Tuesday 28th June comments: The Farnes is still just recovering from last weeks sad events and for many, the place will just never be the same. Despite the passing of Billy Shiel, his name will be forever be linked with the islands as his boat company continues to bring thousands of visitors to witness the spectacular seabird reserve that is the Farne Islands.

It’s over a week since the last update and so much has happened. We’ve now got Kittiwake, Puffin, Shag and Cormorant fledglings to boast about whilst the first Sandwich and Arctic Tern chicks are ready to take to the wing. The season continues to produce mixed weather but the results of the breeding season appear to indicate a very successful on. At time of writing, Arctic Terns are fledging (on average) two chicks per nest (not an annual occurrence) although predation by large Gulls is still having an effect in some areas. Large numbers of Guillemots and Razorbills have now gone whilst Eiders have almost completed their breeding season for another year.

The Farnes continues to bring surprise visitors as we discovered another Spoonbill on 15th June whilst an adult Black Tern was seen over several days last week. Roseate Terns have not bred again this year but a pair continue to show well on a daily basis by the main jetties on Inner Farne.