12th September

A further sparse scattering of migrants appeared in a day dominated by rain and fog. The highlight was a frustratingly mobile Citrine Wagtail that made a couple of fleeting appearances at Kirbest in the afternoon, soon hightailing away into the fog towards Bridesness on both occasions. Other new passerines on the island included 2 Garden Warblers, a Blackcap, a Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warblers, a Goldcrest and a Snow Bunting; 6 Lapland Buntings had probably arrived earlier in the week.

A flock of 8 Pink-footed Geese were the first of the autumn, and it was another good day for raptors: at least 5 Kestrels were seen again, as well as 2 Merlins and 2 Sparrowhawks. Waders included a new Little Stint at Bridesness, 2 Grey Plovers, 2 Whimbrels and a Common Sandpiper.

This is the third Citrine Wagtail sighting this month, and it is not clear how many different birds have been involved. We think that this individual has a noticeably darker and less clean appearance than the birds seen on the 2nd and 7th, and is probably a new bird.