Jill went for a quick wander yesterday and had a few things but it was quiet with birds sitting on bests or feeding and we don't like to disturb them. Some of the snipe now have chicks but many are still sitting. This one is right by the road found whilst photographing orchids in the passing bay from the car window.

There were two red throated divers shifting around under water. They are very fast.

At home it's good to see a swallow still around and the wren is building a nest near the old gate.

Today, only one guest checked out and he left early to get his flight. We will miss Robert, he was really good company.

News broke early of a paddyfield warbler at Sumburgh. We made it down there but it was very elusive. We waited an hour and just saw it briefly, enough to identify it's pink legs!. No opportunity got photographs though. There was a quail calling while we were there.

We headed back slowly and picked up some bits in Tesco. Then, after our new guests arrived, we had a drive to Dandness and Burrafirth. It was a very nice evening and our grouse friend was there.

A good day with over 45 species.

In between showers

 The weather is still all over the place but Jill did manage a bit of time outdoors for her PA day this week with Mark. We took it easy as we haven't been out recently and we had a really good afternoon doing some new roads to see the scenery and stopping at the tiny but perfect community garden at Weisdale, packed with flowers and bees, it's a good spot to chill.

The roadside flowers are amazing this year

Little dude is doing well and mum has decided she is happy with one chick.

We had a busy week with guests this week with lots of lovely folk from different regions of Germany, Sweden and a smashing couple from Ireland. Sometimes it doesn't feel like work.

Getting near to simmer dim so it's still light at 11.39. not great for sunsets, but it tried this evening.

Bit sad

 Unfortunately, shelley is doing the same as 2 years ago. She's a good mum , but only to one. We will buy some equipment for next year. Little dude that remains us doing well though.

They are both currently indoors so she doesn't get distracted.

Most of this week all rooms have been full but no thanks to booking.com who are making mistakes which is a bit concerning. Still getting amazing guests though. We needed extra bread so Jill went to the shop and checked the patch on the way home. Lots of Northern Wheatears, some with young.

Some formation flying that the red arrows would be proud of.

Lots of flowers. Every pink blob is an orchid.

There were some other bits and bobs too.

There was a wheatear getting ready to be in the Jarl squad next year, with a good beard coming!

Today we went out for pizza for Robs birthday so we popped to town. It was really nice. There were some razorbills in the harbour.

Not a bad day.