Continuing the island theme of recent summers we spent 4 enjoyable days based on Islay. The weather was for the most part absolutely brilliant which really makes a place like this.
The boat journey out on the Saturday was largely uneventful with only a single Manx Shearwater of note. We were based just outside Port Ellen at Carraig Fhada.
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| Carraig Fhada |
Next morning at 6am I was up at the Mull of Oa. Although sea level was clear up on 'the Oa' low cloud prevailed and viewing was not ideal.
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| The American Monument through the gloom |
Nonetheless Twite & Rock Dove were notable.
Most of the rest of the day was spent over on the West Coast at Kilmaholm & Saligo Bay and at Loch Gruinart.
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| Saligo Bay |
Choughs were had at Kilmaholm and Hen Harrier at Gruinart.
Next day was again glorious and we took the opportunity of going over to Jura. Golden Eagle was seen well and the scenery was glorious.
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| View from Craighouse |
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| The Paps of Jura |
Overall Islay has terrific wildlife diversity. Small birds positively abound, particularly Meadow Pipits & Linnets. Another highlight was seeing Otter daily from around the B&B. July is probably not the best time but even so there was still much to see.
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| Swallow in flight |
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| Willow Warbler - has been really scarce this year. |
