 3 Sanderling, Little Stint (juvenile on Da Water; first of the year), Common Sandpiper (Hjukni Geo), Cuckoo, Swift, 3 Kestrel, Merlin, 6 Carrion Crow, 56 Skylark, Sand Martin, 28 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, Wood Warbler (Skerryholm), Sedge Warbler, 3 Reed Warbler, 9 Blackcap, 6 Garden Warbler, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, Goldcrest, Blackbird, Redwing, Song Thrush (Chalet), 4 Spotted Flycatcher, Robin (Obs), 3 Redstart, 6 Whinchat, 24 Wheatear, Dunnock, 17 'White Wagtail', 428 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, 2 Brambling, 221 Twite, Common Crossbill.
Other Wildlife:
Dolphin sp? (one seen off Buness), Red Admiral, 3 Silver Y, Convolvulus Hawk-moth (Lowey Stoneybrek)
Year list: 188
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Friday 7th September
Another really good day, with birds building through the day again. It's not been a big fall in terms of numbers (although several species had built up today), but there's been good variety and some showy rarities and scarcities that have kept everyone happy - along with the air of anticipation that is a big part of the enjoyment of birding. The weather was better than forecast and it looks like tomorrow shoudl be a calm and promising day as well. After that, it looks like some strong westerlies, but we're heading into the second week of September, so anything is possible now...
Weather: A variable day, with a light E wind freshening a little from the NE later. Heavy pre-dawn rain gave way to a bit of early drizzle, then it was generally a dry morning, with some more patchy drizzle in the afternoon. Visibility dropped a little at times, but it was generally good (although only good enough for one flight).
HIGHLIGHTS:
ARCTIC WARBLER: 3 (three); one remained in the Muckle Jarm's Geo/Shalstane area, with one found at Shirva assumed to be yesterday's School bird relocating. Another was then found at Leogh which, after initially being assumed to be the same bird, was eventually watched simultaneously with the Shirva individual. The first time three have been recorded together on Fair Isle.
Yellow-browed Warbler: 2; singles at Da Water and Pund.
Marsh Warbler: one still present at Meadow Burn
Barred Warbler: 7; widely scattered individuals, including one on Dronger and two at Chalet.
Common Rosefinch: 5; including at least one newly arrived bird (on Dronger)
Wryneck: 2; a showy bird at the Obs and another on top of Hoini
Hobby: a 1CY headed north over Gunnawark; first autumn record since 2000
Corncrake: the remains of a bird (possibly a raptor kill) were found between Da Water and Klinger's Geo
Yellow-browed Warbler, Pund (David Parnaby)
Hobby, Gunnawark (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 10 Wigeon, 22 Teal, 9 Grey Heron, Cormorant, Hen Harrier (a 1CY, probably male, was on Hoini then Meoness; first of the autumn), 2 Lapwing (first of the month), 12 Golden Plover, 72 Turnstone, 6 Knot, 6 Ruff, 3 Sanderling, 9 Dunlin, 64 Snipe, 55 Redshank, 57 Common Gull, Cuckoo (one at Utra in the morning then near the Kirk later), Swift, 4 Kestrel, Merlin, 5 Carrion Crow, 42 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 19 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, Wood Warbler (Hjukni Geo), Sedge Warbler, 4 Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 6 Garden Warbler, 5 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Whitethroat, Goldcrest, 2 Blackbird, Redwing (one at South Harbour then Midway was the first migrant of the autumn), Song Thrush (a migrant at South Light), 6 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Robin (including a migrant on Hoini), 5 Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, 3 Whinchat, 21 Wheatear, Dunnock, 16 'White Wagtail', 461 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, Brambling (one at Schoolton; first of the autumn and an early arrival date), 182 Twite, Common Crossbill (one north over the Plantation with presumably the same bird later over the Kirk), Lapland Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
3 Red Admiral, Painted Lady, 2 Silver Y, 7 Diamondback Moth, 6 Green Lacewing, White-tailed Bumblebee (Obs).
Year list: 185
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Thursday 6th September
A slow builder of a day, with cetaceans taking up a chunk of the middle of it, but when the rain swept through, it was obvious there were more birds about. A number of highlights were picked out amongst the slowly increasing common migrants and surely there will be more birds tomorrow, although the strong easterly winds forecast will make birding difficult.
Weather: a very mixed day, with an almost flat calm start before a light NW breeze developed, which freshened from the NE. The sunny start was interrupted by heavy rain (and poor visibility) from around 1.30pm until 3pm, after which the weather improved again although the wind was a bit stronger.
HIGHLIGHTS:
ARCTIC WARBLER: 2, with singles recorded at the School and Hesti Geo simultaneously. Both appeared to be 1CY with fresh plumage and well marked greater-coverts, making them different from yesterday's individual. A remarkable run of records and the first multiple occurence on the Isle since 1994.
Yellow-browed Warbler: one at Meadow Burn, the earliest Fair Isle record (beating the previous earliest of 9th September 2015, a year in which a minimum of 207 individuals went on to be recorded on Fair Isle...).
Ortolan Bunting: one at Da Water in the evening, the first record since 2016
Marsh Warbler: one in Meadow Burn
Barred Warbler: 4, including new birds trapped in the Gully and at the Obs and an unringed bird at Chalet (taking the total so far this autumn to an minimum of 18 individuals)
Common Rosefinch: 4; including birds trapped in the Gully and at the Obs
Wryneck: one at Houll
Corncrake: one at Pund
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Arctic Warbler, School (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon, 7 Teal, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Red-throated Diver, 5 Grey Heron, 16 Golden Plover, Swift, 2 Kestrel, 4 Carrion Crow, 69 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 21 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Wood Warbler (South Raeva), 2 Reed Warbler, Blackcap, 3 Garden Warbler, 4 Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, Blackbird, Song Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher (Obs), Robin, 11 Pied Flycatcher (highest count of the autumn so far), 2 Redstart (first of the autumn), 4 Whinchat, 25 Wheatear, 11 'White Wagtail', 426 Meadow Pipit, 187 Twite, Lapland Bunting (Klinger's Geo).
Other Wildlife:
Long-finned Pilot Whale: c60 moved south past North Light. Having been alerted to their presence off Sumburgh Head at around 0815hrs by the crew of the Good Shepherd, it was around 11am when they appeared and were in view for around two hours as the widely dispersed group slowly made their way past the island. The first record from land since 1999.
Risso's Dolphin: 8 moved west close-in past the happy whale-watchers!
Red Admiral, 4 Painted Lady.
Long-finned Pilot Whale, North Light (David Parnaby)
Year list: 185
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Wednesday 5th September
The forecast was looking like there could be birds in through the day, but the main highlight was actually found quite early on. Although this was not a large fall, nobody is complaining - it feels like autumn has got going now and there could be more in the next few days...
Weather: SE3, cloudy at first then clearing, with heavy rain arriving from around 2230hrs.
HIGHLIGHTS:
LANCEOLATED WARBLER: one trapped in the Gully just after breakfast. The 96th record for Fair Isle (if accepted). The first record since 2016 (after 2017 became the first blank year since 2009, prior to which it was all the way back to 1995 to find a no show) and the second-earliest record following one (also trapped in the Gully) on 4th September 2000.
ARCTIC WARBLER: a very showy individual frequented the angelicas at Stackhoull
Icterine Warbler: one in the Gully
Barred Warbler: 2; singles at Stackhoull and the Gully
Common Rosefinch: 5; a minimum count, given teh number of small, mobile flocks on the island
Corncrake: one at Meadow Burn
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Top: Lanceolated Warbler, Obs (Tom Gale)
Bottom: Arctic Warbler, Stackhoull (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 3 Wigeon, 9 Teal, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 11 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 9 Golden Plover, Swift, Kestrel, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 62 Skylark, 7 Swallow, 15 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Reed Warbler, Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, Blackbird, 2 Song Thrush, Robin, 9 Pied Flycatcher (highest count of the autumn so far), Whinchat, 22 Wheatear, Dunnock, 11 'White Wagtail', 523 Meadow Pipit, 196 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
4 Red Admiral, Painted Lady, 2 Silver Y.
Year list: 183
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Tuesday 4th September
HIGHLIGHTS:
Barred Warbler: 3; singles at Stackhoull, Burkle and Chalet
Common Rosefinch: 4; three around Schoolton/Quoy with another around Setter and the Plantation
Hawfinch: one briefly at Schoolton in the afternoon
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 7 Teal, 2 Grey Heron, Sparrowhawk (a female high south over the island; first of the autumn), 9 Golden Plover, Collared Dove, 2 Kestrel, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 46 Skylark, 17 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Warbler, Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat (one lingering around the traps was caught at Chalet, where it was found to be wearing a Danish ring. The only previous ringing movements of this species involving Fair Isle were one to Orkney and one from Shetland), Blackbird, Redwing, Robin, Pied Flycatcher (Stackhoull), 2 Whinchat, 35 Wheatear, Dunnock, 37 'White Wagtail', 410 Meadow Pipit.
Other Wildlife:
2 Red Admiral, Painted Lady.
Year list: 182
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Monday 3rd September
Weather: NW2, light cloud.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Greenish Warbler: one at the Kirk and School Brae was presumably yesterday's bird moving up to the island top
Barred Warbler: an unringed bird at Burkle
Common Rosefinch: 5 (minimum), with one at Bull's Park and four at Schoolton. Sightings at other locations may have referred to some of the same birds.
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 10 Teal, 40 Storm Petrel (trapped in the Haven in 80 minutes from 2200hrs), 5 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 10 Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel, Black-tailed Godwit (over Kenaby), 5 Knot, Sanderling, Lesser Black-Back Gull, Arctic Skua, Short-eared Owl (Gully), 2 Kestrel, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 65 Skylark, 10 Swallow, 12 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Sedge Warbler, 3 Reed Warbler, Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, Blackbird, Redwing, Song Thrush, Robin, 3 Whinchat, 60 Wheatear, Dunnock, 19 'White Wagtail', 390 Meadow Pipit.
Other Wildlife:
2 Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Diamond-back Moth (one in Stormie ringing shed), Hawkmoth sp? (seen flying over the moth trap at c2330hrs).
Year list: 182
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Sunday 2nd September
Much better weather, but after promising
winds overnight there were few new birds in.
Weather: light SE winds overnight gradually freshened from the south and then west. Largely sunny with good visibility and just a few wisps of low cloud occasionally dropping over the hills.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Greenish Warbler: one still in North Raeva
Wryneck: one at Setter in the afternoon
Barred Warbler: one occasioannly showing well at Stackhoull
Common Rosefinch: 4; two still in the south, with one ringed at the Obs and an unringed bird at Wirvie
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 6 Teal, 79 Storm Petrel (trapped overnight in the Haven), Sooty Shearwater (off South Light), 4 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 6 Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel, 4 Knot, Green Sandpiper, Lesser Black-Back Gull, Arctic Tern, Short-eared Owl (Furse), 4 Kestrel, Merlin, 7 Carrion Crow, 35 Skylark, 3 Swallow, 11 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Reed Warbler (Obs), Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, Blackbird, Redwing, Pied Flycatcher, Black Redstart (Kirn o' Skroo), Whinchat (Meadow Burn), 26 Wheatear, 15 'White Wagtail', 426 Meadow Pipit, 2 Tree Pipit, Lapland Bunting (Rippack).
Other Wildlife:
Green Lacewing (Obs), Red Admiral, 2 Painted Lady, 2 Silver Y. In the moth trap overnight, a Pink-barred Sallow was a first for Fair Isle.
Year list: 182
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Saturday 1st September
A poor day weather-wise and still only marginal conditions for new arrivals, but there were still a few more birds in.
Weather: S3-4, largely cloudy, with drizzly rain in the morning and poor visibility, although brightening later (not enough for planes though unfortunately as low cloud lingered at Tingwall).
HIGHLIGHTS:
Greenish Warbler: one in the Raevas was thought from photographs to be a different individual from yesterday's bird at Guidicum
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Greenish Warbler, North Raeva (Tom Gale)
Red-breasted Flycatcher: an adult male in North Raeva (a favoured spot for this species) was sometimes seen in the same binocular view as the Greenish Warbler.
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Red-breasted Flycatcher, North Raeva (Tom Gale)
Red-backed Shrike: a 1CY at Lower Stoneybrek (first of the autumn)
Barred Warbler: 5; sightings were again widespread and included a retrapped bird around the traps and two caught at Burkle.
Common Rosefinch: 3 still present
Marsh Warbler: one at the Obs in the morning
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 4 Teal, Sooty Shearwater (Good Shepherd), 5 Grey Heron, 13 Golden Plover, 4 Lesser Black-Back Gull, Arctic Tern, 5 Arctic Skua, 35 Guillemot (from the Good Shepherd), Collared Dove, Swift, 3 Kestrel, Merlin, 4 Carrion Crow, 30 Skylark, Swallow, 9 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Reed Warbler (Obs, Gully and Meadow Burn), Blackcap (one at Schoolton was later trapped at Burkle; first of the autumn), 2 Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, Goldcrest (Wester Lother; first of the autumn), Blackbird, Redwing, Song Thrush, 2 Pied Flycatcher, Whinchat (Meadow Burn), 32 Wheatear, Dunnock, 7 'White Wagtail', 474 Meadow Pipit, 162 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
2 Harbour Porpoise (from the Good Shepherd), Minke Whale (from the Good Shepherd), Silver Y.
Year list: 182
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Friday 31st August
At last! Some east in the wind. It was fairly marginal, but it delivered birds. Not huge numbers, but a very pleasing scatter of scarcities (and the best day for additions to the year list since 14th May!).
Weather: a very light SW first thing in the morning, with a freshening SSE building up to F5 by the afternoon. Light, patchy cloud and excellent visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Greenish Warbler: one on the cliffs at Guidicum in the afternoon. First of the year and, if accepted, 55th record of Greenish Warbler for Fair Isle
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Greenish Warbler on the mighty cliffs of Guidicum. Rare birds on the cliffs are one of the more exciting aspects of birding for many people. (David Parnaby)
Wryneck: one at Houll then moved to Schoolton where it showed well. First of the year after the first blank spring for this species since 2010 (with the last year none were recorded in spring prior to that being back in 1998).
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Wryneck, Schoolton (David Parnaby)
Corncrake: one at Pund was the first of the year after the second consecutive spring with no records.
Icterine Warbler: 2; singles at Hoini and the Furse (the latter a pale, greyish-toned individual)
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Icterine Warbler, Furse (David Parnaby)
Barred Warbler: 7; with sightings at Furse, Obs, Plantation (two trapped there), Setter, Chalet, Stackhoull, Shirva, Burkle, Chapel Plantation and Haa. there were certainly plenty of opportunities to see a Barred Warbler today! Timings of sightings (as well as two being trapped) confirmed the presence of seven individuals, although there were possibly more.
Common Rosefinch: 3; two around the Skadan and South Harbour area with another at Bul's Park and Setter
Lapland Bunting: one calling as it circled over Bull's Park was the first of the autumn
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Lapland Bunting, Bull's Park (David Parnaby)
Leach's Petrel: 2; one trapped overnight (a bird ringed elsewhere - the first control of this species for Fair Isle), with another calling around the nets.
Other sightings:
Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 6 Teal, 168 Storm Petrel (trapped overnight; 155 new and 13 recaptures), Grey Heron, Cormorant, 12 Oystercatcher, 13 Golden Plover, 8 Ringed Plover, 12 Curlew, 46 Turnstone, 8 Dunlin, 30 Snipe, Green Sandpiper, 15 Redshank, 28 Common Gull, Lesser Black-Back Gull, Arctic Skua, Collared Dove, Swift, Kestrel, Merlin, 4 Carrion Crow, 56 Skylark, 5 Swallow, 19 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Reed Warbler (Obs and Chalet, with an unstreaked acro at Wester Lother), 7 Garden Warbler (highest count of the autumn so far), Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, Blackbird (male still at Guidicum, possibly a summering bird), Redwing (the summering bird was caught at the Obs in the morning, a wing-length of 129mm confirmed it is an Icelandic bird), Song Thrush (summering bird still at Obs), Robin (Obs), 3 Pied Flycatcher (highest count of the autumn so far), Black Redstart (Kirn o' Skroo), Whinchat (Quoy), 38 Wheatear, Dunnock, 15 'White Wagtail', 549 Meadow Pipit, 107 Rock Pipit, 189 Twite, 2 Linnet.
Other Wildlife:
2 Red Admiral, 7 Painted Lady, Peacock (Easter Lother), 3 Silver Y.
Year list: 182
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Thursday 30th August
Weather: W2/3 decreasing in the evening, patchy cloud with some rain early on
HIGHLIGHTS:
Marsh Warbler: one still at the Obs
Barred Warbler: 3
Other sightings:
Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 6 Teal, 2 Grey Heron, 8 Oystercatcher, 9 Golden Plover, 15 Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, 10 Curlew, 88 Turnstone, 2 Knot, 2 Sanderling, 14 Dunlin, 5 Purple Sandpiper, 37 Redshank, Lesser Black-Back Gull, Arctic Tern, 4 Arctic Skua, Collared Dove, 4 Swift, Merlin, 5 Carrion Crow, 51 Skylark, 3 Swallow, 9 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Reed Warbler, Garden Warbler, 2 Whitethroat, Robin, BLack Redstart (Kirn o' Skroo), 68 Wheatear, Dunnock, 21'White Wagtail', 570 Meadow Pipit, 151 Rock Pipit, 194 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
5 Red Admiral, 6 Painted Lady, Small Tortoiseshell, 3 Silver Y.
Year list: 179
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Wednesday 29th August
Weather: S4, becoming W4-5, cloudy with occasional showers
HIGHLIGHTS:
Marsh Warbler: the ringed bird still at the Obs
Barred Warbler: 2; one still at Chalet/Setter and what was probably another individual at Burkle
Other sightings:
Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 24 Teal, 3 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 48 Oystercatcher (including 22 past South Light), Lapwing, 28 Golden Plover (including flocks passing Buness), 17 Ringed Plover, 10 Curlew, 120 Turnstone, 9 Knot, Sanderling, 13 Dunlin, 23 Purple Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper, 56 Redshank, 34 Common Gull, 2 Lesser Black-Back Gull, Arctic Tern, Arctic Skua, 2 Collared Dove, 3 Swift, Kestrel, Merlin, 4 Carrion Crow, 49 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 8 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Obs), 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Whitethroat, Redwing, Robin (Pund), 43 Wheatear, Tree Sparrow (Field; first of the autumn), 21'White Wagtail', 654 Meadow Pipit, 123 Rock Pipit, Chaffinch (North Haven; first of the autumn), 115 Twite, 2 Linnet.
Other Wildlife:
3 Red Admiral, 5 Painted Lady, 3 Silver Y.
Year list: 179
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Tuesday 28th August
Weather: S4-5, cloudy
HIGHLIGHTS:
Marsh Warbler: 2; one still at the Obs and a new bird at Wirvie Burn
Barred Warbler: 4; probably all lingering birds from the previous day, although one or two mobile individuals made things a little trickier to work out
Other sightings:
Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 6 Teal, 112 Storm Petrel (trapped overnight; 102 new birds and ten recaptures, including one with a Danish ring, presumably from the Faeroes), 3 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 12 Oystercatcher, 2 Golden Plover, 9 Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, 104 Turnstone, 2 Knot, 12 Dunlin, Green Sandpiper, 36 Redshank, 112 Common Gull, Lesser Black-Back Gull, 2 Collared Dove, 2 Swift, Kestrel, Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow, 58 Skylark, 6 Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler, 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Whitethroat, Blackbird, Redwing, Song Thrush, 35 Wheatear, Dunnock, 5 'White Wagtail' (along with 1 Pied and 5 alba wagtails), 717 Meadow Pipit, 2 Tree Pipit, 123 Rock Pipit, 178 Twite, Redpoll sp? (still around the Obs and traps).
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral, Painted Lady.
Year list: 179
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Monday 27th August
Weather: a fairly calm start, with the wind freshening from the NE then NW before dying off again in the late evening
HIGHLIGHTS:
Marsh Warbler: one trapped and ringed at the Obs
Barred Warbler: 4; one again at Meadow Burn, with new arrivals at Obs, Gully and Haa/Springfield
Common Rosefinch: one briefly at Schoolton then later at Leogh
Marsh Warbler, Obs (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 2 Teal, 2 Grey Heron, 20 Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Golden Plover, 24 Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, 57 Turnstone, Sanderling, 16 Dunlin, Green Sandpiper, 31 Redshank, 2 Lesser Black-Back Gull, Arctic Skua (most have now left, but one was still in the North), Razorbill, Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (Da Water), Swift, 2 Kestrel, Merlin, 4 Carrion Crow, 62 Skylark, Sand Martin, 20 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler, 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Whitethroat, 2 Blackbird, Redwing, Song Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher (Buness), Robin, Black Redstart (Kirn o' Skroo), 41 Wheatear, Dunnock, 20 'White Wagtail' (along with 3 Pied and 2 alba wagtails), 818 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit (first of the autumn), 137 Rock Pipit, 126 Twite, Redpoll sp? (still around the Obs and traps).
Other Wildlife:
7 Red Admiral, 4 Painted Lady, Silver Y.
Year list: 179
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Sunday 26th August
Weather: SSE5, 6/8 cloud cover, with rain late on in the evening.
Sightings:
Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon, Teal, Manx Shearwater (South Light), 2 Grey Heron, Cormorant, 8 Oystercatcher, Lapwing, 6 Golden Plover, 20 Ringed Plover, 148 Turnstone, 3 Knot, Sanderling, 14 Dunlin, Green Sandpiper, 40 Redshank, 2 Lesser Black-Back Gull, Arctic Tern, Collared Dove, 2 Swift, Kestrel, Merlin, 4 Carrion Crow, 41 Skylark, 12 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, Garden Warbler, Blackbird, Robin, 2 Black Redstart (Kirn o' Skroo), 38 Wheatear, Dunnock, 19 'White Wagtail' (along with 1 Pied and 6 alba wagtails), 848 Meadow Pipit, 127 Rock Pipit, 179 Twite, Redpoll sp? (still around the Obs and traps).
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral, Painted Lady, 2 Silver Y.
Year list: 179
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Saturday 25th August
Weather: NNW5-6
Sightings:
Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 5 Teal, Grey Heron, Cormorant, 15 Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Golden Plover, 16 Ringed Plover, 73 Turnstone, 2 Knot, Sanderling, 9 Dunlin, 36 Redshank, 2 Lesser Black-Back Gull, 2 Swift, Merlin, 5 Carrion Crow, 80 Skylark, 8 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Garden Warbler, Redwing, Song Thrush, Robin, Black Redstart (Hjukni Geo), 40 Wheatear, 26 'White Wagtail' (along with 2 Pied and 4 alba wagtails), 916 Meadow Pipit, 90 Rock Pipit, 115 Twite, Redpoll sp? (still around the traps).
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral.
Year list: 179
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Friday 24th August
Weather: W4-5, patchy cloud with occasional showers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Barred Warbler: one still at Meadow Burn
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 12 Teal, Grey Heron, 19 Oystercatcher, 2 Golden Plover, 28 Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, 3 Curlew, 73 Turnstone, 2 Knot, Sanderling, 23 Dunlin, Green Sandpiper, 40 Redshank, 3 Lesser Black-Back Gull, Puffin (one still coming in with fish), 2 Collared Dove, Swift, Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow, 98 Skylark, 22 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler (still at Houll), Grasshopper Warbler (Da Water), 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Blackbird, Redwing (still in the Gully), Spotted Flycatcher, Robin, Black Redstart, 62 Wheatear, Dunnock, Grey Wagtail (one in the Gully; first of the autumn), 28 'White Wagtail' (along with 4 Pied and 4 alba wagtails), 1030 Meadow Pipit, 149 Rock Pipit, 84 Twite, 2 Linnet, Redpoll sp? (still around the traps).
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral, Painted Lady.
Year list: 179
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Thursday 23rd August
Weather: SW4 veering WSW and easing slightly. Rain until around 0930hrs then some sunny spells, with visibility improving.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Barred Warbler: 3; a new bird at Klinger's Geo then the School and singles still lingering at Meadow Burn and Chalet
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 16 Teal, Sooty Shearwater (South Light), 2 Grey Heron, Cormorant (juvenile, South Harbour), 23 Oystercatcher, 3 Golden Plover, 16 Ringed Plover, 4 Curlew, 97 Turnstone, 3 Knot, Ruff, Sanderling, 29 Dunlin, Green Sandpiper, 22 Redshank, 7 Lesser Black-Back Gull, Arctic Tern (South Light), Short-eared Owl (Da Water; first record since 16th July), Swift, Merlin, 5 Carrion Crow, 85 Skylark, 39 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler (Houll), 2 Reed Warbler (Obs and Chalet), 2 Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, 2 Blackbird (a lingering female at Shirva and one still at the Obs), Redwing (Gully), 4 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Robin (the summering bird at the Obs and a new migrant on Dronger), 3 Black Redstart, 89 Wheatear, 53 'White Wagtail' (along with 3 Pied and 8 alba wagtails), 879 Meadow Pipit, 174 Rock Pipit, 151 Twite, Redpoll sp? (still around the traps).
Other Wildlife:
Harbour Porpoise (one off Buness; first record from land since 4th July),6 Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, Silver Y.
Year list: 179
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Wednesday 22nd August
Weather: SW4, cloudy at first then a bit brighter but a few showers in the afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Barred Warbler: 2; one at the Meadow Burn and another showy bird at Chalet
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon, 20 Teal, 3 Grey Heron, 23 Oystercatcher, 10 Golden Plover, 30 Ringed Plover, 7 Curlew, 53 Turnstone, 2 Knot, 3 Sanderling, 38 Dunlin, Purple Sandpiper, 28 Snipe, 2 Green Sandpiper, 28 Redshank, Lesser Black-Back Gull, 2 Swift, Merlin (first of the autumn), 5 Carrion Crow, 79 Skylark, 3 Swallow, 35 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Obs), 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, Redwing (Gully), 2 Black Redstart (Hjukni Geo and South Raeva), 124 Wheatear, Dunnock (the summering bird trapped in the Plantation), 37 'White Wagtail' (along with 4 Pied and 26 alba wagtails), 704 Meadow Pipit, 183 Rock Pipit, 101 Twite, Redpoll sp? (again in flight over Gilsetter).
Other Wildlife:
2 Painted Lady, Red Admiral, Eel (one in the Vaadal).
Year list: 179
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Tuesday 21st August
Weather: A reasonable morning, with a freshening SE wind in the afternoon bringing some heavy showers, with the weather going on to become a strong SW wind with rain overnight.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Common Rosefinch: one seen coming in off the sea at South Light early in the morning
Other sightings:
2 Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, 12 Teal, 2 Red-throated Diver, 157 Storm Petrel (trapped overnight), Grey Heron, Cormorant (South Harbour), 18 Oystercatcher, 7 Golden Plover, 24 Ringed Plover, 4 Curlew, Knot, Sanderling, 34 Dunlin, 9 Purple Sandpiper, 31 Snipe, 2 Green Sandpiper, 18 Redshank, 7 Black-headed Gull, 61 Common Gull, Lesser Black-Back Gull, Arctic Tern (from Good Shepherd), Guillemot (several adults and juveniles heard from the Northlink as it passed offshore from Fair Isle at c0330hrs!), Razorbill, Puffin (a few still present, with one seen carrying fish), Swift, Peregrine, 6 Carrion Crow, 61 Skylark, 3 Swallow, 9 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, Lesser Whitethroat, Blackbird, Redwing (still in the Gully), Pied Flycatcher (one at the Mast), 111 Wheatear, 47 'White Wagtail' (along with 6 Pied and 24 alba wagtails), 887 Meadow Pipit, 135 Rock Pipit, 181 Twite, Redpoll sp? (Gilsetter), Common Crossbill (Steensi Geo)
Other Wildlife:
2 Minke Whale (from the Good Shepherd around six miles north of Fair Isle), Painted Lady
Year list: 179
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Monday 20th August
Weather: W2, largely cloudy with a few showers in the morning but good visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Barred Warbler: still present at Burkle.
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 3 Teal, Fulmar (first fledged youngsters seen), Cormorant (South Harbour), 17 Oystercatcher, 10 Golden Plover, 14 Ringed Plover, 5 Curlew, 5 Knot, 2 Sanderling, 33 Dunlin, 22 Snipe, Common Sandpiper, 12 Redshank, 8 Black-headed Gull, 16 Common Gull, 5 Lesser Black-Back Gull, 2 Arctic Tern, 5 Carrion Crow, 10 Swallow, 14 Willow Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Observatory), Garden Warbler, Blackbird, Redwing, Song Thrush, Robin, 93 Wheatear, Dunnock (still in Gully), 43 'White Wagtail' (along with 2 Pied and 12 alba wagtails), 867 Meadow Pipit, 202 Rock Pipit, 90 Twite, Common Crossbill (Kirn o' Skroo).
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Small Tortoiseshell, 2 Silver Y.
Year list: 179
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Sunday 19th August
Weather: NW1-2 with patchy cloud, but remaining dry with good visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Barred Warbler: one at Burkle, second of the year.
Other sightings:
2 Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 2 Pintail, 4 Teal, Cormorant (South Harbour), 25 Oystercatcher, 24 Golden Plover, 26 Ringed Plover, 5 Curlew, Black-tailed Godwit (South Harbour), 24 Knot, Ruff, 6 Sanderling, 25 Dunlin, 14 Purple Sandpiper, 21 Snipe, Green Sandpiper, 50 Redshank, 17 Black-headed Gull, 39 Common Gull, 4 Lesser Black-Back Gull, 20 Arctic Tern, 2 Swift, 3 Carrion Crow, 3 Swallow, 19 Willow Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Observatory), 2 Garden Warbler, Blackbird, Redwing, Song Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher (Hesti Geo; first since 5th July), Robin, 2 Black Redstart, 158 Wheatear, Dunnock, 39 'White Wagtail' (along with 6 Pied and 18 alba wagtails), 282 Meadow Pipit, 204 Rock Pipit, 108 Twite, 2 Common Crossbill (North Light and North Raeva)..
Other Wildlife:
9 Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock (Plantation), Hummingbird Hawk-moth (Wirvie), 4 Silver Y.
Year list: 179
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Saturday 18th August
Strong winds prevented census taking place in the morning and resulted in a lighter coverage in the afternoon, but nonetheless some decent wader counts were made.
Weather: Very windy from the SW with gusts of Force 7-8, rain in the morning becoming frequent blustery showers in the afternoon.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Wigeon (S. Harbour), 3 Teal, Manx Shearwater (S. Light), 2 Grey Heron, 11 Oystercatcher, 3 Golden Plover, 28 Ringed Plover, 3 Curlew, 158 Turnstone, 7 Knot, Ruff (Da Water), 10 Sanderling, 49 Dunlin, 10 Purple Sandpiper, 15 Snipe, 2 Green Sandpiper, 50 Redshank, 26 Black-headed Gull, 56 Common Gull, 28 Lesser Black-Back Gull, 6 Arctic Tern, 2 Swift, 4 Carrion Crow, 7 Swallow, 5 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Observatory), 2 Blackbird, Song Thrush, Robin, 6 'White Wagtail' (along with 6 Pied and 10 alba wagtails)
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral, Painted Lady
Year list: 179
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Friday 17th August
Weather: SW wind with a speed of 4-5, a mild and pleasant day. Showers in the evening with good visibility.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Shelduck, Teal, Sooty Shearwater (South Light), Manx Shearwater (South Light), Grey Heron, 20 Oystercatcher, 4 Golden Plover, 17 Ringed Plover, 59 Turnstone, 3 Knot, 2 Ruff (on Da Water and Utra), 2 Sanderling 43 Dunlin, 4 Purple Sandpiper, 30 Snipe, Common Sandpiper, 2 Green Sandpiper, 54 Redshank, 30 Black-headed Gull, 64 Common Gull, 42 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 10 Arctic Tern, 4 Swift, Peregrine (Ward Hill), 4 Carrion Crow, 56 Skylark, Swallow, House Martin, 18 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, Black Redstart, Whinchat (Pund), 115 Wheatear, Dunnock, 6 'White Wagtail' (along with 2 Pied and 13 alba wagtails), 172 Meadow Pipit, 125 Rock Pipit, 90 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
9 Red Admiral, 3 Silver Y
Year list: 179
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Thursday 16th August
An exciting start to the day was followed in a similar fashion to the previous few days with a a good selection of warblers and waders.
Weather: Wind in the SW, rain showers in the late afternoon with good visibility
HIGHLIGHTS:
ARCTIC WARBLER: One present in the gully showed well throughout the day. The first of the year and (if accepted) the 93rd Fair Isle record, with the second consecutive year with an August appearance.
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Arctic Warbler, Gully (Tom Gale)
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Shelduck, 2 Sooty Shearwater (singles from the Good Shepherd and Buness), Grey Heron, 14 Oystercatcher, 2 Golden Plover, 23 Ringed Plover, 21 Turnstone, 3 Knot, 1 Ruff (Da Water), Sanderling, 42 Dunlin, 9 Snipe, Green Sandpiper, 37 Redshank, 7 Black-headed Gull, 87 Common Gull, 4 Lesser Black-Back Gull, 5 Swift, Kestral, 3 Carrion Crow, 54 Skylark, 17 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler, 6 Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, Redwing, Song Thrush, Black Redstart (Kirn o' Skroo), 115 Wheatear, 7 'White Wagtail' (along with 5 Pied and 4 alba wagtails), 110 Meadow Pipit, 118 Rock Pipit, 129 Twite, Common Crossbill (Gully).
Other Wildlife:
2 Red Admiral, Small Tortoiseshell, 16 Silver Y
Year list: 179
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Wednesday 15th August
Weather: Visibility mostly good, with rain from 15:00-18:00
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Teal, 4 Grey Heron, 18 Oystercatcher, 37 Golden Plover, 6 Ringed Plover, Curlew, 43 Turnstone, Knot, 2 Sanderling, 40 Dunlin, 2 Purple Sandpiper, 19 Snipe, Green Sandpiper, 40 Redshank, 6 Black-headed Gull, 127 Common Gull, 6 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 38 Arctic Tern, 3 Swift, Peregrine (Buness; first sighting since 11th May), Carrion Crow, 54 Skylark, 20 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Obs), 3 Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, Black Redstart (Mast), 130 Wheatear, 6 'White Wagtail' (along with 7 Pied and 12 alba wagtails), 148 Meadow Pipit, 172 Rock Pipit, 152 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
2 Red Admiral, 3 Silver Y, 1 Many-plumed Moth in the Obs Bar
Year list: 178
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Tuesday 14th August
A relatively good day for waders, with the migration continuing. However, poor weather conditions affected visibility and census counts of small passerines.
Weather: Wind coming from the SE. A wet day, with fog and drizzle arriving at 8:00 and remaining for the entire day.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 2 Pintail (female and fledged juvenile on Utra), 6 Teal, 2 Red-throated Diver (North Light), 2 Storm Petrel (Good Shepherd), Sooty Shearwater (from North Light), 2 Grey Heron, 22 Oystercatcher, 4 Golden Plover, 16 Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, 2 Curlew, 102 Turnstone, Knot, Sanderling, 33 Dunlin, 55 Purple Sandpiper, 23 Snipe, 3 Green Sandpiper, 28 Redshank, 6 Black-headed Gull, 209 Common Gull, 6 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 47 Arctic Tern, 5 Guillemot, 2 Swift, 3 Carrion Crow, 31 Skylark, 16 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Obs), 2 Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, Blackbird, Song Thrush, Robin, 127 Wheatear, 'White Wagtail' (along with 5 Pied and 12 alba wagtails), 149 Meadow Pipit, 110 Rock Pipit, 111 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
Dolphin sp.: one from the Good Shepherd not far from Mopul
Year list: 178
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Monday 13th August
A promising day that delivered a notable scattering of migrants, with a few scarcities thrown in for good measure. The afternoon was spent counting the fledged Bonxies, for one of the last seabird jobs of the season as autumn rapidly advances...
Weather: a freshening breeze from the east, but sunny and warm with excellent visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Barred Warbler: one at Lower Stoneybrek was the first of the year; the earliest arrival date since 2014.
Marsh Warbler: a very elusive bird was in the Bracken at Wirvie Burn; this species is scarce but relatively regular in the autumn, with just eight records in the previous six years.
Icterine Warbler: one seen briefly at Quoy then Burkle may have been the bird from two days ago at Springfield, although given the other arrivals today, a new individual is not out of the question.
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Shelduck (South Light), 4 Grey Heron, 11 Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel, 3 Knot, 2 Ruff (Utra), Sanderling, 14 Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, 2 Green Sandpiper, Greenshank, 3 Carrion Crow, 59 Skylark, 26 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, Wood Warbler (a showy bird at the Kiln o' Skroo), 3 Reed Warbler (Obs, Plantation and Kenaby), 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Whitethroat (first of the autumn), Redwing (Gully still), 2 Song Thrush, Robin, Pied Flycatcher (Mast), 2 Black Redstart (Kirn o' Skroo and one flycatching off the top of the Mast), Whinchat (Wirvie Burn), 171 Wheatear, Dunnock, 7 'White Wagtail' (along with 4 Pied and 7 alba wagtails), 151 Meadow Pipit, 142 Rock Pipit, 104 Twite.
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Wood Warbler, Kiln o' Skroo (Tom Gale)
Other Wildlife:
4 Red Admiral, 2 Small Tortoiseshell, Peacock (Mopul), 10 Silver Y
Year list: 178
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Sunday 12th August
Weather: NE2-3, mostly sunny and pleasant.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Rose-coloured Starling: adult at North Light in the evening with a small Starling flock
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Shelduck (Easter Lother Water), 3 Teal, Grey Heron, Cormorant, 4 Golden Plover, 4 Knot, 2 Sanderling, 39 Dunlin, Common Sandpiper (Buness), Green Sandpiper, 5 Swift, 2 Carrion Crow, 63 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Obs), Grasshopper Warbler (Vaadal; first of the autumn), Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat (Bull's Park), Song Thrush (Obs), Whinchat (Wirvie Burn; first of the autumn), 136 Wheatear, Dunnock (Obs), 8 'White Wagtail' (along with 6 Pied and 8 alba wagtails), 160 Meadow Pipit, 182 Rock Pipit, 97 Twite, Common Crossbill (Dronger).
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Common Crossbill, Dronger (Tom Gale)
Other Wildlife:
Minke Whale (off Meoness), Red Admiral, 2 Painted Lady, 2 Small Tortoiseshell, 11 Silver Y
Year list: 177
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Saturday 11th August
Weather: SW3, after a few clouds in the morning the sun came out for most of the afternoon. Ideal swimming conditions!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Icterine Warbler: juvenile at Springfield
Other sightings:
2 Greylag Goose, Teal, Grey Heron, Lapwing, 8 Golden Plover, 66 Turnstone, 3 Knot, 6 Sanderling, 51 Dunlin, 10 Purple Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper, 21 Redshank, 13 Black-headed Gull, 2 Swift, Kestrel (female, Buness), 4 Carrion Crow, 55 Skylark, 6 Swallow, 6 Willow Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Plantation), 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Blackbird, Redwing (Gully), Song Thrush (Obs), Robin (Obs), 161 Wheatear, 2 Dunnock (Gully and Chalet), 5 'White Wagtail' (along with 5 Pied and 12 alba wagtails), 158 Meadow Pipit, 159 Rock Pipit, 91 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
2 Red Admiral, 2 Painted Lady, 2 Small Tortoiseshell, 2 Silver Y
Year list: 177
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Friday 10th August
An enjoyable day of census and seabird work, with the balance of work now swinging firmly towards the former as autumn rapidly advances.
Weather: NW2/3 after a calm start. Patchy cloud, but warm in the afternoon sun.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Rose-coloured Starling: the adult was again near Wirvie Burn
Other sightings:
2 Greylag Goose, 2 Pintail (female and juvenile), 3 Teal, 3 Grey Heron, 4 Lapwing, 3 Golden Plover, 23 Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, 38 Turnstone, 3 Knot, 9 Sanderling, 43 Dunlin, 2 Green Sandpiper, 31 Redshank, Greenshank, 27 Black-headed Gull, Puffin (still small numbers of chicks present in burrows), 3 Swift, 3 Carrion Crow, 61 Skylark, 6 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Reed Warbler (Plantation and Haa), 2 Garden Warbler, Redwing (still in Gully), Song Thrush (Gully; a different bird to the one trapped at the Obs yesterday), Robin (Obs), Pied Flycatcher (Mast), 148 Wheatear, Dunnock (Gully), 2 'White Wagtail', 119 Meadow Pipit, 109 Rock Pipit, 107 Twite, 6 Common Crossbill.
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral, 10 Silver Y
Year list: 177
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Thursday 9th August
Weather: SSW4 decreasing later to a calm, clear evening with a few Perseid meteors noted for good measure.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Rose-coloured Starling: adult at Wirvie Burn in the afternoon, continuing the good year for this species.
Other sightings:
3 Greylag Goose (first sighting of the month), 5 Teal, 3 Golden Plover, 27 Dunlin, 3 Green Sandpiper, 30 Redshank, Greenshank, Carrion Crow, 9 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Garden Warbler, Song Thrush (Obs), Robin (Obs), Pied Flycatcher (Obs), Black Redstart (Vaadal), 2 'White Wagtail' (trapped at the Obs in the evening).
Year list: 177
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Wednesday 8th August
Weather: SSW3, mostly sunny to start but clouding over later with a few light showers later on.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Gyr Falcon: Nick Riddiford had a white-phase bird land on Malcolm's Head before heading round South Light and north past Quoy. A fascinating record, although with the number of known escaped falconer's birds around northern Scotland in recent weeks, it may struggle to gain traction with the records committee given the unseasonable date.
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Cormorant (North Haven; first sighting since 20th May), Golden Plover, 24 Turnstone, 2 Knot, 12 Sanderling, 34 Dunlin, Green Sandpiper, Greenshank, 2 Black-headed Gull, Common Tern (Mid Geo), c60 Arctic Tern, 3 Swift, 3 Carrion Crow, 8 Swallow, 5 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff (Obs and North Shirva), Lesser Whitethroat (Midway; first of the autumn), Common Crossbill (over Gilly Burn).
Other Wildlife:
Minke Whale: (one feeding close in off Buness in the evening)
Year list: 177
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Tuesday 7th August
Weather: SW3 dropping later, with some cloudy patches.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Marsh Warbler: still present in the Obs garden
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Pintail (female), 2 Teal, Manx Shearwater (lingering off South Light), Common Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper, Greenshank, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff (Obs), 2 Garden Warbler, Robin (Obs), Dunnock (Obs), 2 Common Crossbill (Obs).
Other Wildlife:
Hummingbird Hawk-moth (feeding on Honeysuckle at the Obs)
Year list: 177
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Monday 6th August
Weather: SW2/3, with a cloudy start to the day and heavy rain easing through the day as poor visibility improved later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Spotted Redshank: one on Buness was presumably the bird from late July that had been lurking unseen.
Marsh Warbler: still in the Obs garden
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Oystercatcher (fledged chick on Buness), Lapwing, Whimbrel, 42 Turnstone, 12 Knot, 20 Sanderling, 43 Dunlin, 7 Purple Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper, Kittiwake (fledged chicks seen off Buness), 20 Black-headed Gull, Cuckoo (juvenile at North Shirva), 2 Carrion Crow, Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff (Obs and Stackhoull), Reed Warbler (Obs).
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Cuckoo, North Shirva (David Parnaby)
Other Wildlife:
3 Red Admiral, Silver Y
Year list: 177
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Sunday 5th August
Weather: an easing SW wind with cloud clearing later. Heavy rain in the morning with moderate visibility improving later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Marsh Warbler: still present at the Obs
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Pintail (female with large duckling still), Grey Heron, Golden Plover, 4 Black-tailed Godwit (flew south over Buness), 6 Sanderling, 8 Dunlin, Green Sandpiper, Greenshank, 3 Swift, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Wood Warbler (Stackhoull), Reed Warbler (Obs), Song Thrush (Obs).
Year list: 177
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Saturday 4th August
Weather: a light SW breeze, increasing later, with cloudy spells and some light rain in the afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Common Rosefinch: 1cy still at the Obs in the morning
Marsh Warbler: still at the Obs
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Pintail (female with one large duckling), Green Sandpiper, c400 Arctic Tern (South Light), 2 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Wood Warbler (one at the Obs; first of the year), 3 Siskin.
Year list: 177
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Friday 3rd August
Weather: SW2, cloudy with light rain in afternoon, but a lovely drifty feeling to the day.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Common Rosefinch: a 1cy at the Obs in the afternoon was a very early autumn migrant
Marsh Warbler: one at the Obs
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Common Rosefinch, Obs (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Shelduck (over North Light), 3 Teal, 6 Golden Plover, Curlew (10 flew south), Greenshank, 31Black-headed Gull, Cuckoo (juvenile at Houll), 23 Swift, 5 Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, Reed Warbler (Schoolton), Blackbird (Obs).
Other Wildlife:
Hummingbird Hawk-moth (Haa), Red Admiral
Year list: 176
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Thursday 2nd August
Weather: S or SW 4, sunny spells but cloudy later.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Pintail (female still), Teal, 5 Golden Plover, 12 Sanderling, Green Sandpiper, 21 Redshank, Greenshank, 7 Black-headed Gull, 40 Common Gull, Razorbill (one still coming into Easter Lother with fish, although most have now deserted the island), 3 Swift, 6 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff (including a migrant juvenile).
Other Wildlife:
Hummingbird Hawk-moth (Obs), 3 Red Admiral, Painted Lady, c50 Silver Y
Year list: 176
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Wednesday 1st August
Weather: SSW or SW 4, some cloud at first increasing later with good visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Mute Swan: 2 flew south over Buness and were seen over Setter heading towards the airstrip before being noted heading purposefully south off Meoness. Just the 12th record (and 16th-17th individuals) and the first in August.
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, 2 Teal, Golden Plover, 6 Knot, 2 Ruff, 41 Sanderling, 15 Purple Sandpiper, 2 Green Sandpiper, 40 Redshank, Greenshank, 5 Black-headed Gull, 112 Common Gull, 175 Arctic Tern (South Light), 2 Swift, 2 Carrion Crow (South Light), 2 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff (Obs), 'White Wagtail' (juvenile near South Light).
Other Wildlife:
Hummingbird Hawk-moth (Lower Stoneybrek), Small Tortoiseshell (near South Light),
Year list: 176
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Tuesday 31st July
HIGHLIGHTS:
Spotted Redshank: one heard over Buness in the morning then flew south over Eas Brecks and was later on Da Water; the first record since 2015 and only the fifth record since 2008.
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': female again in the Chapel plantation.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Shoveler (one on Utra scrape; second record of the year), 2 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Sooty Shearwater (from the Good Shepherd), 2 Whimbrel, 27 Turnstone, 10 Knot, 24 Sanderling, 27 Dunlin, 3 Green Sandpiper, 14 Black-headed Gull, 205 Common Gull (including a white darvic-ringed bird from Norway, confirming the origin of the hundreds of birds that have been passing through recently), 140 Arctic Tern (South Light), Arctic Skua (a fledged chick at Taing, the only chick raised this year by this species), 2 Carrion Crow (South Light), Sand Martin (Utra), 6 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff (Obs and Burkle), Garden Warbler (still at Schoolton), Robin (Obs), Dunnock (Obs), Pied Wagtail (a family party of recently-fledged youngsters at the Obs).
Other Wildlife:
2 Red Admiral, 2 Silver Y
Year list: 175
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Monday 30th July
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': female again at Burkle.
Wood Sandpiper: one heard in the south of the island.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Teal, Grey Heron, Whimbrel, Black-tailed Godwit, 27 Turnstone, 8 Knot, 3 Ruff, 7 Sanderling, 22 Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, 2 Green Sandpiper, 26 Redshank, 2 Greenshank (Golden Water), 13 Black-headed Gull, 808 Common Gull (although probably many more passed, as a constant southward passage of flocks was noted throughout the day), Common Tern (one at South Light; second record of the year), 109 Arctic Tern (at South Light only, with small groups also seen coming in from the North during the day), Cuckoo (juvenile at Double Dyke), 3 Swift, Kestrel (North Light), Sand Martin (Utra), Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff (Obs and Schoolton), Garden Warbler (one at Schoolton; July records are not annual, although are also not that unusual), Song Thrush (Obs), Robin (Obs), 2 Pied Flycatcher (Steensi Geo and Plantation), 2 Common Crossbill.
Other Wildlife:
8 Red Admiral, Painted Lady, Peacock (Quoy), 6 Silver Y, Hummingbird Hawk-moth (North Light)
Year list: 174
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Sunday 29th July
A windy day (with SE gales in the shipping forecast), with heavy rain in the afternoon starting to top up some of the pools at last! A rather autumnal feel to the birds and some good numbers of common waders around the South Light and South Harbour area.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Icterine Warbler: still present at Obs and showing well.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 3 Teal, 3 Grey Heron, Lapwing, Black-tailed Godwit, 82 Turnstone, 13 Knot, 57 Sanderling, 27 Dunlin, 82 Purple Sandpiper, 2 Common Sandpiper (Hjukni Geo; first of the autumn), 2 Green Sandpiper (Gully), 21 Redshank, Greenshank, 8 Black-headed Gull, 117 Common Gull, Great Black-backed Gull (2 fledged juveniles at Greenholm), Cuckoo (juvenile relocated to Kenaby), Swift (Gunnawark), Carrion Crow, Sand Martin (north over Skadan), 2 Swallow, Willow Warbler (Obs), 2 Chiffchaff (Obs and Setter), 2 Pied Flycatcher (singles at Steensi Geo and Quoy; just the third July record in Fair Isle history following birds on 22nd July 1963 and 10th July 1991).
Other Wildlife:
4 Red Admiral (first sighting of the month), 17 Silver Y
Year list: 174
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Saturday 28th July
HIGHLIGHTS:
Icterine Warbler: still present at Obs.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 2 Teal, 3 Grey Heron, 81 Oystercatcher (in the south only), 5 Golden Plover, Whimbrel, Black-tailed Godwit, 55 Turnstone, 3 Knot, 7 Sanderling, 13 Dunlin, 14 Purple Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper (Gully), 21 Redshank, 16 Black-headed Gull, 413 Common Gull, Great Skua (first fledged chicks, Swey), Cuckoo (juvenile at Shirva), Willow Warbler (juvenile still at Obs), 2 Chiffchaff (Obs and Haa), Redwing (Gully), Robin (Obs).
Other Wildlife:
19 Silver Y
Year list: 174
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Friday 27th July
A gusty SE wind with heavy rain at first before drying up and the wind easing somewhat, alhough low cloud then lingered around the isle. Very warm still though. Despite the early date, there was a distinctly autumnal feel to some of the birds that turned up.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Icterine Warbler: an adult at the Obs was the first of the autumn. It is the fourth-earliest autumn arrival date (following a juvenile on 18th July 2003 and singles on 21st July 2015 and 26th July 2013).
Icterine Warbler, Obs (David Parnaby)
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Shelduck (one on Da Water, just the second record of the year), Teal, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Lapwing, 5 Golden Plover, 4 Whimbrel, Black-tailed Godwit (still present around Meadow Burn), 19 Turnstone, 2 Knot, Ruff (one at MuckleUri Geo), 7 Sanderling, 16 Dunlin, 25 Redshank, Greenshank (one briefly on Da Water, first of the autumn), 13 Black-headed Gull, 266 Common Gull, Kestrel (North Light), Carrion Crow, Willow Warbler (first juvenile of the autumn, trapped in the Plantation), Chiffchaff (Obs), Redwing (Gully).
Other Wildlife:
32 Silver Y
Year list: 174
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Thursday 26th July
A fresh SE wind made it feel a wee bit more autumnal, although it was still warm until the late afternoon when fog descended.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 7 Grey Heron, 86 Oystercatcher (in the south), Golden Plover, Black-tailed Godwit (a very smart adult at Burkle), 39 Turnstone, 2 Knot (South Light), 6 Sanderling, 22 Dunlin, Purple Sandpiper, 18 Redshank, 27 Black-headed Gull, 94 Common Gull, Woodpigeon, Carrion Crow, Swallow, Chiffchaff (Obs), Song Thrush (Obs), Black Redstart (Malcolm's Head).
Other Wildlife:
18 Silver Y
Year list: 174
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Wednesday 25th July
A fresh southerly breeze, with increasing cloud throughout the day, but good enough conditions to pay a visit to Greenholm to check on the progress of the Puffins, which are doing really rather well. It's generally not been a bad season for most of the seabirds once they got going.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 3 Red-breasted Merganser (first record of the month), 32 Turnstone, 11 Sanderling (including a colour-ringed bird in South Harbour), 12 Dunlin, 64 Purple Sandpiper (South Light), 6 Black-headed Gull, 99 Common Gull, 2 Carrion Crow (Greenholm), House Martin (first of the month).
Kittiwakes, Greenholm (David Parnaby). It was pleasing to see several large chicks, including several nests with two chicks.
Year list: 174
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Tuesday 24th July
A beautiful day, with calm seas, sunshine and enough warmth to eat dinner outside at 9pm!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Leach's Petrel: at least one calling around the nets in the early hours of the morning, the third petrel ringing session in a row
to produce a record, although none have been caught yet).
Other sightings:
Whooper Swan, Red-throated Diver, 89 Storm Petrel (86 trapped overnight, including 78 new birds and a Norwegian control, and 3 from the Good Shepherd), Sooty Shearwater (one from the Good Shepherd), Grey Heron (one heard going over at c0100hrs), 4 Dunlin, 2 Chiffchaff (Obs), Robin (Obs).
Puffin chick ready to fledge on Buness (David Parnaby)
Other Wildlife:
Harbour Porpoise (one from Good Shepherd)
Year list: 174
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Monday 23rd July
A busy day on the transport front, with low cloud and fog delaying planes until late afternoon - at which point three arrived and there was much toing and froing of people! After the frantic evening of room changes and getting everyone where they needed to go, it was nice to be able to unwind over a Storm Petrel ringing session that was well attended by Obs guests.
Sightings:
3 Dunlin, Purple Sandpiper, Black-headed Gull, Saker (one of the escaped birds still present, where it was seen chasing Arctic Terns and Puffins over Buness), Chiffchaff (Obs), Siskin (female still at the Obs).
Other Wildlife:
Silver Y
Year list: 174
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Sunday 22nd July
A dreary start, with a fresh SW wind, but conditions brightened through the day.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 3 Teal (Easter Lother Water), Saker (an escaped bird at North Light. Apparently there were four escaped from Staffordshire and their satellite tags show that two of them arrived on Fair Isle yesterday. There is one previous record of Saker on Fair Isle, in 2003, with three other records of birds thought either to be Sakers or falconers hybrids), Song Thrush (Obs), Siskin (Obs).
Year list: 174
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Saturday 21st July
A pleasant calm day (although a bit of fog saw the afternoon flight cancelled), with light, drifty winds that saw birds (Common Gulls, Curlew, Redshank etc) moving south over the Isle, including the day's highlight.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Honey-buzzard: one drifted south over the Obs shortly before dinner (c1820) accompanied by a cloud of Arctic Terns
Other Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Teal (Da Water), Ruff (one on Da Water; first of the year and earliest autumn arrival since 2014), Sanderling, 4 Dunlin, Black-headed Gull, , Black Redstart (juvenile again at Quoy), Stonechat (male at Da Water).
Year list: 174
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Friday 20th July
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Pintail (female and duckling still present on Da Water), Red-throated Diver, 5 Turnstone, Sanderling, 9 Dunlin, 2 Carrion Crow, Chiffchaff (Obs), Blackbird (male), Redwing (Gully), Song Thrush (Obs).
Other Wildlife:
Amongst a variety of interesting seaweeds and several jellyfish washed up on South Haven were several Buoy Barnacles Lepas fasicularis the 3rd record for Fair Isle (following records in September 1982 and August 2006) of this warm water oceanic-pelagic species (thanks to Nick Riddiford for the identification and details).
Year list: 172
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Thursday 19th July
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': the female remained around Burkle
Other Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Sanderling (North Haven), 6 Dunlin (including the first passage juvenile of the year), 24 Redshank, Puffin (a monitoring trip to Greenholm provided evidence of the first fledged youngsters of the year), Collared Dove (North Haven), 2 Chiffchaff (Obs and Haa), Blackbird (female Field Ditch), Song Thrush, Black Redstart (juvenile, Vaadal).
Other Wildlife:
Small Tortoiseshell, 2 Silver Y.
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Wednesday 18th July
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': female still present at Burkle
Other Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Pintail (female still present at Da Water), Teal (female Buness), Grey Heron (first of the month), Whimbrel, 4 Turnstone, Knot, Sanderling (first of the autumn), 5 Dunlin, 2 Purple Sandpiper, 32 Redshank, 7 Black-headed Gull, Collared Dove (North Haven), 2 Carrion Crow, Sand Martin (Da Water), 3 Chiffchaff (birds at the Obs, Gully and Burkle), Blackbird (Obs), Redwing, Song Thrush (Obs), Robin (Burkle), 5 Siskin.
Other Wildlife:
2 Silver Y, 4 Magpie Moth.
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Tuesday 17th July
HIGHLIGHTS:
Leach's Petrel: one heard and seen around the Haven during a petrel-trapping session
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 100 Storm Petrel (trapped overnight, including 88 'new' birds), Arctic Tern (first fledged bird of the year seen, at Buness), Song Thrush (Obs), Robin (a ringed bird at the Obs had presumably been summering elusively).
Year list: 171
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Monday 16th July
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 3 Wigeon (South Light), 8 Golden Plover, 9 Dunlin, Green Sandpiper (Da Water; first of the autumn), Woodpigeon (first of the month), Short-eared Owl (Boini Mire), Sand Martin (first of the month; over the Obs then South Harbour later), Chiffchaff, Blackbird (male at the Obs, first of the month), Song Thrush (Obs), Black Redstart (the juvenile relocated to Quoy), Dunnock (still at Obs), Siskin (male at Midway, first of the month).
Other Wildlife:
Magpie Moth.
Year list: 171
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Sunday 15th July
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 4 Turnstone, Dunlin, Woodcock (one seen in the Gully and later trapped there was the first July record since 2009), 17 Redshank, 3 Black-headed Gull, Redwing, Black Redstart (a juvenile at the Obs then the Good Shepherd noost) .
Other Wildlife:
2 Silver Y, Magpie Moth.
Year list: 172
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Saturday 14th July
Rain later in the day was a novel experience, the first decent fall since sometime in late June we reckon!
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': female still at Burkle
Other Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Manx Shearwater (one from South Lighthouse), Lapwing, 5 Golden Plover, Whimbrel, 20 Turnstone, Knot (first of the autumn), 6 Dunlin, 45 Redshank, 3 Black-headed Gull, 2 Carrion Crow, Swallow, 2 Chiffchaff, Song Thrush.
Year list: 172
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Friday 13th July
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Pintail (one duckling still present), Sooty Shearwater (one from the Northlink in Fair Isle waters; first of the year), 2 Whimbrel, 3 Dunlin, Collared Dove, Swift, 2 Carrion Crow, 4 Swallow, Chiffchaff, Stonechat (female at Da Water; the first July occurence since 1975).
Year list: 172
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Thursday 12th July
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Storm Petrel (from the Good Shepherd), Whimbrel, Black-tailed Godwit, 5 Turnstone, 4 Dunlin, 38 Redshank, 2 Black-headed Gull, Short-eared Owl (Field), 2 Carrion Crow, 2 Chiffchaff, Redwing.
Other Wildlife:
2 Painted Lady, Magpie Moth.
Year list: 171
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Wednesday 11th July
HIGHLIGHTS:
Leach's Petrel: one heard and seen around the nets during petrel ringing
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 216 Storm Petrel (trapped in the early hours of the morning in the Haven, including 201 'new' birds), Whimbrel, Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Dunlin, 2 Black-headed Gull, 2 Carrion Crow, Willow Warbler (Schoolton), Chiffchaff, Redwing, Song Thrush (Obs).
Other Wildlife:
Dolphin sp? (one off South Light, seen breaching), Painted Lady, Magpie Moth.
Year list: 171
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Tuesday 10th July
Sightings:
'Pale-bellied Bent Goose' (one flew west over Greenholm), Whooper Swan, 181 Storm Petrel (trapped overnight in the Haven), 2 Whimbrel, Black-tailed Godwit (still present, although relocated to Utra), Turnstone, Dunlin, 9 Redshank, 2 Black-headed Gull, Redwing, Greenfinch (male).
Other Wildlife:
5 Painted Lady, 10+ Silver Y.
Year list: 170
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Monday 9th July
Sightings:
Barnacle Goose, Whooper Swan, Teal, [Water Rail one found long dead in the Arctic Tern colony on Buness], Black-tailed Godwit (still present, although relocated to Utra), 4 Turnstone, 2 Purple Sandpiper, 24 Redshank, 8 Black-headed Gull, Redwing (still around the traps), Song Thrush (Gully), Dunnock (Gully), Greenfinch (male).
Other Wildlife:
5 Painted Lady, 10+ Silver Y.
Year list: 170
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Sunday 8th July
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': the female was again seen at Burkle
Other Sightings:
Barnacle Goose, Whooper Swan, Pintail (female with at least one duckling), 2 Storm Petrel (visiting a beach party in the North Haven in the early hours of the morning!), 3 Lapwing, Black-tailed Godwit (a tagged bird on the Meadow Burn), Dunlin, 38 Redshank, 17 Black-headed Gull (including the first fledged juvenile of the year to visit the island), Collared Dove, Carrion Crow, Chiffchaff, Greenfinch (male).
Other Wildlife:
4 Magpie Moth
Year list: 170
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Saturday 7th July
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 24 Storm Petrel (trapped overnight in the Haven), 3 Redshank, Swift, 2 Chiffchaff, Lesser Whitethroat (still at Obs), Redwing (still around the Gully), Greenfinch (male).
Other Wildlife:
2 Magpie Moth
Year list: 170
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Friday 6th July
Sightings:
Barnacle Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon (female), Pintail (female with one duckling), 2 Teal, 2 Red-throated Diver, 3 Golden Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit, 2 Turnstone, 7 Redshank, 4 Black-headed Gull, Chiffchaff, Greenfinch (male).
Other Wildlife:
Painted Lady, 2 Magpie Moth .
Year list: 170
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Thursday 5th July
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Wigeon (male), Pintail (female with at least one duckling), 2 Teal, Whimbrel, 15 Curlew (migrants on the move), 5 Redshank, 3 Black-headed Gull, Common Gull (first fledged juvenile of the year seen, although it had probably arrived from outwith the island), Collared Dove, Kestrel (female, Meoness), 2 Carrion Crow, Chiffchaff, Redwing (still at the Gully), Spotted Flycatcher (Obs), Greenfinch (male still around traps).
Other Wildlife:
5 Painted Lady, 10+ Silver Y, Magpie Moth (the first of the year was at Pietron in the evening).
Year list: 170
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Wednesday 4th July
Sightings:
Barnacle Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon (male), Pintail (female and three ducklings still), 41 Storm Petrel (trapped overnight in the Haven), 'blue' Fulmar (one seen from the Obs boat off North Light), Bar-tailed Godwit (still present), 3 Turnstone, 3 Dunlin, 7 Purple Sandpiper, 8 Redshank, 3 Collared Dove, Swallow, Chiffchaff.
Other Wildlife:
4 Harbour Porpoise (off South Harbour), 2 Painted Lady.
Year list: 170
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Tuesday 3rd July
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon, Pintail (female still with three ducklings), Teal, Manx Shearwater (three from the Good Shepherd), Bar-tailed Godwit (Meadow Burn again), Dunlin, Redshank, Razorbill (encouraging news from the Easter Lother colony where some chicks had fledged and others were well on the way), Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (Setter), Lesser Whitethroat (Obs), Song Thrush (Wirvie Burn), Robin (Obs), Greenfinch (male still).
Year list: 170
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Monday 2nd July
Weather: a light breeze switching to the SW, still warm and sunny
HIGHLIGHTS:
RUSTIC BUNTING: a fine male was feeding around the beach and clifftop at Wirvie in the late afternoon, but was only present briefly. If accepted, it will be the 137th Rustic Bunting for Fair Isle, but the first July record
Red-backed Shrike: the male was present around the Obs
Other sightings:
Barnacle Goose, Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, Wigeon (male), 4 Teal, Golden Plover, Bar-tailed Godwit (still present around the Meadow Burn), 5 Turnstone, 4 Dunlin, 4 Purple Sandpiper, 14 Redshank, Swift, 2 Carrion Crow, 3 Swallow, 2 Chiffchaff, Lesser Whitethroat (Obs), Redwing (still around Gilsetter), Song Thrush (Wirvie Burn), Robin (Obs), Dunnock (Obs), Greenfinch (male still).
Other Wildlife:
Harbour Porpoise (Ditfield), 6 Painted Lady, 332+ Silver Y (very large numbers still around), Diamond-back Moth.
Silver Y feeding on Thrift, Wirvie Burn (David Parnaby)
Year list: 170
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Sunday 1st July
Weather: SE3-4, a bit breezier than recent days but still sunny, warm and pleasant.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Red-backed Shrike: the male was still present around the Gully
Sightings:
Barnacle Goose, Whooper Swan, 5 Turnstone, 4 Dunlin, Carrion Crow, Swallow, 2 Chiffchaff, Lesser Whitethroat (the lingering bird present at the Obs), Greenfinch (male still).
Other Wildlife:
2 Painted Lady, 350+ Silver Y (a large arrival noted in the afternoon, with the total recorded across the island likely to have been several hundred more).
Year list: 169
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Saturday 30th June
Weather: SE2-3, a pleasant sunny day with just a little cloud
HIGHLIGHTS:
Red-backed Shrike: a male in the Gully was presumably the bird from 27th
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, 12 Storm Petrel (trapped in the Haven), Curlew (flock of 8 heading north were presumably migrants), Bar-tailed Godwit (one at Walli Burn; first of the year), Pomarine Skua (one from Good Shepherd; first of the year), Swift, 2 Carrion Crow, 2 Chiffchaff, Song Thrush (one again in the Restengeos), Greenfinch (male still present).
Year list: 169
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Friday 29th June
Weather: NE2-3, some cloud but mostly sunny.
Sightings:
Whooper Swan, Pintail (female still present on Da Water), Teal, 5 Golden Plover, 2 Black-headed Gull, Collared Dove, Swift, 2 Carrion Crow, 2 Chiffchaff, Blackbird (male, Easter Lother), Redwing, Robin (still present), Greenfinch (still present).
Other Wildlife:
4 Red Admiral, 8 Painted Lady
Year list: 167
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Thursday 28th June
Weather: NE3-4, cloudy, with fog then drifting in from mid-morning.
Sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 4 Greylag Goose, Whooper Swan, 2 Teal, Golden Plover, 3 Redshank, 3 Collared Dove, Carrion Crow, 3 Swallow, 2 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler (still singing at Chalet), Lesser Whitethroat (Gully), Redwing, Robin (one trapped in Gully), Dunnock (Obs), Greenfinch (one in the Gully then Obs continued the unusual set of June records).
Other Wildlife:
4 Red Admiral, 9 Painted Lady, 3 Silver Y
Year list: 167
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Wednesday 27th June
Weather: foggy, with just a few brighter spells, especially in the evening. A light south-easterly breeze was enough to bring in a few birds despite being rather localised.
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': the female still at Schoolton
Red-backed Shrike: a male near Pund was a nice late-spring find
Other sightings:
Canada Goose (still on Da Water), Barnacle Goose, 2 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan (with presumbly one of these seen flying south off South Light), Teal, Turnstone, Purple Sandpiper (South Harbour; first of the autumn), 12 Redshank, 4 Black-headed Gull, Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Swift, 2 Carrion Crow, 4 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler (singing at Chalet), Lesser Whitethroat (Gully), Redwing, Dunnock (Obs).
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral, 3 Painted Lady
Year list: 167
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Tuesday 26th June
Weather: a fine, sunny day.
Sightings:
Canada Goose (still on Da Water), 2 Whooper Swan, Teal, Great Northern Diver (from Good Shepherd), 2 Storm Petrel (from Good Shepherd), Manx Shearwater (from Good Shepherd), 8 Redshank, 4 Black-headed Gull, Collared Dove, 3 Swallow, 2 Chiffchaff, Lesser Whitethroat (Gully), Blackbird, Redwing, Dunnock (Obs).
Other Wildlife:
4 Harbour Porpoise (3 from the Good Shepherd and a single off Buness)
Silver Y
Year list: 167
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Monday 25th June
Weather: SW4 decreasing 2 later, getting cloudier through afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': female still in the Schoolton area
Long-tailed Skua: an adult drifted south down the island and landed briefly on Gilsetter before carrying on its journey.
Other sightings:
Canada Goose (still on Da Water), Barnacle Goose, Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Teal, 8 Storm Petrel (traped overnight at a breeding colony), 3 Golden Plover, 4 Turnstone, 7 Dunlin, 5 Redshank, 4 Black-headed Gull, Woodpigeon, 4 Collared Dove, Kestrel, 2 Carrion Crow, 4 Swallow, 2 Chiffchaff, Lesser Whitethroat (Gully), Linnet (male Chalet).
Other Wildlife:
Harbour Porpoise: 3 off Buness
4 Silver Y
Year list: 167
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Sunday 24th June
Weather: continued westerly wind.
Sightings:
Canada Goose (still on Da Water), Gryelag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female with 7 newly hatched ducklings on Da Water; first breeding record for Fair Isle), Teal, 6 Whimbrel (a flock at the airstrip), 7 Turnstone, 8 Dunlin (including two on Ward Hill), Redshank, 3 Black-headed Gull, Guillemot (a large hatching noted at the monitoring plots, suggesting there is some hope for the breeding season), Short-eared Owl (still at Wirvie), 2 Carrion Crow, 3 Swallow, Chiffchaff, Lesser Whitethroat (still in the Gully), Dunnock (Obs), 'Mealy Redpoll' (Obs).
Year list: 167
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Saturday 23rd June
Weather: a reversal in transport fortunes today as the Good Shepherd was able to sail, but the planes couldn't make it in as a moderate westerly brought low cloud and drizzle, with fog later in the day.
Sightings:
Canada Goose (still on Da Water), Barnacle Goose, 2 Turnstone, 3 Black-headed Gull, Arctic Tern (first chicks seen on Buness), 2 Carrion Crow, 2 Chiffchaff, 'Mealy Redpoll' (Obs), Reed Bunting (female at Hill Dyke).
Year list: 167
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Friday 22nd June
Weather: blustery westerly wind, and rather cloudy with showers in the morning easing throughout the day. There was again too much swell for the Good Shepherd but planes did make it to and from Shetland.
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': the female still at Schoolton
Other sightings:
Canada Goose (still on Da Water), Barnacle Goose, Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Teal, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, Oystercatcher (first chicks, at Kirn o' Skroo), 2 Turnstone, 2 Dunlin, 4 Black-headed Gull, Arctic Skua (first chick, at Mopul), Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (Wirvie), 3 Carrion Crow, 2 Chiffchaff, Garden Warbler (Schoolton), Redwing, 'Mealy Redpoll' (Obs), Reed Bunting (female at Hill Dyke).
Year list: 167
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Thursday 21st June
Weather: strong NW wind, heavy showers in the morning, slightly more pleasant in the afternoon, although not a good enough day for either planes or the Good Shepherd
Sightings:
Canada Goose (one still on Da Water), 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Teal, 3 Turnstone, 3 Collared Dove, Kestrel, Short-eared Owl (Wirvie), 2 Carrion Crow, Lesser Whitethroat, Redwing, 'Mealy Redpoll' (Obs).
Year list: 167
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Wednesday 20th June
Weather: a calmer day with a light NW wind, although freshening through the day
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': still present around the Schoolton and Burkle area
Marsh Warbler: still present at Obs
Other sightings:
Canada Goose (one on Da Water), Barnacle Goose, 6 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Teal, Tufted Duck (female in South Harbour), Storm Petrel (Good Shepherd), Manx Shearwater (Good Shepherd), Whimbrel, Dunlin, Snipe (2 fledged chicks in the Obs garden), 4 Redshank, 4 Black-headed Gull, Guillemot (first chicks finally seen, at Easter Lother and Pietron), 3 Collared Dove, Carrion Crow, Swallow, 4 Chiffchaff, Garden Warbler (Schoolton), Lesser Whitethroat, Fair Isle Wren (first fledged youngsters seen, in Furse and South Restensgeo), Blackbird, Redwing, Song Thrush, Dunnock, Greenfinch.
Other Wildlife:
Minke Whale (from Good Shepherd), Red Admiral, 3 Painted Lady, 20+ Silver Y
Year list: 167
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Tuesday 19th June
Weather: strong WSW wind, cloudy and rather unpleasant day
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': female still in the south of the island
Marsh Harrier : 2CY male still present around Boini Mire
Marsh Warbler: the lingering bird still at Obs
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, 2 Teal, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, Red-throated Diver, Manx Shearwater (South Light), 2 Dunlin, 6 Redshank, 8 Black-headed Gull, 3 Collared Dove, 2 Swallow, 3 Chiffchaff, Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Dunnock.
Year list: 167
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Monday 18th June
Weather: WSW 5/6, mostly cloudy with a little rain.
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': still present around Schoolton
Marsh Harrier : 2CY male found in the south of the island then roamed as far north as Gilsetter
Marsh Warbler: one still at Obs
Other sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Teal, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Manx Shearwater (South Light), Dunlin, 2 Redshank, 15 Black-headed Gull, Arctic Tern (the first 2CY bird of the year was at South Light), 3 Collared Dove, Carrion Crow, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler (Schoolton and Obs).
Other Wildlife:
2 Silver Y
Year list: 167
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Sunday 17th June
Weather: NE2 becoming SW3/4, cloudy at first with poor visibility and fog in the morning but clearing in the afternoon with a bit of sunshine.
HIGHLIGHTS:
'EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER': still present, seen at the Chapel Plantation
Hobby: one at the Obs at 7am, which was perched on the garden fence before flying north towards Roskillie
Marsh Warbler: one still present at the Obs
Other sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 2 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Red-throated Diver, 86 Oystercatcher, 4 Golden Plover, Ringed Plover (fledged chick near Swarzi), Whimbrel, 5 Dunlin, Redshank, 11 Black-headed Gull, 4 Collared Dove, Carrion Crow, Swallow, 5 Chiffchaff, Garden Warbler (Burkle), 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Common Crossbill (singles at North Light, Hoini and Guidicum).
Other Wildlife:
3 Red Admiral, 3 Painted Lady, 50+ Silver Y (a large arrival)
Year list: 167
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Saturday 16th June
Weather: a complete contrast in the weather, with a SE 2/3 wind and a largely pleasant day, with cloud and sunny spells
HIGHLIGHTS:
Serin: a female found between Kristal Kame and North Light by Richard as he was on his way back from Guillemot plot counts was very flighty and elusive, although thankfully was rather vocal. It was seen a few times in flight, and a couple of times briefly on the ground, around North Light often loosely associating with Twite, before disappearing less than 40 minutes after it was found. After a brief sighting at Easter Lother, it again vanished. Just the 4th record for Fair Isle, and the first since 1964, it was also only the 10th record for Scotland.
Marsh Warbler: one still at the Obs
Other sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 7 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 3 Teal (2 males and a female), 2 Manx Shearwater (from the Good Shepherd), Golden Plover, 3 Dunlin, 2 Collared Dove (displaying at the Obs), Carrion Crow, 3 Swallow, House Martin, 5 Chiffchaff, Garden Warbler (Schoolton), Redwing (Bull's Park then the Plantation), Black Redstart (North Light), Dunnock (a new bird trapped at the Obs), Common Crossbill (male at North Light).
Other Wildlife:
Painted Lady, c20 Silver Y, 3 Diamond-back Moth
Year list: 167
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Friday 15th June
Weather: Strong WSW wind easing and backing SW. Heavy rain in early hours and heavy showers until late morning, after which sunny and dry.
HIGHLIGHTS:
‘EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER’: female still at Burkle
Marsh Warbler: one still present at the Obs
Other sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 4 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Teal (male and female), 2 Manx Shearwater (South Light), Whimbrel, Sanderling (first of the month), 3 Dunlin, 8 Black-headed Gull, 15 Lesser Black-backed Gull (on Meoness only), 3 Collared Dove, Cuckoo (School), Kestrel, Swallow, 6 Chiffchaff, Wheatear (first fledged young of the year, at Malcolm’s Head), Dunnock (Obs).
Year list: 166
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Thursday 14th June
A day that was not much good for anything other than a catch up with the office work.
Weather: Gale force SW then WSW winds, with gusts up to severe gale force, with heavy showers, some prolonged and some sunny spells.
Sightings:
2 Canada Goose (flew north over the Obs at around 0800hrs), Barnacle Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Teal (male and female), 2 Storm Petrel (off South Light), 13 Manx Shearwater (off South Light), Sparrowhawk (Plantation), 14 Turnstone, Collared Dove, 3 Carrion Crow, Dunnock (Obs).
Year list: 166
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Wednesday 13th June
A change in the weather at last! Not necessarily a good one, but it’s been well forecast and some rain will do the island some good.
Weather: S 2 or 3 becoming SW 5-6 later. Cloudy throughout, with rain from later in the evening, becoming heavy overnight.
HIGHLIGHTS:
‘EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER’: the lingering bird still present
Marsh Warbler: 3; the two still lingering at the Obs and one still singing at Schoolton
Other sightings:
Canada Goose (one in the afternoon on Da Water then circling the island; first of the year. A ‘large’ bird, it was presumed to be of British origins), Barnacle Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 3 Teal (male and 2 females), Eider (3 ducklings in South Haven were the first of the year), Red-throated Diver, c10 Storm Petrel (at the Kirn o’ Skroo in the early hours of the morning; first record of the year), Whimbrel, 2 Dunlin, Woodpigeon, 2 Collared Dove, Kestrel, 2 Carrion Crow (including one on Dronger apparently paired with Hooded Crow), 7 Raven (a family party at Millens Houllan was thought to be the Gunnawark family on the move), 5 Swallow, 5 Chiffchaff, Pied Wagtail (fledged youngsters at the Obs), ‘Mealy Redpoll’, 7 Common Crossbill (4 males and 3 females in Guidicum), Siskin.
Year list: 166
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Tuesday 12th June
Weather: NW 3 or 4, cloudy with some more light drops of rain, although it still hasn’t really got going.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK KITE: still present
‘EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER’: the female still present
Marsh Warbler: one still singing at the Obs
Other sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 2 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Teal (female), Dunlin, Redshank, Arctic Tern (190 occupied nests found, 188 on Buness and 2 on Brecks), Woodpigeon, 4 Collared Dove, 2 Swallow, 4 Chiffchaff, Lesser Whitethroat, ‘Mealy Redpoll’, Siskin.
Year list: 164
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Monday 11th June
A few new migrants (mostly ones associated with earlier spring migration) as spring migration is now slowly winding down.
Weather: N or NW, cloudy at first but brightening up later with just a few light drops of rain again. The island has been dry for a remarkably long time now.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK KITE: still present
‘EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER’: still present in the Burkle and Schoolton area
Marsh Warbler: 4; two at both the Obs and Schoolton (with one singing at each site)
Black Kite (right) and Arctic Skua, Airstrip (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 4 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Teal (female), Sparrowhawk (a male at the Mast was an unusual record for the time of year), 12 Lapwing (in a flock at Pund, suggesting a post-breeding gathering), 2 Whimbrel, 4 Redshank, Common Tern (one in North Haven; first of the year), Woodpigeon, 4 Collared Dove, Kestrel (one in the North), Carrion Crow, 5 Swallow, Willow Warbler (Plantation), 8 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Garden Warbler (singing at the Obs), Blackbird (male caught in Double Dyke), Robin (Gully), Dunnock (Obs), Grey Wagtail (Gully), Meadow Pipit (first fledged youngsters seen), Greenfinch (male still present), 2 ‘Mealy Redpoll’.
Year list: 164
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Sunday 10th June
Weather: NE2/3 becoming NW later, cloudy at first, although sunny later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK KITE: still wandering around the Isle
‘EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER’: reappeared at Burkle after a few days lurking unseen somewhere
Marsh Warbler: 4; 2 lingering at the Obs with singles at Shirva and Stackhoull
Other sightings:
Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female again on Da Water), Teal (female), Red-throated Diver, Whimbrel, 2 Dunlin, Redshank, Razorbill (first chicks seen, in North and South Ramnigeo), Short-eared Owl, 3 Swift, 2 Carrion Crow, 5 Swallow, Willow Warbler (singing in the Gully), 3 Chiffchaff, Lesser Whitethroat, Spotted Flycatcher, Whinchat (School), Dunnock (Obs), Greenfinch (a singing male at Obs and Plantation was an unusual summer record), 2 ‘Mealy Redpoll’.
Other Wildlife:
5 Silver Y
Year list: 163
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Saturday 9th June
A very familiar feel to the birds, the weather and the general look of the island!
Weather: NE3, cloudy but dry.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK KITE: still present
Marsh Warbler: one still singing at the Obs
Other sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Teal (female), 2 Red-throated Diver, 4 Golden Plover, Whimbrel, 2 Dunlin, 3 Collared Dove, Carrion Crow, 5 Swallow, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, Spotted Flycatcher, Pied Flycatcher (male in the Gully still), Dunnock (Obs), ‘Mealy Redpoll’ (Schoolton), Siskin.
Year list: 163
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Friday 8th June
Weather: NE3, cloudy throughout, although it remained dry despite a few attempts at spitting rain.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK KITE: still present and wandering around the Isle
Marsh Warbler: one singing at the Obs
Other sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Teal (female), 2 Red-breasted Merganser, Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel, 2 Dunlin, 2 Collared Dove, Carrion Crow, 5 Swallow, 4 Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat, Blackbird, Spotted Flycatcher, Pied Flycatcher (male in the Gully), 2 Dunnock, ‘Mealy Redpoll’ (Schoolton).
Year list: 163
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Thursday 7th June
A nice enough day for some mist-netting, trap rounds and seabird work. There were a few new migrants and an unexpected present for Susannah’s birthday sent from North Ronaldsay in the afternoon!
Weather: Light NE or E wind, with some cloud at first, although mostly clearing later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK KITE: one reported leaving North Ronaldsay after lunch was found near the Plantation at around 1630hrs. It is the bird that has been present on Orkney since at least March (and probably November) and, although it was reported once as an escape, this appears to be based entirely on plumage wear. Whilst it is, no doubt, a rather battered individual, it is a 2CY bird, which would be expected to have worn wing and tail feathers at this time of year. Pictures on the internet show how worn birds can be by late spring (although admittedly, this one is perhaps even more so than the examples online). It is certainly unringed and shows no obvious signs of captivity. Although its appearance is unseasonal, it appears to be a integrade between the nominate and lineatus subspecies (i.e. an ‘Eastern Black Kite’), so actually, wintering in Scotland would not be unusual for a vagrant that had arrived in Scotland in late-autumn.
Marsh Harrier: a female over Gilsetter then returned south at around 1250hrs
Marsh Warbler: 3; 2 still at the Obs and one still at Lower Leogh
Black Kite, Tarryfields (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
Barnacle Goose, Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female on Da Water), Teal (female), Red-throated Diver, Grey Heron (a wandering bird), 3 Whimbrel, 3 Knot, Dunlin, Woodcock (a late bird in the Wirvie Burn), 14 Common Gull, Bonxie (first chick seen; on Vaasetter), Collared Dove, 2 Cuckoo (one around the traps and another in the south), Short-eared Owl, 3 Carrion Crow, 15 Swallow, 6 Chiffchaff, Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Blackbird, Redwing (Plantation), Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Dunnock (Obs and Schoolton), ‘Mealy Redpoll’.
Other Wildlife:
2 Red Admiral, 9 Silver Y, Narrow-winged Pug (one at Gilsetter)
Year list: 163
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Wednesday 6th June
Weather: Still light NE winds and mostly cloudy.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Marsh Warbler: 3; 2 still at the Obs and one at Lower Leogh (where there was possibly a second)
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, 3 Wigeon (2 males and a female, Da Water), Teal (female), Red-throated Diver, Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel, Dunlin, Redshank, Cuckoo (Obs), Short-eared Owl, 4 Carrion Crow, Skylark (the first fledged youngster seen at Dumlin Sinks), 8 Swallow, Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Blackbird, Fieldfare (Houll), Redwing (Schoolton), Whinchat (Meadow Burn), House Sparrow (first fledged young, at North Shirva), Grey Wagtail (male, Gully), Rock Pipit (first fledged chicks, on Lerness), ‘Mealy Redpoll’ (Schoolton).
Other Wildlife:
2 Painted Lady, Diamond back Moth
Year list: 162
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Tuesday 5th June
It was too windy for most of the seabird work (and there was too much swell for the Good Shepherd to sail) that we’re falling behind on, although an end to the fog was helpful for getting through some of it.
Weather: NE 4/5, with patchy cloud but dry with decent visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
‘EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER’: still present at Burkle and Schoolton
Hobby: what was presumably the same bird from yesterday was on the cliffs at South Green then running around on Utra scrape feeding, presumably on insects
Red-backed Shrike: male still in the Meadow Burn
Icterine Warbler: the Schoolton bird still present
Marsh Warbler: one still at the Obs
Other sightings:
5 Barnacle Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 3 Whimbrel, Dunlin, 8 Black-headed Gull, Puffin (first chicks noted on a monitoring visit to Greenholm), Cuckoo (male singing at the Obs), Swallow, 2 Chiffchaff,
Garden Warbler, Blackbird, Dunnock (Obs), Grey Wagtail (Gully), Linnet (female).
Other Wildlife:
6 Silver Y
Year list: 162
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Monday 4th June
The fog cleared faster than was expected, so there were flights, although it remained cloudy. A full census was possible (the whole island was visible for the first time this month!).
Weather: NE2/3, although still cloudy with some attempted spits of rain but good visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Rose-coloured Starling: 3; the ringed bird was still around Gilsetter, with the two still present on Lerness. The highest ever count for Fair Isle
‘EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER’: seen briefly at Schoolton
Hobby: a very tired-looking bird was on the beach at Hjukni Geo, with what was presumed to be the same bird over the airstrip later
Red-backed Shrike: male at Meadow Burn
Icterine Warbler: still present at Schoolton
Marsh Warbler: 3; one trapped in the Gully, a new (unringed) bird at the Obs and one at Meadow Burn
Quail: one was heard at Quoy (just the third record of the year)
Other sightings:
6 Barnacle Goose (the lingering flock of 5 plus one on Buness), 2 Whooper Swan, Teal (female), Shag (the first chicks of the year were seen), 100 Oystercatcher, 8 Lapwing, 22 Ringed Plover, 5 Whimbrel, 5 Curlew, 2 Black-tailed Godwit (Meadow Burn area), 6 Turnstone, 5 Dunlin, Great Black-backed Gull
(first chicks of the year, on Greenholm), Stock Dove, 3 Woodpigeon, 2 Collared Dove, Cuckoo (still present), 2 Short-eared Owl (airstrip), 8 Carrion Crow (along with 5 Hooded Crows with them that may have been migrants), 47 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, Garden Warbler, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, Starling (the first fledged youngsters seen), 2 Blackbird, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, Robin (Schoolton), 2 Pied Flycatcher, 38 Wheatear, Dunnock (Obs), ‘White Wagtail’, 4 Pied Wagtail, 35 Meadow Pipit, 77 Rock Pipit, 27 Twite, Linnet (male).
Other Wildlife:
2 Painted Lady, 11 Silver Y
Year list: 162
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Sunday 3rd June
The seabird work is taking a bit of a hit, with it being impossible to see most of the seabirds in continued fog!
Weather: more fog, with a NW or W wind, force 2/3.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Rose-coloured Starling: one trapped in the Plantation in the evening
Red-backed Shrike: female at the Vaadal
Icterine Warbler: still at Schoolton
Marsh Warbler: 2; singles at Pund and the Obs
Rose-coloured Starling, Plantation (Ian Andrews)
Other sightings:
5 Barnacle Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 4 Teal (3 males and a female), Water Rail (one in the Vaadal was a late record), 3 Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel, 11 Dunlin (including a singing bird on Swey), Purple Sandpiper, Woodpigeon, 2 Collared Dove, Cuckoo (still present in the same area), 2 Carrion Crow, Swallow, House Martin, 3 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 3 Garden Warbler, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Blackbird, 4 Pied Flycatcher, Dunnock (Obs), Linnet.
Other Wildlife:
Painted Lady, Netted Pug (one attracted to Obs lights in the evening), White-tailed Bumblee (one at Lower Stoneybrek).
Year list: 162
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Saturday 2nd June
Weather: Another day of fog with just light winds.
HIGHLIGHTS:
‘EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER’: still present, although somewhat elusive
Rose-coloured Starling: 2 together on Lerness
Red-backed Shrike: 2; female at the Obs and male at Malcolm’s Head
Icterine Warbler: 2; one still in the Burkle/Schoolton area and one at Meadow Burn
Marsh Warbler: still at the Obs
Other sightings:
5 Barnacle Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Teal, 2 Golden Plover, Whimbrel, 6 Dunlin, 2 Purple Sandpiper, Wood Sandpiper (one flew south over Chalet), 2 Collared Dove, Cuckoo (female around Malcolm’s Head and Utra), Short-eared Owl (still present), Kestrel, 3 Carrion Crow, 3 Swallow, 2 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 3 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, 2 Blackbird, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, Robin (Kenaby), 4 Pied Flycatcher, Black Redstart (still at School), 2 Redstart (females at Ward Hill and Muckle Uri Geo), Dunnock (Obs), ‘White Wagtail’ (South Light).
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral
Year list: 162
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Friday 1st June
Weather: Foggy with poor visibility for most of the day, although a light SW wind brought some brighter patches.
HIGHLIGHTS:
‘EASTERN SUBALPINE WARBLER’: a female at Lower Stoneybrek was trapped to confirm the subspecific identification
THRUSH NIGHTINGALE: one still present around the Gully and Hyon Dyke
Marsh Warbler: 4; 2 at Haa with singles at Burkle and the Obs
Icterine Warbler: one still at Schoolton
Red-backed Shrike: female still at the Mast
Bluethroat: two males still present
‘Grey-headed Wagtail’: male at the upper Wirvie Burn
'Eastern Subalpine Warbler', Lower Stoneybrek (Ian Andrews)
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, 2 Teal, 2 Golden Plover, Whimbrel, 5 Dunlin, 2 Purple Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Stock Dove (still present), Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (Wirvie Burn still), Kestrel, 2 Carrion Crow, Swallow, 7 Willow Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, Blackcap, 6 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Whitethroat, 4 Blackbird, 4 Pied Flycatcher, Black Redstart (School), Whinchat (Boini Mire).
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral, 2 Painted Lady, 49 Silver Y, 27 Diamond back Moth
Year list: 162
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Thursday 31st May
A great day's birding, with some good totals, some nice headliners and the real feeling of something exceptionally rare being possible.
Weather: NE2 increasing to 3/4, becoming E3, with a sunny start giving way to hazy then foggy conditions.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Rose-coloured Starling: one at South Naaversgill then Lerness is the 47th record for Fair Isle, although just the 12th in spring (May and June) and the first in that season since 2008
Hobby: one at the Houll is the 63rd record for the Isle
THRUSH NIGHTINGALE: both birds still present at the Obs, with one singing briefly
Marsh Warbler: 7; a record day-count for the Isle, with two at both Haa (one of which was singing) and Pund and singles at Obs (a lingering bird that was briefly singing), Plantation and Shirva
Icterine Warbler: 6 (the highest count since 2012); singles at Planation, Gully, Obs, Malcolm's Head, Gunnawark and Schoolton
Red-backed Shrike: 5 (males at Pund and Meadow Burn, with females at Meadow Burn, Haa and the Mast)
Bluethroat: 3 (the female still present, at Bull's Park, with males at Setter and the Plantation)
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Mallard (another brood of ducklings, with ten in the Vaadal), 4 Teal, Tufted Duck (male), Red-throated Diver, Sparrowhawk (one at the Obs), 111 Oystercatcher, 5 Golden Plover, 3 Whimbrel, Sanderling, 4 Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, Stock Dove, Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Cuckoo (North Park), Short-eared Owl (Wirvie Burn), 3 Carrion Crow, 57 Skylark, Swallow, 23 Willow Warbler, 11 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, 6 Blackcap, 18 Garden Warbler (highest count of the year so far), 4 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Whitethroat, 9 Blackbird, 7 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Robin, 9 Pied Flycatcher, Black Redstart, 7 Redstart, Whinchat, 50 Wheatear, 2 Dunnock, Blue-headed Wagtail (male on Buness, with another flava wagtail around the traps), 49 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit (Schoolton), 44 Twite, Redpoll sp.
Other Wildlife:
10 Painted Lady, 7 Red Admiral, 2 Humming-bird Hawkmoth (South Light and Schoolton), 365 Silver-Y (a minimum count), 57+ Diamond-back Moth.
Humming-bird Hawkmoth, Schoolton (David Parnaby)
Year list: 162
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Wednesday 30th May
Much better weather and the suggestion that things were arriving in the afternoon, when virtually all the good birds were found. The forecast for tomorrow looks potentially rather good if we can steer clear of the fog.
Weather: NE 2/3, patchy cloud, with some showers in the afternoon
HIGHLIGHTS:
THRUSH NIGHTINGALE: 2, both trapped in the Plantation, about 5 hours apart. The 64th and 65th records for Fair Isle, although just the second and third in spring since 2013 (when there were three, including the last multiple occurence, on 29th May).
Bluethroat: 2; females at Field Ditch and Malcolm's Head
Marsh Warbler: 3 (ringed bird still at the Obs, one trapped at the Plantation and another at Gilly Burn which was probably the bird then seen at Lower Stoneybrek and Shirva)
Red-backed Shrike: 5; males at Da Water, Schoolton and Hoini and females at Burkle and Malcolm's Head
Icterine Warbler: one on the cliffs at Muckle Geo o' Hoini
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Teal (female), Tufted Duck (male), 4 Goosander (the joint highest count for the Isle, alongside the same number on 5th October 1993), 2 Red-breasted Merganser, Great Northern Diver, 132 Oystercatcher, 3 Golden Plover, Ringed Plover (first chicks of the year at South Light), 4 Whimbrel, 4 Dunlin, Arctic Tern (first eggs of the year on Buness), Stock Dove, 3 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Cuckoo, Short-eared Owl (Wirvie Burn), 6 Carrion Crow, 57 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 9 Willow Warbler, 7 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 5 Garden Warbler, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, 6 Blackbird, 7 Spotted Flycatcher, 3 Pied Flycatcher, 3 Redstart, Whinchat, 41 Wheatear, 49 Meadow Pipit, Scandinavian Rock Pipit (Tineside), 49 Twite, 'Mealy Redpoll'.
Other Wildlife:
Red Admiral, Humming-bird Hawkmoth (South Light), 153 Silver-Y, 20+ Diamond-back Moth, Large Yellow Underwing (one on Dronger was the first of the year and presumably a migrant).
Year list: 160
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Tuesday 29th May
A fog-dominated day meaning that full census couldn't be undertaken. A lot of the migrants from yesterday had cleared out, whilst, of those that remained, many were around the Mast and Ward Hill.
Weather: NE2, fog throughout in the north, with occasional sunny spells in the south
HIGHLIGHTS:
Red-backed Shrike: 2 males; one still at Da Water and the other trapped in the Plantation
Icterine Warbler: one at Chalet
Marsh Warbler: still present in the Obs garden
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Teal (female on Da Water), Tufted Duck (male), 3 Whimbrel, 5 Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, Stock Dove, 2 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Cuckoo (Ward Hill), 3 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 4 Willow Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Sedge Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 5 Garden Warbler , 4 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Blackbird, 8 Spotted Flycatcher, 5 Pied Flycatcher (highest count of the year), 3 Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 61 Wheatear, Dunnock, 4 White Wagtail, 2 Pied Wagtail, 49 Meadow Pipit.
Other Wildlife:
13 Silver-Y
Year list: 159
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Monday 28th May
Weather: a light easterly breeze, bringing regular patches of fog, although all three scheduled flights managed to get in and out. Sunny spells.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Red-backed Shrike: an impressive 8 (eight), with four males (North Light, Meadow Burn, School Brae and Plantation then Obs) and four females (Field Ditch, Vaadal, Mast and Pund); the highest day count since 2013
Bluethroat: 2; a female at Gilly Burn and another female (revealed through photographs to be a different individual) at South Raeva
Icterine Warbler: 2; one still in the south and a presumed new arrival at Wirvie Burn
Marsh Warbler: one trapped in the Vaadal then lingered around the Obs
Common Rosefinch: 2 still in the south
Corn Bunting: still present in the south of the island
Red-backed Shrike, School Brae (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, 2 Shoveler (a pair flew into Hesti Geo, circled then carried on their way; first record since October 2016), 2 Tufted Duck (males), 111 Oystercatcher, Golden Plover, 3 Whimbrel, 3 Sanderling, 8 Dunlin, Stock Dove (still around Pund), 2 Woodpigeon, 2 Collared Dove, Carrion Crow, 65 Skylark, 2 Sand Martin, 22 Swallow, 4 House Martin, 11 Willow Warbler, 10 Chiffchaff (the first day this year that Willow Warblers have outnumbered Chiffs), 2 Sedge Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 11 Garden Warbler (highest count of the year), 9 Lesser Whitethroat (highest count of the year), 4 Whitethroat, 4 Blackbird, 17 Spotted Flycatcher (highest count of the year), Robin, 2 Pied Flycatcher, 9 Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 61 Wheatear, Dunnock, 4 White Wagtail, 2 Pied Wagtail, 49 Meadow Pipit.
Other Wildlife:
Killer Whale: 6 (including one large bull) were off Wester Lother, where they killed two Grey Seals (one was carried slightly out to sea whilst still alive, was tail-slapped by several individuals before eventually being killed by the bull) then headed round into Roskillie.
Silver Y: an arrival was notable in the afternoon with 40 counted
Diamond-back Moth: at least 30 were present in the afternoon, with the actual number probbaly considerably higher
Year list: 159
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Sunday 27th May
Weather: NE 3 becoming more E later and dropping. Sunny (with a '6' on the Met Office UV chart!), warm and pleasant.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Blyth's Reed Warbler: one trapped and ringed at Chalet, where it went on to show well in the evening; first of the year, 48th Fair Isle record and 15th in the spring
Marsh Warbler: one in the upper Wirvie Burn in the late afternoon (the third of the year)
Common Rosefinch: 3 (three) in the south of the Isle
Red-backed Shrike: 2 still present, with the male at Chalet singing and a female roaming the south of the island
Icterine Warbler: 2 still present in the south of the Isle
Corn Bunting: still present in the south of the island
Other sightings:
Pink-footed Goose (one mobile bird), Barnacle Goose (one on Easter Lother then flew down the island before returning to Easter Lother in the evening), 2 Whooper Swan, Teal (female, Da Water), 2 Tufted Duck (males), 94 Oystercatcher, 3 Whimbrel, 6 Dunlin, Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (again at Kirn o' Skroo), Swift, 2 Carrion Crow, 57 Skylark, 9 Swallow, House Martin, 6 Willow Warbler, 9 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (a new bird in the Walli Burn), 2 Blackcap, 6 Garden Warbler, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, 3 Blackbird, 7 Spotted Flycatcher, 4 Redstart, 61 Wheatear, Pied Wagtail (carrying food in the Haven), 45 Meadow Pipit, 2 Linnet, Lesser Redpoll.
Year list: 158
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Saturday 26th May
Weather: NE3, foggy throughout most of the morning, but cleared in the afternoon (allowing the planes to get in and out).
HIGHLIGHTS:
Common Rosefinch: a first-summer male at the Obs, with presumably the same bird later at Stackhoull (first of the year)
Red-backed Shrike: 2; the male still at Barkland and a female at Schoolton
Icterine Warbler: 2 still present around the middle of the south of the island
Corn Bunting: still present around Utra
Glaucous Gull: 3CY bird present in the south again
Sightings:
2 Greylag Goose (first record since 14th May), 2 Whooper Swan, Mallard (female with 12 ducklings on Da Water), Pintail (female still on Da Water), Teal (female, Da Water), 2 Tufted Duck (males), 120 Oystercatcher, 3 Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel, 2 Sanderling, 5 Dunlin, Arctic Skua (first eggs), Stock Dove, 5 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Jackdaw, 3 Carrion Crow, 55 Skylark, 5 Swallow, 4 Willow Warbler, 7 Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Garden Warbler, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, 4 Blackbird, Spotted Flycatcher, Pied Flycatcher (still at the Mast), 3 Redstart, 56 Wheatear, 2 Tree Sparrow, 36 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, 2 Linnet, Lesser Redpoll, Siskin.
Year list: 157
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Friday 25th May
Weather: although fog and low cloud lingered in the north for most of the day, the south saw some sunny spells, although conditions never improved enough to let planes in. Light NE wind.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Red-backed Shrike: a fine male at Chalet, where it showed well for the afternoon
Icterine Warbler: 2; both initially in the Schoolton and Quoy area, with one moving down to South Harbour and Haa
Corn Bunting: the singing male still around Leogh
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female still on Da Water), Teal (female, Da Water), 2 Tufted Duck (males), Great Northern Diver (a presumed 2CY bird flew north up the island), 77 Oystercatcher, 2 Golden Plover, 4 Whimbrel, 3 Sanderling, 5 Dunlin, Stock Dove, 3 Woodpigeon, 3 Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (again at Kirn o' Skroo), Kestrel, 5 Carrion Crow, 69 Skylark, 7 Swallow, House Martin, 4 Willow Warbler, 13 Chiffchaff, 2 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (Chalet), 2 Blackcap, 3 Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Whitethroat, 5 Blackbird, 3 Spotted Flycatcher, Robin, 2 Redstart, 58 Wheatear, Dunnock, White Wagtail, 56 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, Linnet, Siskin.
Year list: 156
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Thursday 24th May
Weather: a moderate, and cool, SE wind, with fog for most of the day, although it lifted somewhat in the afternoon (when it was still generally murky)
HIGHLIGHTS:
Icterine Warbler: still present in the Burkle area
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female still on Da Water), Teal (female, Da Water), 2 Tufted Duck (males), 125 Oystercatcher, 4 Whimbrel, 3 Sanderling, 15 Dunlin, Stock Dove, 4 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (Kirn o' Skroo), 2 Swift, 5 Carrion Crow, 49 Skylark, 5 Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 3 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (the ringed bird had moved to Chalet), Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, 7 Blackbird, Robin, 2 Pied Flycatcher, 53 Wheatear, Dunnock, 2 White Wagtail, 39 Meadow Pipit, 2 Redpoll sp?, Siskin.
Year list: 156
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Wednesday 23rd May
Weather: a light variable wind, freshening slightly from the SE later, some patchy cloud, but mostly sunny.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Osprey: one flew over the east of the island before thermaling and disappearing off high to the north
Icterine Warbler: one at Schoolton appeared to be a new bird based on plumage differences to the previous sightings
Marsh Warbler: one singing at Shirva also commuted between there and Midway
Red-backed Shrike: a male on Dronger was a new arrival
Dotterel: one still on Ward Hill
Corn Bunting: still singing at Upper Leogh
Glaucous Gull: 3CY still present, in the south of the island
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female still on Da Water), Teal (female, Da Water), 2 Tufted Duck (males), Eider (two apparently incubating females in Steensi Geo), 81 Oystercatcher, 5 Whimbrel, 6 Dunlin, Stock Dove, 2 Woodpigeon, 3 Collared Dove, Cuckoo (one singing at Wirvie was later seen on the west coast near the Raevas), Swift, Merlin (female), 10 Carrion Crow, 52 Skylark, Sand Martin, 9 Swallow, 10 House Martin, 3 Willow Warbler, 15 Chiffchaff, 2 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (still at Setter), 6 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat, Whitethroat, 5 Blackbird, Robin, 3 Pied Flycatcher, 120 Wheatear, Grey Wagtail, 4 White Wagtail, 3 Pied Wagtail, 55 Meadow Pipit, 72 Rock Pipit (including a bird at Shalstane carrying food), 2 Goldfinch, Siskin.
Other Wildlife:
6 Silver-Y
Year list: 156
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Tuesday 22nd May
Weather: NE2-3, patchy cloud but dry with good visibility.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Subalpine Warbler: a female at Lower Leogh was generally elusive and wasn't seen well enough to identify to (sub)specific level
Bluethroat: female at Springfield then Burkle
Dotterel: male still on Ward Hill
Corn Bunting: still present and singing at Upper Leogh
Red-backed Shrike: female still around the Chalet area
Icterine Warbler: still present and mobile in the south
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 3CY bird still present
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female, Da Water), 2 Tufted Duck (males), 101 Oystercatcher, 4 Golden Plover, 5 Whimbrel, Knot, Sanderling, 41 Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, Stock Dove (still present), 6 Woodpigeon, 5 Collared Dove, 2 Short-eared Owl, 2 Swift, 52 Skylark, 8 Swallow, 3 House Martin, 8 Chiffchaff, 3 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (Setter), Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, 5 Blackbird, Black Redstart, Redstart, 92 Wheatear, Dunnock, flava wagtail, Grey Wagtail, 2 White Wagtail, 6 Pied Wagtail, 39 Meadow Pipit, 2 Tree Pipit, 2 Lesser Redpoll (and 2 Redpoll sp.), 2 Goldfinch, Siskin.
Year list: 155 (including 'Subalp sp?')
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Monday 21st May
Weather: fog spent most of the day covering the island, whilst the wind switched from a moderate southerly to a fresh northerly later with rain in the late afternoon. Not a very pleasant day all in all, with new birds being somewhat limited (as were flights, which were cancelled) and census counts being hampered by large areas of the north and west cliffs not being visible.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Corn Bunting: relocated at Utra then moved to Upper Leogh where, despite being elusive at times, it showed to a number of people and was even heard singing.
Red-backed Shrike: 2; a female at Boini Mire and a male in the afternoon at Chalet
Icterine Warbler: still present
Glaucous Gull: 3CY still present at Easter Lother
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female, Da Water), 2 Tufted Duck (males), 2 Golden Plover, Whimbrel, 51 Turnstone, 7 Sanderling, 22 Dunlin, 2 Common Sandpiper, 6 Redshank, 24 Lesser Black-backed Gull, Stock Dove (still around the Pund area), Woodpigeon, 7 Collared Dove, 2 Short-eared Owl, 2 Swift (first of the year), 2 Jackdaw, 10 Carrion Crow, 14 Swallow, 6 House Martin, 6 Chiffchaff, 4 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (Setter), 2 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whithethroat, 2 Whitethroat, 5 Blackbird, 2 Black Redstart, Whinchat, 65 Wheatear, 2 Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, 3 Pied Wagtail, 34 Meadow Pipit, 'Mealy Redpoll', 2 Lesser Redpoll, 4 Goldfinch, Siskin..JPG)
Reed Warbler, Setter (Richard Cope). This very dull individual was initially considered to be a good candidate for Blyth's Reed Warbler. However, as the bird dried out a bit and the day brightened slightly, it started to look less convincing, and Reed Warbler seemed the more likely option. It was trapped to confirm the identification and biometrics confirmed it as the commoner species, albeit most measurements were in the overlap zone between the two species. An interesting bird!
Year list: 154
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Sunday 20th May
Weather: S4-5, cloudy at first, but brighter for a while in the afternoon. Occasional light showers throughout.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Bluethroat: female in the Gilly Burn in the afternoon
Red-breasted Flycatcher: still present, at Lower Stoneybrek, and showing well at times
Red-backed Shrike: female still around Charlie's Trees
Icterine Warbler: still present, between Quoy and Aesterhoull
Glaucous Gull: 2 still present
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female, Da Water), 2 Tufted Duck (males), Red-throated Diver (over Buness), Cormorant, 113 Oystercatcher, 2 Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel, Sanderling, 13 Dunlin, Common Sandpiper (Gully), 22 Lesser Black-backed Gull, Stock Dove (still near Pund), 7 Woodpigeon, 6 Collared Dove, Kestrel, 2 Jackdaw, 10 Carrion Crow, 54 Skylark, 16 Swallow, 3 House Martin, Willow Warbler, 11 Chiffchaff, 3 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (the ringed bird still present), Blackcap, 2 Whitethroat, 6 Blackbird, 2 Redwing (including a singing bird), Black Redstart, 75 Wheatear, 2 Tree Sparrow (Dronger), 2 Dunnock (Dronger and Obs), Grey Wagtail, 'White Wagtail', 2 Pied Wagtail, 43 Meadow Pipit, 2 Tree Pipit, 2 Linnet, 'Mealy Redpoll', 2 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Goldfinch.
Other Wildlife:
4 Silver-Y
Year list: 153
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Saturday 19th May
HIGHLIGHTS:
Corn Bunting: one flushed from Field Ditch then seen briefly near Field; first record since 2012
Marsh Warbler: one singing at Schoolton; first of the year and the second-earliest ever record, following one on 18th May 2013
Red-breasted Flycatcher: still present and showing well at Upper Stoneybrek
Red-backed Shrike: 2; both females around Charlie's Trees
Icterine Warbler: one still at Schoolton
Dotterel: one still on Ward Hill
Glaucous Gull: 2; both the 2CY and 3CY still present
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female, Da Water), 4 Tufted Duck (three males and a female, Da Water), Goosander (male in South Harbour; third record of the year), Water Rail (Vaadal), 96 Oystercatcher, 5 Whimbrel, 2 Knot, 4 Dunlin, Greenshank (one in the North), Stock Dove (still at Pund), 8 Woodpigeon, 3 Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (Peat Cuttings), Kestrel, 2 Jackdaw, 7 Carrion Crow, 60 Skylark, Sand Martin, 26 Swallow, House Martin, 16 Chiffchaff, 5 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (the ringed bird at Burkle), 3 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, 2 Blackbird, Redwing (Pund), Pied Flycatcher (Obs), Black Redstart, 120 Wheatear, Dunnock (South Light), 'Blue-headed Wagtail' (male at north Light, with other flava wagtails at Vaasetter and Utra), 'White Wagtail', 6 Pied Wagtail, 43 Meadow Pipit, 3 'Mealy Redpoll', 5 Goldfinch, Siskin.
Other Wildlife:
4 Silver-Y
Year list: 153
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Friday 18th May
The star bird attracted another charter plane and a handful of visitors on the scheduled flights and, although it was a bit more elusive, everyone went away happy again - but were its wanderings a sign that it will be moving further afield soon? There was a spring-like feeling, with Blackcap, Sedge Warbler and several Chiffchaffs singing, whilst the Skooties returned to the island en-masse and filled the air with their delightful display calls.
Weather: SW3, sunny spells although mostly cloudy.
HIGHLIGHTS:
!!! SONG SPARROW !!!: still present, although wandering between the Plantation and Gully
Red-breasted Flycatcher: a female or first-summer male at Upper Stoneybreck
Red-backed Shrike: 2; a pair at Field Ditch
Icterine Warbler: still at Schoolton
Dotterel: a single first-year male remained on Ward Hill
Glaucous Gull: 2; the lingering 3CY bird and a 2cy bird in the south
Sightings:
Barnacle Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female still on Da Water), 4 Tufted Duck (three males and a female now on Da Water), 103 Oystercatcher, Golden Plover (one singing bird), 5 Whimbrel, 2 Knot, 2 Dunlin, c30 Arctic Skua (birds returned to most of their territories today, with lots of display noted), Stock Dove (still at Pund), 18 Woodpigeon, 5 Collared Dove, Long-eared Owl (around the Plantation in the morning), Kestrel, 2 Jackdaw, 17 Carrion Crow (also a hybrid Hooded x Carrion Crow), 48 Skylark, 7 Swallow, House Martin, 12 Chiffchaff, 4 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (the ringed bird still at Lower Stoneybrek, it had been ringed at Icklesham, Sussex on 19th September 2017; the first English-ringed Reed Warbler to be caught on Fair Isle), 6 Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, Ring Ouzel (Dronger), 5 Blackbird, Song Thrush, Robin, 2 Black Redstart, 89 Wheatear, Dunnock (still singing on Dronger), flava wagtail (around Suka Mire and Pund), 2 'White Wagtail', 2 Pied Wagtail, 42 Meadow Pipit, 2 Tree Pipit, Linnet, 3 'Mealy Redpoll' (plus another Common Redpoll unidentified to subspecies), 3 Goldfinch, 2 Siskin.
Other Wildlife:
2 Silver-Y
Year list: 151
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Thursday 17th May
Although one of the big birds was not seen today, the arguably more popular one remained and attracted another charter plane, as well as at least one more birder from Shetland. It continues to feel a bit drifty and, whilst this weather isn't likely to bring more than a scatter of new birds, it always feels like there's potential for one of them to be something good.
Weather: SW beocming W 2/3 but decreasing. A cloudy start clearing later to a beautiful calm evening.
HIGHLIGHTS:
!!! SONG SPARROW !!!: still present at the Obs, generally remaining in the plantation at the back of the Obs but coming out regularly below the feeder next to the library windows and showing very well
Icterine Warbler: one at Schoolton; first of the year
Dotterel: six still on Ward Hill, where they showed very well at times
Glaucous Gull: the 3CY bird still present
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female still on Da Water), 3 Tufted Duck (still two males and a female), Water Rail (Gilsetter), 75 Oystercatcher, 4 Golden Plover, 6 Whimbrel, 2 Knot, 28 Sanderling (a very good spring count), 7 Dunlin, 2 Common Sandpiper, c250 Arctic Tern, Stock Dove (the fourth of the spring was at Pund), 3 Woodpigeon, 6 Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (Airstrip), Kestrel, 9 Carrion Crow (also 2 suspected migrant Hooded Crows and a hybrid), 51 Skylark, 6 Swallow, 2 House Martin, Willow Warbler (singing at the Obs), 13 Chiffchaff, 2 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (the ringed bird was at Lower Stoneybrek where it was trapped and confirmed to be carrying a British ring), 4 Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, 2 Ring Ouzel, 5 Blackbird, Spotted Flycatcher, Robin, Black Redstart, 97 Wheatear, 4 Tree Sparrow, 2 Dunnock (Dronger, including a singing bird), 3 'White Wagtail', 5 Pied Wagtail, 47 Meadow Pipit, 2 Tree Pipit, 5 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll, Siskin.
Other Wildlife:
2 Silver-Y
Year list: 150
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Wednesday 16th May
A much quieter day for migrants generally, but the two major rarities remained (and were successfully twitched by birders from Shetland and another charter plane), whilst there were also a couple of good year ticks.
Weather: NW3 becoming SW later, some patchy cloud, but mostly sunny.
HIGHLIGHTS:
!!! SONG SPARROW !!!: present all day at the Obs, where it is lurking in the planted area of the garden, making regular trips to the bird feeder next to the library window.
!!! CRAG MARTIN !!!: still present at Furse throughout the day, where it showed very well at times.
Curlew Sandpiper: one at Utra scrape is just the 4th spring record for Fair Isle and the first record in any season for the island since 2011
Buzzard: one high over North Haven drifted south-west over the Obs. The first record since one overwintered in 2014/15 and the first spring migrant since 2012.
Dotterel: six again on Ward Hill.
Bluethroat: 2; a male (trapped at Single Dyke on morning trap round) and female.
Glaucous Gull: the 3CY bird was on Meoness.
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female, Da Water), 2 Teal, 3 Tufted Duck (two males and female still), Sparrowhawk (first of the month), 92 Oystercatcher, 2 Golden Plover, Whimbrel, 2 Knot, 28 Sanderling (a very good spring count), 4 Dunlin, Greenshank (one in the North; first record of the month), 15 Woodpigeon, 8 Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (Gilsetter), Kestrel, 12 Carrion Crow, Raven (fledged chick at Gunnawark), 59 Skylark, 13 Swallow, 4 House Martin, 6 Willow Warbler, 27 Chiffchaff, 3 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (a ringed bird at Stoneybrek was presumably the bird seen in the North Haven on 13th-14th), Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, Ring Ouzel, Blackbird, Robin, Pied Flycatcher, 2 Black Redstart, Redstart, 143 Wheatear, 5 Tree Sparrow, 2 'White Wagtail', 5 Pied Wagtail, 52 Meadow Pipit, 4 Tree Pipit, 3 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll, Siskin, Reed Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
18 Silver-Y
Year list: 149
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Tuesday 15th May
On the 41st anniversary of the first White-crowned Sparrow for Britain, it was another North American 'spug' that was the headline act. Not a bad supporting cast either (who'd have thought that Crag Martin would already be second best bird of the day!).
Weather: a fairly light SE wind at first, although by the evening, a brisk SW wind developed. Although the day started sunny again, cloud came in later on and brought showers for a while.
HIGHLIGHTS:
!!! SONG SPARROW !!!: caught in the Plantation on the morning trap round then present around the Obs for the rest of the day, where it showed well. If accepted, the fourth record for Fair Isle (from eight records for the UK, so a real 'Fair Isle special'!) and the first in the UK since 1994. The previous three Fair Isle records have lingered for at least thirteen days, so there's hope for potential twitchers (to join the two charter planes and five people who arrived on scheduled transport today).
!!! CRAG MARTIN !!!: still present, where it showed very well in Furse.
Red-necked Phalarope: two on Da Water
Quail: one flushed from Gilsetter in the evening
Hawfinch: the female still around the Plantation and Obs
Dotterel: three still on Ward Hill
Bluethroat: 4 (males at South Haven and Hjukni Geo and two females)
Glaucous Gull: the 3CY bird was again in Easter Lother
Song Sparrow, Obs (David Parnaby)
Crag Martin and Fulmars (David Parnaby)
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (female still on Da Water), 3 Tufted Duck (two males and female still present), Red-breasted Merganser, Water Rail (Gilsetter), 108 Oystercatcher, 4 Golden Plover, 3 Whimbrel, 2 Knot, 3 Dunlin, 4 Common Sandpiper, 12 Arctic Skua, 18 Woodpigeon, 8 Collared Dove, Jackdaw (one went north over Stackhoull; the first record since 2016), 17 Carrion Crow, 62 Skylark, 30 Swallow, 5 House Martin, 7 Willow Warbler, 32 Chiffchaff, 5 Sedge Warbler, 5 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Whitethroat, Ring Ouzel (Ward Hill), 10 Blackbird, Redwing (singing at the Obs), Song Thrush, 4 Spotted Flycatcher, Robin, 3 Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, 136 Wheatear, 4 Tree Sparrow, 3 Dunnock (including one singing on Dronger), 3 'White Wagtail', 6 Pied Wagtail, 53 Meadow Pipit, 6 Tree Pipit, 9 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll, 3 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
37 Silver-Y
Year list: 147
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Monday 14th May
A great day of birding, topped off with a major rarity. Lovely!
Weather: a calm, sunny day, with just a light SW then SE breeze.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Crag Martin, North Haven (David Parnaby)
!!! CRAG MARTIN !!!: found in the North Haven late in the evening, where it fed along the cliffs just above the breakwater, before disappearing shortly before dusk, presumably having gone to roost somewhere on Buness. An unexpected addition to the Fair Isle list (the 391st species for the island if it is accepted) and a brilliant end to a good day's birding
Red-necked Phalarope: a male on Da Water; the 35th individual recorded on Fair Isle
Hawfinch: a female at Stackhoull was later trapped at the Obs, continuing the excellent spring for the species
Dotterel: 6 (two females and four males) on Ward Hill, the highest count since 2008
Bluethroat: 4; males at Hjukni Geo and Quoy, with females at Setter and Barkland (all were probably lingering birds)
Red-backed Shrike: 2; a female wandering in the south-east and a male at Lower Leogh
'Grey-headed Wagtail': a female-type flava wagtail at Utra appeared to be of this species
Wood Sandpiper: a showy bird on Da Water then Utra; first of the year
Glaucous Gull: the 3CY bird was again in Easter Lother
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Wood Sandpiper, Utra (David Parnaby)
Sightings:
4 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, Pintail (female again on Da Water and Utra), 3 Tufted Duck (two males and female still present), Cormorant, Water Rail (Vaadal), 89 Oystercatcher, 4 Golden Plover, 4 Whimbrel, Knot, 8 Dunlin (including singing birds at Da Water and Swey), 143 Arctic Tern, 9 Arctic Skua, 29 Woodpigeon (highest count of the year), 8 Collared Dove, Kestrel, 7 Carrion Crow, 53 Skylark, 5 Sand Martin(highest count of the year, although just the fourth record of the spring), 64 Swallow (highest count of the year so far), 6 House Martin, 26 Willow Warbler (highest count of the year so far, including one acredula bird), 73 Chiffchaff (highest count of the year so far, including one 'Siberian Chiffchaff'), 7 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (still in North Haven), 11 Blackcap, Garden Warbler, 5 Lesser Whitethroat, 13 Whitethroat (highest count of the year so far), Ring Ouzel, 9 Blackbird, Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 3 Robin, Pied Flycatcher, 4 Black Redstart, 4 Redstart (highest count of the year so far), Whinchat, Stonechat (female), 214 Wheatear, 6 Tree Sparrow, 4 Dunnock, 2 'White Wagtail', 6 Pied Wagtail, 90 Meadow Pipit, 10 Tree Pipit (highest count of the year so far), Chaffinch, Brambling, 3 Linnet, 4 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll (and three unidentified redpolls), 6 Siskin, Yellowhammer (Quoy), Reed Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Minke Whale (from the Good Shepherd, six miles North of Fair Isle)
52 Silver-Y
Red Admiral (first butterfly of the year!)
Year list: 145
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Sunday 13th May
That's more like it! Not a massive fall, but there were highest counts of the year for several species, three additions to the year list and a good scatter of scarcities. A nightingale sp? at Quoy was seen only in flight and once, very briefly, on the ground, before vanishing, so couldn't be pinned down to species, which was frustrating, but otherwise it was a good day all round.
Weather: E4 becoming SE3 later and even calmer by late evening. A sunny start gave way to cloud, with heavy rain from just after 6pm onwards.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Bluethroat: 8 (eight); 2 males and six females; the highest count since 2009. There were males at the Gully (trapped, before moving to Gilly Burn) and Walli Burn, with females at Setter, Gully, Furse, Suka Mire, Lerness and Meadow Burn
Red-backed Shrike: a female at Wester Lother and a male at Chalet; first of the year
Iceland Gull: 2CY in the south late in the afternoon
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 3CY still present
Sightings:
4 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, Pintail (female still on Da Water), 3 Tufted Duck (the lingering pair were joined by another male), blue Fulmar (Furse), 79 Oystercatcher, 10 Golden Plover, 3 Whimbrel, Knot, Sanderling, 10 Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, 63 Arctic Tern, 5 Arctic Skua, 13 Woodpigeon, 4 Collared Dove, 2 Carrion Crow, 67 Skylark, 41 Swallow (highest count of the year so far), 3 House Martin, 16 Willow Warbler (highest count of the year so far), 43 Chiffchaff (highest count since 15th April), 7 Sedge Warbler, Reed Warbler (a ringed bird in North Haven; first of the year), Grasshopper Warbler (Mast), 14 Blackcap (highest count of the year so far), Garden Warbler, 7 Lesser Whitethroat (highest count of the year so far), 9 Whitethroat (highest count of the year so far), 7 Blackbird, 2 Song Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher (Dronger; first of the year), 3 Robin, 3 Pied Flycatcher (highest count of the year so far), 4 Black Redstart, 2 Redstart (highest count of the year so far), 2 Whinchat, 162 Wheatear, 4 Tree Sparrow, 2 Dunnock, flava wagtail (Walli Burn), 8 'White Wagtail', 5 Pied Wagtail, 72 Meadow Pipit, 6 Tree Pipit (highest count of the year so far), Linnet (male, Quoy), 2 'Mealy Redpoll', Goldfinch (female at Obs), 2 Siskin, Yellowhammer (again at Quoy), 3 Reed Bunting.
Other Wildlife: 36 Silver-Y (first of the year)
Year list: 142
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Saturday 12th May
Another day that promised more than it delivered. The Good Shepherd was cancelled due to the swell, but the planes made it (which was just as well given the large number of people coming and going). No doubt all the fresh eyes that turned up today will join in scouring the Isle tomorrow and so we're still optimistic of new birds!
Weather: SE4/5 decreasing 3/4. Mostly cloudy, with a few spits of rain and some hazy cloud over the hills.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Long-tailed Skua: one seen from an offshore survey vessel around 16 miles SW of Sumburgh Head (i.e. in Fair Isle waters) was the first record since 2016 and the first in spring since 2015
Dotterel: a female still on Ward Hill
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 3CY still at Easter Lother
Dotterel (and Wheatear), Ward Hill (David Parnaby)
Sightings:
4 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, Pintail (female on Da Water), 2 Tufted Duck (pair still), 109 Oystercatcher, Lapwing (first chick seen in Kirki Mire), 5 Golden Plover, 3 Whimbrel, Knot, 2 Sanderling (including a colour-ringed bird in North Haven), 15 Dunlin, 51 Purple Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, 5 Arctic Skua, 12 Woodpigeon, 3 Collared Dove, 2 Short-eared Owl (Pund), 10 Carrion Crow, 56 Skylark, 10 Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 11 Chiffchaff, 3 Sedge Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Whitethroat, 6 Blackbird, Robin, Black Redstart (Easter Lother), Redstart, 138 Wheatear, 7 Tree Sparrow, Dunnock, 2 'White Wagtail', 3 Pied Wagtail, 92 Meadow Pipit, Brambling, 'Mealy Redpoll', Goldfinch (female again at the Plantation), Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting.
Sanderling, North Haven (David Parnaby)
Year list: 139
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Friday 11th May
A somewhat underwhelming day in the end, with the increasing wind dropping the temperature, but not bringing the birds we had hoped for. We're still hopeful for tomorrow though.
Weather: SE4-5, sunny at first but clouding over and feeling cooler in the breeze.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Quail: one flushed near North Light; first of the year
Hawfinch: the male still present around the Obs and Plantation
Glaucous Gull: still at Easter Lother
Sightings:
8 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 2 Tufted Duck (the pair on Utra), Grey Heron, 86 Oystercatcher, 3 Golden Plover, 3 Whimbrel, Knot, Dunlin, 56 Purple Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, 78 Arctic Tern, 6 Arctic Skua, Guillemot (first egg seen, in Dog Geo), Razorbill (apparently incubating adult in Maver's Geo), 14 Woodpigeon, 3 Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (Parks), Merlin, Peregrine, 6 Carrion Crow, 43 Skylark, 8 Swallow, House Martin, 6 Willow Warbler, 11 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, 5 Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Blackbird, 4 Robin, Whinchat, 135 Wheatear, 8 Tree Sparrow, 2 Dunnock, 5 'White Wagtail', 3 Pied Wagtail (and 4 alba wagtails), 54 Meadow Pipit, Brambling, 'Mealy Redpoll', Goldfinch (Obs), Siskin, Yellowhammer (still at Quoy), Reed Bunting.
Knot (second left), two Turnstones and two Purple Sandpipers (right), Mid Geo (David Parnaby)
Year list: 138
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Thursday 10th May
As hoped, things continued to arrive, with a couple of new scarcities - and that's before the very promising weather tomorrow...
Weather: SW 3/4 decreasing to a very calm evening. Cloudy at first, but a very pleasant, sunny afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Bluethroat: a male in Wirvie Burn; first of the year
Hawfinch: a male arrived at the Obs just before dinner
Dotterel: three on the North side of Ward Hill were considered likely to be the same as the birds seen three days ago on Meoness
Glaucous Gull: still present at Easter Lother, where it was sat on a ledge on the cliff
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Dotterels, Ward Hill (Richard Cope)
Sightings:
5 Barnacle Goose, Greylag Goose, 10 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 2 Tufted Duck (pair on Da Water), 2 Red-breasted Merganser, Great Northern Diver (one went south off Buness in the morning), Manx Shearwater (one from the Good Shepherd; first of the year), Grey Heron, Cormorant, 101 Oystercatcher, Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel, Knot, 2 Sanderling, 2 Dunlin, 28 Purple Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, 20 Black-headed Gull, 13 Arctic Tern, Great Skua (first eggs found), 6 Arctic Skua, 16 Woodpigeon, 9 Collared Dove, Cuckoo (one around the Plantation and Obs), Short-eared Owl (one came in off the sea at Buness), Kestrel, Peregrine, 7 Carrion Crow, 62 Skylark, 28 Swallow, 5 House Martin, 10 Willow Warbler, 10 Chiffchaff (including one still singing at the Obs), 7 Sedge Warbler, Grasshopper Warbler (one near Pund), 7 Blackcap, Garden Warbler (near Plantation), 3 Lesser Whitethroat, Ring Ouzel, 9 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, Robin, 2 Black Redstart, Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 243 Wheatear, 7 Tree Sparrow, 5 Dunnock, flava Wagtail (one flew over Walli Burn), 4 'White Wagtail', 5 Pied Wagtail, 178 Meadow Pipit, 4 Tree Pipit, 100 Rock Pipit, 2 Brambling, 2 'Mealy Redpoll', 2 Siskin, Yellowhammer (female still at Quoy).
Year list: 137
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Wednesday 9th May
More decent weather (until the afternoon) and more common migrants arriving, with the continued feel of something better coming.
Weather: SSE 3/4, fresher in the afternoon when it clouded over and then rained.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: still present at Easter Lother.
Sightings:
5 Barnacle Goose, 8 Greylag Goose, 10 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, Red-breasted Merganser, Grey Heron, 101 Oystercatcher, 6 Golden Plover, 3 Whimbrel, Knot, 2 Sanderling, 2 Dunlin (including one singing at Utra), 6 Purple Sandpiper, 2 Common Sandpiper, Great Skua (first copulation noted), 12 Arctic Skua, 20 Woodpigeon, 10 Collared Dove (highest count since 2011), 2 Cuckoo (one singing at Dronger that was later seen at Tineside, with another at Wirvie), Kestrel, 13 Carrion Crow, 65 Skylark, 21 Swallow, 10 House Martin, 6 Willow Warbler, 12 Chiffchaff, 5 Sedge Warbler, 6 Blackcap, Garden Warbler (Plantation), 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 6 Whitethroat, 11 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Robin, 3 Black Redstart, Redstart (female at Burkle; first of the year), Whinchat, 222 Wheatear, 7 Tree Sparrow, 2 Dunnock, Yellow Wagtail (female), 9 'White Wagtail', Pied Wagtail, 143 Meadow Pipit, 4 Tree Pipit, 3 Linnet, 4 'Mealy Redpoll' (plus 10 unidentified redpolls), Siskin, Yellowhammer (female still at Quoy), 2 Reed Bunting.
Cuckoo, Dronger (David Parnaby)
Year list: 135
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Tuesday 8th May
Weather: SE3/4 quite clear at first although clouding over later with showers in the afternoon. A bit hazy out to sea.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 3CY bird was in the North again.
Sightings:
5 Barnacle Goose, 5 Greylag Goose, 10 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 2 Grey Heron, 87 Oystercatcher, 9 Golden Plover, Whimbrel, Knot, 2 Sanderling, 6 Dunlin, 29 Purple Sandpiper, 62 Arctic Tern, 20 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Kestrel, Short-eared Owl, 22 Carrion Crow, 50 Skylark, 27 Swallow, 4 House Martin, 5 Willow Warbler, 9 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler, Grasshopper Warbler (one at Ditfield that was trapped at Double Dyke), 2 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Whitethroat, Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel, 7 Blackbird, 2 Robin, 2 Whinchat, 162 Wheatear, 4 Tree Sparrow, Dunnock, Yellow Wagtail (Utra), 17 'White Wagtail', 3 Pied Wagtail, 130 Meadow Pipit, 6 Tree Pipit, 'Scandinavian Rock Pipit' (one at Gunnawark), 2 Brambling, 3 'Mealy Redpoll' (plus 2 unidentified redpolls), 4 Siskin, Yellowhammer (female, Quoy), Reed Bunting (male Plantation).
Purple Sandpipers, South Light (David Parnaby)
Year list: 132
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Monday 7th May
No big rarity for Grace's birthday, but a continuation of the slow arrival of spring migrants. The afternoon brought worse weather, but a feeling that there could be a few more birds (after four blank trap rounds and one cancelled by rain, the after-dinner traps saw two Chiffchaffs trapped, which is maybe the start of something...).
Weather: NNE 2/3 becoming more E 3/4 later. Cloudy, then rain from around 2pm, heavy for a time.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Dotterel: 3 (two females and a male) on Meoness; the highest count since 2015.
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 3CY bird was on a tour of the island, being seen in all three census areas.
Sightings:
5 Barnacle Goose, 20 Greylag Goose, 9 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Pintail (male on Da Water), Teal, Tufted Duck (male on Da Water), 2 Grey Heron, 80 Oystercatcher, 11 Golden Plover, 6 Whimbrel, Knot, 6 Dunlin, 4 Purple Sandpiper, Arctic Tern (one at Buness), 15 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl, Kestrel, 3 Carrion Crow, 73 Skylark, 11 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 3 Willow Warbler, 11 Chiffchaff, 2 Sedge Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 2 Whitethroat, Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel, 3 Blackbird, Fieldfare, Robin, Whinchat, 235 Wheatear, 8 Tree Sparrow, 20 'White Wagtail', 3 Pied Wagtail (and 2 alba wagtails), 224 Meadow Pipit, 2 Tree Pipit, Brambling, 2 unidentified redpolls, 3 Siskin.
Year list: 132
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Sunday 6th May
A steady, albeit small, trickle of new birds, with the day's highlight being another pre-breakfast bird.
Weather: NE2 becoming E2/3 later, clear at first but clouding over, a spell of rain and low cloud in the mid-afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Marsh Harrier: a female drifted south past the Obs and over Gilsetter before circling up over Vaasetter and Sheep Rock and seemingly leaving the island. A nice early morning treat for those at the nets and on trap round and the 55th Fair Isle record.
Glaucous Gull: the 3CY still present, at Easter Lother.
Sightings:
5 Barnacle Goose, 18 Greylag Goose, 9 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 3 Teal, Grey Heron, Moorhen (a dead bird in South Haven), 99 Oystercatcher, 20 Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel, Knot, Dunlin, 28 Purple Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, Arctic Tern (one over Buness; first of the year), 7 Woodpigeon, 2 Collared Dove, Peregrine, Rook, 10 Carrion Crow, 52 Skylark, 36 Swallow, 5 House Martin, 4 Willow Warbler, 8 Chiffchaff, 3 Sedge Warbler, 2 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat (Guidicum), Whitethroat, Goldcrest, 2 Ring Ouzel, 6 Blackbird, 2 Robin, Pied Flycatcher, Whinchat, 254 Wheatear (highest count of the year), 10 Tree Sparrow, 'Blue-headed Wagtail' (South Harbour), Grey Wagtail (male), 20 'White Wagtail', 8 Pied Wagtail (and 2 alba wagtails), 241 Meadow Pipit, 3 Tree Pipit, 3 Brambling, 33 Twite, 2 Linnet, 2 unidentified redpolls, 9 Siskin.
House Sparrow, North Light (David Parnaby). A common resident on the Isle, but this male at North Light was well away from most of the breeding population.
Year list: 132
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Saturday 5th May
A lot of promise in the day as migrants started trickling in and, after a relatively quiet spell (bar the Red-rumped Swallow), it feels like spring is here, and is perhaps about to kick-in in an even more interesting manner (especially as it felt like a bit more had arrived later on this evening). The threat of sea fog during the week ahead may spoil things, but hopefully tomorrow will be clear and perhaps we'll get a famous 'Sunday Lunch spoiler' (a rare bird found just as everyone is about to sit down to their roast!)!
Weather: S2/3 becoming SE later. Clear at first, but clouding over
Sightings:
4 Barnacle Goose, 25 Greylag Goose, 9 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Teal, Great Northern Diver (breeding-plumaged adult off North Haven), Grey Heron, 93 Oystercatcher, 3 Golden Plover, 3 Whimbrel, Knot, 19 Purple Sandpiper, 41 Black-headed Gull, 34 Common Gull, 24 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 12 Woodpigeon, 3 Collared Dove, Short-eared Owl (high over the Obs in the evening), 3 Rook, 38 Carrion Crow (minimum), 10 Hooded Crow (not including the resident birds, along with 3 hybrid crows), 73 Skylark, 2 Sand Martin, 27 Swallow, 4 House Martin (first of the year), 3 Willow Warbler, 14 Chiffchaff, 4 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat (North Light), 3 Whitethroat (first of the year), Goldcrest, 3 Ring Ouzel, 23 Blackbird, Fieldfare, Redwing, Song Thrush, 2 Robin, 2 Pied Flycatcher (North Raeva), 139 Wheatear (highest count of the year), 8 Tree Sparrow, 'Blue-headed Wagtail' (South Harbour, and one flava wagtail), 12 'White Wagtail', 3 Pied Wagtail (and 2 alba wagtails), 184 Meadow Pipit, 5 Tree Pipit, 2 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling, 31 Twite, Linnet (male), Lesser Redpoll (and three unidentified redpolls), 4 Siskin, Yellowhammer (female at the Houll then Chalet), 2 Reed Bunting.
Other Wildlife:
Killer Whale: 4 (3 adult females or immature males and a calf seen from the Good Shpeherd off North Light)
Year list: 130
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Friday 4th May
Although the morning was written off by rain, the afternoon brightened up and a few new birds had obviously come in. With some southerly and southeasterly winds due during the next week, there could well be some more birds soon...
HIGHLIGHTS:
Red-rumped Swallow: again in Furse.
Glaucous Gull: the 3CY still present, at Easter Lother.
Other sightings:
4 Barnacle Goose, 23 Greylag Goose, 9 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon, 2 'blue' Fulmars (one on cliffs in Guidicum and one around Wirvie), Moorhen (Da Water), 96 Oystercatcher, 9 Golden Plover, 3 Whimbrel, Knot, Sanderling (South Harbour; first of the year), 10 Purple Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper, 23 Common Gull, 32 Lesser Black-backed Gull, Stock Dove (Pund), 5 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, 58 Carrion Crow (the highest count since 2011), 76 Skylark, Sand Martin, 5 Swallow, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, Ring Ouzel, 11 Blackbird, Fieldfare, 4 Song Thrush, 3 Robin, Pied Flycatcher (male in the Plantation; first of the year), 86 Wheatear, 3 Tree Sparrow, 2 Dunnock, 11 'White Wagtail', 8 Pied Wagtail (and 16 alba wagtails), 222 Meadow Pipit, 3 Tree Pipit, 2 Chaffinch, Brambling, 28 Twite, Lesser Redpoll, Goldfinch.
Year list: 129
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Thursday 3rd May
It's been a while since a pre-breakfast scramble, but Richard turning up the first rarity of the month just after seven o'clock got a few people jumping out of bed, although everyone was rewarded with good views in the end.
Weather: SW3-4, bright at first but clouding over, a drizzly morning with some heavier rain later. Visibility moderate or good.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Red-rumped Swallow: one found on morning trap round near the Double Dyke was mobile and elusive for a while before settling at Furse. The 12th Fair Isle record, with half of these having occurred in the last decade.
Glaucous Gull: one still present.
Red-rumped Swallow, Furse (David Parnaby). Usually a species associated with spring hirundine passage, this one turned up after a day with no hirundines at all, and with just one other Swallow for company in the morning (although 5 were present by the end of the day). It is also the joint second-earliest record for Fair Isle.
Other sightings:
4 Barnacle Goose, 26 Greylag Goose, 9 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 3 Wigeon, Tufted Duck (male), Red-breasted Merganser (male), 2 Moorhen (Obs and Da Water), 73 Oystercatcher, 10 Golden Plover, Whimbrel, Knot, 28 Purple Sandpiper, 4 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Merlin, Peregrine, Rook, 53 Carrion Crow (the highest count since 2011), 78 Skylark, 5 Swallow, Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler (Vaadal), Blackcap (female at Furse and the Obs), 14 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 4 Robin, 80 Wheatear, 3 Tree Sparrow, 4 Dunnock, Grey Wagtail (lingering ringed female), 8 'White Wagtail', 6 Pied Wagtail, 132 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, Chaffinch, 41 Twite, Lesser Redpoll, Goldfinch (male still at Obs), Siskin (male still at Obs).
Year list: 126
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Wednesday 2nd May
Weather: SW4, cloudy with drizzle in the morning becoming heavy rain late morning before clearing in the afternoon
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: the 3CY bird still present in the North
Other sightings:
4 Barnacle Goose, 24 Greylag Goose, 9 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 3 Wigeon, Pintail (female in the Ringing hut Mire), Tufted Duck (male Da Water), 72 Oystercatcher, 4 Golden Plover, Whimbrel, Dunlin, 25 Purple Sandpiper, Woodcock, Green Sandpiper, 5 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Kestrel, 23 Carrion Crow (highest count of the year so far), 7 Chiffchaff, 13 Blackbird, 3 Fieldfare, Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, Robin, 7 Tree Sparrow, 2 Dunnock, 5 'White Wagtail', 2 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, Lesser Redpoll, Goldfinch (male singing at the Obs), Siskin (male at the Obs with a foreign ring, but it evaded capture).
Year list: 125
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Tuesday 1st May
May day saw a pleasant start to the month with a few new birds and the hint of maybe a few more bits coming in on the forecasted fresh overnight wind.
Weather: SE2-3, increasing a bit later on. Sunny at first but clouding over.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: the 3CY bird still present around the Obs
Other sightings:
4 Barnacle Goose, 24 Greylag Goose, 9 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon (drakes), 3 Teal, Tufted Duck (male on Golden Water then back on Da Water), 'blue' Fulmar, Water Rail (Lower Stoneybrek), Moorhen (Da Water), 89 Oystercatcher, 86 Purple Sandpiper, 6 Arctic Skua, 4 Woodpigeon, 2 Collared Dove, 13 Carrion Crow (highest count of the year so far), 81 Skylark, 10 Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 7 Chiffchaff, Blackcap (female), Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel (Wirvie Burn), 17 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, Redwing, 3 Song Thrush, Mistle Thrush, 4 Robin, 95 Wheatear, 7 Tree Sparrow (Obs; first of the year), 2 Dunnock, 'White Wagtail', 8 Pied Wagtail, 114 Meadow Pipit, 3 Chaffinch, 4 Brambling, 2 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll, Goldfinch (Obs), Siskin.
Tree Sparrow, Obs (David Parnaby)
Year list: 125
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Monday 30th April
Another glorious day of weather in what has been a particularly fine spell. Not too many birds on the move, although one or two things were new in and there always felt like potential for more. April saw a fantastic start, with lots of easterlies and a great fall of thrushes, Robins and good finch passage, but the 'summer' migrants have generally been thin on the ground, despite some early records for some species.
Weather: Light NW breeze, sunny and dry. Nice.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Blue Tit: three were seen in the garden of Stackhoull; a remarkable spring record
Glaucous Gull: the 3CY bird was sharing a dead Grey Seal with a Bonxie in Furse
Other sightings:
4 Barnacle Goose, 46 Greylag Goose, 9 Pink-footed Goose (the first sighting since the small wintering flock departed in late February), 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon (male), Tufted Duck (male still on Da Water), 2 Red-breasted Merganser, Cormorant, 3 Moorhen (2 on Da Water and one on the Obs scrape), 56 Oystercatcher, 44 Purple Sandpiper, 4 Arctic Skua, 3 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, 9 Carrion Crow (highest count of the year so far, with 5 presumed migrant Hooded Crows also seen), 70 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 6 Chiffchaff, 3 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat (one singing at the Obs), Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel, 14 Blackbird, 2 Redwing, 2 Robin, 133 Wheatear, 2 Dunnock, Grey Wagtail (female in the Gully), 5 'White Wagtail', 152 Meadow Pipit, 3 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling, Linnet (Male singing at Skadan), 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll, Goldfinch (Obs), Siskin.
Other Wildlife:
Minke Whale: one seen off South Light
Harbour Porpoise: one distantly off Dronger
Year list: 124
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Sunday 29th April
Weather: NNW 2/3, becoming N1 later, some patchy cloud and excellent visibility as the lovely weather continued.
Sightings:
4 Barnacle Goose, 76 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon (male), 5 Teal, Tufted Duck (male still on Da Water), 2 Moorhen (Pig Street and Vaadal), 48 Oystercatcher, Common Sandpiper, 4 Woodpigeon, Short-eared Owl, Peregrine, 58 Skylark, Swallow, Willow Warbler, 9 Chiffchaff, 4 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat, 15 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, Redwing, Song Thrush, 8 Robin, 113 Wheatear, 6 Dunnock, Yellow Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, 4 'White Wagtail', 143 Meadow Pipit, 2 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 24 Twite, 3 Linnet, 2 'Mealy Redpoll', 2 Lesser Redpoll (and 4 unidentified redpolls), Siskin.
Year list: 124
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Saturday 28th April
An early start for the Breeding Bird Survey and another beautiful day. Richard has a good track record of flyover duck sightings and finding Killer Whales and managed both today, with a Pintail that flew up Skinner's Glig before circling over his head and then heading north (although it was later seen on Da Water and elsewhere in the south) and a late evening walk on Buness producing another sighting of one of the most exciting of all cetaceans.
Weather: NW2, bright and first although clouding later when the breeze picked up slightly and it became cooler.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hawfinch: a female in the Plantation
Other sightings:
4 Barnacle Goose (on Meoness; just the second sighting of the year), 54 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon (male), Pintail (female that flew up the west coast then reappeared in the south of the island; first of the year), Tufted Duck (male still on Da Water), 2 Moorhen (Da Water, although elusive at times), 92 Oystercatcher, 6 Golden Plover, 18 Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, Greenshank (one heading north over Da Water calling and even singing briefly; first of the year), 3 Arctic Skua, Guillemot (large numbers still on the cliffs), 5 Woodpigeon, 2 Collared Dove, Carrion Crow, 79 Skylark, 4 Chiffchaff, Blackcap (male in Plantation), Lesser Whitethroat (the only record involved one found dead), 20 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, Redwing, 3 Song Thrush, 8 Robin, 73 Wheatear, 4 Dunnock, flava wagtail (over Utra), 5 'White Wagtail', 161 Meadow Pipit, Chaffinch, Brambling, 39 Twite, Linnet, 3 'Mealy Redpoll' (and 4 unidentified redpolls), Siskin.
Other Wildlife:
Killer Whale: a group of probably six animals seen in the evening off Landberg before heading north up the coast. They included a calf and two bulls. So far, the only animal identified from photographs was a female that was not recorded in the group a few days ago (although not all animals were photographed on each occasion).
Killer Whales, Buness (David Parnaby)
Year list: 124
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Friday 27th April
A beautiful day of weather - not many birds, but a pleasure to be out and hopefully there'll be more migrants along soon!
Weather: NW2, some cloud at first but clearly to a sunny day.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 3CY was seen several times throughout the day
Other sightings:
85 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon (male), Tufted Duck (male), Cormorant, 2 Moorhen (Da Water), 75 Oystercatcher, 14 Golden Plover, 20 Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, 20 Purple Sandpiper, Arctic Skua, Guillemot (large numbers returned to the cliffs), 7 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Merlin, Peregrine, Carrion Crow (also 6 presumed migrant Hooded Crows and a hybrid), 75 Skylark, Swallow, 7 Chiffchaff, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 15 Blackbird, 2 Redwing, 10 Robin, Black Redstart, 86 Wheatear, 5 Dunnock, 6 'White Wagtail', 175 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, 88 Rock Pipit (including one littoralis bird), 2 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 25 Twite, 3 Linnet, 5 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll (and 3 unidentified redpolls), 4 Siskin.
Other Wildlife:
European Eel: a large individual was in the Gully
Year list: 122
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Thursday 26th April
A lovely day of weather, but safety work on the cliff access systems and trap repairs took up most of the day, so counts were limited.
Weather: WSW 3-4, some cloud at first, but a developing into a beautiful sunny afternoon.
Sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, Hen Harrier (a ringtail drifted North over the Plantation at about 1430; first of the year), 4 Moorhen (still one at the Vaadal, 2 on Da Water and one at Walli Burn), 2 Woodpigeon, 2 Peregrine, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat, Ring Ouzel, 4 Redwing, Whinchat (Buness), 3 Dunnock, White Wagtail, Tree Pipit, 2 Chaffinch, Brambling, 2 'Mealy Redpoll', 2 Lesser Redpoll, 2 redpoll sp?, Goldfinch, 4 Siskin.
Year list: 122
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Wednesday 25th April
A reasonable day of birds, although migration is quite slow at the moment, but the highlights were definitely non-avian, with all eyes on the seas.
Weather: SW3-4, variable cloud with some showers in the afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Iceland Gull: the adult again on Meoness
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 3CY
Other sightings:
74 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 8 Teal, Red-throated Diver (one south off Buness), Water Rail (Lower Stoneybrek), 2 Moorhen (still on Da Water, where they seem quite settled together), 55 Oystercatcher, 33 Golden Plover, 17 Ringed Plover, Common Sandpiper (South Harbour; first of the year), Green Sandpiper, 39 Common Gull, 8 Lesser Black-backed Gull, c120 Bonxie (good numbers now on territory across the island), Arctic Skua (dark-phased bird at the airstrip, one of the birds tagged by the BTO last year), 6 Woodpigeon, Short-eared Owl, Kestrel, Merlin, 2 Peregrine (male and female), 4 Carrion Crow (also 3 presumed migrant Hooded Crows and a hybrid), 96 Skylark, 3 Swallow, Willow Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Goldcrest, 2 Ring Ouzel, 24 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, 4 Redwing, Song Thrush, 11 Robin, Black Redstart, 73 Wheatear, 6 Dunnock, 7 'White Wagtail', 183 Meadow Pipit, 2 Tree Pipit, 5 Chaffinch, 6 Brambling, 33 Twite, 3 Linnet, 7 'Mealy Redpoll', 2 Lesser Redpoll (and 2 unidentified redpolls), Goldfinch, 3 Siskin.
Short-eared Owl, Peat Cuttings (Richard Cope)
Other Wildlife:
Killer Whale: a lovely display of four animals (three adults, all females or immature males, and one calf) as they passed North Light and then went south off Buness, before being seen again in the afternoon heading south off Buness again. The first sighting of the year, with one of the animals having been seen last year on Fair Isle.
Minke Whale: what was probably the same animal was off Goorn in the morning and Easter Lother in the afternoon, the first of the year.
Killer Whale, Blue Geo (David Parnaby); this is No. 30 from the Scottish catalogue
Year list: 121
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Tuesday 24th April
Although it was a wet start, the day improved and transport was all go as we got planes and the Good Shepherd sailed. The wardening team's day was largely taken up with practical tasks (particularly some of the trap repairs that had to be postponed from the start of the season due to the large number of birds about!), so sightings were limited, although there didn't appear to be much movement. Last week the first bird caught in the Gully after some repairs to the wiring was a Danish-ringed Chiffchaff, whilst a British-ringed Reed Bunting was the first bird to be caught in the Plantation after it was worked on today! There was also a British-ringed Lesser Redpoll trapped at the Obs in a busy session on the spiral trap.
Weather: SW3-4, rain at first and a little drizzle later, although mostly sunny in the afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Pale-bellied Brent Goose: present again, having moved to Muckle Uri Geo and nearby areas.
Brent Goose,Skadan (Richard Cope)
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 2 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, 29 Golden Plover, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, Dunlin, 2 Arctic Skua, 9 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Kestrel, Merlin, Carrion Crow, Lesser Whitethroat (Obs), 2 Ring Ouzel (including a male singing at Gilsetter), 3 Redwing, Blue-headed Wagtail (male at Wirvie), Grey Wagtail, 4 'White Wagtail', Tree Pipit, 4 Chaffinch, 14 Brambling, 2 Linnet, 2 'Mealy Redpoll', 2 'Lesser Redpoll', 3 Siskin, Reed Bunting.
Year list: 120
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Monday 23rd April
A breezy day (enough to stop planes), but pleasant enough. Census was also very nice, although without much sign of new migrants. The afternoon was spent putting up the fence to protect the Oysterplant population in Muckle Uri Geo and repairing the Skadan crop strip fencing, with an unexpected year-tick seen from the car on the drive back!
Weather: SW 4-5, heavy rain early in the morning, but cleared up in time for morning trap round and stayed largely sunny throughout.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Pale-bellied Brent Goose: one on Meoness in the evening was the first of the year of this less than annual visitor
Iceland Gull: the unringed adult present again on Meoness
Glaucous Gull: 3CY still present
Other sightings:
78 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 3 Wigeon, 5 Teal, 2 Water Rail (Lower Stoneybrek and one trapped in the Gully), 3 Moorhen (2 still on Da Water and one in the Vaadal), 46 Oystercatcher, 42 Golden Plover, 25 Ringed Plover, 3 Whimbrel, Black-tailed Godwit (one still at Utra), Green Sandpiper, 14 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 2 Arctic Skua (pale-phased birds at the airstrip), 5 Woodpigeon, 2 Collared Dove, Kestrel (male in the Obs garden), Merlin, Peregrine, 2 Carrion Crow, 73 Skylark, Swallow, Willow Warbler, 12 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler (presumably the same bird that was at the Obs yesterday was at Vatstrass), 3 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel, 30 Blackbird, 5 Fieldfare, 4 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush, 3 Mistle Thrush, 14 Robin, 56 Wheatear, 12 Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, 11 'White Wagtail', 7 Pied Wagtail (and 3 alba wagtails), 163 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, 6 Chaffinch, 11 Brambling, 29 Twite, Linnet, 2 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll (and 3 unidentified redpolls), Goldfinch, 3 Siskin, 3 Reed Bunting.
Year list: 120
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Sunday 22nd April
A day with fog hampering efforts slightly (although the south of the Isle wasn't too bad), but a few birds sneaking in, including a few more additions to the year list.
Weather: SE2-3, freshening from the SW before dying away in the evening. Generally cloudy, with low cloud over the hill and misty fog during the morning with a few isolated showers.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Iceland Gull: an adult in South Harbour turned out not to be yesterday's darvic-ringed bird
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Iceland Gull, South Harbour (David Parnaby)
Other sightings:
77 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon, 5 Teal, 2 Water Rail (Burkle and Haa), 2 Moorhen (still on Da Water), 66 Oystercatcher, 17 Golden Plover, Black-tailed Godwit (one at Utra; first of the year), Knot, 6 Dunlin, Jack Snipe (one again showing in Boini Mire), 61 Snipe, 5 Woodpigeon, 2 Collared Dove, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 87 Skylark, 2 Sand Martin, Swallow, 3 Willow Warbler, 10 Chiffchaff, Sedge Warbler (one at the Obs; first of the year), Blackcap, 5 Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Ring Ouzel, 24 Blackbird, 19 Fieldfare, 5 Redwing, 5 Song Thrush, Mistle Thrush, 10 Robin, 47 Wheatear, 10 Dunnock, flava Wagtail (one unidentified to subspecies flew over Gilsetter; first of the year), Grey Wagtail, 8 'White Wagtail', 4 Pied Wagtail (and 4 alba wagtails), 153 Meadow Pipit, 4 Chaffinch, 12 Brambling, 21 Twite, 2 Linnet, 4 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll (and seven unidentified redpolls), 2 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting.
Male Wheatear, near Gully (David Parnaby). This colour-ringed bird was first caught on 2nd May 2012
Year list: 119
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Saturday 21st April
Weather: SSW or SW 2/3, cloudy at first but brightening later, although low cloud lingered for most of the day on Ward Hill.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Iceland Gull: an adult that flew south over Houll had a yellow darvic ring, although unfortunately, the details couldn't be made out
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 3CY bird still present.
Other sightings:
94 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, Wigeon, 2 Teal, Slavonian Grebe (adult in breeding plumage in Swarzie Geo), Water Rail (Boini Mire), 2 Moorhen (still on Da Water), 52 Oystercatcher, Golden Plover, Whimbrel (one north over Suka Mire; first of the year), 9 Curlew, Dunlin, 25 Purple Sandpiper, Jack Snipe (one showing well in Boini Mire), 45 Snipe, Green Sandpiper, 4 Black-headed Gull, 26 Common Gull, 28 Lesser Black-backed Gull, Arctic Skua, Black Guillemot (the early morning survey of the east coast monitoring plot saw 199 adults in breeding plumage counted), 4 Woodpigeon, Short-eared Owl, Carrion Crow (and 4 migrant Hooded Crow), 102 Skylark, Swallow, 2 Willow Warbler, 16 Chiffchaff, Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Goldcrest, 2 Ring Ouzel, 36 Blackbird, 15 Fieldfare, 5 Redwing, 7 Song Thrush, 2 Mistle Thrush, 18 Robin, Black Redstart (Vaadal reservoir), Whinchat (male at North Light; first of the year and earliest arrival since 1988), 61 Wheatear, 16 Dunnock, 5 'White Wagtail', 3 Pied Wagtail (and 3 alba wagtails), 151 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, 91 Rock Pipit, 4 Chaffinch, 10 Brambling, 27 Twite, Linnet, 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll, (and one unidentified redpoll), 2 Reed Bunting, Snow Bunting.
Whinchat, North Light (David Parnaby)
Year list: 116
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Friday 20th April
Weather: SW2, cloudy spells and excellent visibility.
Sightings:
92 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, Water Rail (Boini Mire), Moorhen (3; 2 on Da Water and one at the Haa), 89 Oystercatcher, 11 Golden Plover, 11 Curlew, Woodcock, 68 Snipe, Green Sandpiper, 9 Black-headed Gull, 40 Common Gull, 14 Lesser Black-backed Gull, c50 Bonxie, Arctic Skua (dark-phase bird at Double Dyke; first of the year), Guillemot (lots on cliffs), 28 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Long-eared Owl (still at the Obs), Kestrel (female), 4 Carrion Crow (and 8 migrant Hooded Crow, along with 2 hybrids), 109 Skylark, Swallow, Willow Warbler, 20 Chiffchaff, Grasshopper Warbler (a dead bird near Midway was probably th ebird seen nearby on 12th), 4 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Goldcrest, 4 Ring Ouzel, 71 Blackbird (with birds heading north out to sea in the evening), 134 Fieldfare, 10 Redwing, 14 Song Thrush, 3 Mistle Thrush, 20 Robin, Black Redstart (male on Ward Hill), 45 Wheatear, 14 Dunnock, 9 'White Wagtail', 2 Pied Wagtail (and 7 alba wagtails), 156 Meadow Pipit, Tree Pipit, 56 Rock Pipit, 6 Chaffinch, 17 Brambling, 32 Twite, 2 Linnet, 'Mealy Redpoll', Leeser Redpoll (and one unidentified redpoll), 10 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting.
Year list: 114
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Thursday 19th April
Weather: SSW 2-3, patchy cloud, hazy at first but clearing.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: still in the Gully
Iceland Gull: the 4CY bird again present on Meoness before being seen later around the Haven
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 3CY bird was wandering in the North
Other sightings:
98 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 8 Teal, Grey Heron, Water Rail (Boini Mire), Moorhen (on the scrape Obs scrape), 70 Oystercatcher, 23 Goloden Plover, 14 Curlew, 149 Turnstone, 3 Woodcock, 2 Jack Snipe, 82 Snipe, 2 Green Sandpiper, Black-headed Gull, 13 Lesser Black-backed Gull, c35 Bonxie, 14 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove, Long-eared Owl (Obs), Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow, 127 Skylark, 3 Swallow, Willow Warbler, 22 Chiffchaff, 6 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Goldcrest, 8 Ring Ouzel, 133 Blackbird, 162 Fieldfare, 35 Redwing, 63 Song Thrush, 5 Mistle Thrush, 83 Robin, 2 Black Redstart, 87 Wheatear, 28 Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, 12 'White Wagtail', 10 Pied Wagtail (and 2 alba wagtails), 170 Meadow Pipit, 95 Rock Pipit (including one littoralis bird), 12 Chaffinch, 14 Brambling, 27 Twite, 2 Linnet, 2 'Mealy Redpoll', Lesser Redpoll (Obs; first of the year), 4 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting.
Year list: 113
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Wednesday 18th April
Although there had obviously been a huge clear out of thrushes, there were still plenty of birds about involving a couple of additions to the year list and some decent numbers of common migrants still. What's more, the weather was distinctly spring-like, with a bit of warmth in the air at times.
Weather: SSE 3-4 beocming more southerly for a while and calming before freshening again from the SSE. Sunny at first, although becoming more hazy later on.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: one still in the Gully
Hawfinch: two, generally around the Plantation, including a new female trapped and ringed (the 7th individual of the spring)
Iceland Gull: a 4CY bird
Glaucous Gull: 3CY again in the North
Other sightings:
86 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 11 Teal, 2 Long-tailed Duck (males in Mavers Geo; first record since January), Cormorant (adult lingering around Buness), Sparrowhawk, 2 Water Rail, 3 Moorhen (2 in Walli Burn at one at the Obs the highest spring count since 2001), 66 Oystercatcher, 13 Golden Plover, 140 Turnstone, Dunlin, 5 Woodcock, 2 Jack Snipe, 41 Snipe, Green Sandpiper, 3 Black-headed Gull, c30 Bonxie, 12 Woodpigeon, Collared Dove (a wandering bird; first of the year), 2 Long-eared Owl (singles at the Obs and Burkle), Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow, 134 Skylark, 5 Swallow (including a singing male at Skerryholm), 28 Chiffchaff, Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest, 13 Ring Ouzel, 118 Blackbird, 142 Fieldfare, 29 Redwing, 69 Song Thrush, 9 Mistle Thrush, 110 Robin, 2 Black Redstart (including a 2CY male singing in South Harbour), 2 Stonechat (male and female), 50 Wheatear, 47 Dunnock, 2 Grey Wagtail, 4 'White Wagtail', 16 Pied Wagtail (and 2 alba wagtails), 243 Meadow Pipit, 69 Rock Pipit (including one littoralis bird), 14 Chaffinch, 18 Brambling, 26 Twite, 3 Linnet, 2 'Mealy Redpoll', Common Crossbill (one North over Hoini; first of the year), 2 Goldfinch, 7 Siskin, Reed Bunting.
Year list: 112
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Tuesday 17th April
A day ruined by weather - still plenty of birds about, although not too much new was seen and census was cancelled. Part of the afternoon was spent photographing a ringed Siskin in the Obs garden (which was deftly avoiding getting caught), which turned out to have been ringed in Finland - just the 6th Finnish ringed bird to be found on Fair Isle (after two Starlings, 2 Blackbirds and a Long-eared Owl)! Sunshine is forecast for tomorrow and the Good Shepherd should be sailing, so we'll be up to a full compliment of staff and ready to start the season!
Weather: SSE 6/7, calming off later on. Cloudy at first, although brighter spells later. Heavy rain in the morning but dry in the afternoon, when visibility improved.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: one still in the Gully
Hawfinch: the female ringed at the Obs on 9th was still present and was joined by a new female
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, Cormorant, 17 Golden Plover, 5 Woodcock, Jack Snipe, Green Sandpiper, 14 Woodpigeon, 2 Blackcap, 6 Ring Ouzel, Black Redstart, Stonechat (female), 10 Chaffinch, 8 Brambling, Linnet (male still at the Obs), 'Mealy Redpoll', Goldfinch (one at the Obs; first of the year), 5 Siskin.
Finnish-ringed Siskin, Obs (David Parnaby)
Year list: 110
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Monday 16th April
Still plenty of birds about, although less favourable weather for watching them today as a col wind picked up and most of the North census area vanished in the cloud.
Weather: ESE 4-5, stronger at times, low cloud and poor visibility for most of the day, although brighter in the south of the island for a spell.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: the unringed bird still present in the Gully
Hawfinch: a female still around the traps
Glaucous Gull: 3CY still in the North
Other sightings:
75 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon (the first sighting since 14th March), Mallard (a freshly predated egg in Kirki Mire), 15 Teal, Red-throated Diver (north off Buness), Sparrowhawk (female still in the North), Water Rail (Walli Burn), 71 Oystercatcher, 7 Golden Plover, 91 Turnstone, Dunlin, 52 Woodcock, Jack Snipe (Da Water), 95 Snipe, Green Sandpiper, 3 Black-headed Gull, 65 Common Gull, 10 Lesser Black-backed Gull, c20 Bonxie, 18 Woodpigeon, Long-eared Owl (Plantation), 2 Short-eared Owl, Kestrel (male still in the North), Carrion Crow, 137 Skylark, 3 Willow Warbler, 38 Chiffchaff, 5 Blackcap, 4 Goldcrest, 18 Ring Ouzel, 727 Blackbird, 280 Fieldfare (highest count of the year so far), 178 Redwing, 117 Song Thrush, 14 Mistle Thrush, 118 Robin, Black Redstart, Stonechat (female Restensgeos), 30 Wheatear, 26 Dunnock, 3 Grey Wagtail, 10 'White Wagtail', 8 Pied Wagtail (and 2 alba wagtails), 290 Meadow Pipit, 49 Rock Pipit (including one littoralis bird), 17 Chaffinch, 20 Brambling, 32 Twite, Linnet (male), 3 'Mealy Redpoll', 4 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting.
Year list: 109
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Sunday 15th April
Wow, what a great day! The fog lifted early on and it was obvious there were more birds about, with the nets and traps busy first thing (a total of 81 birds were ringed during the day, which is a very good spring total for Fair Isle). Census brought some good counts and some very enjoyable birding as the remarkable spring continued (check the archived sightings from this time last year for a comparison of what it can be like at this time of year if the winds are less favourable!).
Weather: SE 2/3, becoming E 3/4, some lingering fog early on over the hills, but clearing, although still largely cloudy, with low cloud returning to the hills in the evening.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: 2; Richard's suspicion that the Wirvie bird of the 13th April was a new individual was confirmed when one was trapped in the Vaadal at the same time as another was being watched in the Gully this afternoon. Years with multiple occurences are unusual, and the only previous occasion more than one individual has been present on the island at the same time was autumn 2002. The 39th Dipper record for Fair Isle
Hawfinch: various sightings around the island related to at least two individuals (a male and female)
Glaucous Gull: 3CY still present in the North where it was eating a Puffin
Other sightings:
122 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 17 Teal, Cormorant, Sparrowhawk, Water Rail (Meadow Burn), Moorhen (Da Water), 72 Oystercatcher, 8 Golden Plover, 24 Ringed Plover, 115 Turnstone, 82 Woodcock (the highest spring count since 100 on 26th March 1988), Jack Snipe, 114 Snipe, 2 Green Sandpiper, 30 Redshank, 4 Black-headed Gull, 32 Common Gull, 8 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 25 Bonxie, Puffin (lots on land throughout the day), 15 Woodpigeon, 5 Short-eared Owl (including one coming in off the sea at South Light and another leaving Buness to head towards Shetland), Kestrel, Merlin, 4 Carrion Crow, 120 Skylark, Swallow, Willow Warbler, 56 Chiffchaff, 5 Blackcap, 15 Goldcrest, 16 Ring Ouzel, 1115 Blackbird (highest count of the year so far and highest spring count since 2006), 234 Fieldfare (highest count of the year so far), 282 Redwing, 140 Song Thrush, 16 Mistle Thrush, 235 Robin (highest count of the year so far), 4 Black Redstart, Stonechat (female in Boini Mire), 39 Wheatear (highest count of the year so far), 63 Dunnock (highest spring count since 2012), 5 Grey Wagtail, 17 'White Wagtail', 13 Pied Wagtail (and 5 alba wagtails), 303 Meadow Pipit, 2 Tree Pipit, 69 Rock Pipit, 17 Chaffinch, 138 Brambling, 33 Twite, 2 'Mealy Redpoll' (plus an unidentified Redpoll sp.), 6 Siskin, 6 Reed Bunting, Lapland Bunting (one over Meoness; first of the year).
'White Wagtail', South Harbour (Richard Cope)
Year list:109
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Saturday 14th April
Thick fog all day was a real blow as it made birding the cliffs (and most of the North of the Isle) impossible, so we had to make do with some hints of an increased number of birds.
Weather: SE or SSE 2/3, foggy.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: still present in the Gully
Hawfinch: female still present
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, 10 Teal, 3 Water Rail (North Shirva, Meadow Burn and Field Ditch), 11 Golden Plover, Green Sandpiper, Woodpigeon, Carrion Crow (Parks), 2 Willow Warbler, 35 Chiffchaff, 4 Blackcap, Lesser Whitethroat (South Light), 3 Goldcrest, 14 Ring Ouzel, 4 Mistle Thrush, Black Redstart, 21 Wheatear, 29 Dunnock, 4 Grey Wagtail, 9 'White Wagtail', 14 Pied Wagtail, Tree Pipit (South Light; first of the year), 17 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling, 2 Linnet, 'Mealy Redpoll'.
Year list:108
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Friday 13th April
A not too unlucky day at all from a birding point of view, with a couple of new species for the year list, but even better, the beginnings of a rather nice fall, with birds obviously arriving throughout the day, especially when the wind increased and brought rain with it later. Birding became pretty tricky in the afternoon, but there should be more to see tomorrow (although the threat of fog may hamper our efforts somewhat).
Weather: SE or ESE 3 becoming E 4-5 later, cloudy throughout with showers early on, then more persistent rain from around 3pm, with visibility decreasing later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: still present in the Gully in the morning, whilst what was assumed to be the same individual was in the Wirvie Burn in the afternoon.
Hawfinch: 2; the ringed female was still present and was accompanying an unringed male in the Obs garden
Glaucous Gull: 2CY still present
Other sightings:
2 Whooper Swan, 10 Teal, Cormorant, 56 Oystercatcher, 11 Golden Plover, 18 Ringed Plover, 115 Turnstone, 4 Knot (South Light; first of the year), 4 Woodcock, 78 Snipe, 28 Redshank, 19 Bonxie, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow (including a migrant with 4 Hooded Crows on Meoness), 188 Skylark, Willow Warbler, 45 Chiffchaff, 4 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat (singles at Pund and the Obs were the first of the year and a record earliest arrival date, beating the previous earliest record of 20th April 2009), 17 Goldcrest, 22 Ring Ouzel, 563 Blackbird, 110 Fieldfare, 172 Redwing, 134 Song Thrush, 9 Mistle Thrush, 172 Robin (including several quite light weight birds trapped), 2 Black Redstart, Stonechat (female at the Kirk), 22 Wheatear, 14 Dunnock, 6 Grey Wagtail, 4 'White Wagtail', 15 Pied Wagtail (and 2 alba wagtails), 206 Meadow Pipit, 52 Rock Pipit (including one littoralis in South Harbour), 20 Chaffinch, 6 Brambling, 27 Twite, 4 'Mealy Redpoll' (plus an unidentified Redpoll sp.), 3 Siskin, 3 Reed Bunting.
Year list:107
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Thursday 12th April
A very pleasant day to be out, with a couple more new arrivals for the year and the feeling that the north-west coast (where the majority of the sheltered spots were) is starting to build up a few birds and has potential over the next couple of days for something decent...
Weather: SE4-5, largely sunny and pleasantly warm out of the breeze.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: seen again in the Gully, although it is generally quite elusive
Hawfinch: 2; male and female both still in the Plantation and Gully area
Other sightings:
105 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 7 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, Cormorant, 3 Water Rail (Meadow Burn, Vaila's Trees and Boini Mire), 33 Oystercatcher, 8 Lapwing, 6 Golden Plover, 25 Ringed Plover, 7 Curlew, 69 Turnstone, 4 Dunlin, 71 Purple Sandpiper, 5 Woodcock, 55 Snipe, 18 Redshank, 2 Black-headed Gull, 8 Common Gull, 12 Bonxie, Stock Dove, 21 Woodpigeon, Long-eared Owl (Haa), Kestrel (male in Guidicum; first of the year), Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 86 Skylark, 16 Chiffchaff, Grasshopper Warbler (one at Lower Leogh; first of the year. 18 days earlier than 2017 and only 5 days later than the earliest ever arrival), 5 Goldcrest, 6 Ring Ouzel, 481 Blackbird, 92 Fieldfare, 171 Redwing, 97 Song Thrush, 11 Mistle Thrush, 122 Robin, 23 Wheatear, 7 Dunnock, 4 Grey Wagtail, 9 'White Wagtail', 11 Pied Wagtail, 158 Meadow Pipit, 47 Rock Pipit, 20 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 15 Twite, Linnet (male), 'Mealy Redpoll' (one trapped in Plantation), Redpoll sp. (one over Haa).
Year list:105
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Wednesday 11th April
Another good day, with a fresher wind delivering some new birds.
Weather: SE 3 increasing 4 later, mostly cloudy at first but clearing somewhat later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: still present in the Gully
Hawfinch: 2; the female from Monday was retrapped in the Plantation (having gained 1.4g in two days) along with a new male
.JPG)
Black-bellied Dipper, Click Mills (Gully), (Richard Cope)
Other sightings:
95 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 10 Teal, 2 Cormorant, 56 Oystercatcher, 9 Lapwing, 7 Golden Plover, 24 Ringed Plover, 15 Curlew, 78 Turnstone, 4 Dunlin, 23 Purple Sandpiper, 5 Woodcock, 40 Snipe, Green Sandpiper (Field Ditch; first of the year and ten days later than 2017's record arrival), 19 Redshank, 2 Black-headed Gull, 10 Common Gull, 5 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 6 Bonxie, 18 Woodpigeon, Long-eared Owl (one flushed from the Plantation in the morning was presumably the same bird seen later at Vaila's Trees; first of the year), Short-eared Owl, 2 Merlin, 76 Skylark, Swallow (one at Shirva; first of the year and two days later than the first arrival in 2017), 14 Chiffchaff, Blackcap (male in South Haven; first of the year and ten days later than the first arrival in 2017), 3 Goldcrest, 3 Ring Ouzel, 710 Blackbird, 110 Fieldfare, 184 Redwing, 103 Song Thrush, 13 Mistle Thrush, 144 Robin, 2 Black Redstart, 24 Wheatear, 9 Dunnock, 4 Grey Wagtail, 5 'White Wagtail', 14 Pied Wagtail, 153 Meadow Pipit, 59 Rock Pipit (including one 'Scandinavian' bird), 14 Chaffinch, 5 Brambling, 15 Twite, Linnet (male), 'Mealy Redpoll', Siskin, Reed Bunting.
Blackbird (left) and Ring Ouzel, Obs, (Susannah Parnaby)
Year list:103
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Tuesday 10th April
Taking advantage of the calm weather, the wardening team were up early for a Tystie survey and there were also a good number of birds taking advantage of the calm weather to move north.
Weather: E2 increasing to a SE4 later, cloudy throughout, although brightening a bit later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: still present, being seen in the Gully
Other sightings:
112 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 6 Teal, 130 Eider (62 males and 68 females; the highest spring count since 2013), Common Scoter (female still in Furse), Goldeneye (female in North Haven), Red-breasted Merganser (male still lingering around the south coast), Cormorant, Water Rail (Boini Mire), Moorhen (one found dead in the Good Shepherd's noost), 102 Oystercatcher (including several flocks moving north), 15 Lapwing (including an incubating bird), 23 Golden Plover (including some heading north), 24 Ringed Plover, 19 Curlew, 54 Turnstone, 2 Dunlin, 22 Purple Sandpiper, 5 Woodcock, Jack Snipe (Gilsetter), 85 Snipe, 54 Redshank (including small flocks moving north), 17 Black-headed Gull, 77 Common Gull, 5 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 12 Bonxie, 135 Black Guillemot (breeding-plumaged birds on the east coast, about 50-60 less than counts in recent years, although a moderate swell in the North in particular probably resulted in a lower count), Puffin (the first birds seen on land), 20 Woodpigeon, Short-eared Owl, 2 Merlin, Peregrine, Rook, 109 Skylark, Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel, 683 Blackbird (including some flocks dropping in later on), 98 Fieldfare, 169 Redwing, 66 Song Thrush, 7 Mistle Thrush, 123 Robin, 27 Wheatear, 11 Dunnock, 6 Grey Wagtail, 'White Wagtail', 20 Pied Wagtail (along with 8 alba wagtails), 737 Meadow Pipit (including several flocks moving north), 73 Rock Pipit, 17 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 16 Twite, Redpoll sp., Siskin, Reed Bunting, 3 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 99
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9th April
A fresh NE (3-4) breeze, generally cloudy throughout and a few new bits coming through as the decent spring continued
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: relocated in the Vaadal
Hawfinch: a female at the Obs in the afternoon was probably a new arrival, being found to be around 48g in weight and carrying no fat
Iceland Gull: 2CY at Setter then headed north
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 2CY still present
Other sightings:
118 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 3 Teal, Cormorant, 45 Oystercatcher, 12 Lapwing, 2 Golden Plover, 21 Ringed Plover, 8 Curlew, 31 Turnstone, 4 Dunlin, 7 Woodcock, 5 Black-headed Gull, 20 Common Gull, 7 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 6 Bonxie, Puffin (several around the coast), 21 Woodpigeon, Merlin, Peregrine, Rook, 3 Carrion Crow (Setter, Malcolm's Head and Dronger), 58 Skylark, Sand Martin, 9 Chiffchaff, 5 Goldcrest, 511 Blackbird, 144 Fieldfare, 268 Redwing, 75 Song Thrush, 5 Mistle Thrush, 108 Robin, 2 Black Redstart (Stoneybrek and Wirvie), 8 Wheatear, 82 House Sparrow (50 male and 32 female), 11 Dunnock, 5 Grey Wagtail, 10 Pied Wagtail, 434 Meadow Pipit, 8 Chaffinch, 6 Brambling, 18 Twite, Mealy Redpoll, Siskin, 2 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 99
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8th April
NE 2-3, cloudy, with drizzly rain and fog at first, although clearing slightly later.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ring-billed Gull: Nick Riddiford had an adult briefly outside Schoolton, before it flew off in a north-easterly direction and couldn't be relocated
Glaucous Gull: the regular 2CY bird
'Scandinavian Rock Pipit': one still in Furse
Other sightings:
109 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 8 Teal, Common Scoter, Water Rail (Chalet), 48 Oystercatcher, 13 Lapwing, 5 Golden Plover, 22 Ringed Plover, 7 Curlew, 45 Turnstone, 6 Dunlin, 3 Woodcock, 77 Snipe, Black-headed Gull, 8 Common Gull, 10 Lesser Black-backed Gull, Bonxie, Puffin (hundreds offshore), 18 Woodpigeon, Merlin, Peregrine, 2 Carrion Crow, 92 Skylark, Sand Martin, 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrest, Ring Ouzel (North Gunnawark), 596 Blackbird, 122 Fieldfare, 160 Redwing, 95 Song Thrush, 4 Mistle Thrush, 105 Robin, Black Redstart (Quoy), 6 Wheatear, 10 Dunnock, 5 Grey Wagtail, 13 Pied Wagtail, 216 Meadow Pipit, 47 Rock Pipit, 11 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling, 35 Twite, 2 Mealy Redpoll (plus one unidentified Redpoll), 2 Siskin, Yellowhammer (one at the Obs in the evening), Reed Bunting, Snow Bunting.
Other wildlife:
Nathusius's Pipistrelle: a bat sp? at Koolin was possibly the presumed Nathusius's Pipistrelle seen at the same site in January
Year list: 99
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7th April
A good day's birding, with a promising looking cloudy start with SE winds ('it looks rare' was Susannah's judgement) giving way to a beautiful and mild, sunny day as the
wind switched more round to the west. Although census had produced a few new birds, there was perhaps not that much new, but after lunch things picked up, with a couple of year ticks and Freyja helping to make good Susannah's prediction!
HIGHLIGHTS:
BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER: one landed on the old slip in North Haven less than a couple of metres from where Freyja was sunbathing. For a five year old, her description wasn't bad (brown on top, with a white tummy, about as big as three Robins), but luckily, Susannah was also on hand to clinch the identification as Fair Isle's 38th Dipper. A few phone calls saw the wardening team on hand in time to see it on the cliff top at the west end of the North Haven before it went scooting past them and south over the beach out towards Ditfield. It was no surprise when it was seen in the Gully later, although it appeared not to linger there very long either. Three of the previous records have been brown-bellied birds (either from the UK, or cenrtal Europe), with the others all thought to be 'Black-bellied' birds from northern Europe (only 11 have been accepted by the BBRC, although this reflects the fact that most of the earlier records lack the necessary description to confirm the subspecific identification).
Black-bellied Dipper, North Haven (David Parnaby)
Graph showing the occurence of Dippers on Fair Isle by decade. After a strong showing in the 200s, there have been just two records since, with today's being the first since 2011.
Hawfinch: two; possibly the birds from earlier in the week
'Scandinavian Rock Pipit': one in Furse
Other sightings:
92 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 6 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Water Rail (Boini Mire and Schoolton), Moorhen (one lingering around the buildings in North Haven was presumably the bird seen on Buness on 1st April), 69 Oystercatcher, 8 Lapwing, 10 Golden Plover, 14 Ringed Plover, 6 Curlew, 97 Turnstone, Dunlin, 3 Woodcock, Jack Snipe, 57 Snipe, 27 Redshank, 2 Black-headed Gull, 5 Lesser Black-backed Gull, Bonxie (just the third individual seen this year, with no Puffins again today), 9 Woodpigeon, Merlin, 2 Peregrine (adult female and immature male), 137 Skylark, Sand Martin (one heading north through the Haven; first of the year), Willow Warbler (one in the Gully in the evening; first of the year), 4 Chiffchaff, 8 Goldcrest, 628 Blackbird, 120 Fieldfare, 173 Redwing, 79 Song Thrush, 3 Mistle Thrush, 119 Robin, Stonechat (male), 3 Wheatear, 9 Dunnock, 6 Grey Wagtail, 9 Pied Wagtail (and 3 alba wags), 224 Meadow Pipit, 87 Rock Pipit, 11 Chaffinch, 4 Brambling, 34 Twite, Mealy Redpoll (the first record since 2nd January), 3 Siskin, Snow Bunting.
Year list: 98
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6th April
A light SE breeze, increasing throughout the day and bringing heavy showers then some prolonged spells of rain later in the afternoon.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: the lingering 2CY bird was seen again around North Light and the Obs
Other sightings:
113 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 3 Teal, 2 Cormorant, Water Rail (near Double Dyke), 50 Oystercatcher, 9 Lapwing, 4 Golden Plover (plus a recently predated bird in Gilsetter that had presumably fallen prey to the lingering Peregrine), 22 Ringed Plover, 6 Curlew, 2 Woodcock, 69 Snipe, 3 Black-headed Gull, 7 Lesser Black-backed Gull, lots of Razorbill around on the sea but just a couple of Guillemot, 100+ Puffin (the first mass arrival saw many birds on the sea off the west coast, although none were noted coming into the colonies in the evening), 16 Woodpigeon, Peregrine (immature male), 141 Skylark, 3 Chiffchaff, 5 Goldcrest (first of the year), 536 Blackbird, 112 Fieldfare, 260 Redwing, 144 Song Thrush, 16 Mistle Thrush (highest count of the year so far), 138 Robin, Wheatear, 5 Dunnock, 2 Grey Wagtail, 5 Pied Wagtail, 59 Meadow Pipit, 40 Rock Pipit, 3 Chaffinch, Brambling, 16 Twite, Yellowhammer (female), Reed Bunting, 2 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 95
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5th April
A blustery W breeze (4-5) with some bitter snow showers, particularly in the afternoon, when it felt quite wintry at times.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Dotterel: one at South Green was an unexpected find, arriving almost three weeks earlier than the previous earliest record.
Glaucous Gull: a 3CY bird at Ditfield
.JPG)
Dotterel, South Green (Richard Cope). The previous earliest arrival date was 25th April 1973 and, with a lack of common summer migrants (there were no Wheatears recorded today for example), this was a real surprise.
Other sightings:
93 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 6 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser (male off Shalstane), 3 Cormorant, 2 Water Rail (the regular Schoolton bird and one in Boini Mire), 47 Oystercatcher, 8 Lapwing, 2 Golden Plover, 16 Ringed Plover, 6 Curlew, 53 Turnstone, 3 Dunlin, 6 Purple Sandpiper, 7 Woodcock, 58 Snipe, 4 Black-headed Gull, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 17 Woodpigeon, Merlin, Peregrine, 3 Carrion Crow, 65 Skylark, 2 Chiffchaff, 867 Blackbird, 186 Fieldfare, 426 Redwing, 161 Song Thrush, 11 Mistle Thrush, 141 Robin, Stonechat (male at Chalet), 2 Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, 4 Pied Wagtail (plus 3 alba subsp.), 41 Meadow Pipit, 62 Rock Pipit, 14 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling, 19 Twite, Linnet (female at Bull's Park).
Year list: 94
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4th April
A moderate or light NE breeze became westerly later on, with cloud increasing slightly, although it remained dry with sunny spells.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hawfinch: sightings at Shirva and Haa were probably one of the lingering females
Glaucous Gull: a 2CY off North Light was thought to be the lingering bird
'Scandinavian Rock Pipit': one still in South Harbour
Other sightings:
116 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 10 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser (male), Red-throated Diver (one north off Buness), 57 Oystercatcher, 14 Lapwing, 2 Golden Plover, 7 Ringed Plover, 9 Curlew, 51 Turnstone, 7 Dunlin, 20 Purple Sandpiper, 9 Woodcock, 71 Snipe, Lesser Black-backed Gull, 16 Woodpigeon, Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow (the lingering pair at Malcolm's Head, whilst the third wintering bird had moved to its summer residence of Lerness, where it was hanging out with a Hooded Crow), 64 Skylark, 3 Chiffchaff, 1057 Blackbird (highest count of the year so far), 203 Fieldfare, 437 Redwing, 181 Song Thrush (highest count of the year so far), 15 Mistle Thrush (highest count of the year so far), 178 Robin, 2 Stonechat (male in Gilsetter, female in Boini Mire), Wheatear, Dunnock, 5 Grey Wagtail (a decent count, including a male present around Golden Water/Wirvie for its fourth day that was singing), 4 Pied Wagtail (plus one alba subsp.), 23 Meadow Pipit, 52 Rock Pipit, 11 Chaffinch, 7 Brambling, 22 Twite.
Year list: 93
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3rd April
A quite strong NE wind with frequent wintry showers, which became more persistent later. A general feel that there was not much new in, with some counts remaining rather low for the time of year. The forecast for Friday is looking rather interesting, with potentially quite big SE winds, which coudl bring another wave of arrivals.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hawfinch: an (unringed) female at Haa and Burkle, presumably a lingering bird wandering again
Glaucous Gull: presumably the same 2CY over Landberg then at Lericum
'Scandinavian Rock Pipit': 2; singles at Buness and South Harbour
Other sightings:
76 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 7 Teal, Common Scoter (female still in Furse), Cormorant, Water Rail (Burkle), 68 Oystercatcher, 13 Lapwing, 2 Golden Plover, 14 Ringed Plover, 9 Curlew, 70 Turnstone, 4 Dunlin, 160 Purple Sandpiper (a very large spring count), 21 Woodcock, 69 Snipe, Lesser Black-backed Gull, 8 Woodpigeon, Peregrine (immature male), 2 Carrion Crow, 155 Skylark, Chiffchaff, 820 Blackbird, 216 Fieldfare, 431 Redwing, 138 Song Thrush (largest count of the year so far), 13 Mistle Thrush (highest count of the year so far), 163 Robin, Wheatear, 5 Dunnock, 2 Grey Wagtail, 2 Pied Wagtail, 8 Meadow Pipit (a rather low count for the time of year), 42 Rock Pipit, 14 Chaffinch, 5 Brambling, 26 Twite, Reed Bunting.
Year list: 93
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2nd April
A pleasant sunny day, albeit with a cool, light NE breeze. A similar set of birds to recent days.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hawfinch: two females remained at the Obs
Glaucous Gull: 2CY again on Buness
Other sightings:
95 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 17 Teal, Common Scoter (female, Furse), Cormorant, Sparrowhawk (female), 48 Oystercatcher, 12 Lapwing, 6 Golden Plover, 16 Ringed Plover, 10 Curlew, 12 Dunlin, 7 Purple Sandpiper, 12 Woodcock, Jack Snipe, Lesser Black-backed Gull, 6 Woodpigeon, Merlin, Peregrine (immature male), 3 Carrion Crow, 122 Skylark, Chiffchaff, 902 Blackbird, 218 Fieldfare, 376 Redwing, 88 Song Thrush, 11 Mistle Thrush, 213 Robin, 2 Stonechat (females), Wheatear, 3 Dunnock, 2 Grey Wagtail, 9 Pied Wagtail, 17 Meadow Pipit, 72 Rock Pipit, 8 Chaffinch, 5 Brambling, 18 Twite, Yellowhammer (male between Meadow Burn and Shirva; first of the year).
Year list: 93
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1st April
A remarkable day of contrasts, with a bright start giving way to a heavy snow shower that left a dusting on the ground. Although sheltered spots maintained some snow throughout the day, the sun came out and it was really rather warm on bits of census, although a blizzard that swept through the north was distinctly unpleasant, although it missed the south of the island!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hawfinch: two females still at the Obs
Glaucous Gull: 2CY on Buness
Other sightings:
110 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 13 Teal, Common Scoter (female, Furse), Cormorant, Water Rail (Shirva), Moorhen (one at Slogar on Buness was the first of the year), 60 Oystercatcher, 22 Lapwing, 3 Golden Plover, 17 Ringed Plover, 12 Curlew, 68 Turnstone, 4 Dunlin, 16 Purple Sandpiper, 32 Woodcock, 44 Snipe, 32 Redshank, Kittiwake (a few dotted around, including birds back at the cliffs at Millens Houllan), Bonxie, Lesser Black-backed Gull, lots of Guillemots and Razorbills offshore, Puffin (one from the Obs in the evening; first of the year), 11 Woodpigeon, Short-eared Owl (Wester Lother), Merlin, Peregrine, 2 Carrion Crow, 96 Skylark, 3 Chiffchaff, 934 Blackbird, 194 Fieldfare, 461 Redwing, 116 Song Thrush, 6 Mistle Thrush, 229 Robin, 2 Wheatear, 5 Dunnock, 2 Grey Wagtail, 4 Pied Wagtail (plus 2 'alba' wags), 35 Meadow Pipit, 64 Rock Pipit, 7 Chaffinch, 7 Brambling, 15 Twite, Reed Bunting, Snow Bunting.
Woodcock, Gorson's Geo (Richard Cope)
Year list: 92
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31st March
A calm day, with a slightly fresher NW breeze by the end of the day. The first full census of the year involved having to ditch fleeces as it was too warm, whilst the number of birds made it one of the best March day's birding for a few years. A total of 46 birds were ringed today (including 21 Robins) as spring migration really kicked in.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hawfinch: two females feeding at the Obs throughout the day.
Other sightings:
80 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 7 Teal, 5 Grey Heron, Cormorant (one flew north), 7 Water Rail (birds at Lower Stoneybrek, Plantation and Burkle were all likely to be wintering individuals, whilst those at Houll, Pund, Gilly Burn and Chalet may have been migrants), 30 Oystercatcher, 25 Lapwing, 5 Golden Plover, 24 Ringed Plover, 17 Dunlin, 49 Woodcock (the highest spring count since 30th March 2001), Jack Snipe, 73 Snipe, 19 Redshank, Bonxie (one over Wester Lother in the evening; first of the year), lots of Guillemots and Razorbills offshore, with a few on the cliffs, 14 Woodpigeon, 2 Short-eared Owl (one at Da Water and one seen coming in off the sea at South Light), Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow (the regular birds at Malcolm's Head), 10 Raven (flocks of eight and two seen heading south were presumed to be migrants), 127 Skylark, 6 Chiffchaff, 894 Blackbird (the highest spring count since 2006), 170 Fieldfare, 303 Redwing, 81 Song Thrush, 5 Mistle Thrush, 268 Robin (the highest spring count since 2012), Stonechat (female in Boini Mire), Wheatear (female at Utra; first of the year), 7 Dunnock, Grey Wagtail (Wirvie Burn), 'White Wagtail'. 4 Pied Wagtail, 20 Meadow Pipit, 10 Chaffinch, 8 Brambling, Greenfinch, 18 Twite, 2 Reed Bunting, 2 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 90
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30th March
A very cool E wind with a couple of sunny spells, but also a fairly bitter spell of persistent wintry showers around the middle of the day. The AWs arrived and got stuck straight in, so it'll be census tomorrow and hopefully more birds...
HIGHLIGHTS:
Hawfinch: female roamed the island in the morning then settled at the Obs in the afternoon.
Hawfinch (female), Obs (David Parnaby)
Other sightings (all counts are minimum totals):
2 Whooper Swan, 2 Teal, Goldeneye (male on Obs scrape), Cormorant (one flew south), Sparrowhawk (female at the Obs, where it ate a Blackbird), Water Rail (Burkle), Golden Plover, 10 Dunlin, 2 Woodcock, 5 Woodpigeon, Carrion Crow, Chiffchaff (one at the Obs in the evening; first of the year and 17 days later than last year's first), 95 Blackbird, 5 Song Thrush, 2 Mistle Thrush, Dunnock, Grey Wagtail (Leogh), 2 Pied Wagtail, 7 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, Greenfinch (male still at the Obs), Siskin (male at Haa), 2 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 88
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27-28th March
A strengthening E wind picked up to a gale force SE overnight on Tuesday, bringing heavy rain for most of Wednesday. There were obvioulsy some birds in, with a few more Robins and thrushes for example, although the conditions were poor for birding.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Iceland Gull: two 2CY birds on Meoness on 28th
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
2 Whooper Swan, Shelduck (one roaming then settling on Da Water on 28th; first of the year), Common Scoter (female still in Furse), Goldeneye (male on Golden Water on 28th; first sighting of the month), Water Rail (one trapped in the Plantation on 28th had been ringed there on 22nd October 2017), 2 Woodcock (28th; both flushed from the roadside and a sure sign ofnew arrivals), 9 Black-headed Gull (28th), 2 Lesser Black-backed Gull (28th), Short-eared Owl (Boini Mire on 28th; first of the year), Merlin, Snow Bunting.
Year list: 83
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16th-26th March
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: single 2CY on 20th and 23rd
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
122 Greylag Goose, 8 Whooper Swan (the lingering two juveniles throughout then a family party of six on Golden Water on 26th), 6 Teal, Common Scoter (male), Red-breasted Merganser (female, 18th), Red-throated Diver (one east over the island on 22nd; first of the year), Cormorant (one flew north on 23rd), 5 Water Rail (all lingering wintering birds), 20 Lapwing, Golden Plover, Dunlin (one near Muckle Uri Geo on 18th; first of the year), 38 Purple Sandpiper, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Guillemot (large numbers appearing offshore by the end of the period), Razorbill (lots on 18th and from 24th, including birds on Easter Lother on 26th), 2 Woodpigeon, Merlin, 2 Rook (21st-25th; first of the year), 18 Hooded Crow (a single flock in the south on 23rd presumably involved at least some migrants), Blackbird (obvious increase), 16 Song Thrush (on 18th, along with small numbers of other thrushes) 6 Mistle Thrush (peak on 18th, wth smaller numbers throughout), Black Redstart (one in Mavers Geo on 20th and Obs on 23rd; first of the year), Stonechat (female 24th), 3Dunnock (first on 17th, then small numbers throughout), Grey Wagtail (Quoy 21st-26th; first of the year), 2 Pied Wagtail, 'White Wagtail' (23rd), 8 Meadow Pipit (small numbers throughout), Rock Pipit (singing from 18th), Chaffinch (male 25th-26th), 8 Twite, Linnet (male at Haa 25th; first of the year), 4 Siskin (at Obs on 21st, then one at Haa 24th-25th; first of the year), Reed Bunting (male at the Obs on 18th, then females on 23rd and 24th, with another male on 25th-26th; first of the year), 9 Snow Bunting.
Siskins, Obs, 21st March (David Parnaby)
Year list: 81
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14th-15th March
A strengthening SE wind reached Severe Gale Force 9 on Thursday and brought birds with it, albeit in not the easiest of circumstances for birding. Hopefully a calmer weekend will bring more sightings of interest.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Iceland Gull: an adult on 14th with 2 (2CY and 3CY) on 15th
Glaucous Gull: 2 (both 2CY) on 14th and 3 (all 2CY) on 15th
Blue Tit: a pair chasing around Schoolton on 14th
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
11 Wigeon, 7 Teal, Tufted Duck (male on Da Water on 15th), Common Scoter (male and female on 15th), Grey Heron, Water Rail, Lapwing (probably more on 15th, as small numbers appeared scattered across the island), 2 Golden Plover, 12 Ringed Plover, 35 Purple Sandpiper, 6 Woodcock (15th), 7 Common Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull (adult on 14th-15th; first of the year), 2 Woodpigeon (15th), Merlin, 7 Mistle Thrush (15th), 5 Robin (15th; on the North cliffs and around the traps only, so obviously involving new migrants), 2 Stonechat (14th in Boini Mire, with one on 15th in Homisdale), 2 Pied Wagtail (15th; first of the year), 2 Meadow Pipit (15th; first of the month), 7 Snow Bunting.
Year list: 72
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9th-13th March
The wind remained in the east, bringing a few more birds, although hopefully not using up all our easterlies too early in the season (personally, I'm, hoping for a repeat of 2014 in which the early part of the year contained a lot of SE wind and resulted in one of the best springs ever for rarities on Fair Isle). Although generally remaining cool, there were one or two days that brought more spring-like conditions.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: 2CY at South Light on 10th
Blue Tit: the two ringed birds were at the Obs on 10th, with two down the Isle on 13th, it seems possible that one bird has disappeared during the cold spell
Iceland Gull: a freshly dead 2CY bird in North Haven on 13th
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
121 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Wigeon, 9 Teal, Common Scoter (female), Goosander (male on Golden Water on 9th), Grey Heron, 3 Water Rail, 28 Oystercatcher, 32 Lapwing, 3 Golden Plover, 18 Ringed Plover, 8 Curlew, 9 Purple Sandpiper, Black-headed Gull (an adult moved north through the Haven on 10th), Common Gull (one on territory at Pund on 13th), Guillemot (a few offshore on 10th), Razorbill (one landed on the cliffs at South Raeva on 13th; first of the year), Woodpigeon (11th-13th; first of the year), Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow (all three wintering birds still present; 2 at Utra, one at Setter), 123 Skylark (large influx on 13th, with the first singing bird noted from 9th), 88 Blackbird (an arrival from 12th, with the peak count referring to the south of the island and Obs only on 13th), 118 Fieldfare (13th, in the south only), 26 Redwing, 9 Song Thrush (in the south only on 13th, a clear arrival), Mistle Thrush (one at the Obs/Furse on 12th-13th, with one also at the Raevas on 13th), 5 Robin, Stonechat (male Boini Mire 9th, female Da Water 12th), 16 Twite.
Other Wildlife:
Common Frog: large numbers gathering in Golden Water and the Obs Scrape, with spawn noted at the latter site on 13th.
Year list: 70
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1st-8th March
Very cold weather and snow at the start of the month saw a lot of birds seemingly clear out of Fair Isle and, other than a couple of Woodcock and Jack Snipe (which may have been wintering birds becoming more obvious as they, and many Snipe, sought unforzen areas in gardens, roadsides etc), there was little evidence of any hard weather arrivals. Towards the end of the spell, the easterly airflow started to bring a few migrants, including increasing numbers of waders and some classic early spring migrants.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: 2 (2CY and 3CY) on 2nd, with 2CY bird seen on 3rd, 5th and 6th
Blue Tit: at least two still present (one at Obs and one down island)
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
139 Greylag Goose, 2 Whooper Swan, 11 Wigeon, 12 Teal, Common Scoter (female 5th-6th), Goosander (male on Da Water then in the Haven on 8th), Red-breasted Merganser (male, 7th), Grey Heron, 4 Water Rail, 17 Oystercatcher, 20 Lapwing, 2 Ringed Plover, 16 Curlew (including a pair displaying on 6th), Jack Snipe (2nd, Pund), 46 Snipe (in the south only on 6th), Stock Dove (Upper Stoneybrek, 7th), Merlin, Peregrine (adult male, which was presumably responsible for the freshly predated Common Gull on 6th), 2 Carrion Crow (the lingering pair at Malcolm's Head), 11 Skylark (including birds seen coming in off the sea at South on 6th, with a larger influx on 8th), 6 Blackbird, 32 Fieldfare, 13 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, Mistle Thrush (one at the Obs on 7th; first of the year), 2 Stonechat (Shirva on 8th; first of the year), Chaffinch (lingering female at Midway), 16 Twite, Snow Bunting.
Mistle Thrush (left) with Fieldfare, Obs, 7th March (David Parnaby). Mistle Thrush is a classic early migrant with easterlies in early/mid March often producing records.
Year list: 68
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1st-28th February
HIGHLIGHTS:
Iceland Gull: records of single 2CY birds on 8th, 15th and 21st may have been a lingering bird
Glaucous Gull: three on 15th, with singles on 13thm 19th and 28th
Blue Tit: three birds lingering still
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
230 Greylag Goose, 7 Pink-footed Goose (decreasing to 6 later in the month), 2 Whooper Swan (the wintering juvenile joined by a second from 22nd), 8 Wigeon, 31 Mallard, 10 Teal, Red-breasted Merganser (male), 2 blue Fulmar (20th February, one from the Good Shepherd IV and another patrolling the cliffs at the Restengeos), Grey Heron (adult throughout), Gannet (plenty present offshore and noted on the ledges of Sheep Craig from 10th), 2 Cormorant (singles on 20th and 27th with two on 21st), 5 Water Rail, 16 Oystercatcher (numbers rising slowly throughout the month peaking on 20th, after which numbers declined again), 15 Lapwing, 3 Golden Plover, 8 Ringed Plover (first recorded on 3rd-4th, then small numbers building from 20th), 23 Curlew, 150 Turnstone, 10 Purple Sandpiper, Woodcock (just singles noted on 13th, 24th and 28th), Jack Snipe (singles on three dates), 60 Redshank, 2 Black-headed Gull, 3 Common Gull, Guilemot (a few offshore), Merlin, Peregrine (21st and 22nd; first of the year), 2 Carrion Crow, Skylark (small numbers building in the last week, to a peak of 55 on 22nd), 'Fair Isle Wren' (singing noted from 3rd, although birds had gone quiet again by the end of the month), Blackbird (11 was the peak count as numbers remained low), Fieldfare (around 100 at the start of the month declined steadily, but an arrival on 20th saw at least 153 present), 50 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush, 3 Robin, Chaffinch (female at Midway from 26th; first of the year), 30 Twite, 9 Snow Bunting (21st, with 2 on 27th).
Year list: 65
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30th - 31st January
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: 2CY on 31st
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
3 Wigeon, 25 Mallard, Teal, Water Rail, c200 Turnstone, c80 Redshank, Black-headed Gull, 80 Fieldfare, 10 Redwing, Robin.
Year list: 61
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22nd-29th January
HIGHLIGHTS:
Iceland Gull: after a dead 4CY bird in South Haven on 23rd, a 2CY was in the Parks on 24th; first of the year
Glaucous Gull: present virtually daily, with peak of 4 (all 2CY) on 24th
Blue Tit: still regular sightings throughout - the species made it onto the Big Garden Birdwatch for the first time in Fair Isle history!
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
257 Greylag Goose, 8 Pink-footed Goose, Whooper Swan, 23 Mallard, 12 Teal, Common Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, 2 Red-breasted Merganser (24th; first of the year), Grey Heron (26th-27th; first of the year), Cormorant (juvenile on Landberg on 25th; first of the year), 4 Water Rail, 3 Oystercatcher, 18 Lapwing (arrival on 24th), 8 Golden Plover, 33 Curlew, 172 Turnstone, 25 Purple Sandpiper, Woodcock, Merlin, 2 Carrion Crow, 84 Fieldfare (arrival on 24th, with good numbers lingering after this date), other thrushes present in small numbers, with perhaps just a slight increase in Redwing, 58 Twite (25th).
Year list: 61
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17th-21st January
A snowy day on 16th saw the end of flights for the week as ice lingered for several days. Some calm (but cold) spells interspersed with some fresh south-easterly or southerly winds and rain returning on 21st.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: adult on 19th and 2CY on 21st
Blue Tit: 3 still throughout
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
184 Greylag Goose (with some movement noted), 8 Pink-footed Goose, Whooper Swan, 14 Wigeon, 11 Teal, Great Northern Diver (still present until 18th at least, although it was looking somewhat lethargic towards the latter date), 6 Water Rail (probably all wintering birds, perhaps becoming more visible in icy conditions - i.e. a bird in the Obs garden on 19th was a ringed individual which was presumably the one trapped at the Obs on 29th October that has not been seen since 23rd November!), Oystercatcher, 3 Lapwing, 7 Golden Plover (21st), 15 Curlew, 160 Turnstone, Woodcock (singles on three dates), Jack Snipe (Walli Burn, 21st), Guillemot (some on cliffs on 18th), Merlin, Carrion Crow, still a reasonable number of Fieldfare and smaller numbers of other thrushes and Robins about, Meadow Pipit (one by the Vaadal on 20th; first of the year), 14 Twite.
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Great Northern Diver, North Haven, 17th January (David Parnaby)
Year list: 57
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7th-16th January
Some rather strong south-easterly then southerly winds (the lounge lights in the flat were swaying on the night of 14th as the Obs faced the winds head-on!) brought a few more birds, with snow falling throughout on 16th.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: present almost daily, with a peak count of 4 (10th and 13th) and at least 6 individuals present
Blue Tit: 3 still in the usual haunts
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
217 Greylag Goose, 8 Pink-footed Goose, 5 European White-fronted Goose (a family party on 14th, with 7 [the same 5 plus two other single adults] on 15th), Whooper Swan, 15 Wigeon, 10 Teal, Common Scoter (female again in Furse), Long-tailed Duck (female in Furse), Goldeneye (a male in South Harbour on 7th and female on Da Water on 10th), Goosander (an unusual winter record on 12th), Great Northern Diver (still lingering in North Haven and Furse), Water Rail, 3 Oystercatcher (with a couple of birds now coming in to join the two wintering individuals), 10 Lapwing (a small arrival on 15th), Golden Plover, 21 Curlew, Woodcock (one flushed from a snowy Obs garden on 16th), Black-headed Gull, 2 Carrion Crow, 55 Fieldfare (15th, mostly small numbers scattered around the island, so the total may have been higher in what appeared to be a small arrival), 24 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 2 Twite, 15 Snow Bunting (7th, North Light).
European White-fronted Geese, Upper Stoneybrek, 15th January (David Parnaby)
Other Wildlife:
Nathusius's Pipistrelle: a small bat seen in flight at Busta on 10th was seen to land under the eaves of a shed there (where it was still present until 12th at least), and was most probably this species - an extraordinary winter record.
Year list: 56
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1st-6th January
Happy New Year, FIBO hopes you all had an enjoyable festive period and that your 2018 is filled with good birds.
The weather began unremarkably, although temperatures were pleasant at times, but strong north-easterly winds at the end of the period brought a chill. Not much movement bird-wise (other than in the order of Log, as we followed the BOU in adopting the IOC list from 1st January), although some strong SE winds are forecast, so there's perhaps a chance of some cold weather movement from the continent.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glaucous Gull: sightings were virtually daily, with a peak of 3 on 2nd and at least four individuals (2 adults, 3CY and 2CY involved)
Blue Tit: all three birds lingering from October 2017 remained in situ, with two patrolling the gardens of the south and one enjoying the Obs peanuts feeders.
Other Sightings (counts generally refer to the maximum number recorded in the period):
288 Greylag Goose (notable movement from 4th saw numbers increase on the island), Whooper Swan (juvenile still present, a rare overwintering attempt), 17 Wigeon, 8 Teal, Tufted Duck (a female on 6th was a rare winter occurence), Great Northern Diver (the bird that has been lingering in North Haven since 6th December was still present, such a long stay is unusual), Slavonian Grebe (winter occurences are rare, but what was presumably the bird seen twice in December was in Furse on 4th), Water Rail (at least one still present), 2 Oystercatcher (not an annual wintering species, but birds remained at the Haven and at Skadan), 2 Lapwing, Jack Snipe (one on the beach near Utra/Hesti on 2nd), Merlin, 3 Carrion Crow (the pair present since spring 2016 remained around South Light and Utra and the other wintering bird remained at Suka Mire), Skylark, 35 Fieldfare (a small influx from 1st), 3 Song Thrush (minimum), Twite, 3 Mealy Redpoll (Shirva on 1st, with one still there on 2nd at least).
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Mealy Redpoll, Shirva, 2nd January (David Parnaby)
Year list: 46