Nature in Shetland
Recent sightings
We try to include most records sent directly to us and we collect records from many other sources. As a news site, there will inevitably be errors included - in identification and in compilation. This site does not constitute an official record; this is published annually in the Shetland Bird Report, using records which have been formally submitted and assessed by local and national committees.
Species in red are national (BBRC) rarities.
Species in orange are local/Scottish rarities.
15th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 4 Pink-footed Geese at Ungirsta. Rosefinch at Skaw. Glaucous Gull at Burrafirth beach. Pied Flycatcher and Whitethroat at Shorestation. Barred Warbler, Pied Flycatcher and Tree Pipit at Norwick. Pintail and Wigeon at the Houb, Baltasound. Pied Flycatcher at Heritage Centre.
Whalsay: Rosefinch and Pied Flycatcher at Skaw. Pale-bellied Brent Goose still at Houb.
Out Skerries: 2 Rosefinch, Redstart, Garden, and 8 Willow Warbler, Whinchat, 5 Blackcap, Spotted Flycatcher and Lesser Whitethroat, plus Tree Pipit, 4 Snow Bunting and Merlin.
South Mainland: House Martin at Hoswick. Barred Warbler at Dalsetter and at North Town. Wryneck at Quendale. Red-breasted Flycatcher at Hillwell. 3 Pink-footed Geese over Sumburgh Head.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale seen at Mousa Sound.
14th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 2 Pink-footed Geese at Norwick.
Out Skerries: 2 Rosefinch, and Wood Warbler.
South Mainland: Barred Warbler at Swinister Burn. 20+ Sand Martin above Quendale Mill. Grey Plover sound recorded over Toab last night. 28 Mallard and Peregrine in off the sea at Dalsetter. Garden Warbler at Sumburgh Quarry and Grutness garden. Curlew Sandpiper, 4 Ruff and Black-tailed Godwit at Pool of Virkie.
13th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Pied Flycatcher at Hostel, Uyeasound, and Wigeon at Wester Loch. Snow Bunting at Saxa Vord camp, and Barred Warbler and Pied Flycatcher still at Norwick. Pied Flycatcher and Lesser Whitethroat at Shorestation. Canada Goose at Houb, Baltasound.
Yell: Whitethroat, Pied Flycatcher and Chiffchaff at Hillend, Mid Yell. Whitethroat at Herra.
Out Skerries: Spotted Flycatcher, Whinchat, Redstart, Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Blackcap, 2 Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 5 Wheatear and 2 Swallow.
Bressay: Water Rail at Voehead.
Fetlar: Lesser Whitethroat and Willow Warbler at the Manse. Merlin near the Airfield.
Central Mainland: Barred Warbler at North Staney Hill, Lerwick. Barred Warbler, 2 Brambling and Lesser Whitethroat at Clickimin.
South Mainland: Whinchat, Pied Flycatcher and Whitethroat at Levenwick. Marsh Harrier, Red-breasted, Spotted and Pied Flycatcher at Hillwell. Curlew Sandpiper at Scatness. Lesser Whitethroat and Blackcap at Sumburgh Hotel.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale seen at Mousa Sound (3). Risso's dolphin seen at Buraland, Mousa Sound and from Levenwick campsite.
12th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Canada Goose at The Houb, Baltasound. Pink-footed Goose at Norwick.
Yell: Whitethroat, 2 Garden and Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Pied Flycatcher and Swallow at Hillend, 2 Chaffinch at Belleview, Mid Yell. 3 Goosander at Laxa Burn.
Whalsay: Pale-bellied Brent Goose at Brough.
Bressay: Willow Warbler at Voehead.
Foula: Red-backed Shrike, 5 Rosefinch, Barred, and Reed Warbler, Spotted and Pied Flycatcher, Blackcap, 4 Whinchat and Merlin.
Central Mainland: Tree Pipit at Brae Community Woodland. 8 Knot at Sletts, Lerwick.
South Mainland: Red-breasted Flycatcher still at Orca Inn, Hoswick. Wryneck at Quendale Mill. Marsh Harrier at Hillwell. Manx Shearwater, Spotted Flycatcher, and Peregrine seen from Sumburgh Head. Pink-footed Goose at Toab.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale seen from Mousa layby.
11th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Pied Flycatcher at Hillend, Sparrowhawk at Windhouse. Kestrel and Barnacle Goose at Basta. Pied Flycatcher at Sound, West Yell. Black-tailed Godwit at Kirk Loch, and 2 at Gloup, Cullivoe.
Whalsay: Peregrine at Skaw.
Bressay: 2 Blackcap and Spotted Flycatcher at Voehead.
Foula: 5 Rosefinch, Barred, Reed and Garden Warbler, 2 Whinchat, Dunnock, 5 Redpoll, Pied and Spotted Flycatcher.
North Mainland: Seawatch at Eshaness produced 2 Sooty Shearwater between 1030-12noon.
West Mainland: 25 Goosander off The Nev, in Tresta Voe.
South Mainland: 2 Red-breasted Flycatcher at Orca Inn, Hoswick. Wood Warbler and Whinchat at Levenwick. Pale-bellied Brent Goose at north end of Spiggie Loch. Sparrowhawk at Brow Marsh. Barred Warbler at Sumburgh Farm. Seawatch at Lookout, Sumburgh Head produced 12 Great Skua and 2 Puffin between 6-7am. 23 Pink-footed Geese over, Spotted Flycatcher Sumburgh Head.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale seen in Mousa Sound.
10th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 2 Pied Flycatcher and 2 Willow Warbler at Valyie. Swallow at Northdale.
Yell: 3 Black-tailed Godwit at Breckon.
Foula: 4 Rosefinch, Whinchat, and Pied Flycatcher, plus 200 Pink-footed Geese overhead.
West Mainland: 120 Pink-footed Geese over Vaila.
Cetacean Sightings: 6 Common Dolphin seen from Good Shepherd 2 miles south of Sumburgh Head. Minke Whale seen at Bressay/Noss (2), and Noness (1) Risso's Dolphin off Mousa (3), Noss (1), and Noness (6). 6 White-beaked Dolphin off Levenwick. Possible Humpback off Noness.
Insect Sightings: The Sallow and Brindled Ochre moths caught in West Burrafirth. A Turnip moth was caught at Boddam.
9th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Pied Flycatcher at Ordaal, Baltasound.
Yell: Pied Flycatcher, Common Whitethroat, 2 Garden Warbler, White Wagtail, Blackcap and Chiffchaff at Hillend, Mid Yell. Pied Flycatcher and Willow Warbler at Windhouse.
Fetlar: Whinchat at Aithness.
Central Mainland: Merlin at Dales Lees. 13 Goosander at Weisdale Voe, and 140 Rook at Cott. Barred, Wood, Garden, and Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, 3 Blackcap and 3 House Martin at Clickimin.
West Mainland: 2 Whinchat and Magpie at Sandness.
South Mainland: Barred, and Willow Warbler, Spotted Flycatcher, Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Wheatear and 10 Swallow at Sumburgh Hotel. Lesser Whitethroat, Blackcap and Spotted Flycatcher at Sumburgh Farm. Spotted Flycatcher at Sumburgh Head.
Cetacean Sightings: 4-6 Common Dolphin seen from Good Shepherd 2 miles south of Sumburgh Head. Minke Whale seen at south side of Bressay/Noss (2), and at Noness (1). Risso's dolphin seen off Noss (1), south tip of Mousa (3), and 5 seen south of Noness and Levenwick. 6 White-beaked Dolphin seen from Noness, Sandwick. Possible Humpback Whale seen off Noness, Sandwick.
8th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Whinchat and Garden Warbler at Burrafirth, and Peregrine over Hermaness car park.
Yell: Merlin at Hillend, Mid Yell. Barnacle Goose in off Basta.
Out Skerries: Red-backed Shrike, 4 Garden and 15 Willow Warbler, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 9 Blackcap, Chiffchaff, 6 Whinchat, 2 Common Redstart, Pied and Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Swallow, Kestrel, Common Sandpiper and Ruff on the island today.
Foula: Redwing, Rosefinch, 2 Garden, and Willow Warbler and Common Whitethroat on the island.
Bressay: Garden Warbler at Voehead.
Central Mainland: Barred Warbler at South Staney Hill, Sound.
South Mainland: Barred Warbler at Levenwick. Greenshank, 3 Knot and Moorhen at Boddam Voe. Marsh Harrier, Spotted Flycatcher and 2 Garden Warbler at Geosetter. Barred Warbler, Pied Flycatcher, Blackcap and Willow Warbler at Dalsetter. Marsh Harrier at Brow Marsh. Barred Warbler at Sumburgh Farm. Spotted Flycatcher at Sumburgh Hotel. Garden Warbler at Sumburgh Quarry. 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat and
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale seen at Mousa Sound (2), and Risso's dolphin also at Mousa Sound (8).
Insect Sightings: Convolvulus Hawkmoth are still about, with 2 on Foula, 1 at Mulla, Voe, and 1 on Out Skerries.
7th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: White-billed Diver and 3 Sooty Shearwater past Skaw. 2 Blyth's Reed Warbler, 2 Willow Warbler, Pied Flycatcher and 7 Swallow at Valyie. Common Whitethroat, Garden and Willow Warbler at Shorestation.
Fetlar: Red-backed Shrike at Funzie Willows.
Bressay: 5 Ruff by Speldiburn Cafe. Lesser Whitethroat, Garden Warbler and 2 Blackcap at Gorie. Greenshank at Loch of Grimsetter.
Central Mainland: 2 Quail heard over South Nesting (Nocmig). Barred Warbler, Siskin and Redpoll at Clickimin.
South Mainland: Willow Warbler in full song at Brakefield Rd, and Barred Warbler at Sandwick. Wryneck at Quendale. Adult and presumed first winter Black-throated Diver in Quendale bay. Barred Warbler at Dalsetter. Whinchat, and Spotted Flycatcher at Sumburgh Quarry and another Spotted Flycatcher at Sumburgh Head. Spotted Flycatcher, Lesser Whitethroat and 2 Willow , Garden and Barred Warbler, plus 5 Wheatear and 10 Swallow, at Sumburgh Hotel. Barred and Willow Warbler, Pied Flycatcher, Goldcrest and Blackcap at Dalsetter. Blackcap at Grutness.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale seen at Skaw (4), east of Clibberswick (1), Ollaberry (1), St Magnus Bay (1), Bousta, Sandness (3), and Levenwick (1). Humpback Whale seen from Papa Stour ferry (1), and point of Skeld. Super pod of Common Dolphin seen northeast of Mousa, and later in evening, a large pod seen at Vasso Voe, South Nesting. Risso's dolphin seen off Lambhoga, Fetlar (12+), and east side of Haroldswick bay (2).
Insect Sightings: Migrant Birch Shield Bugs were caught in two locations last night, Fogrigarth in West Burrafirth, and Brakefield Road, Sandwick. The Sallow moth caught in Sandwick.
6th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Barred Warbler at Shorestation. Blyth's Reed Warbler, Hawfinch, Pied Flycatcher, Robin and Blackcap at Valyie. Red-breasted Flycatcher at Balliasta. Canada Goose still in Baltasound voe.
Yell: Barred, Garden and Willow Warbler, and Pied Flycatcher at Gutcher. Greenshank at Wick of North Garth. Willow Warbler at Cullivoe marina.
Out Skerries: Barred, 2 Garden, 15 Willow Warbler, Red-backed Shrike, 5 Whinchat, 2 Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, Lesser Whitethroat, Common Whitethroat, 3 Blackcap, Redpoll, Chiffchaff, Merlin and Kestrel.
Central Mainland: 2 Blackcap at Girlsta.
South Mainland: Red-breasted Flycatcher at Swinister Burn, Sandwick. Lesser Whitethroat and Kestrel at Quendale.
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's dolphin from Out Skerries ferry (1), and near Mangaster (5). Minke Whale seen in Haroldswick (1), east of Quarff (1), off tip of Helliness (1), Mousa Sound (1), and off Bressay (1). 20 unidentified dolphin off Fitful Head. Humpback Whale seen off Noness, Sandwick and off Hildasay, Scalloway.
Insect Sightings: Least Yellow Underwing caught at Bakkasetter last night.
5th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Blyth's Reed Warbler at Valyie. Red-breasted Flycatcher at Balliasta.
Yell: Pied Flycatcher and Garden Warbler at Gutcher.
Bressay: Willow Warbler, Pied Flycatcher and Tree Pipit at Gorie.
Central Mainland: 2 Stonechat at South Nesting.
South Mainland: Marsh Harrier and Spotted Flycatcher at Hillwell. Peregrine over Geosetter.
Cetacean Sightings: Humpback Whale seen South Mousa (1), and east of Sumburgh Head (1). Minke Whale seen South Mousa (2), Haroldswick (3), and Norwick (2). 20-30 White-sided dolphin off Haroldswick.
Insect Sightings: Another The Delicate moth, this time caught in Sandwick. Convolvulus Hawkmoth continue to be found, with a specimen found in the sea on the Bressay side of Noss Sound. Peacock butterfly and 2 Convolvulus Hawkmoth on Foula. Emergence of Angleshades moths too noted.
4th September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Blyth's Reed Warbler at Valyie burn.
Yell: Barred Warbler at Gutcher. Barred Warbler and Pied Flycatcher at Hillend, Mid Yell. 7 Sooty Shearwater between noon and 4pm north of Yell Sound.
Fetlar: Redstart and Whinchat at Funzie Willows.
Whalsay: Arctic Warbler at Skaw plantation.
Bressay: Pied Flycatcher and Willow Warbler at Voehead. Wryneck, Barred and Garden Warbler, Redstart, Tree Pipit and 2 Pied Flycatcher at Gorie.
North Mainland: Pied Flycatcher and Garden Warbler at North Roe.
Central Mainland: Pied Flycatcher at Helendale, 30+ Redpoll and 5 Siskin at Clickimin Loch. Sedge Warbler at Grostane.
South Mainland: Willow Warbler at Ocraquoy. Pied Flycatcher and 2 Garden Warbler at Orca Inn, Hoswick. Marsh Harrier at Quendale, and then Hillwell. Black-throated Diver at Quendale bay. Greenish Warbler at Toab. Pied Flycatcher and Red-backed Shrike at Dalsetter.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale reported at Haroldswick (1), Cradle of Holm, Noss (1), east of the Bard of Bressay (6+), and Noness, Levenwick (7). Risso's dolphin reported SE of Fair Isle (2 groups of 2), Levenwick (7), and west of St Ninian's Isle (1). 15 Common dolphin reported off Foula.
Insect Sightings: Peacock butterfly at Hillend, Mid Yell. Migrant moth's continue to be seen overnight with Foula scoring the 3rd record of Delicate, plus 2 Convolvulus Hawkmoth. The Flower park in Lerwick is heaving with hoverflies and bee species, including the rarely recorded, Helophilus trivittatus hoverfly.
3rd September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Corncrake, Icterine Warbler, and Arctic Warbler at Burrafirth Burn. Red-breasted Flycatcher and Hawfinch at Valyie. 2 Greenshank at Ordaal, Baltasound.
Yell: Pied Flycatcher at Gutcher. Barred, and Garden Warbler and Pied Flycatcher, plus 8 Redpoll at Mid Yell. Garden Warbler at Cullivoe.
Noss: Wryneck, Garden Warbler and Lesser Whitethroat on the island.
Whalsay: 2 Redstart, Garden, Barred and 3 Willow Warbler, 2 Whinchat and Wryneck at Skaw. Spotted Flycatcher at Isbister.
Bressay: Wryneck near Uphouse.
Foula: Corncrake at Ham.
North Mainland: Marsh Harrier at Hillswick.
Central Mainland: Redpoll and Willow Warbler at Grostane, Lerwick.
South Mainland: Greenish Warbler at Toab. Swift at Spiggie. Garden Warbler at Sumburgh Quarry. Garden Warbler and Lesser Whitethroat at Sumburgh Hotel.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale seen at Haroldswick (1).
Insect Sightings: Convolvulus Hawkmoth feeding on honeysuckle in Foula tonight, and last night, at Wiltrow in Boddam, a Delicate moth was trapped, only the 2nd record for Shetland!
2nd September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Whinchat at Skaw. Pied Flycatcher and 2 Willow Warbler at Burrafirth burn, Willow Warbler also at Shore Station. Barred Warbler at Halligarth. Pied Flycatcher at Valyie.
Yell: 6 Grey Heron at Mid Yell Voe, Ruff with 100 Golden Plover at West Sandwick.
Bressay: Icterine Warbler and 2 Pied Flycatcher at Gorie.
Foula: Black-headed Bunting on the island.
South Mainland: Garden Warbler at Ocraquoy. Barred Warbler at Brakefield Road, Sandwick. Seawatch at Lookout, Sumburgh Head over 2 hours produced 7 Sooty and Manx Shearwater, plus a Puffin. 2 Sooty Shearwater south past Sumburgh Head carpark, Pied Flycatcher, Barred Warbler and 20 Twite at Sumburgh Head. Pied Flycatcher in Sumburgh Quarry. Greenish Warbler at Toab, and Barred Warbler and 2 Pied Flycatcher at Exnaboe. Red-backed Shrike at Dalsetter. Icterine Warbler at Hillwell. Wood Warbler, Whinchat, Willow Warbler at Quendale, with Peregrine along at Garth's Bank.
Cetacean Sightings: 10 White-beaked dolphin from Lookout, Sumburgh Head. 3 Common Dolphin from Foula Ferry.
Insect Sightings: 2 The Sallow moths seen at South Nesting last night.
1st September 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Greenish Warbler and Common Rosefinch at Valyie. Icterine Warbler at Burrafirth. 400+ Golden Plover at Clivoclast.
Out Skerries: 2 Common Rosefinch, Ruff, Reed Bunting, Sedge and 15 Willow Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Winchat, 3 Pied Flycatcher, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Swift, 4 Swallows, Garden Warbler and 2 Tree Pipits, plus Manx Shearwater from the ferry.
Whalsay: Robin at Marrister.
Bressay: 2 Willow Warbler at Voehead. Ruff at Leiraness.
Fetlar: Wryneck at Aith. Pied Flycatcher and Lesser Whitethroat at Aithness. Pied Flycatcher at Funzie Willows.
Foula: Black-headed Bunting on the island.
North Mainland: 14 Black-tailed Godwit, Ruff and Greenshank at Loch of Housetter, North Mavine.
Central Mainland: Greenshank at Pullar's Loch.
South Mainland: Common Rosefinch at Orca Hotel at Hoswick. Icterine and Barred Warbler at Bakkasetter, and Wryneck in a garden on West Side of Spiggie. 2 Pied Flycatcher, Redstart, Sedge and Willow Warbler at Geosetter. Wood Sandpiper at Loch of Huesbreck. Wood Sandpiper, Pied Flycatcher and Wryneck at Hillwell. Barred Warbler, and Pied Flycatcher at Sumburgh Head, also Pied Flycatcher at Grutness, and Sumburgh Farm. Redstart and Willow Warbler at Sumburgh Trees. Sooty Shearwater close in off Sumburgh Head lower carpark. Sandwich Tern over Scord beach.
Cetacean Sightings: 12-20 Common Dolphin seen from boat returning from trip out to Muckle Ossa.
Insect Sightings: Convolvulus Hawkmoth on Out Skerries.
31st August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Greenish Warbler at Valyie. Peregrine over Skaw. Canada Goose at Baltasound.
Yell: Willow Warbler at Sellafirth.
Whalsay: Willow Warbler, Whinchat and Common Rosefinch at Skaw.
Bressay: Pied Flycatcher, Tree Pipit and Merlin at Gorie. Greenshank at Loch of Grimsetter.
Foula: Black-headed Bunting on the island, and 2 Sooty Shearwater from the ferry.
South Mainland: Red-backed Shrike at Bakkasetter. Movement of C800 meadow pipit over Dalsetter first thing. Pied Flycatcher, Chiffchaff, Lesser Whitethroat and Willow Warbler at Geosetter. 18 Ruff at Quendale. 120 Meadow Pipit, 75 Wheatear, Willow Warbler and Sparrowhawk at Sumburgh.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale off Noss (1) while 3 were seen later. Dolphin unidentified off Skerries Of Skea.
30th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Greenish Warbler at Valyie. Common Rosefinch at Holsens Road, Whinchat and Garden Warbler at Skaw. Canada Goose, Greenshank, and 3 Black-tailed Godwit at Ordaal, Baltasound.
Yell: Merlin at Mid Yell junction and Icterine at Gutcher.
Out Skerries: Barred, Garden, Sedge, and 6 Willow Warbler, plus Chiffchaff, Common Rosefinch and 3 Whinchat on the island.
Bressay: Barred, Wood and 2 Willow Warbler, Whitethroat, Chiffchaff, 2 Tree Pipit, Pied Flycatcher, Sand Martin and Sparrowhawk at Gorie.
Foula: Black-headed Bunting on the island.
Central Mainland: Garden and Willow Warbler at Veensgarth/Gott.
South Mainland: Reed Warbler at Hoswick Burn. Willow Warbler at Brakefield Road, Sandwick. Wood Warbler, 2 Greenshank and 10 Ruff at Quendale. Greenshank at Hillwell. Pied Flycatcher, Sparrowhawk and 2 Willow Warbler at Geosetter. Wood Warbler and Reed Bunting at north road, Boddam. Barred Warbler, and House Martin around Grutness.
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's dolphin (5) seen of Haroldswick, Unst, Skaw, Whalsay (3), and off Scord Point, Bressay (3). Minke Whales spotted at Haroldswick (2), Noss (1), Noness (1), Mousa Sound (5)
Insect Sightings: Peacock butterfly at Grutness.
29th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Barred Warbler, Pied Flycatcher, 2 Willow and Garden Warbler, and Common Whitethroat at Valyie. Juvenile Moorhen at Haroldswick Mires. Greenshank over and 4 Knot at Baltasound.
Bressay: Barred, Wood and Willow Warbler, Greenshank and 3 Swallow flew south, at Gorie. Bar-tailed and 3 Black-tailed Godwit at Mail.
Whalsay: Whinchat at Skaw and Barred Warbler at Marrister.
Foula: Black-headed Bunting on the island.
Fetlar: Hobby flew north from Tresta. Lesser Whitethroat at Aithness.
South Mainland: Redpoll at South Voxter, Cunningsburgh. Kestrel over Clumlie. Willow Warbler at Maywick. Wood Warbler at Quendale Mill. Pintail at Hillwell. 2 Barred Warbler and Grasshopper Warbler between Sumburgh farm and quarry. Icterine Warbler at Exnaboe.
Cetacean Sightings: Pod of Orca spotted off Sumburgh Lighthouse. Minke Whale at Mousa Sound (2).
28th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Pied Flycatcher at Norwick.
Out Skerries: Common Swift over the island.
Bressay: Barred Warbler, Pied Flycatcher and Common Whitethroat at Gorie.
Foula: Black-headed Bunting, Common Rosefinch (2), Barred, Reed, Garden and 2 Willow Warbler, 3 Sand Martin on the island.
Fetlar: Whinchat at Aithness.
Whalsay: Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, and Common Whitethroat at Skaw, and Pied Flycatcher at Marrister.
South Mainland: Peregrine at Hillwell. Sea-watch at Lookout, Sumburgh head, produced 6 Sooty and 2 Manx Shearwater between 6:30am and 7:30am. Also there, Peregrine, Merlin and 2 Whimbrel. 1 Manx Shearwater from the Good Shepherd. Garden and Willow Warbler, and 2 Sand Martin at Grutness.
Cetacean Sightings: 3 Risso's dolphin seen from Lookout, Sumburgh Head.
27th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Kestrel near Hagdale.
Out Skerries: Lesser Whitethroat and Chaffinch, on the island.
Whalsay: Willow Warbler at Skaw.
Bressay: Barred Warbler at Gorie. Sea-watch off Loder Head, produced 3 Sooty and Manx Shearwater between 1:15pm and 3:15pm.
Foula: Black-headed Bunting still on the island.
Central Mainland: Rose-coloured Starling at Cockatoo Brae, Lerwick. Notable 101+ Black Guillemot in Bressay Sound off Victoria Pier.
South Mainland: Merlin at Hoswick. Sea-watch from Lookout, Sumburgh Head, produced 19 Sooty, and 12 Manx Shearwater, plus 3 Storm Petrel between 06:15am and 12:15noon.
26th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Hawfinch at Valyie.
Yell: Merlin at West Yell.
West Mainland: 3 Goosander at West Burrafirth Voe.
Bressay: Barred Warbler at Gorie.
Foula: Black-headed Bunting on the island.
Whalsay: Little Stint at Skaw. Marsh Harrier at Challister.
South Mainland: Common Swift at Compass Head. 68 Black-tailed Godwit and 3 Ruff at Spiggie. Sabine's Gull seen 10miles ESE of Fair Isle.
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's dolphin near Hoo Stack, and a Minke Whale north of Noss. Report of a pod of Bottle-nosed Dolphin off Whalsay.
24th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Hawfinch at Valyie. 3 Sand Martin and a Swallow at Skaw.
Bressay: Wood Warbler and Sand Martin at Gorie.
South Mainland: Willow Warbler at Geosetter. 3 Sooty Shearwaters seen from the Northlink ferry past Sumburgh Head.
Cetacean Sightings: Report of the Bottle-Nosed Dolphins going South at speed past Burravoe.
25th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 2 Whooper Swan at Loch of Snarravoe.
Yell: 2 Ruff at West Sandwick.
North Mainland: 4 Black-tailed Godwit at Eshaness.
Bressay: Barred Warbler, Merlin and Sand Martin at Gorie.
South Mainland: Greenshank, 39 Black-tailed Godwit and 6 Ruff at Spiggie. Gadwall at Hillwell. 15 Sooty Shearwater and 8 Manx Shearwater South past the Lookout at Sumburgh Head. Marsh Harrier at Boddam.
21th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Ring-necked Duck at Dam Loch, Uyeasound. Garden Warbler and Lesser Whitethroat at Valyie.
South Mainland: 66 Black-tailed Godwits and 2 Ruff at Loch of Spiggie.
Cetacean Sightings: c30 Bottle-nosed Dolphins moved West from Uyeasound to Bluemull Sound, the 2nd inshore record for Shetland.
22th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
South Mainland: 87 Black-tailed Godwits at Loch of Spiggie. 24 Manx Shearwater, 19 Sooty Shearwater and 5 European Storm Petrel past the Lookout at Sumburgh Head.
Cetacean Sightings: c20 Bottle-nosed Dolphins in Dales Voe (Toft).
23th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Skerries: Red-backed Shrike, 2 Willow Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 1 Common Whitethroat, 1 Redpoll, 3 Sand Martin and 15 Swallows.
Foula: Sabine's Gull, adult 2 miles off Foula from the mail boat. Barred Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat and Willow Warbler.
Bressay: Blyth's Reed Warbler Noss Sound.
South Mainland: 31 Black-tailed Godwits at Sumburgh Farm. 23 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Ruff, Grey Plover, Whimbrel and Little Stint at Pool of Virkie. Peregrine Falcon at Spiggie. Red-necked Phalarope at Bakkasetter. Common Rosefinch at Wiltrow, Boddam.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale north of Bressay. Small group of Risso's Dolphins north of Noss. 2 Minke Whales south past Sumburgh. Risso's pod through Mousa Sound.
18th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 34 Black-tailed Godwit Baltasound. 8 Bar-tailed Godwit, 10 Ruff and Knot east of Uyeasound.
North Mainland: Seawatch at Eshaness produced 24 Manx and 5 Sooty Shearwater from 8:10am to 10:40am.
Central Mainland: Sabine's Gull over Clickimin loch this evening. 20 Whooper and 14 Mute at Loch of Benston.
Out Skerries: Willow Warbler, 12 White Wagtail, 10 Swallow, 40 Curlew, 2 Arctic Skuas, and Chaffinch on the island.
Whalsay: 2 Knot and Sanderling at Skaw.
Noss: Willow Warbler on the island.
South Mainland: Lesser Grey Shrike still at Channerwick. 8 Pied Wagtail in garden at Levenwick. Willow Warbler and Blackcap at Geosetter. 28 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Ruff, 5 Knot along with 12 Ringed Plover, 16 Redshank and 9 Lapwing at Setter, Spiggie. Swift at Grutness. Little Stint and 19 Black-tailed Godwit at Pool of Virkie.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale from Northlink ferry near Bressay.
19th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
A record day for large Shearwaters in Shetland waters with many people enjoying Great Shearwaters passing Sumburgh Head and a flock of 10+ off a boat east of Unst!
Unst: 10+ Great Shearwaters 3 miles East of Haroldswick Head around a fishing boat. Canada Goose west of Ordaal. Kestrel at Valyie. 28 Black-tailed Godwits and 7 Knot at Norwick. 800+ Golden Plover, 13 Ruff and 6 Black-tailed Godwits at Uyeasound.
Bressay: Bar-tailed Godwit at Voe of Leiraness.
South Mainland: 2 Corys Shearwater, 56 Great Shearwater, 28 Sooty Shearwater and 19 Manx Shearwater from the Lookout at Sumburgh Head. 1 Great Shearwater and 2 Sooty Shearwater also seen off Mousa, Lesser Grey Shrike still at Channerwick.
Cetacean Sightings: 4-5 Orca were seen from the Whalsay Ferry past Hunder Holm. An unidentified baleen whale was seen from a boat east of Dunrossness. A Basking Shark and 6+ Porpoise were seen off Sumburgh Head.
20th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Good sea watching from the Lookout at Sumburgh Head continued with more Great Shearwaters passing throughout the day.
Unst: 3 Great Shearwaters and 10+ Sooty Shearwaters 3 miles East of Unst.
North Mainland: 2 Sooty Shearwaters past Eshaness and 1 Ruff at Heogland.
South Mainland: 32 Great Shearwater, 15 Sooty Shearwater and 20 Manx Shearwater from the Lookout at Sumburgh Head. 53 Black-tailed Godwits at Loch of Spiggie. 1 Swift at Grutness. Tree Pipit and Black-throated Diver (for 6 weeks now) at Quendale. Marsh Warbler and 15 White-wagtail were at Toab yesterday.
Lesser Grey Shrike still at Channerwick.
17th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Black-tailed Godwit at Uyeasound (3), and Muness (22). 19 Ruff on east side of Easting Road. Ruff and Knot at Houb of Baltasound. Sanderling at Skaw (40) and Norwick (30).
Yell: Bar-tailed Godwit at Gloup, and Merlin again at Gutcher.
North Mainland: Seawatch off Eshaness produced 141 Manx and 8 Sooty Shearwater, plus 1 Storm Petrel from 8am-11:30am, with another 24 Manx and 2 Sooty Shearwater from 12:45-13:45.
West Mainland: Seawatch off Watsness produced 4 Manx and 1 Sooty Shearwater from 12:45-15:00.
South Mainland: Lesser Grey Shrike still at Channerwick. Single Manx Shearwater off Mousa. 34 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Knot and Ruff at Setter, Spiggie. 14 Black-tailed Godwit at Quendale. Seawatch off Sumburgh produced 12 Manx and 3 Sooty Shearwater from 8am-10:15am. With a further 2 Manx and 1 Sooty Shearwater, plus 15 Black-tailed Godwit north from 3:25pm-4:30pm. Peregrine of Grutness.
Cetacean Sightings: 3 Dolphin heading south off Dalsetter.
Fish Sightings: Porbeagle Shark off vessel out of Scalloway yesterday.
16th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Merlin at Gutcher.
South Mainland: Lesser Grey Shrike still at Channerwick. 9 Bar-tailed Godwit at Pool of Virkie, and 31 Black-tailed Godwit at Spiggie. Seawatch off Lookout, Sumburgh Head produced 104 Manx, 12 Sooty Shearwater and 2 Storm Petrels from 7:15am to 5:50pm.
15th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 2 Ruff at Ordale, and 4 Ruff at Easting junction.
Yell: Wood Warbler at Belleview, Mid Yell.
Central Mainland: 2 Black-tailed Godwit at the Houb of Scatsta. Colour-ringed Sparrowhawk at Kalliness, Weisdale.
South Mainland: Lesser Grey Shrike at Channerwick. 2 Green Sandpiper at Loch of Heusbreck, near Fleck. Seawatch off Lookout, Sumburgh Head produced Balearic Shearwater, 31 Manx, and 13 Sooty Shearwater from 8:30am to 3:30pm.
Cetacean Sightings: 4 White-sided Dolphins seen from Northlink Ferry.
14th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Kestrel at Haroldswick. Marsh Warbler at Valyie, Norwick. 2 Black-tailed Godwit at Dam Loch, Uyeasound.
Foula: Wood Sandpiper and Common Swift at Shoadals.
Central Mainland: Wood Sandpiper at Kirkhouse Loch, Vidlin. Ruff at Min Beach, Burra. Wood Warbler at Kergord.
South Mainland: Lesser Grey Shrike at Channerwick. Willow Warbler at Dalsetter.
Fish Sightings: Basking Shark off east side of Sumburgh Head.
13th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Fieldfare and 3 Willow Warbler at Burrafirth. 4 Ruff and 230 Curlew at Uyeasound, and Willow Warbler at Baltasound. Canada Goose at Ordaal, Baltasound.
Out Skerries: 40+ Curlew, 4 Swallow, White Wagtail and Chaffinch on the island.
Foula: Wood Sandpiper at Shoadals.
South Mainland: Lesser Grey Shrike at Channerwick. Tree Sparrow and Willow Warbler at Quendale. Curlew Sandpiper at Scatness.
Cetacean Sightings: Lone Orca seen north of Cullivoe pier. Basking Shark off Cunningsburgh.
12th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 3 Ruff in field east of Uyeasound.
Yell: Short-eared Owl at Gossabrough.
Whalsay: Greenshank at Skaw.
South Mainland: Common Swift at Spiggie. Seawatch at Sumburgh Head produced 16 Sooty, and 8 Manx Shearwater and 2 Storm Petrels between 7am and 5:30pm.
Cetacean Sightings: White-beaked dolphins again off Sumburgh Head.
11th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Manx and Sooty Shearwaters north past Skaw.
Yell: Merlin at Cullivoe.
West Mainland: Canada Goose not seen since 9th August at Fogrigarth, West Burrafirth.
Central Mainland: Marsh Harrier and Short-eared Owl over South Voxter.
South Mainland: Marsh Harrier at Levenwick. 6 juvenile Linnet at Dalsetter, with Marsh Harrier over. Curlew Sandpiper at Virkie. Hobby north over Bay of Quendale.
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's dolphin sighted at Haroldswick, Unst and the east side of Sumburgh Head. White-beaked dolphin off Noss. Minke Whale seen off Haroldswick, Unst.
Insect Sightings: 2 Peacock Butterflies at Skaw, Unst. Bedstraw Hawkmoth and Rush Veneer found in Foula.
10th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Greenshank on pool opposite Gunnister.
Yell: Glaucous Gull still at Vatsetter. Merlin at Gutcher.
North Mainland: Seawatch at Eshaness produced 30 Manx and 4 Sooty Shearwater between 8:30am and 1:30pm.
Central Mainland: Merlin at Black Gaet.
South Mainland: Curlew Sandpiper at Virkie.
Cetacean Sightings: Small group of White-beaked dolphin off Eshaness.
9th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Sparrowhawk and Merlin at Mid Yell.
West Mainland: In cut fields near to Bixter cemetery, 250 Golden Plover and 2 Ruff.
South Mainland: Ruff at Virkie. Wood Sandpiper at Setter, Spiggie.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale at South Nesting Bay.
8th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Seawatch off north Unst produced Sooty Shearwater and 6 Storm Petrel between 10am and 1pm.
Yell: Glaucous Gull still at Vatsetter.
North Mainland: Seawatch at Eshaness produced 39 Manx and 4 Sooty Shearwater between 10:15am and 12:30.
South Mainland: Seawatch at Sumburgh Head produced 10 Manx and 2 Sooty Shearwater between 5:30am and 8:45am.
Cetacean Sightings: 2+ White-beaked Dolphin off Eshaness lighthouse. 2+ Risso's Dolphin off the Kame of Isbister.
Insect Sightings: Double-stiped Pug caught at Wiltrow, Boddam, only the 6th record for Shetland.
6th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: 20 Sanderling at Brekon. Ruff at West Sandwick, and Merlin at Hillend, Mid Yell.
Foula: Barred Warbler and Green Sandpiper still at Ham.
West Mainland:
South Mainland: 4 Redpoll at Brakefield Road, Sandwick. Quail singing at Bakkasetter.
Cetacean Sightings: 3-4 Orca (64's pod) picked up from Lookout, Sumburgh Head, before heading quickly up the east side of Shetland, last seen heading through Lerwick harbour, continuing to head northwards.
7th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Greenshank and Bar-tailed Godwit at the Houb, at Baltasound. Kestrel over Final Checkout. 3 Arctic Skua at Valyie.
Yell: A deceased Great Grey Shrike was found in west Yell.
Whalsay: Cuckoo at Marrister.
South Mainland: Sooty Shearwater seen from east of Sumburgh Head, with counts of 5 Manx and 5 Sooty past Lookout at 15:30-17:30. Further 2 Sooty Shearwater seen following Northlink, and off south mainland. Cuckoo at Longfield, Brow.
Insect Sightings: Honeysuckle Moth (Ypsolopha dentally) was spotted near Castle Street, Scalloway.
5th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Wood Warbler still at Cullivoe.
Foula: Barred Warbler and Green Sandpiper at Ham.
South Mainland: Seawatch off Lookout, Sumburgh Head between 06:30-11:30 counts of 12 Sooty, 6 Manx Shearwater and 5 Storm Petrel. And later, between 15:30-19:00 counts of 11 Sooty Shearwater. Green Sandpiper at Quendale.
Cetacean Sightings: 15-20 White-beaked Dolphin south, and 3 Risso's Dolphin north, past Lookout, Sumburgh Head.
4th August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: 2 Merlin at head of Whalfirth. Glaucous Gull off Vatsetter.
Out Skerries: 1 Garden Warbler, 6 Swallow and 55 Curlew on the island.
Foula: Garden Warbler and Green Sandpiper at Ham.
South Mainland: Greenshank and Sandwich Tern at Quendale. Quail in between Hillwell and Quendale.
Cetacean Sightings: 5+ White-beaked dolphin north of Out Skerries. 6+ Risso's dolphin in South Nesting Bay.
3rd August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Long-eared Owl and Garden Warbler at Norwick.
Yell: Wood Warbler at Cullivoe. Glaucous Gull at Vatsetter, relocated from Uyeasound, Unst.
Foula: Evidence of migration as 6 Grey Heron arrive on the island.
South Mainland: Cuckoo at Dalsetter. Quail singing again, plus Cuckoo and Blackcap at Bakkasetter.
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's dolphin seen off Muckle Flugga (5+). 2 Orca north of Noss. Pod of 5-6 Orca reported in Dales Voe, heading south.
Insect Sightings: Trapped on a boat in Lerwick harbour, Eistalinus aeneus, a hoverfly, 1st record for Shetland!
2nd August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Turtle Dove at Gutcher.
West Mainland: Canada Goose settled at Fogrigarth, West Burrafirth.
South Mainland: Marsh Harrier over the north end of Spiggie Loch. Quail at Bakkasetter.
1st August 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Green Sandpiper at SouthEast, Mid Yell.
Foula: Possible Marsh Warbler at Ham.
West Mainland: Summering Goosander flock of 14 still in Weisdale Voe. Canada Goose still at Fogrigarth, West Burrafirth.
Central Mainland: 3 Sandwich Terns through Lerwick Harbour.
South Mainland: Greenshank and Quail at Bakkasetter.
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's dolphin seen at east side of Noss (1), South Nesting Bay (3). 5 White-beaked dolphin seen 5 miles north of Fair Isle from Good Shepherd. Minke Whale feeding off the Horse of Burravoe, Scatness. Fish sighting - Bluefin Tuna spotted in East Voe, Scalloway.
31st July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Whalsay: Black-throated Diver at Flukings Bight. Common Scoter off Kirk Beach, Brough. Common Sandpiper at East Loch of Skaw.
Central Mainland: Blackcap singing at Sandgarth, Dale. Honey Buzzard over Gulberwick.
West Mainland: Canada Goose still present at Fogrigarth, West Burrafirth.
South Mainland: Ruff at Virkie.
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's dolphin seen at Symbister Whalsay (8-10). 2 pods of unidentified dolphins from Houbie in Fetlar.
Insect Sightings: Oleander Hawkmoth photographed in a garden in Bressay, 4th record in Shetland. Micro moth Zeiraphera isertana caught in Law Lane, Lerwick, and the 3rd record in Shetland.
30th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Common Swift past Muness.
Yell: Merlin at Cullivoe, and 4 Sand Martin at Kirk Loch.
West Mainland: Canada Goose still at Fogrigarth, West Burrafirth.
South Mainland: Green Sandpiper at Boddam Voe.
29th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Merlin at Baltasound.
Out Skerries: Chaffinch on the island.
West Mainland: Canada Goose at Fogrigarth, West Burrafirth.
South Mainland: Common Swift over Sumburgh Head. Quail singing at Bakkasetter.
Cetacean Sightings: 6 Risso's dolphin seen from old ferry terminal in Fetlar.
Insect Sightings: Double-striped Pug Moth caught at Voehead, Bressay was first for the site, and only the second away from Fair Isle.
28th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 3 Common Swift north over Uyeasound.
West Mainland: 2 Great Northern Diver at Kellister, West Burrafirth.
South Mainland: Quail singing at Bakkasetter.
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's dolphin see of Score Point, Bressay (1), and in South Nesting Bay (6). Minke Whale just off Mousa.
Insect Sightings:
27th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Wood Pigeon with brood of 2, Redpoll with fledged young at Hillend, Mid Yell. 5 Sanderling at Breckon.
South Mainland: Juvenile Cuckoo at Hillwell. Quail at Bakkasetter. 24 Bar-tailed Godwit and 15 Whimbrel over at Pool of Virkie.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale off Ord, Bressay. Risso's dolphin seen at Fethaland (3), Bressay (1), and a pod of unidentified dolphin between Kirkabister and Ness of Sound.
Insect Sightings: Mother of Pearl moth at Bakkasetter, South Mainland. Manchester Treble-bar and Timothy Tortix moths at Fogrigarth, West Burrafirth.
26th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: 5 Sanderling at West Sandwick.
South Mainland: 6 Common Swift over Toab.
Cetacean Sightings: 2 Risso's dolphin seen from Fetlar ferry.
Insect Sightings: Willow Ermine moths emerged from pupae in a Sandwick garden.
25th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
West Mainland: Night Heron has been reported again from Dale of Walls, and could have been present since the beginning of June.
South Mainland: Black Redstart at Grutness.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale off Dore Holm, Stenness.
24th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
No bird news
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale at Snarraness, West Burrafith. Risso's Dolphin at Buraland, Sandwick (4), Noness, Levenwick (8). Pod of Orca seen from boat north of Bressay - some distance away.
23rd July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Goosander, and 36 Mallard at Loch of Vatsetter.
South Mainland: Manx Shearwater from Good Shepherd 10miles south of Sumburgh. Brambling at Virkie. Sparrowhawk at Hillwell.
Cetacean Sightings: 15-20 dolphin between Mousa and Burland heading south, past Noness. Risso's dolphin from Sumburgh Head (4) and later (2), Dalsetter (6), Minke Whale south off Skaw, Whalsay and at Snarraness, West Burrafirth.
22nd July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 9 Sanderling at Westing beach.
Yell: 9 Sand Martin at Breckon beach.
South Mainland:
From County Recorder: Redpolls to become one species - BirdGuides
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's dolphin seen at Levenwick (1), later 10, Mousa Sound (1). Unidentified dolphin pod off Gulberwick. 2 Minke Whale off Gossabrough, Yell.
Insect Sightings: Hummingbird Hawkmoth and Painted Lady butterfly on Foula. Willow Ermine moth at Bakkasetter, South Mainland.
21st July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 1st Summer Arctic Tern at Ordaal, Baltasound.
Yell: 18 Sanderling at Breckon.
South Mainland: Mistle Thrush at Sumburgh Hotel. Green Sandpiper at Bakkasetter.
Insect Sightings: Peacock butterfly at Viewfield, Otterswick.
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's dolphin from Skerries ferry.
20th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 1st Summer Arctic Tern and 3 Knot at Ordaal, Baltasound.
Yell: 5 Sand Martin and 9 Sanderling at Breckon.
South Mainland: 200 Sanderling at Scord beach, Scatness. 2 Common Swift at north end of Spiggie loch.
19th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Common Swift over the Keen of Hamar. 75 Storm Petrel off Hermaness between 10am and 4pm.
Central Mainland: Honey Buzzard over Black Gaet, flew towards Gulberwick.
South Mainland: 2 Common Swift and Sandwich Tern at Pool of Virkie.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale seen from Skerries ferry.
18th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Short-eared Owl at Bastavoe.
South Mainland: 50 Sanderling, 6 Knot and 41 Common Gulls noted at Scord Beach, Sumburgh Airport. Quail at Hillwell.
17th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Whalsay: Black-throated Diver at Skaw Voe.
South Mainland: Unidentified large raptor headed north towards Boddam mid morning. Common Swift at Ocraquoy. Quail at Hillwell. Pacific Swift still north of Virkie towards Clevigarth.
Cetacean Sightings: 3 Risso's dolphin off Dalsetter, South Mainland.
16th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: 2 Short-eared Owl at Mid Yell.
North Mainland: 6 Common Swift at Eshaness Lighthouse.
Central Mainland: 5 Common Swift over Sands of Sound, Lerwick.
South Mainland: Gull-billed Tern still at Scatness. Pacific Swift north of Virkie.
Cetacean Sightings: Risso's Dolphin seen at heading south at Sandsayre (15), also from Skerries ferry (10), Grutness (4). 15's Pod of Orca seen from south Skerries from the ferry.
15th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: White-tailed Eagle over Lumbister.
South Mainland: Pacific Swift first seen between the last house on Eastshore Road, and Point of Tangpool, Virkie before slowly heading northwards with 4 Common Swift. Gull-billed Tern still present at Loch of Gards, Scatness. Common Swift at Sumburgh Hotel.
Cetacean Sightings: 4 Risso's Dolphin off Noup of Noss.
14th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Central Mainland: 2 Willow Warbler at Clickimin.
South Mainland: Marsh Harrier at Hillwell. Gull-billed Tern back at Loch of Gards, Scatness.
Cetacean Sightings: 5 Risso's Dolphin off Noup of Noss.
13th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: 6 adult and 3 juvenile Sand Martin at Breckon.
South Mainland: Gull-billed Tern was relocated at Loch of Gards, Scatness, where it remained all day, before returning to Pool of Virkie in the evening.
12th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
South Mainland: Gull-billed Tern at Pool of Virkie.
Cetacean Sightings: 8 Porpoise of Score Point, Bressay. 2 pods of Risso's Dolphin (3:5) from Eshaness lighthouse. 3 Risso's Dolphin from Sumburgh Head. 2 Minke Whale past Sumburgh Head.
Insect Sightings: Scoparia ambigualis, a micro moth, was found at Otterswick, only the first ever record for Yell.
11th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
South Mainland: Common Swift at Sumburgh Head.
Cetacean Sightings: 9+ Risso's Dolphin at Melby, Sandness.
10th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
No news today.
Insect Sightings: Eudonia lacustrata, micro moth, found on Foula, only the 2nd Shetland record of this species.
9th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Fetlar: White-billed Diver off Houbie.
Cetacean Sightings: Un-identified pod of dolphin off north end of Hascosay, Yell. Minke Whale off Mousa, and another at Leebitton.
8th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Common Scoter on the sea at Burrafirth.
Central Mainland: Black-throated Diver at entrance to Dales Voe. 2 Common Swift over Clickimin.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale off Sumburgh Head, another at Skaw, Whalsay. Pod of Orca spotted from Northlink Ferry within 3 mile of Fair Isle, and later seen from the island.
7th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: 5 Great Northern Diver between Otterswick at Aywick.
Bressay: Singing Blackcap at Voehead.
Central Mainland: 2 White-tailed Eagle over Lunnasting. 3 Swift over North Lochside.
South Mainland: Black-throated Diver at Quendale. Pintail at Hillwell.
Cetacean Sightings: 2 Minke Whale off Sumburgh Head.
6th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Sooty Shearwater and 26 Storm Petrel past Hermaness between 11am and 2pm.
Yell: 32 Whimbrel at Vatsetter. Short-eared Owl at Gossabrough.
Central Mainland: 2 Swift at Clickimin Broch.
South Mainland: Ruff at Setter, flew towards Noss. Quail at Hillwell.
5th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 4 Collared Dove at Valyie. Grey Wagtail over Hall
Yell: 4 Sand Martin at Breckon. Iceland Gull at Mid Yell. Chiffchaff still Hillend.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale at Sumburgh Head.
4th July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Grey Wagtail over Halligarth.
Yell: Red-breasted Merganser with brood of 9 ducklings at Cullivoe old marina. Sand Martin at Breckon Beach. Iceland Gull at Mid Yell.
West Mainland: Night Heron over Mid Dale, flying east towards Sandness Road.
Central Mainland: House Martin and 2 Swift at Clickimin. Fledged Robin at North Road, House Martin at Sea Road, and 2 Grey Heron high over, Lerwick.
South Mainland: Sedge Warbler singing at Mail, Cunningsburgh.
Cetacean Sightings: Correction: A pod of Orca were picked up off Harmarsness, Fetlar, before tracking south off Yell to Burravoe, then re-sighted off Lunna, Vidlin before heading south towards Dury Voe. Minke Whale off Levenwick, and off Boddam, and 2 off Sumburgh Lighthouse. Pod of Risso's Dolphin off Levenwick Cliffs.
3rd July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Grey Plover at Voesgarth. Bar-tailed Godwit at the Houb. Summer Plumaged Great Northern Diver at Haroldswick.
North Mainland: Swift and Black-throated Diver SW of Gluss Isle.
Central Mainland: 2 Swift at Clickimin.
South Mainland: Common Crossbill at Hillwell. Swift at Spiggie. Common Redpoll at Brakefield Road, Sandwick. Greenshank at Boddam.
Cetacean Sightings: No 27's pod of Orca were sighted off St Ninian's Isle before heading northwards up into Cliff Sound, then around Hamnavoe, towards Reawick, Skeld and last sighting off Silwick.
2nd July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Hobby at Westing.
Yell: Iceland Gull on playing field, at Mid Yell.
Fetlar: Swift at Tresta.
North Mainland: Black Redstart at Calder Geo, Eshaness.
Central Mainland: Great Northern Diver at Voxter bay. Lesser Whitethroat at North Road, and Longland, Lerwick. House Martin at Seafield Road, Lerwick.
South Mainland: 18 Sand Martin at north end of Spiggie Loch.
Cetacean Sightings: 6-7 Risso's Dolphin off Noss and off Knab, Lerwick. Minke Whale at Burravoe, Yell.
1st July 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Sedge Warbler at Halligarth. Glaucous Gull at Easter Loch.
Yell: 2 Sand Martin at Kirk Loch and at Cullivoe.
Fetlar: Red-backed Shrike in Manse Garden.
Central Mainland: 2 Redpoll and Willow Warbler at Clickimin.
Cetacean Sightings: 7 Risso's Dolphin at East Side of Sumburgh Head. 9 Risso's Dolphin at Funzie Bay, Fetlar. 8 Risso's Dolphin off Score Point, Bressay. 4 Orca seen off Sandness, heading towards Mu Ness.
29th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Iceland Gull still at Laxa Burn.
Fetlar: Swift at Aithness. Fieldfare at Feal Burn.
Papa Stour: 3 European Bee-eater on the island.
Foula: 2 Nightjar at Ham.
Central Mainland: House Martin in Commercial Street, Lerwick.
South Mainland: 2 Common Swift at Pool of Virkie.
30th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Osprey at Dam Loch, Uyeasound.
Fetlar: Franklin's Gull at Mires of Funzie.
Central Mainland: Hobby near Voe, 5 Crossbill at Loch of Voe plantation. Short-eared Owl at Swinister. Swift and Goldeneye at Clickimin.
South Mainland: Iceland Gull and House Martin at Spiggie. Short-eared Owl at Virkie. 2 Common Swift Pool of Virkie.
Cetacean Sightings: 14 Risso's Dolphin off Sumburgh.
28th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Osprey north over Easter Loch.
Yell: Bar-tailed Godwit at Laxa Burn. 2 Redpoll and 2 Wood pigeon at Hillend, Mid Yell.
Foula: Nightjar, singing Marsh Warbler and Grey Wagtail at Ham.
North Mainland: House Martin at Eshaness. Fieldfare at Sullom Plantation.
Central Mainland: Velvet Scoter with large Eider flock by Trondra/West Burra bridge.
South Mainland: Swift at Virkie. Manx Shearwater off east side of Sumburgh Head.
27th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst:
Whalsay:
Central Mainland:
South Mainland: 4 Swift over north Spiggie Loch. 5 Swift at North Town. 6 Black-tailed Godwit near Croft House Museum, Boddam. Quail at Hillwell, plus Shoveler with 4 ducklings. Common Whitethroat at Sumburgh Head.
26th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Black-tailed Godwit calling over Ordaal.
Yell: 2 Sand Martin at Kirk Loch, Culliove. Grey Heron at Sand Water, Gutcher. Iceland Gull at Laxa Burn. Short-eared Owl at Gloup.
Whalsay: Quail calling at Brough.
North Mainland: 2 Common Sandpiper at Gunnister Voe.
Central Mainland:
South Mainland: Quail and Grey Heron at Hillwell. Shoveler at Grutness.
Cetacean Sightings: Pod of Risso's Dolphin off Sumburgh Head, and off Noss. Minke Whale off Bressay Lighthouse. Male Orca, Hulk and Nott, were in Fair Isle today.
25th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Yellow Wagtail at Haroldswick.
Yell: Cuckoo at Hillend, Mid Yell.
Foula: Spotted Flycatcher, Marsh Warbler, and Lesser Whitethroat at Ham Yard. First juvenile Grey Heron.
Central Mainland: Osprey high over Lerwick.
South Mainland: Marsh Harrier at Brow. Quail and Wood Pigeon at Hillwell. Swift at Grutness.
24th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: 2 Common Swift at Uyeasound.
Whalsay: Honey Buzzard at Skaw.
Foula: 3 Swift, 2 House Martin and Short-eared Owl.
Central Mainland: 11 Black-tailed Godwit south over Lunna House.
South Mainland: Common Swift at Sumburgh Head.
23rd June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Skerries: 3 Chiffchaff, Chaffinch, Lesser Whitethroat, Dunnock, Grey Wagtail, and Siskin on the island.
Foula: Snow Bunting and Lesser Whitethroat.
Central Mainland: Swift at Ness of Sound. Corncrake, Sedge Warbler and Reed Bunting at Loch of Tingwall.
South Mainland: 8+ Long-tailed Duck at St Ninian's Tombolo. A Honey Buzzard seen over Dalsetter, was later seen over Sandwick. Quail at Hillwell. Sandwich Tern, Tree Sparrow and 6 Sand Martin at Quendale. Marsh Harrier over Brow Loch. 30 Knot at Pool of Virkie. Swift at Grutness. Quail calling at Clumlie.
22nd June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Marsh Warbler at Daisy Park, Baltasound. Sandwich Tern at Haroldswick. Storm Petrel off East Hill, Swift over Skaw, and Sandwick Tern at Norwick.
Yell: Marsh Warbler singing at Camb.
Fetlar: Qual at Everland Road.
Foula: Red-backed Shrike, Blackcap and Lesser Whitethroat on the island.
Central Mainland: Marsh Warbler singing at Clickimin and Helendale House, also 3 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat and Willow Warbler. Sandwich Tern over Tesco's. Corncrake calling at Loch of Tingwall.
South Mainland: Quail calling at Sumburgh Hotel. Quail east of Hillwell. Honey Buzzard at Maywick. 16 Sanderling at Scord Beach. Marsh Harrier at Setter. 20 Knot at Virkie. Short-eared Owl at Scatness.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale 1km out from The Lookout, Sumburgh Head, and again later in the afternoon from the foghorn.
21st June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Foula: 4 Manx Shearwater and 2 Storm Petrel from Foula ferry.
Central Mainland: 4 Swift past Loch of Trondavoe. 2 Swift past Wethersta. Willow Warbler singing at Brae Community Woodland. Swift south over Scatsta. Blackcap singing at Stromfirth. 3+ Hawfinch (1 singing), Cuckoo, Blackcap and Chiffchaff singing at Kergord House.
Mousa: Swift over the Broch.
South Mainland: Marsh Harrier at Setter. Marsh Warbler and 2 Swift at Boddam.
20th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Foula: Temminck's Stint at Shoadals.
Central Mainland: Marsh Warbler singing and 7 Siskin at Clickimin.
Cetacean Sightings: Pod of Orca seen off Burravoe, in Yell. Minke Whale feeding at the back of Noss.
Mammal sightings: Nathusius's Pipistrelle again at Bakkasetter.
19th June 2024
No sightings of note today
18th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Yell: Waxwing at Cullivoe plantation. Short-eared Owl Gossaburgh.
Central Mainland: Marsh Warbler singing at north end of Clickimin Loch.
South Mainland: 10 Long-tailed Duck at St Ninian.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale off Giant's Leg, Bressay. Part of 27's pod were sighted in Sullom Voe, before heading into Mavis Grind, then exiting Sullom Voe heading northwards.
16th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Fetlar: Brambling and Common Whitethroat at Feal.
Out Skerries: Lesser Whitethroat, Reed Warbler, Sparrowhawk, 4 Whimbrel, 2 Swift and Kestrel.
Central Mainland: 2 Siskin at Eswick, South Nesting.
South Mainland: 2 European Bee-eater over Swinister Burn. Tree Sparrow at Quendale.
Cetacean Sightings: Minke Whale off Bressay.
17th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Grey Wagtail over Hermaness.
North Mainland: 2 Barnacle Geese at Eshaness Lighthouse.
South Mainland: Hobby at Clevigarth. Quail calling at Quendale dunes and at Hillwell, Scaup also there. Marsh Warbler at Virkie Willows.
Cetacean Sightings: Breaching Humpback Whale seen 2km out from Eshaness.
15th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Crossbill at Valyie.
Fetlar: Cuckoo at Funzie mires, and Crossbill at Feal.
Central Mainland: Lesser Whitethroat singing at Law Lane, Lerwick.
West Mainland: Great Northern Diver at Sand beach. 29 Goosander at Weisdale Voe. 14 Whooper Swan at Hulma Water.
South Mainland: Hawfinch at Geosetter. Golden Oriole at Maywick. Sandwich Tern, and Waxwing, and 2 Blyth's Reed Warbler singing at Virkie Willows. Scuap and Quail at Hillwell. Greenshank and 6 Barnacle Geese at Spiggie. Kestrel at Bigton.
14th June 2024
No sightings of note today
13th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Red-backed Shrike and Spotted Flycatcher at Valyie. Marsh Warbler in song at Halligarth, and Daisy Park, Baltasound.
Yell: White-tailed Eagle at Lochs of Lumbister.
Foula: Manx Shearwater seen from Ferry. Nightjar still at Ham.
Central Mainland: Marsh and Icterine Warbler at Sandgarth, Dale.
South Mainland: Golden Oriole at Maywick. Marsh Harrier and Quail at Hillwell. 11 Common Scoter north past the east side of Sumburgh Head. Greenshank at Grutness.
Cetacean Sightings: Pod of White-beaked dolphin were off north of Mousa. Minke Whale at Bard, Bressay. 3 Risso's dolphin off Eshaness lighthouse, with another 8 off Levenwick cliffs.
12th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Bluethroat at Shore Station, Burrafirth.
Fetlar: Savi's Warbler and Icterine Warbler still at Funzie Willows.
North Mainland: Black-throated Diver in North Collafirth bay.
Foula: 4 Storm Petrel from mailboat.
Central Mainland: Lesser Whitethroat at Peerie Oversund Park, Sound, Lerwick.
West Mainland: 2 Black-throated Diver at Brindister, West Burrafirth.
South Mainland: Iceland Gull at Sumburgh Farm. Temminck's Stint at Pool of Virkie. 2 House Martin at Sumburgh Head.
Cetacean Sightings: Pod of Risso's dolphin seen just south of Lerwick, along side Bressay before moving towards Noss. Minke Whale also in the area.
11th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Fetlar: Savi's Warbler and Icterine Warbler still at Funzie Willows.
Central Mainland: Lesser Whitethroat at Peerie Oversund Park, Sound, Lerwick.
South Mainland: Iceland Gull at Sumburgh Farm. Curlew Sandpiper at Pool of Virkie.
10th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Fetlar: Savi's Warbler and Icterine Warbler still at Funzie Willows.
Central Mainland: Lesser Whitethroat at Peerie Oversund Park, Sound, Lerwick.
South Mainland: Iceland Gull at Sumburgh Farm.
9th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Shore Lark at Skaw. Ring-necked Duck at Dam Loch, Uyeasound.
Fetlar: Savi's Warbler and Icterine Warbler at Funzie Willows.
Foula: Nightjar and Garden Warbler still at Ham.
West Mainland: Goosander at Bridge of Walls.
Central Mainland: Blackcap singing at Sandgarth, Dale. Kestrel at Uradale, Scalloway. Red-breasted Flycatcher at Helendale, Lerwick.
South Mainland: Short-eared Owl at Sumburgh Airport.
8th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Ring-necked Duck at Dam Loch, Uyeasound.
Fetlar: Savi's Warbler at Funzie Willows.
Central Mainland: Red-breasted Flycatcher moved to Helendale, Lerwick.
South Mainland: Displaying Siskin at Swinister and Blackcap singing at Brakefield Road, Sandwick.
Cetacean Sightings: 2 Risso's and 1 White-beaked Dolphin seen from The Outlook at Sumburgh Head.
7th June 2024
Bird Sightings:
Unst: Ring-necked Duck at Dam Loch, Uyeasound. Quail calling at Northdale.
Fetlar: Savi's Warbler at Funzie Willows.