Recently, Kev B, Holly and I had the opportunity to visit the Isle of May with the Cumbrian group. The weather was breezy throughout the week, unfortunately from the north-west. This was far from ideal for bringing in birds or for putting up mist nets. Although it was quiet, we got a few new species from the heligoland traps, including 3 Brambling and 2 Ring Ouzel. On one day we tried a tape lure for the Hoopoe, which had been seen on the island for the past 10 days. However, it seemed uninterested. We also made an attempt for the Storm Petrels, but there was no success on this front either. Spring traps gave us a few Wheatears and Robins. While seawatching by the Low Light, Holly noticed a Puffin stuck in a drainage pipe, with its legs in the air! She managed to rescue it, and passed it to me to ring.
Overall, the trip was a brilliant experience. I enjoyed the isolation and wildness of island life, and sharing it with a great group of people. The best part was being immersed in the life of thousands of seabirds, while trying to count them for the daily log! Thanks to Mike, Frank and Shelagh for including me and all the help while we were there.
Joshua
Ring Ouzel (J. Phillips) |
View from the island (H. James) |
Wheatear (H. James) |
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