Our puffin chick has hatched!!!!!
I took a call from Kay Hall of Reading at lunchtime. She has been following the webcam, and thought she would have it on whilst doing her ironing. Kay had watched the adult get up and saw the small black chick, still looking damp from hatching. I was delighted to hear from Kay (who has Shetland roots, with relatives still living in the islands including her Aunty Joan and Aunty Maisie), and shared her exctiment fully. Thanks so much for calling Kay, you made my day!
I made a few phone calls after speaking with Kay, including one to Promote Shetland (who have supported our Date With Nature at Sumburgh Head). Someone had contacted them (from the Peak District) saying they had spotted the chick this morning. I find it amazing that people all over the country are watching the puffin camera. I also contacted Simon King to tell him he was a 'grandfather' of sorts. The puffin camera is in the same burrow that Simon used in his "Shetland Diaries" series broadcast earlier this year on BBC2.
We can only watch how the summer progresses for the puffin family. It takes around 40 days for a chick to fledge. It has to be said though, that not all chicks will make it to this stage. Whatever happens, it will be a fascinating time.
All the best from 60North.
Helen
congratulations and thanks for the updates. I am watching the webcams from north America. Lets hope all goes well.