Hi all,
I'm planning a week-long trip up to Orkney mid-August and I was wondering if anyone has any experiences of birding on the islands?
I know there are around 13 RSPB reserves covering all kinds of terrain from lowland pools / wetlands to cliff-side seabird colonies. But can anyone give me any tips on making the most of a relatively short time there? I'm staying near Stromness on the west (deliberately, in the hope of getting some decent sunset pics), but will have a car and will happily do a bit of island hopping if there's good reason to do so.
My seabird experiences have been limited to Anglesey and Bempton Cliffs (both excellent places), so I'd love to get close views of anything "different" - divers (although I think it's the wrong time of year?) and shags would both be new "ticks" for me, as would Arctic terns. Other wildlife such as seals, otters, dolphins, sharks (?) etc. would also be a bonus!
Thanks in anticipation for any help.
Roy.
God loved the birds and invented trees. Man loved the birds and invented cages - Jacques Deval
Photos on Flickr
MrsS went a couple of years ago,I could not manage the travel,and was blown away by the spot including displaying Hen Harriers Divers and Skuas,determined to drag me up there.As said plenty of pictures for us to drool over.
Pete
Birding is for everyone no matter how good or bad we are at it,enjoy it while you can
Hi-
as mentioned b4- my old mate Paul Higson lives there and can probably arrange days out if you want them.
S
For advice about Birding, Identification,field guides, binoculars, scopes, tripods, etc - put 'Birding Tips' into the search box
I love orkney, first went up for a long weekend and saw hen harriers, short-eared owls, bonxies...amazing place! Basking sharks are occassional visitors to the islands - if you're interested in the marine life your best bet is actually asking the crew on the ferry what sightings they have heard of in the area as they are the ones most likely to be able to let you know what marine animals have been spotted and where. I've seen red throated divers from the RSPB's Burgar Hill hide, they should still be around towards the end of August. Also seen short-eared owls, bonxies and arctic skuas there.
Millie & Fly the Border Collies
Thanks all.
I hadn't considered Burgar Hill before, but it's definitely on the itinerary now! I'm getting really excited now!
Much appreciated,