I have spent most of the past two weeks in Scotland. An enjoyable week on the Outer Hebrides produced some nice experiences with Great Northern, Black-throated and Red-throated Divers in breeding plumage, Golden Eagle, Hen Harrier, Merlin, Short-eared Owls, Long-tailed Ducks and the breeding waders amongst the highlights. Returning summer migrants were generally in short supply, although a Cuckoo on the 15th was my first of the year, whilst Swallows, the odd Willow Warbler and a few Arctic Terns were beginning to arrive as I left the islands. A hybrid Ring-necked Duck x Tufted Duck, briefly quickened the pulse whilst the real thing in the form of a female Ring-necked Duck on Benbecula was presumably the same bird last seen in the same general area in March. A selection of images taken during the trip can be seen by choosing the Hebridean Gallery option under photography.
Surveys on the mainland have been hindered by the weather, but I have been able to enjoy displaying Short-eared Owls, a couple of nice encounters with male Hen Harrier plus Osprey, Red Kite, displaying Black Grouse and the usual upland breeding waders. However, highlight of the week was perhaps the male Ring Ouzel I saw in the wind and rain on the 25th, which certainly brightened up and otherwise miserable day!
Surveys on the mainland have been hindered by the weather, but I have been able to enjoy displaying Short-eared Owls, a couple of nice encounters with male Hen Harrier plus Osprey, Red Kite, displaying Black Grouse and the usual upland breeding waders. However, highlight of the week was perhaps the male Ring Ouzel I saw in the wind and rain on the 25th, which certainly brightened up and otherwise miserable day!