Easing Down

 Tuesday May 16

We were very late setting off, which didn't help. Committee Road produced absolutely no birds at all, a rarity in itself. Loch Sanderay had plenty of Oystercatchers, but even they were being scattered by an excitable sheepdog, charging after them through the water. The owner was weeding nearby, holding on to a second dog's collar. Och aye, he loves it, he'd be in there all day was her response. No comment from us, they live here.

A pair of Linnets showed briefly on roadside wires.


 A small passage of skuas had been reported from Aird an Runair this morning, both Long-tailed and Pomarine. We found a calm sea with very little wind - and no passing birds. We enjoyed the sun and the view for an hour or so before calling it a day.

'Our' Corncrake was calling again as we passed.  Pam parked and got out. She soon saw it only a few feet away. They're remarkable birds, even that close and in short grass, they put their heads down and disppear, only to re-appear some distance away. I caught up with it as it walked up the slope, showing me its lovely chestnut striped back.



I also tried, unsuccessfully, to photograph one of the many Green-veined White butterflies flying around. The only butterfly we see. The moth trap had one moth today, a Silver Y.  Maybe tonight will be better now that the wind has dropped.

Finally, a look at Stinky Bay and a call in to the Chinese Takeaway to order tonight's meal. Ian and Sue have been to Barra and are joining us for a meal on their way home. I had Pork Chow Mein, Pam, Duck Chow Mein and we had a very pleasant and companionable get together. The Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon was good too.

 

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