9th to 10th August

More of the same the last few days with waders continuing to move in the light southerly wind and seemingly forced to land by spells of rain. Counts for most species have been at similar levels to the last update (although there will have no doubt been some turnover) with those showing signs of increase being Dunlin up to 253 and Ruff to 62 on the 9th and Whimbrel to 12 on 10th. The Spotted Redshank has remained on Gretchen Loch throughout while a Merlin, Short-eared Owl and Woodpigeon were notable on the 9th. That evening, the wind unexpectedly dropped to a standstill allowing 50 new and 1 control Storm Petrels to be caught overnight in a four hour session. Sand Martins have clearly been recorded passing in higher numbers than usual this year, and the 21 on the 10th extends the day total record further while the only warblers have been singles of Willow Warbler at opposite ends of the island on 9th and 10th and a Garden Warbler trapped at the Obs on 10th.