After a very clear and virtually calm night it was a considerable surprise that so many migrants had remained on the island. Early morning at Valyie produced 3 Robin, my first Dunnock of the Autumn, the Great Grey Shrike that had been found yesterday morning, 50 Redwing, 20 Blackbirds, 3 Chiffchaffs, 2 Blackcaps, 2 Goldcrests and 50 Brambling. Skaw was also productive with my first Woodcock of the Autumn, 3 Robin, 200 Redwing, a Blackcap, a Chiffchaff, a Yellow-browed Warbler and a Goldcrest. A trip to the shop in Baltasound ensured we checked a few sites there but it seemed generally quiet apart from several fields full of Golden Plover, Redwings and a single Goldcrest at Clingera and 5 Common Crossbills at Setters Hill.
Sunrise at Norwick
First-winter Great Grey Shrike at Valyie
Silver Y moth at Valyie
House Sparrows at Skaw
I infrequently see House Sparrows at Skaw and never a flock this size. They flew off high to the northeast(!) but were seen to return a few minutes later.
Common Crossbills at Setters Hill
