1st July

The beginning of July usually marks a months break in census activities as we try to catch up with a few maintenance jobs about the place and recharge our batteries before the busy autumn. That plan went quickly out the window with the discovery of a fine adult Pacific Golden Plover in the fields at Sandar mid-morning, resulting in a full day in the field. It was typically mobile as it roamed about the Island with the Golden Plover flocks, but showed well near the Kirk around midday before returning to the Sandar area in the evening. The Golden Oriole was also seen several times during the day-having been extremely elusive during the first 3 weeks of its stay it has started to show ridiculously well along the fence lines between Holland and Nouster. At least 10 Black-tailed Godwits and a Whimbrel were found during Plover searches. A Swift was also seen, while the Crossbill and Pied Flycatcher remain.

 A few record shots of the Pacific Golden Plover. This is the 9th record for the Island-the species really is a North Ronaldsay speciality with nearly half the Scottish records having occurred here.