I met Higgo bright and early at Porthcressa Beach at 8:00 am. While waiting, the Black-necked Grebe continued to show exceptionally well, providing a striking start to the day. On our way to the Garrison campsite to collect tools for a new screen at Higgo’s project pool, we passed the Duchy Office, where the Melodious Warbler was still in fine form.
Black-necked Grebe
Melodious Warbler
With tools in hand, we headed to Higgo’s pool. It was completely dried out, but as we set to work, a Snipe was flushed from the reeds, and a Grey Wagtail made a fleeting appearance. The pool, dug by Higgo a few years ago, has a history of attracting remarkable birds—past visitors have included Lesser Yellowlegs, Solitary Sandpiper, and Northern Waterthrush. The new screen is now in place, and we’re hopeful it will draw more exciting species in the future.
Higgo's Project Pool
After a light lunch, we crossed to Bryher for an afternoon of birding. In the channel between Tresco and Bryher, nine Mediterranean Gulls were noted, though otherwise it was a quiet stretch. A more unusual find was three Lapland Buntings around Big Pool, a welcome highlight in an otherwise calm session.
Meditteranean Gull
Lapland Bunting
On returning to St Mary’s, I walked up to the airfield where reports of an American Golden Plover and Buff-breasted Sandpiper had surfaced. While traversing Old Town, I also came across a Common Scoter just offshore. Both the American Golden Plover and Buff-breasted Sandpiper were exceptionally cooperative, allowing excellent views and capping off a truly memorable day of birding.
Common Scoter
Buff-breasted Sandpiper with two Golden Plover.
American Golden Plover