VARIED THRUSH - 3 Years on...

A combination of a relatively "quiet" Autumn and the start of "Wintertime" had me reminiscing somewhat. On this date 3 years ago I spent the whole day with a VARIED THRUSH on Papa Westray. A truly monumental experience for yours truly.

So, to cheer myself up I thought I'd revisit the occasion and give a condensed version of events leading up to and during my visit. The full original report is in my Top Ten in the right hand column. 

The first thing to say is that I may struggle to do a similar Twitch in the future? Reading back through the post I sometimes wonder how I managed it!!! Also, I was lucky it remained present (first seen Wednesday) until I left Scilly on Friday afternoon. It seems we drove to Bury (354 miles) arriving early Saturday morning (smart Motorways getting another mention). An afternoon drive back to Holmpton (110 miles) then North into Scotland in the evening. A few hours kip then onto Scrabster (501 miles) for the Ferry at Noon. Basically Lands End to John O'Groats...ish. Taxi across Orkney, then plane to Papa (72 miles), just connecting before Dusk, thanks to David Roche picking us up at the Airport. Crackers but adrenaline filled!!!!!!

Having experience of the Island (STELLER'S EIDER) and the Hostel made Sunday evening and night VERY relaxing and satisfying. The only question now was...would it be there tomorrow? Thankfully it was.

On reflection I'm leaning towards this Twitch being my favourite. The combination of distance covered, location and Species...is hard to beat. The NIGHTHAWK and ALBATROSS will remain very special as both were surprise flight views...as well as being charismatic. I DO love a Thrush though...especially a Zoothera (always will be to me)...

Roll on Spring...

Scilly 24 Summary

Back home now after another memorable visit. An interesting return after a bonus night. We enjoyed Saturday morning and left on time at 1.50. We made good progress to Gloucester Services arriving at 6.30. However, things went pear-shaped after that as we encountered another section of "Smart Motorway". I had my rant earlier, suffice to say this was worse, as we obviously encountered it in darkness. We lost around an hour (seemed like three) before arriving at my Mother's at 10.30. We returned over the Pennines early Sunday afternoon and I picked the boys up Monday morning. Still adjusting after pushing it, as usual, BUT...just glad I could get around OK after earlier mobility issues. Hilly Scilly is definitely a challenge and getting more so each Year!!! I'm still going and proud of it...considering. I reckon I topped 80 Miles during the visit and Louise wasn't far behind. We visited all five Islands at least once and enjoyed some stunning Weather (too nice?) and Scenery. The Apartments and Pubs were up to their usual high standards...as were the Pasties!

As for the Birds?

The BIG moment was a brief sighting of a COMMON NIGHTHAWK over Longstones Cafe, which unfortunately didn't develop later in the day/week.

I added 3 Species to my Scilly List, reaching a personal landmark 250. Namely...

BLACK KITE

Little Tern

WOODCHAT SHRIKE

Other noteables...

Barnacle Geese - deemed to be wild Birds

Osprey

Dotterel

WILSON'S SNIPE - maybe?

Hoopoe

Wryneck

Short-toed Lark

BLYTH'S PIPIT

Olive-backed Pipit

ISABELLINE WHEATEAR

Red-breasted Flycatcher

Spotted Flycatcher

Firecrest

Raven

Misses

LESSER YELLOWLEGS - no specific attempt. 2 commuted between Tresco and Bryher

Spoonbill - where is Green Island?!

YBW - Do they really exist?!

Jack Snipe - usually guaranteed

Merlin

Peregrine

Hen Harrier - would have been a Scilly Tick

It was nice to have a few conversations with some of the characters that grace the Islands in October. We bumped into Viv Stratton and his loyal Sheepdog on more than one occasion. Dick Filby did his usual excellent job of relaying information over the radio. Meeting Ron Johns was also a nice moment. We also had a conversation with Alan Hannington on the boat over to Bryher to see the BLYTH'S PIPIT. Bumping into Scilly stalwart Martin was also an annual pleasure.

It wasn't a classic Year and I don't want to repeat what I've already said in the daily diary...hopefully! You can't see a BLACKBURNIAN WARBLER every Year!! The first day was the most exciting as I went from one Bird to another with a fly-over BLACK KITE thrown in for good measure. Yet another "radio" assist.

My second trip to Bryher connecting with the Dotterel at such close quarters was special, as was my incredibly close views of Whooper Swans. I intend to do a separate post on this marvellous day later with some photos, when I've been through them.

This was my 30th visit to the Islands and I'll hopefully be back again next October...if not before? I know I've said this after previous visits BUT where else could you see these Species in a fortnight within a few Miles of each other? Answer - Nowhere!

Trip Total - 85 Species

Scilly 24 - Day 16

Writing this on the A30...Louise is driving!

My bonus session started at dawn at Porthloo. 3 Black Redstarts but no sign of the reported Redstarts. Plenty of Waders on the deserted Beach including my first Bar-tailed Godwit, c50 Sanderling, c10 Ringed Plovers, Curlew, and Whimbrel.

Also present were a couple of "Dunlin". A White -rumped Sandpiper had been seen the previous day, so they were worth closer scrutiny. Especially when a Birder appeared next to me saying he'd seen a "white rump"!

The Birds were very active and partly obscured by the large pebbles plus I didn't have my 'scope. He had to leave for the Airport and the Birds flew down the far end of the Bay. He said he'd put news out and I moved on to Lower Moors. I was undecided. I have some distant photos which I'll take a look at on return. There were no further reports.

My last hour was spent around Shooters Pool. Unfortunately there was no sign of the Spotted Crake or the hoped for YBW!

A Common Rosefinch was reported in the allotments near the Dump but my time was up!

Trip Total - 84 Species 

Scilly 24 - Day 15

A "none" day!

We woke to Gale force winds and heavy rain. Excellent possibilities for Rare arrivals but not for getting off the Island!!!

A couple of hours of tense negotiation had us remaining in our accommodation "rent-free" which was obviously greatly appreciated.

We should have been on the last flight off but ALL flights for the day have been now been cancelled. We had a record 5 minute stay at the Airport to unload, get our flight time and get back in the Taxi!

Birding conditions were rather er... challenging, so nothing else to do than have a bonus early trip to the Atlantic and a long morning's Birding tomorrow before we leave at 1.50 (much calmer tomorrow).

So, another chance for a BIG finish. You never know...?

Trip Total - 83 Species 

Scilly 24 - Day 14

My intention today was to visit Tresco to see the 2 Lesser Yellowlegs and 2 Serins. I was tempted by a report of a possible Marsh Warbler (a potential Scilly tick) on Bryher but it didn't get me on the edge of my seat!

Anyway a report of a Woodchat Shrike near Old Town Churchyard on St Mary's sorted that particular quandary out...and saved me yet another boat fare!

So, another yomp up the hill and down to Old Town. I soon found the hopefuls peering into the Pittosporum. The bird has been seen just prior to my arrival. The cover on Scilly is extensive. Then a report over the radio that the Bird was higher up on the permissive path. Another yomp. The group were now positioned on a steep slope looking North to another hedge and included my pal Simon.

Good directions allowed me a brief but clear flight view for my 250th Scilly Bird. A landmark I was hoping to achieve this Trip.

I gave it another 90 minutes but it wasn't seen again. However I did have a chat with Ron Johns, another legend in Birding circles who still visits the Islands. He was previously the Number 1 Lister for Britain before deciding to take up World Birding. He also told me he was on the 2 BOOBY boat trip!!! Another example of the magnetism these Islands possess...

After a rest (it was tough going zigzagging up and down the East side of Peninnis) I checked out Porthcressa in case the mobile White-rumped Sandpiper showed up. It didn't!

If it's coming...it better hurry up! Last chance tomorrow...?

Trip Total - 83 Species 

Scilly 24 - Day 13

The landmark 23rd has failed to produce this Year?

Here on Scilly or to be more precise Bryher we had a superb day but not before enjoying brilliant views of a couple of Stonechats at Little Porth whilst waiting for Louise...

On the way to the Harbour I bumped into Martin, another stalwart who I used to Bird with here some 20 years ago. It was great to see him again.

We managed 5+ miles of effort (plus hills) on the Island starting (after a coffee) on Shipman Head Down at the North of the Island...

The target?...a Dotterel. Getting harder and harder to see now on the Mainland or anywhere else for that matter!

On arrival there was only one Birder present...Viv Stratton, with his loyal sheepdog of course. He pointed the Bird out which was motionless some 20 yds away, allowing the opportunity for some nice photos...

Only my second here after one on St Mary's Golf Course in 1997.

Further along the Headland were some wild Barnacle Geese (9). It was interesting to view them in this setting...

After returning to Fraggle Rock for another coffee (has to be done when with the good lady) we headed down to Hell Bay Pool on the strength of a report of 11 Whooper Swans being present. We bumped into Viv again and I had to ask him how long he'd been coming. His answer...SIXTY THREE YEARS! Consecutively!!!  An inspiration to us all as he approaches 80. Lovely man.

Thankfully they were still there on arrival...

The next hour was bliss as I enjoyed watching and photographing these magnificent Birds from a grass bank down to 30 yards!!! Context. They included a family of 5 which is always nice to see. Constantly feeding and calling in the sunshine, it was a privilege to be there which I hope I FULLY appreciated...

I have more BUT were back to the Atlantic tonight for the final time. I'll do this Species full justice on my return home.

Trip Total - 82 Species

Scilly 24 - Day 12

As previously mentioned I'm now on 249 for the Fortunate Isles.

There's a Bird or possibly 2 on St Martin's that would be a nice landmark Species... namely Hen Harrier.

We hadn't been over there for a few years... although I twitched my second ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK there, after connecting with my long anticipated YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO on St Mary's in 2019...in the same day!

Anyway we cruised over there on a VERY slow boat, arriving at 10.45 on yet another superb day.

After a coffee we made our way to what I considered would be a good vantage point. We passed the Post Office so we grabbed a few things for lunch and I asked the owner if she knew such a spot? Her excellent directions had us in place at 11.30...with extensive news to the East and West...

I gave it 3 hours but alas it wasn't to be. Thoroughly enjoyed the Island though, as the scenery was once again stunning...

I realize the daily reports are more views than Birds at the moment but that's because I'm not finding any!!! I did add Raven in my defence.

It was another decent yomp to Lower Town Quay  but we made it and enjoyed yet another stunning view before departing for St Mary's...

3 days left for something special to land. I'm keeping the faith as always.

22 Species seen on the Island.

Trip Total - 81 Species

Scilly 24 - Day 11

Always honesty on here. It was quiet today...VERY quiet!!!

That's OK. I'm trying to find something and I'm here if someone else does.

For the record the morning was spent around Porthcressa where I enjoyed photographing FOUR Black Redstarts. There were c50 Oystercatchers and c30 Turnstones present also. There was a rumour of the NIGHTHAWK on St Martin's?

The afternoon was spent checking the bays to Porthloo. I found a Grey Wagtail and another Black Redstart.

No Bird pics tonight as we're back to the Atlantic. A view of the Harbour late afternoon...

Another stunning day weather-wise 

Trip Total - 80 Species 

Scilly 24 - Day 10

Spent the morning around Old Town. Highlight was a GWE...

Still no luck with the Pied Fly.

An unusual yet familiar alert...

11.01 St Mary's, Isles of Scilly COMMON NIGHTHAWK one flew low over Longstones cafe towards Holy Vale/ Higher Moors 

I may have spilt my Coffee!!!

Memories of 1999 came flooding bay. Full account in right hand column.

It's now 4.10 and I've made the trek to Higher Moors adding Grey Wagtail and Snipe...

... wouldn't it be nice if I experienced a similar moment?

7.50

I didn't BUT the magic was still there. A mixture of locals and regular visitors had assembled at various vantage points in hope of a sighting. It was a clear evening which obviously helped viewing but the Bird didn't show. 

I feel the Story may not yet be over?

The walk back to Hugh Town was eased by the company of Simon from Kent. He's a regular visitor and we first met at the ELEANORA'S FALCON twitch. We shared stories of past "hits and misses" and we were back before I knew it. It was interesting to hear which Birds he'd seen. As he started younger than me, we seem to have started seeing MEGAS around the same time (late eighties/early nineties) Hope it re-appears for you pal.

Trip Total - 80 Species

Scilly 24 - Day 9

Slow start this morning after the Ladies Birthday celebration. After some late breakfast we spent 3 hours around the Garrison, a particular favourite area of ours...

It's not hard to see why!!!

I tried my best to find something interesting but it wasn't to be. I checked the Sports Field and Campsite...

Still can't FIND a YBW?

We moved down to Morning Point...

...then onto...

The light was perfect here but alas nothing was seen. Still, another beautiful spot. We completed the loop and ended up back"home" via the Co-op!

After a cuppa we spend the last hour on Porthcressa...

Thing is, it doesn't really matter. Sure I'd like to see great Birds every day but that just not going to happen. The main thing is I'm still HERE in the magic month and I've still got another SIX days. We're having a wonderful time walking the Islands and enjoying the stunning scenery. If you come just expecting MEGA Birds you can spend a LOT of time moping around miserable. Still, a few to go mind...saving a few for Retirement and all that. Also, they don't all turn up here, far from it.

I've hopefully shown plenty of the Islands, which might be of use to followers unfamiliar with them? A Storm blows through tomorrow, bringing some hope for new arrivals? Something always turns up here, it's just a matter of time and I'm hoping it's this week. If not...so be it.

The dream is to FIND something...a PARULA would do!!!?

Trip Total - 78 Species

Scilly 24 - Day 8

Half-time.

We moved down the Street to our second and favourite accomodation, which has many memories and a sentimental attachment which I've mentioned on previous visits.

The weather was poor all morning which fitted in nicely with our schedule as we couldn't get in till Noon...so we had a bacon sarny and drank coffee in Hugh Town.

Another extremely important reason for a hopefully slow day was the fact it's Louise's Birthday 🎂.

After settling in I had an hour down at Old Town Church dipping Pied Flycatcher...

An extremely pleasant place to spend some time...

A few Birders came and went but none saw the Bird... until I left!

I returned via Buzza Tower...

...hoping for a Peregrine, Merlin or maybe even a Raven?

No joy this time.

So, a slow relaxing day but that's fine. Time to reset with a celebratory meal in the Atlantic.

Tomorrow I start the second half, full of optimism fuelled by a promising forecast?

Time will tell...

Trip List - 78 Species 

Scilly 24 - Day 7

I walked down to Porthcressa this morning while Louise got ready for our visit to Tresco. FOUR Black Redstarts had been reported, I managed 3. It was cloudy initially but the sun soon broke through...

As we reached the Quay it became apparent that many people had decided to take a boat trip due to the superb weather. No matter, we had to queue a while but everyone eventually boarded and we made our way to Carn Near.

I decided to try for the Hoopoe first and took the trail along the Southern Coastal Path...

Took a while but I eventually had a flight and 'scope view. We then made our way to Abbey Pool...

...to enjoy the magnificent Whooper Swans (13)...

...I also had distant views of the lingering Osprey, which was a BIG bonus! Our passing coincided with a Helicopter departure...

After lunch in the Abbey Tea rooms (our second pasty of the trip) we continued round the Great Pool adding Pochard and Gadwall to the ever increasing Trip List. I once again passed the site of my 1996 BLACK AND WHITE WARBLER...

...no way in these days but that's hardly surprising after 28 years!!! I always pay homage here. We tried the Swarovski Hide but it was full so we moved round to the head of the lake and sat on a bench to enjoy the wonderful view until it was time to go for the boat...

While we were there a few groups of swans headed our way. I was hoping Whooper but they were all Mute. We had spectacular views as they flew low, close past us...even Louise was impressed...

A lovely moment occurred when the last two flew low along the Lake towards us. Only one appeared over the vegetation and carried on West? 2 minutes later it returned to join its mate and they arched necks to bond once more.

Middle Friday tomorrow, time to switch Digs. It's also Louise's Birthday. A MEGA and a meal in the Atlantic would be a nice double!?

Trip Total - 78 Species

Scilly 24 - Day 6

 No "breaking news" this morning so I had a stroll down to Lower Moors to try for my "Nemesis" YBW. Some seeing "flocks"...but not me. Must try harder. On the way I bumped into the same Tour group I'd seen on previous days, a very pleasant bunch. They'd found some more Firecrests, always worth lingering for. They soon moved on but despite giving it another 30 minutes none were seen well enough to identify, let alone photograph! 

As I was approaching the gate a familiar face was approaching with his Border Collie. It was Viv Stratton. A legend on Scilly who's been visiting the Islands for many years. It was an opportunity to talk to him "one to one" and I spent a VERY pleasant and at times poignant 20 minutes talking Dogs and Birds. Hope he felt the same?! I wished him well and he made his way back to Hugh Town to feed his extremely well trained Dog...

I entered Lower Moors and Birded my way to the unfortunately named Shooters Pool. I figured I may connect with Firecrest or YBW here, as well as having a chance of a few Trip Ticks? A Cetti's Warbler was heard and a Moorhen swam across for a couple of additions. No luck with the target Birds. A Spotted Crake had been reported in the area the previous evening and as I left I caught sight of a fast disappearing small Bird that scurried behind an Island. I mentioned to this to the Birder next to me but the Bird didn't re-appear before I left? I was pretty sure it was the SC.

I made my way to Old Town Bay on the strength of a Kingfisher report. Luck was with me, as within 5 minutes it flew across the bay over the seaweed at low tide! Other birds present were Great White Egret...

and a couple of Greenshanks.

I then returned to Lower Moors and spotted a couple of Swallows on wires nearby...

Then some interesting news...

Spotted Crake at Shooters Pool

...complete with pic! There you go!! I returned but there was no further sign, although a Water Rail showed briefly for another Trip Tick...

I finished off at Porthloo, one of my favourite spots. The afternoon rain had melted away to give a wonderful sunset. I just sat on the bench and enjoyed it, accompanied by a couple of Stonechats... 

and a male Black Redstart. Bliss...

Trip Total - 71 Species