The south mainland seemed a lot quieter, even the airport was deserted in the morning although this may have been down to the fact a lot of fog was around.
On Grutness pool, Three Dunlin, Two ringed Plover, two Lapwing and two Oystercatcher were busy feeding. Also a Lesser Yellowlegs (see next blog)
No birds on the beach which was mainly clear of seaweed, but a Gt Northern Diver was seen in the bay with several Shag, a few Eider and several Common Gulls.
The garden was now well vegetated but a Robin put in an appearance and this may be breeding. A Willow Warbler moved along the bushes, remaining hidden for long periods.
Three Swallow flew over as i approached Sumburgh Hotel, while several noisy Twite fed along the road verge
In the garden three male Blackbird were busy collecting food while Starling and House Sparrows had beaks full of food.
Curlew, Oystercatcher, Redshank and Lapwing flew around the farm but no small birds around. Up at the quarry only Blackbird, 79 nesting Fulmar and a few Wren.
It approached close a few times and took no notice of the several photographers that had arrived. Both Common Tern which are not common and several pairs of Arctic Terns came in with large sandeel which was good to see.
Its a shame that only a few birds have arrived back, this colony used to have around 1,000 terns back in the 1980's,
The Corncrake was still calling at the small reedbed at Raewick
A look down at Hoswick burn failed to turn up the Rustic Bunting as i was joined by three other birders, however it returned later in the evening. Today it failed to appear but at least an Icterine Warbler was seen and sang up near the picnic table. Also a couple of Willow Warbler and Pied Wagtail with food
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