There were a few House Martins this summer after their virtual disappearance as a breeding species for the Island a couple of years ago. Although Wigeon appeared early it is the impression of Wildfowlers that they were less-numerous. Oystercatchers, Turnstone, Redshank Bar-tailed Godwit and, above all, Curlew are very numerous. Grey and Golden Plover, Sanderling and Dunlin have been found in their usual numbers but Knot and Little Stint have had to be searched-for. The writer did not see Little Stint this year but they were recorded.
Duck are well-represented.
In early November significant numbers of Long-tailed Duck were to be seen off the Island's Northern shoreline. In the same area it was a great delight to see at least three beautifully-marked Velvet Scoter. Glaucous Gull has not been seen but should occur, especially if the weather turns severe. Fulmars returned to their pelagic haunts in November and the New Year should see them back at Coves Haven and Beblowe Crag upon which the Castle stands. Kittiwake were blown-in by strong Easterlies in early November.