Monday 16th May comments:

The breeding season continues to advance by the day and having been away for a week (hence the lack of updates...), much has changed. The Arctic Terns have now settled in their thousands with the first eggs discovered on 13th May, almost completing the full breeding range of nesting seabirds now on eggs (Common Terns been on eggs since 12th May). More Eider chicks are hatching on a daily basis whilst our first Guillemot chicks will be discovered very soon.

The weather has taken a distinctive turn for the worst with plenty of rain (causing some issues for Puffins) whilst strong wind is making life generally difficult. Staple Island, opened to the public on 1st May but the weather has resulted in almost a daily closure whilst Inner Farne has seen sporadic numbers of visitors. Hopefully everything will settle soon and both the breeding birds and visitors can start enjoying the summer once again.

Whilst away, there were some noticeable highlights on the islands as three different Mediterranean Gulls arrived in the Black-headed Gull colony on the islands and the prospect of potential future breeding has increased. The species only colonised Northumberland a few years ago and maybe the Farnes might be the next step in their UK advancement.

Pick of the days – 8th May highlights:Redstart, Whinchat (5), Sedge Warbler (5), Grasshopper Warbler, Garden Warbler (2), Blackcap (3), Whitethroat (11), Lesser Whitethroat (2), Willow Warbler (25), Chiffchaff (7), Spotted Flycatcher (2) and Pied flycatcher.