3rd July

A new species for the year was a Hobby, seen briefly near the lighthouse in the morning and again at the observatory in the evening. An influx of Curlews included a flock of over 100 at the north of the island and 3 Whimbrels were also seen during the day. The breeding Arctic Terns all failed in their nesting attempts some weeks earlier, but the lingering birds were joined by 2 Common Terns and 5 Sandwich Terns.

Several pairs of Curlews nest on the island, but much greater numbers occur on migration. In addition to today's flock, small groups passing south overhead have been a regular sight during the last few days.