At last, we have a Bird Observatory again on Fair Isle – risen from the ashes of the disastrous fire six long years ago. It was wonderful to be in the new building early in June for the Trustees annual meeting and to welcome the first of the visitors. Fair Isle was looking it’s best with calm sunny days to explore the island. Bird migration was amazing with nightjar and Scop’s owl both ringed by the observatory staff. Puffins, fulmars and gannet were all much in evidence on the cliffs, but the counts of kittiwakes and shags were disastrous. It’s 66 years since I went to Fair Isle as an assistant warden and it was so great to be back again, especially because many of the islanders came up to examine the new building and for a celebratory party. So, we’re back in business and everyone is welcome – you don’t need to be an experienced birder – and the new observatory is so welcoming. Why not give it a try?
See www.fairislebirdobs.co.uk for details – you will not be disappointed.
