18th October

A morning seawatch produced just 4 sooty shearwater plus 169 fulmar, 113 gannet and 56 kittiwake. The goosander had moved to Bewan Loch, 38 whooper swan were on Brides Loch and 34 purple sandpiper at Westness is the largest count this Autumn. A spotted flycatcher was also at Westness, the chiffchaff was still at Holland and just 4 redwing were seen. A single twite was at Gravity and a grey phalarope was very obliging at Bridesness in the afternoon.