Friday, 28 April 2023

Shetland raptors

 We don't have many raptors in Shetland, only three species breed. Peregrines have only 1 nesting pair but Merlin is a regular breeding bird


This Rough Legged Buzzard has been present for about a month and is often mobbed by Curlew, Raven and Hoddie Crow

This Merlin passed through Spiggie and was a quick view. We often have one fly past our house in Sandwick which is good to see






Sparrowhawk is the third and most recent breeding species and is becoming more regular, especially where there are trees or bushes. We have had one in the garden on a couple of occasions, one taking a Redstart just as i was about to photograph it.

Other migrants include- Marsh, Hen , Pallid Harrier, Hobby, Red Footed Falcon, Red & Black Kite, Kestrel, White Tailed eagle, Gyr Falcon