Join the RSPB Warden whatever the weather ........?
When driving to the hide this morning and seeing (or not as the case was) the Rendall hills encased in low cloud, with a strong wind battering the side of the Landrover. I realised that I may not get a large turnout for the hide session or even be able to see the lochan let alone any birds. However, the visiblity wasn't that bad and as the morning progressed the cloud cleared, the rain stopped and the sun came out.
A pair of red throated divers were in residence, sleeping most of the morning. They then had a quick preen before calling and headed off to feed when the sun came out. There were also wigeon, tufted duck, goldeneye, greylag geese, a flock of at least 35 oystercatchers and the occasional lapwing and redshank. After it dried out, warmed up and the sun was shining, meadow pipits started to appear and a skylark took the skies in full voice.
Oh, and I did get one visitor!
The Loons Hide 'Surgery Session' -Friday 15th April
Join us at the Loons Hide just off the B-class road between Twatt and Marwick (HY247243). Drop in anytime between 9:30 to 12:30 for a chance to see a variety of wildfowl and waders. Hunting hen harriers and short-eared owls are a possibiilty. It's free but if you have any querys phone the Orkney Office on 01856 850176.