Shetland has been bashed by storms and there is more strong wind on the way. I have been worried for the guillemots and shags, which nest lower down the cliffs at Sumburgh Head and at a bigger risk from high seas. Also, I have been concerned for ground nesting birds who may have suffered from the amount of rain that has fallen in the last couple of days. However, it is early enough in the season that birds can relay. So, I'll keep hopeful.
A walk around Shetland can reveal all sorts of wonders at this time of year. LIfe is returning to the islands in many ways. Most of our regular breeders have returned, with Arctic terns to be seen around the coast, puffins are on eggs and the sky is filled with the sound of song. The off migrant is around too, with a grasshopper warbler being an interesting addition to the soundscape. Flowers are also coming into bloom. Sea pinks, spring squill, bog bean, red campion and primroses have all caught my eye in the last few days.
A couple of nights ago, we visited the peat-hill where I used to go with my family to cut peat for fuel and cooking. Before the heavens opened, it was great to see and hear the classic moorland bird species of Shetland, including whimbrel, Arctic skua, golden plover and bonxies. It was my time spent in the hill that absorbed me in nature, leading me to work in conservation. After helping our parents, my brother and I would be allowed to go and explore, looking for mooritoogs (Shetland dialect for ants) and to watch the various birds which frequented the hill. I had to wonder if the Arctic skuas I saw the other night might have been the same pair as I saw as a youngster (or am I kidding myself that I am younger than I actually am!!).
I hope you like the new RSPB community pages. Keep on coming back!
Remember, our Date WIth Nature at Sumburgh Head opens on Monday. Our guides will be here daily until 15August, 11am til 4pm. Of course, you can watch puffincam from the comfort of your own home or workplace at www.rspb.org.uk/shetlandsummer or www.shetland.org.uk. Be warned though, it can take over your life!
All the best from the wintery north :o)