7th - 9th June

Westerly winds continue to prevail, which, combined with apparently unforecastable rain, has made for some challenging census conditions. 

On 7th the only real birds of note were a Sandwich Tern in Nouster bay, a Garden Warbler remained in Holland garden along with a Lesser Whitethroat, 47 Knot were at the north end, a Sparrowhawk was over Holland, a Tree Sparrow was back on Paul's feeders, a Carrion Crow was at Trolla, and a Whimbrel was at the north end. The elusive Stone-curlew was seen once again, this time at Bewan

On 8th a Whimbrel was seen once again at the north end, a House Martin was at Trolla, a Lesser Whitethroat was again in Holland garden, a Short-eared Owl was at the Mill, a Sparrowhawk was again over Holland, four Ruff were sighted across the island, a Barnacle Goose was at Garso, and a Curlew Sandpiper, presumably the same bird as noted in previous days, was at Bewan. A male Red-backed Shrike was again seen on the Sangar track after being absent the previous day.

On 9th the number of Curlew Sandpiper doubled with two being seen on the Links, but heavy rain falling pretty much continuously all day meant census was limited. It also became limited by a surprise Sunday excursion boat that docked at lunchtime, meaning it was all hands on deck at the obs to get everyone served and on their way to enjoy the rest of the wet and windy day on the island. However, the Stone-curlew finally gave good views in the field just north of Ancum Willows and a female Red-backed Shrike was seen at Sangar. Two Whimbrel were also at Viggay and a slightly unseasonal Merlin was near Holland.

Stone-curlew (Dan Hawes)

Merlin (DH)

Fledged Pied Wagtail (DH)