Scilly 26 - Day 13

News of a Wryneck at Little Porth found by Andrew Holden early doors decided our first "Port of Call"...

Finally made it to another favourite bench! No sign of it in an hour but a relaxing start in superb weather. We did see a young Seal making its way back to the Sea after resting up.

Next it was Porthloo once more. Far better conditions today with a gentle breeze and a VERY low tide...

Larger numbers of Oystercatchers (45) and Turnstones (30) taking advantage of the excellent feeding opportunity.

I then heard a Curlew but couldn't locate it. A Little Egret was easier to spot. I was hoping for better views of Black Redstart but there was no sign of any. Then, another familiar 7 note call...a Whimbrel (58). I caught sight of a probable landing way out in the Bay under Taylor's Island. I managed to locate it with my camera and confirm the ID...

The Bird was in the far Bay c300 yds

Sighting and Bird of the Day.

After lunch we tried the Airport car park but nothing of note was seen...

...the view is spectacular though. we watched the Scillonian leave at 2...

Next was Old Town Bay which was also quiet, a familiar tale! We then moved on to Carn Gwaval...

A nice sheltered spot with some decent habitat which brought back more memories. I saw a Red-breasted Flycatcher here once. I gave it an hour but all I managed was a solitary Chiffchaff!

We ended up back at Porthloo to enjoy the late afternoon atmosphere. Still no Black Redstart. However, I did record my first (overdue) Kestrels (59). An inquisitive Robin was cute...

...as was this showy Wren...

The pair of Stonechats remained...

Inter-Island boats ran today but nothing significant was reported. Our last FULL day tomorrow, so still time for "something"? If that PARULA WARBLER is coming...it better hurry up!

The mainland MEGAS have disappeared. My Autumn isn't panning out as hoped...to say the least!!!

Stay tuned...

Trip Total - 59 Species

Scilly 26 - Day 12

We're still going...still trying...still searching...but not seeing...much!

A clear sunny day with a decreasing, moderate wind. We started on Porthcressa with a Coffee. A decent number of Pied Wagtails had arrived (c10)...

A fine example

I also noted Stonechat and Rock Pipit amongst the usual fayre. There was no sign of the reported Guillemot in Little Porth from Sunday.

We visited Porthloo briefly but the wind was "wrong" so we tucked ourselves away at Rocky Hills...

... where I added Stock Dove (57). The mature appearance of this area now was another reminder of how long I've been coming here! I remember when they planted some of these Trees. Nothing seen. I bumped into another Birder who'd been here 3 weeks and he lamented on the lack of common and scarce Migrants this Autumn. "Very strange" was his comment.

We then tried Holy Vale...

Again no luck.

I have to be honest, by mid-afternoon the enthusiasm had faded somewhat as we'd tried most sheltered spots that the Cart could access. No rain again but the blustery cool wind was a problem. Louise enjoyed driving the Island and we saw a few Birders nobly working the spots. Out for a meal at our favourite Pub tonight, then an early start tomorrow to try yet again.

Stay tuned...

Trip Total - 57 Species

Scilly 26 - Day 11

As today is..."dead", I thought I'd post a few thoughts from a "Senior" Birder as we enjoy the mild afternoon temperature on Town Beach...

I've just secured a Cart for the next 3 days due to the helpful attitude of the staff. They officially closed for the Season on Saturday. It comes with an excellent driver. After last Thursday's mass exodus, there's not many of "us" left now, bar the locals. No arrivals still and the coming days are still uncertain. If the Scillonian sails on Wednesday it's going to be quote..."uncomfortable"!!!

Some gamble on location, as I do. Some stay at home and wait for Alerts. Like all Island Hotspots there can be quiet periods. These can last for several days. With the limited number of local Species available, this can test the resolve of the intrepid searchers. It doesn't bother me, "hope springs eternal". I've put a few shifts in here over the Years, some have done more, some less. I guess if you love a location, you stay faithful to it.

Louise has always supported my Birding and the sacrifices she has made over the past 20 years need acknowledgement. I've took her to Rubbish Tips, Sewage Works etc and never heard a murmur (well maybe once or twice). She's also put up with less than optimum temperatures early in our Cyprus visits. I've also always departed on a crazy Twitch with her full blessing, which makes all the difference.

Now, it's time for a change...A time to pay her back. 

This will be my last visit to the Fortunate Isles...at least for our holiday. Again...Time of Life. The hills are tough enough and we've trod them for many Years. I will miss them hugely but it's the right shout, I feel. I may still throw the odd solo visit in. 

A "Place in the Sun" is now required. 

I hate the dark Winter night's with every passing Year and any time I can escape I will, budget and commitments permitting. All being well, I'll be going to see my Son Robert for 3 weeks in Dubai in the New Year and we have a month in Mandria, Cyprus in April. Later this time for hopefully warmer temperatures for her. Next Autumn, I'll remain at home until the clocks change. Then we'll be off to Mallorca for 3 weeks. 25c is my "comfort limit" and these locations suit us perfectly at this time of Year. More "Birds for your Buck"!

The rest of the time I'm happy enjoying Birding my 2 Patches. "Enjoyment" being the Key word.

Hopefully there'll be something significant to talk about from here before our Friday afternoon departure. I'd like to sign off with a "Biggy"

Stay tuned...

Trip Total - 56 Species

Scilly 26 - Day 10

"Morning after" report after a great night at the rejuvenated Bishop and Wolf...

We started yesterday at Newford Duck Pond continuing to dip Yellow-browed Warbler...

A Grey Wagtail was a nice surprise as was the sight of water in it! A few Redwings (c10) went over as did some very late Swallows (8). I bumped into another pair of "Scilly stalwarts" and had yet another good chat about possibilities and great memories...as you do. They're here for the rest of the week also, so I hoped I'd see them again...if you get my drift.

Sunday, so Hugh Town refreshments not an option. It was Longstones last day so we popped in a couple of times during the day. A great spot. Apple Pie was top notch!

We checked many spots around the Island but it was tough going. The wind was still strong as it was throughout the Country. We found some sheltered spots, including Old Town Churchyard...

...and Porth Hellick/Higher Moors but nothing was seen...

I saw a BLACKPOLL WARBLER here in 2007

 I did find some more Redwings (8) on the School Playing Field...

So, no new Trip additions. No rain lately but still strong wind. You may have noticed I haven't been "off Island" this Year, a combination of Sea State and circumstance. I WILL venture for a Big 1 but otherwise I'll remain on St Mary's. I've booked a Cart for the next 3 days (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) as the weather improves and hopefully brings some "good stuff" in. Time will tell? Slow morning today but I'll be out this afternoon.

A couple of good mates have connected with the NUTCRACKER in Norfolk. I'll take a peek if it's still there on return. As for the Flamborough Bird?

Stay tuned...

Trip List - 56 Species

Scilly 26 - Day 9

Wet and Windy!

Like most of Britain now. News came through early that there would be no transport to or from the Islands till Tuesday at least. The Boat won't sail until Wednesday! This obviously affects many people...and Birders. I feel particularly sorry for those trying to get ON (there's worse places to be if you can't get off...as long as you can get accommodation). Looking forward to a Visit only to see it thwarted by the Weather is cruel indeed. Some I know have abandoned their Trip altogether. Some I guess will try to fly over on Tuesday?

More MEGA news today with the much anticipated arrival in Britain of a NUTCRACKER!!! Fortunately I'm old enough to have seen the Cocknage Wood Bird in Staffs 2/11/1991. This was straight after my first visit here! From reports I'm seeing this Bird is exhibiting the same liking for Gardens. The Bird I saw was EXTREMELY tame.

I rose early to prepare for my visit to Porth Hellick to try for the SORA. I met my Taxi at 8 and I was in the Seaward Hide 30 minutes later. I figured most would have seen it by now and an early arrival would guarantee me a seat in the tiny Hide. This paid off, as it was empty. This was just as well as it was raining heavily in a strong wind. Once settled, I started to scan the mud in front of and either side of the Hide...

The light was poor...

At least I was OUT and Birding. Almost immediately a Kingfisher (52) landed on the T perch right in front of the Hide. Far to dark and quick for a pic. To the right of the Hide I picked up a bobbing movement that could only mean one thing...

Jack Snipe (53)

Arguably THE best place in Britain to get extended close views of this Species? Common Snipe (54) was also present. No sign of the main target though in an hour. Then 3 of the locals appeared, I recognised Higgo and enjoyed their company for a good while but we couldn't locate the SORA. After they moved on Bernie Beck and his mate appeared and later Spider turned up but still no sign by 10. Yet another Birder appeared, he looked through the side slit and immediately said casually "the SORA'S here!!!

...and so it was...

The light was still VERY poor and the Bird was constantly on the move feeding but it gave incredibly close views and at one point was right in front of the Hide to 10'!!! It had appeared from out of the blue. Timing eh!

This is my 4th Record here, following on from 1991, 2005 (Tresco) and 2013. Again. definitely the Location to see this Species...

After thanking "the finder"he left the Hide as did Bernie and his mate. I wasn't going anywhere in this weather, as it continued to "sheet down" with typical Western Approaches rain! Then an old mate turned up, namely Mark Halliday. It was great to see him again. We've known each other for many years and we talked for a good hour (quietly) before I had to leave for my return transport. He told me his mates Paul Freestone and Adam Hutt were supposed to be joining him for the Week but that is now unfortunately, out of the question. Really bad luck.

I have been more fortunate...on this occasion, as we have until Friday afternoon (at least!?) to enjoy the Islands further and hopefully...I will have something "special" to see. 

I got another chance with the Kingfisher thanks to Mark...

Cart Day tomorrow.

Trip Total - 56 Species

Scilly 26 - Day 8

A short one tonight as basically not much happening. Tremendous overnight Storm. Fortunately our bedroom is in the basement so we missed all the racket.

I returned to Porthcressa as it faces South and was reasonably sheltered as the Winds continued to be Gale Force. No rain though mercifully. I bumped into Dick Filby who I had been told, had left the Islands. He's almost certainly delayed his departure due to the Storm. Smart move.

The horizon looked angry beyond Morning Point...

St Agnes in the distance

A report that the Great Northern Diver had remained in the Bay had me searching diligently. Granted it was obviously choppy but all I saw were Shags and Cormorants?

I didn't expect to see the Boss but she turned up with a Latte. I chose well!

Then a Merlin circled the Bay disturbing everything in its path. I've had several great sightings this Trip. Always special.

Then a "context sighting". You know I like one of those! The "prom" always has scrounging House Sparrows present, as do all of the outdoor eating establishments. One Bird caught my eye on the very edge...

Greenfinch - my first of the Trip!

Tomorrow I'll be getting wrapped up as I'm grabbing an early Taxi to Porth Hellick to try (at last) for the SORA. Not many visiting Birders left now so I should get a place in the Hide? The Forecast is grim indeed with rain joining the continuing Gale Force wind. It's set to continue throughout the day, so I may be watching/listening to the Footy in the afternoon. I'm keen but hopefully not too daft!

Cart booked for Sunday. Stay tuned...

Trip Total - 51 Species

Scilly 26 - Day 7

Another "Twist of Fate" occurred early doors...

8.56 East Yorkshire male SIBERIAN RUBYTHROAT Spurn 

You have to laugh?!

Coupled with the continuing presence of the RUFOUS-TAILED ROBIN at Flamborough and the CHESTNUT BUNTING on Shetland, Autumn 26 isn't going too well for yours truly!!!

Not forgetting the remaining taxonomic nightmare Shrike in my Village!

Ah well... onwards. My transport arrived at 9.15 with the "Good Lady" behind the wheel. She brought great news that we can hire a Cart next week after all, which is a huge bonus under the circumstances.

As we were leaving news came through of a Scaup (50) in Porthcressa Bay with the feral Ducks! This was handy as the Bay is just behind our apartment. On arrival a few admirers were already present and the Bird was showing well close in to the Beach...

We also had a sighting of the Scillonian arriving...

It was leaving at 11 before the Storm gathered strength. We won't see it again till Monday...at least? There where also some Mediterranean Gulls showing well further along the Beach...

I bumped into Simon again. He was leaving at lunchtime so it was nice to be able to say goodbye for another Year. One of the good guys.

We then headed up to the Garrison at the Star Castle Hotel... 

The view from here is magnificent and one of the best on the Island for me...

We watched her leave as the horn sounded...

Bon Voyage

As you know, for me the Sea is for looking at, not being on but I have to admit to a touch of nostalgia, bearing in mind this will be its last Season before being replaced. She's been serving the Islands since 1977! My first sail was 1991 in a Force 8. I've wised up since then.

We then headed to a few new areas including Content Farm and Rocky Hills without seeing anything of interest. A few Trip Ticks were on offer including a Lapwing but we couldn't find it...or anything else for that matter. We had 30 minutes at Porthloo and I managed better views of Black Redstart...

... before adjourning for lunch at Longstones. We were aware that the Weather was going to deteriorate but we managed to get to 3 before the rain and wind arrived and Louise returned the Cart.

We'll be hunkering down for a period now as the Islands deal with the Storm. Gale Force winds overnight and through Friday, followed by torrential rain on Saturday. 

What did I say about Shetland lol! So... this part of the "Master Plan" is still in place, as we have till next Friday for Birds to arrive?

As I'm pacing myself I thought I'd revisit (encourage myself) with some "Previous Records" of mine from here that have occurred after the 22nd...

1991

SORA

GREY-CHEEKED THRUSH also 2002

BUFF-BELLIED PIPIT

1996

BLACK AND WHITE WARBLER

AMERICAN BLACK DUCK

1997

COMMON YELLOWTHROAT

BLACKPOLL WARBLER

1999

CHIMNEY SWIFT

UPLAND SANDPIPER

COMMON NIGHTHAWK

2004

OVENBIRD

2006 

AQUATIC WARBLER

AMERICAN ROBIN

2007

ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK

2008

SNOWY OWL

2011

NORTHERN WATERTHRUSH

2020

INDIGO BUNTING

This isn't a boast (you should know me by now) just a statement of fact. There will obviously have been other records that I didn't see. So, plenty of possibilities. Maybe something will arrive, maybe it won't BUT this Storm brings promise and I'm handily placed. Also Birds turn up even later in November like my HERMIT THRUSH 29/11/2019. There was also a CAPE MAY WARBLER on Bryher from November 10th - December 4th.

Stay tuned...

Trip Total - 50 Species

Scilly 26 - Day 6

A wild night here. Thankfully the wind is abating and only isolated showers this morning. I'm back on Porthcressa scanning...and anticipating some developments. 

I took my eye off the ball with the Flamborough "Robin". As I'm down here I set my Alerts to suit. Turns out the Robin is one I haven't seen. To compound matters one of those funny Shrikes has only gone and turned up in my Village!!!

I'm STILL glad I'm here though... keeping the faith. Relegation is looming lol! Do I protest too much?Hopefully something to celebrate soon. It's looking like the last Boat of the Week will be tomorrow at 11 as the Storm approaches. It's possible we won't see it again till Tuesday!

Today was VERY quiet. I had a nice chat with an Essex Birder called Graham in the shelter on Porthcressa mid-afternoon. Two old boys putting the Birding scene to rights! A fellow Scilly Stalwart. Really enjoyed it. I managed to inadvertently find a Sandwich Tern (47) in the rocky Island...

The camera is useful in acting as a "scope" on occasions. Saves lugging the latter around all the time! Graham picked out a Peregrine and a Merlin (48) but we couldn't re-find the late Tern despite extensive searching. 

Another Cart Day tomorrow. Stay tuned...

Trip Total - 48 Species

Scilly 26 - Day 5

Up early and onto Porthcressa on a fine clear morning. Invigorating...

I made my way towards Little Porth (previous successes include Surf Scoter, Red-throated Pipit, Rose-coloured Starling and Nightingale) and on arrival a pair of Stonechats were waiting for me...

4 Redwings over were new for the Trip as was the sinister presence of a Peregrine gliding across the Bay from the Garrison towards Peninnis. I met Louise with the Cart and after grabbing a couple of take-away Latte's we headed to Porthloo to enjoy them in the sunshine...

Taxi!

We tried Borough Farm...

...and Maypole...

...without seeing anything of note. A message then informed me that the Scilly MEGA namely Bullfinch had be seen again at Shooters Pool. I decided to give it an hour before Lunch. On arrival I nooticed Simon at the far end of the screen. I joined him for the duration of my visit but the Bird didn't show. Good company though!

After Lunch at Longstones we dropped into Carrag Dhu again to try for Firecrest. Needle and Haystack spring to mind...but you gotta try...right? Our friend appeared as soon as we sat on our bench...

A fine specimen

After some 30 minutes as I was looking into the tree above the Bird Bath...

...there it was on a bare branch briefly...a fine male!!! I deserved it lol! Definitely "Bird of the Day". The rain set in around 3.30 so we returned the Cart and headed "home".

A couple of "good blows" coming through tomorrow...

...and Friday

Stay tuned...

Trip Total - 46 Species