Tresco 9th October

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I caught the early boat to Tresco this morning hoping to see the Black and White Warbler that had been found yesterday.  On the quayside near the Mermaid a nice group of Turnstones were sitting out the high tide.

The warbler was seen the previous afternoon in trees between the two hides overlooking the Great Pool on Tresco.  Unfortunately despite much searching there was no sign of it today.

The weather was pleasantly sunny and I headed up to Castle Down at the north end of the island taking in the lovely scenery along the coastal path, including the round tower of Cromwell's Castle.  On the high ground of Castle Down I visited the ruined artillery fort of King Charles Castle, built 1548-51 to protect the island from French attack, though which subsequently proved to be poorly sited.

On Castle Down a Lapland Bunting associated with a flock of Linnets and which gave its distinctive call as it flew low over the heather.  On the top of the plateau the American Golden Plover was still present, sitting together with several of its European relatives.  The plovers were eventually flushed by a Merlin.

On the way back a few butterflies were noted, mainly Speckled Wood.  I also bumped into Bill Oddie!

Turnstones

New Grimsby bay

Rock Pipit

King Charle's Castle

American Golden Plover



Route back from Castle Down


Speckled Wood

Great Pool





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