Scotland (again) 25-28 June 2010

25-28 June - Another visit to Scotland for walking, and a few interesting birds seen in continuing good weather - Red-throated Divers off Arisaig and Inverie, Black Guillemots and an Arctic Skua from the Mallaig ferry, and several Spotted Flycatchers including 2 pairs at Inverie. I also had a brief view of an Otter from the ferry. The mountains themselves held few birds, but one or two Cuckoos were still calling, and on the lochs Common Sandpipers were conspicuous, with a Dipper also seen and a Snipe drumming over the boggy ground at Mam Barrisdale in Knoydart.

Nightjar and Woodcock at Snelsmore Common

12 June - a late evening stop at Snelsmore Common nr Newbury, en route home, and a fine evening with no wind. 2 Woodcocks were roding between 9.30 - 10pm, then at 9.56 pm a Nightjar started churring, and showed briefly in flight with a female - then another bird started churring on the other side if the heath. Very atmospheric against the fading light.

Marmora's Warbler in Gwent

5 June - Scotland yesterday, Wales today....an early morning visit to the moors above Blaenavon and excellent views of the singing Marmora's Warbler - only the fifth UK record and the bird apparently holding territory. A UK tick for me. Seen well perched and in song-flight - smoky-grey plumage with red eye-ring and red legs. Photos, copyright Chris Thomas. Two male Whinchats also present, along with Tree Pipits and male and female Cuckoos.