What a day to be out! I confess I was a little apprehensive about the impending storms when Richard and Hazel contacted me about a morning's birding this week and I strongly recommended we went today, rather than tomorrow. "This is our first view of Islay in the daylight," they enthused as we got into the car. That wasn't because Islay has been in complete darkness for days on end, but because they only arrived on last night's plane. From the moment I met them Richard and Hazel were enthusing about Islay's beauty. It was a joy to share a day with this couple and hear their romantic story, share their enthusiasm for wildlife, and compare stories from north and south. I'd decided, given the weather, a drive along Loch Indaal would be best and then a visit to the hide at Gruinart. Despite the frequent hail showers, wind and cold we had a delightful day and saw lots of birds. I hope the day compared favourably with your day at Cowdenbeath, Richard!
Oystercatcher, Turnstone, Redshank, Herring Gull, Jackdaw, Brent Goose (light-bellied), Wigeon, Red-breasted Merganser, Curlew, Shelduck, Barnacle Goose, Starling, Whooper Swan, Black-headed Gull, Mallard, Rock Dove, Greylag Goose, White-fronted Goose (Greenland), Hooded Crow, Buzzard, Rook, Blue Tit, Lapwing, Meadow Pipit, Goldeneye (18 on Ardnave Loch), Mute Swan, Reed Bunting, Pintail, Shovelor, Golden Plover, Pheasant, Common Gull, Raven, Grey Heron, Pied Wagtail, Teal, Robin, Blackbird, Wren, Fieldfare, Mistle Thrush, Great Black-backed Gull, Cormorant
Roe Deer, Hare
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| Enjoying the relative warmth of the hide (aided by a hot drink and mince pie!) |
