Black-billed Cuckoo

Arriving on North Uist Tuesday afternoon wired with coffee and lack of sleep, our nerves weren't helped by being almost last off the ferry. Driving full-pelt across the island we eventually reached a line of birders peering into a roadside garden. Nerves were further frayed by news that the Black-billed Cuckoo had disappeared into deep cover. Thankfully after a few minutes we managed brief flight views and then 30 mins of stunning views as it perched out in the open in brilliant sunlight. Fantastic!!!!

Black-billed Cuckoo

A supporting cast on the island were male and female Hen Harrier, White-tailed Eagle, Short-eared Owl, Arctic Skua and Glaucous Gull. At Balranald Corncrake could be heard from every iris bed and eventually we managed brief views.

Glaucous Gull

White-tailed Eagle

On the way up we had Crested Tit after much searching of the woods around Aviemore along with Tree Pipit and Redstart. Two Osprey were seen on the drive west. Waiting at Uig for the ferry produced two Golden and a White-tailed Eagle along with plenty of Black Guillemot.

A superb trip and thanks to Mark and Martin for the lift.