15th-16th February

After going missing for a day, the female Velvet Scoter was back in Nouster bay on 16th. In its place on 15th were the years first Little Auk and 16 Long-tailed Ducks. Also seen that day were the fourth Hen Harrier or the year so far (this time a sub-adult male), 2 Merlins and the wintering flock of Black-tailed Godwits at Bridesness had increased to a new high of 13 birds. A count of 49 Dunlins was notable for the time of year, and 135 Lapwings were also recorded. Also in the fields around the middle of the Island were 37 Fieldfares but just 2 Redwings, while the Song Thrush remains in Holland House gardens.

A couple of Reed Buntings have been trapped and ringed in the Heligoland traps recently.