Penny's Hot Birding and Life!

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 20:38:30 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Icterine Warbler in garden at Grutness.

Subalpine Warbler sp. fem. in roses at Sumburgh Head.

🦭 Bearded Seal on beach north of B7096 at Graven, south of Sullom Voe.

Bee-eater near Loch of Watsness outflow, then flew off.

ISLANDS

Marsh Warbler at Skaw, Nightjar still at Brough, Isle of Whalsay.

Nightingale at Valyie, Norwick, Unst.

Red-backed Shrike fem. again from road between Aith and Houbie, Isle of Fetlar.

Quails x 5, Icterine Warbler at Muckle Grind, Marsh Warbler at Harrier on Isle of Foula.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

From the car park by the cemetery at Ireland

Fabulous sunny day here. At the Geosetter Burn, nothing found at all, no sign of any Crossbills or Common Rosefinch. Ireland – chilled and had early lunch. Was just heading south to try and see the Icterine Warbler in the Grutness Garden and the Subalpine Warbler at Sumburgh, when news of a Bee-eater came up. I've seen several Bee-eaters including the breeding ones in Norfolk, but how can you ever tire of seeing a Bee-eater! A second message came up that the Bee-eater had already departed, but I headed north anyway as you never know, it could have been relocated or I might have even re-found it (ha ha). Checked out Dale of Walls, Walls and then went on an exploration tour to places I hadn't been before including West Burrafirth, the ferry terminal for Papa Stour, the pier at Brindister etc. Its so fascinating what you stumble upon in Shetland – some fabulous houses with wonderful gardens and trees. I'm in love with the house at West Burrafirth, the garden looks amazing.

I messaged the finder Ashley Cooper who said he had been simply scanning from the last house at Watsness (Da Haa) when the Bee-eater came into view in his bins!!! "It was hunting insects and landing on fence wires near the outflow of Loch of Watsness". Ashley said that by the time he got his boots on to walk across the bog to try and and get some shots, the Bee-eater disappeared. Ashley also searched the same areas I did. 103 miles later I'm back home and getting up very, very early in the morning!

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Mon, 08 Jun 2026 22:48:41 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Red-backed Shrike in garden at Toab.

Little Stints x 2 at Pool of Virkie.

Icterine Warbler, Marsh Warbler, Red-backed shrike male along North Road at Exnaboe.

Icterine Warbler at Dalsetter, Boddam.

Common Rosefinch fem. at Geosetter.

ISLANDS

Quail at Baltasound, Unst.

Red-backed Shrike at Aith Community Hall, Isle of Fetlar.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 22:59:47 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Honey Buzzard at Hillwell & Quendale.

Red-backed Shrike in NE corner of Loch of Spiggie.

Rustic Bunting trapped and ringed in garden at Eastshore Road, Virkie.

Quail singing between Ireland and Bigton.

Ring-necked Duck ad. drk again on Loch of Tingwall.

Icterine Warbler at Culsetter, south of Sullom.

Quail singing at Bakkasetter.

ISLANDS

Quails x 2 singing at Ham, Nightjar fem. on Isle of Foula.

Icterine Warbler, Marsh Warbler on Out Skerries.

Marsh Warbler at Skaw, Unst.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

Steve Gantlett has the best picture of the Western Reef Heron – see HERE.

Did the food shopping in the midst of Tesco having a power cut – lots of basic goods I needed were not available, so went to the Co-op to complete my weekly shop. Bolts 24 hour garage pay machines/pumps not working, so no petrol there, had to go to Leasks at Gremista. I was going birding this afternoon, but felt strangely very tired and had to go to bed for a couple of hours. Felt drugged up for the rest of the day, that's the only way to describe how I felt.

It was a financial mistake filling my bird feeders yesterday as loads of juvenile House Sparrows and juvenile Starlings descended into my front garden and all begged to be fed by parents – it was like Piccadilly Circus all day! Queueing up to be fed, splashing in the bird baths, snoozing on branches – all fun to watch! Bird feeders empty! 😂

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 22:56:07 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Greenish Warbler singing in plantation by track by caravan park near school at South Nesting.

Quail singing at Fleck.

Common Rosefinch at Virkie Willows.

Quail singing along North Town Road, Virkie.

Quail SE of Griesta Farm, Loch of Tingwall.

Quail in field opposite Hymhus at Bigton.

Quail singing from A970 layby at Fladdabister.

Common Rosefinch briefly at allotments at Sandwick.

King Eider 1w. fem off North end of Twageos Road, Lerwick.

ISLANDS

Golden Oriole male at Leawart then flew north, Norwick, Unst.

Quail on Isle of Foula.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

Edited and added all Fair Isle photos to posts which took far longer than expected. Strimmed the grass which I had not cut since last year, so it was like a mini field! Then did two cuts with my hand lawn mower on high and then medium setting. Cleaned all the bird baths out and changed and topped up the feeders. Need to get some food shopping in and get out birding! I'm on annual leave next week! 😁

A first for Britain and Ireland turned up today!

Foryd Bay, Caernarfon, Wales

WESTERN REEF HERON

Found by Simon Hughes Roberts

Fair Isle Trip – 28th May to 2nd June 2026!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 15:34:42 +0000

All photographs now added to Fair Isle Posts:

Day 1 – 28th May

https://pennyshotbirdingandlife.blogspot.com/2026/05/fair-isle-trip-day-one.html

Day 2 – 29th May

https://pennyshotbirdingandlife.blogspot.com/2026/05/fair-isle-trip-day-two.html

Day 3 - 30th May

https://pennyshotbirdingandlife.blogspot.com/2026/05/fair-isle-trip-day-three.html

Day 4 – 31st May

https://pennyshotbirdingandlife.blogspot.com/2026/05/fair-isle-trip-day-four.html

Day 5 – 1st June

https://pennyshotbirdingandlife.blogspot.com/2026/06/fair-isle-trip-day-five.html

Day 6 – 2nd June

https://pennyshotbirdingandlife.blogspot.com/2026/06/fair-isle-trip-day-six.html

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:49:36 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Quail at Griesta, Loch of Tingwall.

Greenish Warbler singing in plantation by track by caravan park near school at South Nesting.

Quail in grass by cemetery, Ireland.

King Eider 1w. fem off North end of Twageos Road, Lerwick.

Marsh Warbler singing at Scousburgh.

Temminck's Stint on pool west of B9122, south of Channerwick.

Quail singing in evening at Williamsetter, Bigton.

ISLANDS

Red-throated Pipit on seaweed on beach at Norwick, Unst.

Icterine Warbler in Marsh Marigold Field (elusive), Skaw, Nightjar at Brough, Isle of Whalsay.

Marsh Warbler, Quail on Out Skerries.

Nightjar at Ham, Isle of Foula.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

I was in the hairdressers for the usual three hours, then went to the only three shops here to look for walking boots. I have the best walking shoes ever, a pair of Grisport Dartmoor shoes, but I want to return to having a pair of stout and good quality leather walking boots to support my ankles. I used to have a pair of Zamberlan boots in my late twenties and they were the best boots I've ever had – they fitted perfectly and you could walk straight away in them. I used to suffer with achilles tendon so had to switch to shoes. A few months ago I decided to buy another pair of Zamberlans, but the only pair I could find that were labelled as "wide fit" were a men's pair (makes no difference) being sold by Uttings who are based in Norwich, Norfolk – they didn't have a size 6 and had to order a pair from the manufacturers in Italy, I waited a couple of months. The boots were delivered whilst I was on Fair Isle. I was shocked to find they they were not a wide fit at all and were a tight fit width wise and also the leather was no where near the same quality as they used to be, so they are packed up to return! Shoes have been made narrower and narrower over the years, my late mother also used to say that and my sister Vivien has been having the same issues with finding a pair for Ray. Nothing seemingly is made of the same high quality as it used to be, which is very frustrating. Boots that are too tight width wise became painful when you have walked a long way. The only shop that had a pair that I liked was "Cee & Jays" who do a big range of footwear for outdoor activities, more so in men's though I noticed. I was pleased to find that they had a pair Grisport FUSE boots, but in the wrong size and so they are going to order a size 6 for me to try – lets hope they will be wider enough!

Just made it to my doctor's appointment for 3pm to review my sore thumb from driving in Norfolk which is even worse and extremely painful. It hurts to write and put any pressure on it all and affects every single thing I try to do. The doctor I saw is referring me for an X-Ray and a steroid injection. I need to strim the grass which is the longest its ever been, but don't know if I will be able to do it, I will have a go over the next day or to. Will finish adding all the pictures to my Fair Isle posts tomorrow, although all the phone pictures are added and a few of the SLR shots.

Gorgeous day here with lots of sunshine, hope to get out birding soon!

RBA Weekly Round-Up 29th May to 4th May!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:22:48 +0000

By Jon Dunn

https://www.rarebirdalert.co.uk/v2/Content/WeeklyRoundup2026_22.aspx?s_id=326471916

Thank you to the RBA Team for including my Rustic Bunting and Common Rosefinch from my fabulous trip to Fair Isle.

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 22:59:34 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Glaucous Gull in fields west of road to Sumburgh Head.

King Eider 1w. fem off North end of Twageos Road, Lerwick.

Common Rosefinch in Virkie Willows.

Quail at bottom of track, Ireland.

Quail at Fleck Fields, south of Boddam.

Western Subalpine Warbler still in garden at east end of Troswick Road, Nightjar on wall on north side of croft, Boddam.

Quail at Griesta, Loch of Tingwall.

ISLANDS

Quail singing in fields near Setters Hill Estate, Baltasound, Wood Sandpiper at Haroldswick, Unst.

Icterine Warbler in Marsh Marigold Field, Skaw, Isle of Whalsay.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

It was my early finish at work today and although I felt far more awake than yesterday, I still don't feel fully recovered, so went straight home. Started sorting and editing pictures for my Fair Isle Trip. Had an overdue catch up with Lucy, Vivien & Ray on the phone.

Last night after work I took my washing out of the machine to hang up and realised that I had left my Audubon Bird Call in my coat pocket and of course it now doesn't work at all. I gave it 24 hours to dry out on a radiator and reapplied some resin, but its totally dead, so ordered a new one on Amazon and see that they are not cheap to buy now. My last one cost around £8.00 – must have increased in popularity.

Hairdressers tomorrow and I need to go food shopping asap, finish adding all the photos to my trip reports and then I can go birding!

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 21:37:06 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Nightjar still in garden at Grutness.

Western Subalpine Warbler still in gardens at east end of Troswick Road (very elusive), Boddam.

King Eider 1w. fem off North end of Twageos Road, Lerwick.

Glaucous Gull 1s. on beach at Grutness.

Hawfinch at North Gluss.

ISLANDS

Nightjar, Quail at Ham, Isle of Foula.

Quail singing at Norwick Beach, Unst.

Quail at Tresta, Isle of Fetlar.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

I don't know how I got through work today, but managed it somehow. I returned home and it was an effort just to hang all my washing up. Transferred all my photos from the laptop to an external hard drive and then onto my iMac so will sort through all the photos tomorrow night and add to my Fair Isle posts. Way too tired to even think about going birding. Cleaned up all my optics ready for birding. I had to cancel my hair appointment when I went to Fair Isle and managed to get another appointment for this Friday. I then have a week's holiday for birding here! Also have a few jobs to do including painting a garden seat that was here before I moved in – bought the paint last year, but never got round to doing it.

There has obviously been some fun and games going on whilst I was away, my gate to the front garden was open (its not possible to accidentally leave this open) and an old chair I had sitting behind the gate to Gallow Hill to sit and watch birds was thrown to the side and partially broken, so I have removed the chair altogether. I don't love having a right of way through my drive if youths are going to misbehave here. I feel sure its youngsters from an incident that happened a couple of weeks ago. Nothing I can do about it I suppose. If they are bored, why don't they take up birding!!! It would keep them occupied and with young, sharp eyes, the amount of rarities found on Shetland would massively increase! I don't think I have seen a single young person birding here, which is very sad, when this is such a rich place for wildlife.

Fair Isle Trip – Day Six!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:29:15 +0000

Common Rosefinch
Found this at Vaila's Trees by Stackhoull Stores

Packed up my bag again! Thick fog here and no morning plane going (the only one from Fair Isle on a Tuesday). Had to wear yesterday's clothes which is not funny, but I'll live! Plan C will hopefully happen, which is getting a lift back to Shetland on a working barge (delivering goods back and forth for the new pier), which a few people have gone on already due to cancelled planes. The barge was supposed to leave Lerwick at 7am this morning, arriving Fair Isle at 12pm, 2 hours to unload and then return to Lerwick, but because of waiting for goods it didn't leave Lerwick until about 13.05 and its a 5 hour journey, 2 hours to unload and then will leave Fair Isle at approximately 6pm I guess, so estimate arrival in Lerwick will be midnight or later. Then I will have to hope someone can give me a lift to get my car or else pay for an expensive taxi. I obviously won't get as much sleep as I would have liked, but should be at work at my usual start time of 9am.

I had quite a lucky day really. My friend kindly dropped me at the shop and I checked out Vaila's Trees and found my first Common Rosefinch and managed to get a few pictures before it flew off somewhere behind the shop. Sedge Warbler also in here, 2 Linnets and there was a Chiffchaff in the shop garden.

Crafts, Cakes and Visitors at The Hall

Walked to the hall where there were teas and cakes and craft goods on offer as a cruise ship was visiting. Left here and walked to the observatory. On route I checked out "Chalet", then "The Plantation" where I found nothing at all. At "The Gully", Finnequoy I was overjoyed to find a Grey Wagtail by the stream and waterfall and also found a female Blackcap and a Chiffchaff in the trees at the bottom. Just before the observatory (after the double dyke trap) at "Maver's Geo", there were loads of Puffins showing.

Blackcap and Chiffchaff in these trees at Finnequoy

Blackcap in the trees at Finnequoy

A long way down – see picture above

Grey Wagtail in the stream at Finnequoy

A long way down – see picture below

The Gully and Finnequoy

Puffins at "Maver's Geo"

The Libary, Fair Isle Bird Observatory

I had a packed lunch with me but decided to save this for this evening and had lunch at the observatory. Soup was fabulous and this came with salad and bun with something in that I wasn't familiar with – after asking, I was told it was olives with something, can't remember what. I'm not a lover of olives, but ate it anyway. Discovered the huge library today, they really have done a good job on the design of the new observatory. I asked if any of the single rooms overlook the obs garden, they don't, only the twin rooms overlook the garden. The lounge and separate dining room are spacious and beautifully designed.

The Observatory by the road to North Light

The North Lighthouse in the fog

Golden Water on the way to the North Light

Took a walk up to Northlight and it was now drizzling rain and thicker fog. Bit of a waste of time really as couldn't see much. I was told that today was the anniversary of the Pallas's Reed Bunting (1 year ago) found at the Wirvie Burn just before you reach Golden Water. Made it to the Northlight where there were Puffins on the cliff edge in the foggy gloom. On the way back there was a female Mallard and male Tufted Duck on "Golden Water" which were not there on the way to the lighthouse. The usual Oystercatchers, Fulmars, Ringed Plovers, Starlings, Bonxies, Puffins, Twite and Meadow Pipits were seen on route. It was totally miserable weather now and I phoned a friend to come and pick me up so I could be indoors, dry out and wait to hear when I can get on the barge, which as I type has not arrived into North Haven yet.

I was informed that I had to be at the harbour at 6.45pm. The work barge or tug boat as it is officially called when I looked up the name of the vessel, didn't look much bigger than the Good Shepherd and I became very nervous about the forthcoming 5+ hours of travel. I'm hugely grateful for being given permission to go on this boat as I might have not got home for days. This is a working boat and not designed for passengers, but the crew were fantastic and I was allowed to chill/sleep in a cabin! We left Fair Isle just after 7pm. I was very lucky indeed and the mattress was very comfortable. Took my boots off and got comfortable and to my absolute shock, this vessel was not only a million times better than the Good Shepherd, I didn't feel the slightest bit sick! I had to climb a vertical set of steps to use the toilet and I dared to view out of port hole at one point and the state of the sea looked atrocious, so I quickly looked away and didn't look anymore! How this vessel felt as smooth as it did I really don't know – its a lot wider than the Good Shepherd, that must be partially the reason why I guess.

I napped on and off but felt restless as I was overtired. We arrived in Lerwick at about 1.15am on Wednesday. It was very cold at this time of the morning and it was foggy and spitting with rain. Another lady who also travelled was given a lift home close by and then I was very, very kindly taken to Tingwall airport where my car has been since I flew last Thursday. I'm extremely grateful for the crew member who drove me to my car and especially when he had to start work even earlier than me this morning. If you are reading this, thank you very much indeed. I drove home from Tingwall airport, arriving at about 1.30am.

I couldn't just fall into bed as had to sort some stuff. I had wet muddy trousers etc to put in the washing machine and uniform to sort for the morning etc. It was an insane hour when I finally got into bed and managed to get to work for 9am!

〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰〰

Even though I'm gutted to have missed seeing the Northern Parula (by a day), I had a fabulous time on Fair Isle. It was so good to see people I knew on the island including Josie & Dave, Tommy, Hollie etc and great to see Ashley B. from Norfolk and meet some lovely visiting birders. It was nice to meet Warden Alex Penn (who was very helpful and printed me off an up-to-date map as mine was an older version) and some of the observatory staff including Chris, Tracy, Tom, Luke, Jonnie and Steve & Ruth. It was good to see the new observatory, it really does look fabulous and seems to be very well organised and I was told they have the best cook ever and I heard that people were reporting it was the best food they have ever tasted! It was good to reacquaint myself with all the place names from when I last visited in 2010 and previously. The highlight bird being the striking Rustic Bunting and finding a Common Rosefinch. Looking forward to visiting again some day. Thank you to everyone who made this trip so special. 😊

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:12:35 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Common Rosefinch at Sumburgh Hotel Garden.

Common Rosefinch between gardens and pier at Grutness.

Nightjar at Grutness.

King Eider 1w. fem off North end of Twageos Road, Lerwick.

Western Subalpine Warbler in gardens at east end of Troswick Road (very elusive), Boddam.

ISLANDS

Quail singing at Valyie, Quail singing at Norwick Beach, Unst.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

Fair Isle Trip – Day Five!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 21:50:55 +0000

Chiffchaff in garden at Schoolton

Not much to report today. Humid, hot and too muggy to be walking around this morning, which I have never experienced on Fair Isle! There was lots to sort today as I was supposed to be on the 3.35pm plane back to Tingwall, but neither the am or pm plane departed, both cancelled due to fog. I still had to pack everything this morning though and didn't get confirmation about the plane being cancelled until 2.15pm. Plan B was to go on The Good Shepherd tomorrow morning but its fully booked. I'm booked on the only plane out in the morning, but was told it was highly likely to be cancelled as serious fog here forecast. So I have a plan C, which means I should get home tomorrow, but not going to say how and jinx it!

South of the island somewhere!

Scaup and Shelduck at "Da Water"

Red Admiral in garden at "Schoolton"

Saw a Scaup on "Da Water" which was found by Ashley B and there were also 2 Shelduck, 1 Tufted Duck and a female Mallard with 6 fluffy young – lets hope the Bonxies don't spot them. Several Painted Ladies seen today and a Red Admiral in the garden at Schoolton. The Rustic Bunting seems to have departed, no one could find it today. There was a fall of general migrants found by birders out early doors, but went quiet the rest of the day.

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 21:24:36 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Quail in ditch near community hall, Gulberwick.

King Eider 1w. fem still south of Victoria Pier, Lerwick.

Common Rosefinch at Watsness.

Scaup at Loch of Brow.

ISLANDS

Pacific Diver ad. off The Taing, Norwick, Unst.

Western Subalpine Warbler in garden of Annslea, Little Stints x 2 on beach at Haroldswick, Icterine Warbler, Red-backed Shrike at Valyie, Norwick, Quail at Northdale, Unst.

Icterine Warbler at Voehead, Isle of Bressay.

Red-backed Shrike fem. at crossroads, Gutcher, Yell.

Icterine Warbler in plantation at Skaw, Isle of Whalsay.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

Fair Isle Trip – Day Four!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Sun, 31 May 2026 22:51:11 +0000

RUSTIC BUNTING

Wallie Burn by Auld Haa

It was raining again today and very little sunshine until the afternoon. Ashley Banwell was on a roll and had posted no end of messages out on the Fair Isle WhatsApp group before most people had even crawled out of bed!!! He must have got up at 3am I reckon! I did not get up that early.

RUSTIC BUNTING

Wallie Burn by Auld Haa

I started off with the Rustic Bunting again as wanted to see if I could get any better shots. Liz, Nick, Tom (I think) and Ashley B. were on site when I arrived. The Rustic Bunting was feeding well at close range in the rain. The RB flew across to the wall and sang for ages, so beautiful to listen to. Everyone left and I was here on my own until Andy H. arrived and stood by the entrance to Tommy's garden – he put out news of a Hobby going over which I didn't see and also a Common Rosefinch in the garden, which I heard singing later on when I was on my own. Four birds flew into the chicken run at "Auld Haa" (Tommy's house) and was delighted to see they were Siskins. I was drenched now and the camera needed to be sorted and the only way to achieve this was by getting inside somewhere. I made my way up to the chapel by the museum and sat on a seat to sort out my wet gear, dried camera with my travel towel and packed away into the rucksack. Beautiful stained glass windows here which I took some pictures of. Went to the Kirk to use the toilet and then checked out "Da Water" which had 2 Shelducks and a Tufted Duck. Couldn't find anything of note at "Burkle".

Burkle

Windows inside The Kirk

There were 2 Linnets in the garden opposite Schoolton. Sat on the seat at Schoolton to try again for the Icterine Warbler, failed again! Ashley joined me and we chatted birds and RAR. Hello to Claudia (Ashley's very beautiful wife) and daughter Alice if you are reading this! Left Ashley sitting on the bench and followed the footpath to the shop and checked out Vaila's Trees – only found a Sedge Warbler here and a Chiffchaff. Checked out the next garden, nothing.

Ben – who seeks out anyone new to play ball with

A very sweet natured dog – must be the first canine I have featured on my blog!

At "Chalet" I found 2 Chiffchaffs – had a rest sitting on the steps and then continued to The Plantation where someone earlier had had an Icterine Warbler. Spent ages here and could see no sign of an Icterine Warbler but did have two female Siskins and a Painted Lady butterfly. Didn't have the energy to walk any further so retraced my steps back south. I looked very bedraggled with wet muddy trousers and wet derrière from sitting on moss!

A very amusing sheepdog who I think someone told me is called Ben spotted me coming a mile off (he did this yesterday) sprinted like Usain Bolt with his rubber toy from a long distance away and dropped it at my feet, then crouched down in a pouncing position and waited. If I didn't kick it straight away, he would pick up the toy and drop it at my feet again. After about 10 times (at least) of kicking the ball down the hill I was worn out, but he kept bringing it back. Then another dog joined in too as he realised he was missing out on all the fun! Double trouble!

Met a lovely couple from America called Mark and Chris who were staying at the obs and on their first day had been driven to see the Northern Parula – I don't think they had realised the rarity magnitude of this bird until I explained it all to them. Anyway, I helped them ID some birds they had found, one of which was a Moorhen and possibly a young Redshank on "Da Water".

Sheep near The Plantation

Beach near the Auld Haa

Watched a pair of Skylarks in courtship on the road, but my camera was still tucked up in the bag. Heard a snipe drumming, Curlews and Lapwings calling, Skylarks singing wherever I walked and Twite and Meadow Pipits singing too. Checked out "Chalet" again when news came through of a Western Subalpine Warbler on Unst, Shetland – surely there had to be one here somewhere?! Shirva had a Chiffchaff, but I have not been lucky in seeing other birds found in this garden, which include Hawfinch and a Marsh Warbler. Checked out Vaila's trees again, nothing.

News came on the WhatsApp group of 5 Orca including bull and a calf around Buness and heading east. 2 male birders very kindly asked me if I wanted a lift, but couldn't really as dinner was at 7pm. Long story short, I was over the moon to pick them up distantly from the South Lighthouse at just before 7pm. My first Orca's seen off Fair Isle, SO pleased! Found a birder's notebook on the steps at the lighthouse and quickly found the owner after posting it on the WhatsApp group. What a fabulous end to the day. Tomorrow could be interesting, more about that on Monday!

Sunset from South Light

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Sun, 31 May 2026 21:53:41 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

King Eider 1w. fem still north of Twageos Road, Lerwick.

Little Stint at Boddam Voe.

ISLANDS

Ring-billed Gull on the Bressay side of Noss Sound, Isle of Noss.

Western Subalpine Warbler at Monbrettia Cottage, Haroldswick, Unst,

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

Fair Isle Trip – Day Three!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Sat, 30 May 2026 23:21:59 +0000

Saturday 30th May

Very sunny all day until late afternoon and was actually too hot!

My coat was still drying out this morning but dried out by the time I had finished breakfast! I had a leisurely start today. I had a lift to the shop where I bought a few snacks. Checked out Vaila's Trees and found 2 Mealy Redpolls, but wasn't quick enough to photograph them before they flew off towards the next garden, also Sedge Warbler here and the remains of a Teal. Walked to the next garden where I found a Chiffchaff. Cut across the footpath to Schoolton where I sat on the bench seat for ages trying to see the Icterine Warbler which was seen again this morning – failed to show whilst I was there.

Kenaby

Two birders found an Icterine Warbler at "Brecks" and a Rustic Bunting at "Kenaby" a large white house – a road and area that I realised that I can't recall visting before on previous trips. Found the red house (Brecks) where the Icterine Warbler had been found and it eventually put an a very brief appearance, but sadly not long enough to get a picture. I didn't see the Rustic Bunting here which Tommy said later had to be a second bird as when news came through of this, he was photographing the Rustic Bunting in his garden. A Red-necked Phalarope had been found on "Da Water' which was very close to where I was but then news came out that it was not there now! Made my way up to "Chalet' where I was going to have lunch but changed my mind when Tommy came past in his car to chat to another driver. I asked Tommy if his was going to the obs – he was, so kindly gave me a lift.

North Haven

Pond by observatory

Red-backed Shrike, male in observatory garden

Seal in the North Haven

The lovely male Red-backed Shrike was showing pretty well on and off, which was good to see. Also found a couple of Chiffchaffs in the garden and a Red Admiral and a Tortoiseshell Butterfly. Headed over to North Haven and sat here for lunch enjoying the spectacular views of the beach and beyond here. A seal was in the harbour along with Black Guillemots, Eiders, Fulmars and Gannets distantly. A Rock Pipit was on the foreshore and I had my first Painted Lady of the year!

Near the double dyke trap, not far from the observatory

Finnequoy and The Gully

The Plantation

It was really hot now and if I had had a teashirt, that's all you would have needed, but I had come unprepared for hot weather so had to put up with my thermal layers! I had forgotten about Finnequoy, so glad I didn't miss this out before I leave. In the trees at the bottom of the valley by the stream a small LBJ flicked through the foliage. I waited and waited. Another movement and it then flew extreme left of the trees, the second I focussed to where it flew, it disappeared again, so frustrating! I had to give up in the end and later told an obs team member so they could check it out. At The Plantation I didn't manage to find a single bird in here, which surprised me. Found another Painted Lady butterfly along the road. So lovely to see all the Spring flowers out here including Spring Squill, Bird's-foot Trefoil and Cuckooflower.

After walking up a very long section of road in the heat, it was a joy to find a bench to rest on at the top of the road – sat here for around 15 minutes and then carried on. Somewhere near "Setter" I bumped into Norfolk birder Ashley Banwell (I had heard from others he was arriving today). Ashley had come in on the Good Shepherd and was supposed to have arrived yesterday by plane, but all flights cancelled due to poor visibility. Whilst having a catch up, Ashley found a Ruff out on the field between "Chalet" and "Pund" and there were loads of hirundines in the air over a house back down the road. Ashley went south and I headed north.

The Chapel and Kirki Mire

I checked out Vaila's Trees again but didn't find anything at all this time. The weather had deteriorated a little with very light rain. I felt totally shattered but went to The Auld Haa Garden and Walli Burn to have a second look at the Rustic Bunting, but couldn't find it anywhere.

After dinner, I was kindly taken out for at night out at the obs – a presentation about the Borneo Nature Foundation which was very interesting and the room was packed out. Afterwards we had a drink in the bar. Met a young lady who lived on Shetland, who was here for a short visit doing a knitting experience trip (think that's what she said) who was nice to meet and also chatted with Tracy who works at the observatory, very nice lady. However the highlight of the entire evening for me was saying hello to Stewart Thompson who remembers Richard Richardson visiting Fair Isle, but an even bigger surprise was the fact that he also remembers Geoff Want from Norwich, Norfolk too! I couldn't believe it! I don't know anyone left that remembers Geoff. Stewart said he had some of Geoff's paintings and I told him I did too. Such a lovely evening, but now behind with typing the blog up, which I have just finished. Pictures are going to have be added when I return home to Scalloway, don't want to waste any valuable sleep and birding time here on my short visit. Goodnight!

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Sat, 30 May 2026 22:06:07 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Red-backed Shrike fem at Hillwell.

King Eider 1w. fem off beach at Gulberwick.

Little Stint at Boddam.

King Eider 1w. fem still north of Twageos Road, Lerwick.

Turtle Dove in garden at West Sandwick.

ISLANDS

Pacific Diver ad. off The Taing, Quail singing, Icterine Warbler at Valyie, Norwick, Little Stint still on beach at Haroldswick, Northern Diver ad drk (possible) still at shore station, Burrafirth, Unst.

Greenish Warbler at Skaw, Isle of Whalsay.

Ring-billed Gull still at Voe of the Mels, Noss.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

Fair Isle Trip – Day Two!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Fri, 29 May 2026 21:30:21 +0000

RUSTIC BUNTING
Wallie Burn, Auld Haa

The alarm went off at 5am and I was out of the door birding at 5.45am. It was a little gloomy first thing, but then the morning developed into full blue skies and sunshine. However the afternoon was fairly heavy rain and I ended up completely soaked. Finished birding at 6.30pm.

Shirva

Walked as far as the shop and Vaila's Trees before breakfast which was at 8am. Birds seen on route were Arctic Terns, Arctic Skuas, Bonxies, Fulmars, Ringed Plovers. Counted 40 Oystercatchers in a field. 2 Collared Doves were on the roof of Shirva and there was also a Chiffchaff there. At Vaila's Trees (where the Northern Parula was 😢 a day ago) I found 2 Sedge Warblers, a Common Whitethroat and what could only been a Garden Warbler briefly and distantly. Also watched two Twite feeding in the grass by the shop. Just got back in time for breakfast.

Twite by Stackhoull Stores

Bird Observatory

Bird Observatory and garden

Willow Warbler in the observatory garden

Pond by observatory and North Haven
Pier works going on!

Sheep Rock

North Haven

I asked my friend for a lift to the shop, so I could continue birding from there, but changed my mind and was kindly given a lift to the observatory. The sun was glorious now. The new observatory looks truly amazing! Went inside and asked for an up-to-date map and was kindly invited into the lounge area whilst someone got me a map. Met Andy Hall who had found the Pectoral Sandpiper at Sandsyre Pier at Leebitten, Shetland recently. The lounge and dining area looks stunning. Left here and walked down to North Haven and the sea looked so beautiful with turquoise clear waters and took quite a few pictures here. Walked back up the obs garden and spent a while trying to find something. Found a Chiffchaff and a Small Tortoiseshell butterfly. A few people had seen Painted Ladies today, but I didn't see any.

RUSTIC BUNTING
Wallie Burn, Auld Haa

I was just walking up the hill to bird along the main road when a message came up that a Rustic Bunting had been found at Wallie Burn by Auld Haa (Tommy's house). I have only ever seen one before anywhere so phoned my friend to ask her to if she could pick me up. Around 15 minutes later I was on site with several other birders! Had a distant view looking straight into the sun, so walked around the burn to be the opposite side for photography reasons which is what Steve Arlow and others were also doing. The Rustic Bunting was a cracking bird, really striking, Wow! Quite happily feeding along the burn and was sometimes perched on the wall singing!!! Never heard a Rustic Bunting singing before! Met Warden Alex Penn here. I eventually tore myself away. Had a lovely catch up chatting with Tommy in his funky colourful trousers.

Auld Haa

Chiffchaff in garden at Schoolton

Made my way to Schoolton (Liz and Nick's garden) where Liz had found an Icterine Warbler. I stopped on route at Burkle where two birders had flushed a Quail from a small copse below the chapel and it headed to Burkle but we didn't see it. I found a Redpoll which turned out to be a Mealy that was with 3 Twite on the fence line at the furthest point in the garden. Continued to Schoolton and sat and waited for the Icterine Warbler to appear. Steve A said he had seen it, but he thought it had flown towards Burkle. I had my lunch here sat on a seat but didn't seen the Icterine Warbler. Couple of Chiffchaffs in the garden and Rock Doves. At "Da Water" I found 2 Shelducks.

The Chapel

Vaila's Trees

Vaila's Trees and Stackhoull Stores

Fulmars near Auld Haa

Common Rosefinch near Auld Haa

Walked back up the main road and ambled back towards all the main gardens and shop area. At "Chalet" the rain came down heavily enough for me to have to scramble to put my camera away in rucksack. Found 2 Chiffchaffs in Chalet garden. Someone had found a Common Rosefinch in the same burn area as the Rustic Bunting so was planning to try and see that later. On route I met Tom (lovely lad) who was the finder of the Northern Parula and congratulated him on his insane find! In the continued heavy rain I didn't really find anything else of note, but did find 1 Snipe. Spent a good while checking out Vaila's Trees again and other gardens. Returned to the Wallie Burn and there was one other person out in the pouring rain, a young lad who was with NatureTrek and he had the Common Rosefinch, so this helped me enormously. It was feeding in a small burn that ran away from a stone wall. I went through a double gate and stood and photographed this in a short break in the rain (lucky me and camera) and then had to put the camera gear away quickly as the rain fell again. Returned "home", had an awesome tea and felt completely burnt out.

South Lighthouse

I was invited to be taken to the bird log at 8pm at the observatory, but was totally cream-crackered. Started to go through my six hundred and something pictures of the Rustic Bunting and Common Rosefinch and was falling asleep. Gave up, had a shower and went to bed early and slept like a log.

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Fri, 29 May 2026 20:49:17 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Little Stint at Boddam.

Common Rosefinch at Veensgarth.

King Eider 1w. fem off beach at Gulberwick.

ISLANDS

Pacific Diver ad. off beach, Quail off beach at Norwick, Little Stints x 2 on beach at Haroldswick, Little Stint in small bay near Da Otters Neuk, Northern Eider drk off Burrafirth Beach, Unst.

Common Rosefinch at Skaw, Isle of Whalsay.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

RBA Weekly Round-Up 22nd to 28th May!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Fri, 29 May 2026 20:40:39 +0000

By Jon Dunn

https://www.rarebirdalert.co.uk/v2/Content/WeeklyRoundup2026_21.aspx?s_id=117384044

Fair Isle Trip – Day One!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Thu, 28 May 2026 20:55:10 +0000

I've been wanting to return to Fair Isle again for so long and I can't believe that after living for over three years in Shetland that I haven't organised a trip across the water! Its been 16 years since my last visit! I had intended to plan a trip over on my next annual leave off which is June, but I decided to try very hard and bring it forward to see the Northern Parula. It took a lot of working out, one minute I was half going on the Good Shepherd, but changed my mind because it was leaving from Lerwick and there is no way for any bird or person was I travelling for four and a half hours on that washing machine trip! Anyway after lots of phone calls and arranging accommodation and getting time off work, I was insanely lucky and got a flight booked for today which had been cancelled. I found this out and booked this flight at 7.55am yesterday (Wednesday). The Northern Parula was being watched on Tuesday, but as luck would have it, an hour or too after booking my flights, the NP had disappeared overnight! Warblers are my favourite birds, I would have given the world to see that, but sadly it wasn't to be. I made the decision to carry on with my trip anyway, as its been way too long since I last visited the "emerald isle".

I recently purchased lots of bedding plants for my garden and I knew if didn't get them in pots and in the garden, that I would potentially lose them whilst I'm away, so gardened until 10.50pm last night. Then..... I had to pack for my trip! I also had to stand on the scales several times to ensure my total luggage didn't exceed 15kg which is the maximum weight limit on the 7 seater Airtask plane. 9 kg of the weight was my backpack containing camera gear, laptop etc.

Went to work today and then had a very early finish with TOIL owed at 2.38pm. Drove straight to Tingwall Airport. At 3.30pm I checked in and my luggage was exactly 15kg, brilliant|! Had a lovely catch up with Hollie Shaw who had been away. There were 7 of us on the plane. I didn't take my serious sickness tablets, just took some Stugeron tablets, mistake, big time! This flight was hideous to say the least. It was the perfect day to take pictures of the glittering turquoise seas below, but OMG I felt sick and had a sick bag ready, there is no way I was in a state to take pictures. I couldn't take my eyes off the back of the pilots seat in front of me for the majority of the journey. The plane was really rocking for quite a while and the other passengers told me when we got off that it was not a fun ride and that there had been a cross wind and the plane was border line being cancelled. If I had had a crystal ball, I would not have stepped foot on there at all!

On the runway at Tingwall, before the plane moved!

15kg of luggage including Bonxie protection stick!

Anyway, landing on the airstrip was a huge relief. I was shaking when I got off and in a real state. My friends I'm staying with met me at the airstrip and then took me to their gorgeous home. My body and mind settled after a while. After a cup of tea and two gorgeous little buns, I wandered out with bins and camera for a pre dinner walk. Dinner was at 7pm. I ambled as far as Tommy H's house, "Auld Haa". It was SO good to be back here, so good! 6 plus swallows and 2 House Martins skimming over the pitch and putt, a few Wheatears, House Sparrows, Rock Doves and the usual seabirds including Gannets and Eiders. I didn't have time to walk to any of the gardens and places where they had been some scarce migrants today. Michelin starred cooking with vegetable chill with rice and yoghurt, guacamole dip and tacos and the best rhubarb crumble and custard I have ever experienced! Before I arrived on Fair Isle today I had lost 1 stone and 6 pounds. Will be restarting the diet when I return to Shetland in a few days time!

Looking forward to a early night's sleep and getting out early in the morning.

It feels surreal and strangely odd, but truly wonderful to be here again. Looking forward to exploring tomorrow! Here are a few quick snaps I took on my walk.

Scenes around Fair Isle

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Thu, 28 May 2026 20:18:12 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

King Eider 1w. fem off beach at Gulberwick.

ISLANDS

Pacific Diver ad. off beach, Quail off beach at Norwick, Unst.

Common Rosefinch in Tresta Gardens, Isle of Fetlar.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

Another gorgeously warm day here at 15 degrees and far too hot in the hospital.

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Wed, 27 May 2026 22:59:41 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Black Redstart at Sumburgh Farm.

Pectoral Sandpiper on Isle of Mousa.

King Eider 1w. fem off beach at Gulberwick.

ISLANDS

Pacific Diver ad. off beach at Norwick, Unst.

Ring-billed Gull ad. at Voe of the Mels, Isle of Noss.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

NORTHERN PARULA no sign today sadly😭

Warmest day so far this year, didn't realise it was 15 degrees until I left work this evening. Spent all evening potting up all my new bedding plants and given everything a good watering.

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Tue, 26 May 2026 22:42:15 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Pectoral Sandpiper again at by Sandsayre Pier, Leebitten, Sandwick.

Ring-necked Duck drk still at Loch of Tingwall.

ISLANDS

Nightjar, Icterine Warbler at Gorie, Isle of Bressay.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

NORTHERN PARULA still on Fair Isle!!!

Sunny day here, but no more than 10 degrees here with NW winds.

SHETLAND BIRD NEWS & MORE!

noreply@blogger.com (Penny Clarke) — Mon, 25 May 2026 22:57:57 +0000

Rare Bird Alert News

MAINLAND

Pectoral Sandpiper again at by Sandsayre Pier, Leebitten, Sandwick.

Ring-necked Duck drk still at Loch of Tingwall.

Honey Buzzard at Southpunds, Levenwick.

ISLANDS

Nightjar, Icterine Warbler, Wood Warbler at Gorie, Isle of Bressay.

Alpine Swift on Isle of Foula.

https://www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk/latest_sightings.html

NORTHERN PARULA still on Fair Isle!!!

So busy at work today, I didn't notice what the weather was doing, but when I left work it was gloomy and misty. Checked out my road for any migrants, couldn't find any, but 2 Siskins on my feeders with the usual House Sparrows, Starlings and Collared Doves.