There Be Twite

 Sunday May 7

After a reasonably warm day, we'd expected more moths in the overnight trap. There were eight,Three Twin-spot Carpets, two Red Chestnuts, one Clouded Drab, Silver Y, and a female Emperor. The latter was very active so we released her before she could lay  any eggs. Pam didn't want to raise another lot after last year's experience.

 

On a lovely, warm, sunny afternoon, we decided to explore a couple of roads to the west, off the 'main road' south. Both were dead ends, but it was interesting to see more of the rugged rocks, rough grassland and water scenery which is typical North Uist. We love it - but on a sunless day, we do wonder why.

 

Then, it was an eastern road to Kalinn. It's a small fishing harbour  with a flourishing shellfish exporting business and seafood restaurant. We enjoy the drive in as it's a loop road - there and back a different way with typical Uist scenery.

 

The northern track passes an extensive Bog Bean bed. It has  star-like, feathery, white flowers.  It is so-named because its leaves look like those of broad beans.

 

 

Pam came to a sudden stop. She'd seen some small birds flitting along the roadside. We spent the next quarter of an hour or so following the birds, trying to capture some images. They were Twite, about five of them.

 

There was nothing new to add during the rest of the afternoon. Stinky Bay had all the usual small waders, Coot Loch did not have any Coot but did have a large number of Shoveller. 

Until we took the turning for CR, when a second year Glaucous Gull flew across in front of us before dropping into the loch to wash. 

Pam has just seen a Hen Harrier fly past the kitchen window.