I'd like to bring you some definitive and positive news on the 'missing' chick at Loch Frisa but I'm sorry I can't. However, you always tell us you want to know the facts as they happen so I'm afraid there is no easy way to say this: I am worried tonight. As ever there is good news and bad news. Let's get the 'bad' news out of the way and keep positive. Compared to previous years, it is undoubtedly early for him to have fledged. When Frisa or Skye have come in with food, they've gone straight to the nest and not searched for any fledged chick as I would expect them to do. I've scanned and searched for hours on the open ground and have not seen a hint of a chick anywhere. And now the better news...we still have a very active bouncy chick on the nest and it's feeding well. If the other one has gone early, it was fit and well last Thursday and is probably absolutely fine. Although things can go wrong at the last minute, it is unusual for something to happen at this late stage. The grass and bracken are tall and there is plenty of ground out of sight where it could easily be hiding. Chicks spend alot of time on the ground after they leave the nest...and they lie down too making it even harder to see them.
So we will continue to watch and wait. I can't go any closer as there would be a risk of spooking both the one on the nest before it's ready and potentially the fledged chick sitting about on the ground. Not to mention the parents. It's a nerve wracking time for everyone and we need some world-wide positive thoughts please sent in the direction of Mull. We will let you know, one way or the other, as soon as we know anything. Can't write anymore...need sleep. Some hope!
Dave Sexton RSPB Scotland Mull Officer
Just a note to say, I know a lot of you were looking forward to Blue Peter this afternoon - the BBC have rescheduled and our item will be featured in September - rest assured we will keep you posted when we know the date. Thank you for all your positive thoughts - as soon as we have some news, we will of course, let you know. Debby
Dave Sexton, RSPB Scotland Mull Officer
Fingers (and everything) crossed for the missing chick. It must be very tempting to go searching in the undergrowth and so frustrating knowing you must not. Your stress levels must be off the scale David! Will be thinking of you all and sincerely hope there is a happy outcome.
Dave. Debby and all the team my thoughts are with you and I hope you find the missing chick. It would be heartbreaking now if something has happened. Praying and hoping things will be OK.
Margobird
Dave, Debby and the team, myself and Tony are sending you our most positive thoughts and prayers up to Loch Frisa. I am glad I didn't read this last night as I too would not have slept.
Hugs and best wishes to you all.
Wishing and hoping and praying that all is well with that chick, and also with you, Debby and all involved. Thanks for letting us know - must be the last thing you want to do when you get in late after searching.
Oh Dave so sorry to hear about the 'missing' chick , they are your 'children' and as with children many sleepless nights will be had until you know the answer , it is always the not knowing which is the worst bit , I am sure you will get lots of positive thoughts heading your way . Hoping you will have an answer soon and then you will sleep easier , take care all . {{{{{{hugs}}}}}}}
Valerie