Hebridean/Caribbean

If it wasn't for the howling wind and cold you could at times in the Western Isles be forgiven you were in the Caribbean. The white sands and turquoise sea make a quick dip inviting, though it's probably not advisable if you wish to retain those extremities to which you've become so attached.

With the forecast having been for rain, but our little corner of the island being subjected to some glorious sunny spells, we stuck close to base and wandered round a headland near the cottage, taking in kelp-laden rocks that seem specifically designed to be otter playgrounds, and stunning little bays with small rollers breaking out onto the shore.

Mel's only just getting over the end of a looooong bout of flu, so the fresh air and exercise is a bit of a shock to the system, but all in a good way. Late afternoon we took a brief spin to Mealasta, where from 1941 to 1946 there were 200-300 men stationed at a radio and radar base. Apparently there was a cinema and bar with regular dances, all of which disappeared when the men left. It's hard to imagine a buzzing nightlife down this dead end road.

Heading back we stumbled upon a flock of fabulous Golden Plovers, all coming into their breeding costumes - already shaping up to be a good wildlife trip, but we are otterless and Golden Eagleless on the first day. More than making up for that is the view out the front window, one of the reasons we had for coming back here after staying for a week last year. The tide has rolled back in, covering the beach and the Red River (Abhain Dearg) in that distinctive turquoise hue. Gin and tonic to hand.

(the birds at the bottom of the image are for the BlipBigYear - a Golden Plover, Razorbill, and Garganey (not included initially in the list below as I hadn't identified it!))

Ravens
Buzzards
Red Breasted Mergansers
Great Northern Divers
Ringed Plovers
Golden Plovers
Common Gulls
Great Black Backed Gulls
Black Headed Gulls
Hooded Crows
Starlings
Singing Skylark
Solo Mallard
Sparrowhawk
Oystercatchers
Grey Heron
Bird count: 17

Swirling Waters 1
Swirling Waters 2
Carnish Headland
Rabbit Skull