Curlew

A cycle around the island of Shapinsay. I got to the hide at RSPB just as a very heavy shower started, so that was lucky. Took the bike inside too. That was the only rain of the visit. There were lots of curlews around and they were very vocal. When I stopped at an old kirk this one popped up onto the wall and suggested that I keep moving. So I took a photo and cycled on. Orkney is a stronghold for the species, which is declining rapidly around Britain. I've often heard visitors from south mention hearing them here and how they no longer do so in their local area. Ireland too is seeing the same- I read that County Donegal recorded only one pair breeding last year, which is incredible. Today, I probably saw 20+ pairs and they probably all had chicks nearby. I also saw a young oystercatcher and a shoveler duck with nine ducklings.