Isles of Scilly - 2nd October 2021

The day started with torrential heavy rain, typical autumn fare making the drive down to Lands End a little anxious.  With early flights cancelled, there was a chance that the poor weather could linger into the afternoon.  Thankfully, the weather cleared and it was a relief to make it to the Isles on schedule.

The weather on Scilly was grim too but it soon cleared and it was good to get the birding underway.

Heading straight up to Helvear, the balearic woodchat shrike was still present barely moving from its sedentary position.

The walk down to Porth Hellick was stunning.  A combination of sunshine and showers projecting rainbows over the sea creating the perfect backdrop.  

The juvenile glossy ibis made an appearance flying toward the back of the scrape and alighting there and feeding on the exposed mud.  It then flew in and landed right in front of the hide allowing close views.  A spotted crake appeared slightly right of the hide, washing itself and preening before disappearing back into the reeds.

Two wheatear were seen on the walk back to the flat, one near porth hellick and the other opposite giants castle.