Shetland Purple Heron

On the 6 April a Purple Heron was found at Boddam in the afternoon frequenting a channel where the burn enters from the north

It was very approachable and these photos were taken from the roadside. It did fly off but came back to the same spot.

It was superb to see and still present today. We still have an American Coot, Green winged Teal, Ross's goose and a Night Heron as well as a scattering of common migrants

 

Quendale rare birds

Icterine Warbler

Turtle Dove

 Ringed Neck Duck at Hillwell

Also had a female Hen Harrier around Quendale

Shetland Western Bonelli's Warbler

We have already had a good migration period but have at least another month to see some goodies

This Western Bonelli's Warbler was found on Saturday morning and is still present today

With plenty of insects about why move on. If this bird had turned up at the end of the months there would have been a big crowd but when i saw it yesterday only three of us watched this super- fast warbler

It was seen in three areas, next to the mill although the light wasn't good, up past the yard and down near the bridge, th last site the best for light and activity

Hugh Harrop confirmed it was a western by the call, so i have now been able to see both east and western Bonelli's, now they have been split

Actually, another Bonelli's warbler was seen at Toab the same day as this was found.

This is a rare species in Shetland, and it was good to get so close for photos as it worked the edges of the bushes for insects

I have seen this species before, several times in France but always good to get it on the local list