Pec in Order

6th May (pm)
The improved conditions did indeed deliver some birds, with the highlight of the day being an unexpecetd fourth spring record of Pectoral Sandpiper. Found in a ditch near Stackhoull by Richard on census, it showed well until mid-afternoon at least.

Pectoral Sandpiper and dubious Mallard

Another impressive visitor was an Osprey seen heading south over the Obs by Rob (who has proved to be a renowned Osprey magnet in his years on Fair Isle).

Osprey from the Obs kitchen window, being pursued south by Oystercatchers as it gradually builds up courage to head North.

There was also an increase in migrants noted, with 9 Chiffchaff, 8 Willow Warbler, 7 Tree Pipits, 4 Blackcap, 17 Brambling and singles of Stonechat, Lesser Whitethroat, Grasshopper and Sedge Warbler recorded and Meadow Pipits reached an impressive 427.
There were also a few more waders, including Greenshank, 13 Whimbrel, 4 Dunlin, 3 Sanderling and a Knot. Two Shelduck, a Tufted Duck and a slight increase in Arctic Skua (to 9) were also noted.
With a couple of days of south-easterly winds to come, there'll hopfully be more to report again tomorrow.