This bird has been around for a while and i finally got the time to find it down at Barrier 4 yesterday. A Corker ! Big, goose sized parsnip nosed Diver and spectacular to see in the flesh. Normally hangs out in the Artic and Scandinavia/ Very impressive.
Spent a couple of hours twitching today after a very rare visitor
a River Warbler who arrived in Evie last week. Strong winds meant it failed to show. Not my style but it was a departure from the normal bird walk.
Lost my Angelica to the gales, force 6 or 7 i guess, gusting 50mph. After 6 weeks of great weather it it not so bad but it was magnificent, 7ft tall and in full flower so its tough to see it destroyed.
On Sunday we had our last Winter birdwalk. After 7 months of cold often wet sometimes tough outings (though always very rewarding) the April walk is like a reward. 15c, blue skies, light winds. Orkney sparkling, with the birds responding. The walk was looking for Summer migrants on the East Coast of Deerness, from Dingieshowe beach to Ayres Point.
First we saw Sandwich Turns, newly arrived from Africa, fishing with spectacular grace. Then the Swallows again back from Africa; we were looking out for Wheatears. These White Arses are simply exquisite. Like the Turns and Swallows, back from Africa for the long Summer feeding days.
We had a great picnic in a sheltered spot, positively sunbathing. We went on to see Purple Sandpipers, Whimbrel, Short Eared Owl, Kestral, Turnstones, Ringed Plovers and many others.
A great way to finish the Winter walks.
