29th April

Another female Subalpine Warbler was trapped at Holland in the morning. This one was thought to have subtly colder plumage tones, and the measurements taken also suggest that it is an eastern albistriata bird. In particular, the relatively long wings, low tail to wing ratio and long primary projection are supportive of this subspecific identification. This week's Subalpine Warblers are the 9th and 10th records since the observatory records began in 1985, and this is the first time that two have been recorded in the same year.

The morning's other highlight was the discovery of five Dotterels on Tor Ness, equalling the earliest ever arrival of this species on the island.

Subalpine Warbler

Dotterels

There was not much in the way of common migrants. Counts came to 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 4 Blackcaps, 5 Chiffchaffs, 3 White Wagtails, 141 Wheatears, 1 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 4 Carrion Crows, 1 Brambling, 13 Lapland Buntings, 3 Sand Martins and 28 Swallows. A Greenshank, 9 Whimbrels, 10 Black-tailed Godwits, a Woodpigeon and 3 Collared Doves were also seen.