Mon 15th June

A contribution in from one of our visitors,

"Sun 14th June. A leisurely circuit of Ardnave in the sun, with wildlife watching and paddling! There were masses of "comic" terns fishing off Ardnave Point and flying to the offshore islands. Gannets were plunging in for food, and a Great Northern Diver was preening itself. Seals were heard singing offshore! Oystercatcher and Ringed Plover were abundant along the water's edge with the occasional Redshank and Sanderling. On Ardnave Loch itself, the pair of Mute Swans had 4 cygnets, and also present were some Tufted Duck and Teal.

Painted Lady Butterflies were still to be seen, and it was nice to see some Marsh Fritillaries on the wing. The flowers along the way were beautiful, with the orchids and butterwort coming into bloom.

Mon 15th June. A morning visit to Bridgend Woods found the Woods full of young birds, Robins, Wrens and Tits.

The Dipper and Grey Wagtail were seen at The Woolen Mill. Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler and Blackcap were all singing, and a female Blackcap was collecting food. A pair of Treecreeper were around their nest site.

The highlight of today was the sight of several Demoiselle Damselflies. Chimney sweeper Moths were flitting along the edge of the track through the Wood. Speckled wood and Painted lady butterflies were also seen.

Before coming home, the Little Egret was seen again at the head of Loch Indaal."