There have certainly been Sand Martins passing over not far from Woodend Barn - a few went over as I was watching 5 Waxwings in Ash Tree Road yesterday evening (the Waxwings were still around this morning, at least). I'm not sure about awesome, Dave, but the Barn's got a reasonable view, so I'm sure if you stand outside long enough you'll see something good go over!
In case you don't know it, the best birding spot close by the Barn is Loch of Leys - well worth a look and a listen on a summer evening in particular, with Water Rails calling, Sedgies singing away, Woodcock roding etc. Also a good Starling roost in the winter, though they're tending more to use the reeds at Raemoir Fishery of late, as do hirundines late summer.
Great stuff, Joseph. You have been seeing some great birds recently - keep it up. Looking forward to seeing the pics on your blog...
Geoff
Are there any Black Guillemots nesting (and accessible) on the East coast? Am doing an airport run and was going to call in a Troupe Head for the gannets and make a trip of it.
beyond the new shelter.
Black Guillemots do breed in the NE, but they are fairly scarce and I'm not sure there are any guaranteed locations. The north coast seems to be best (Troup head is a possibility), and particularly the coast from Rosehearty-Fraserburgh (but perhaps more so in the winter). South of Aberdeen I think there are a few at Muchalls and surrounding areas.
There's a White Stork roosting on top of a light in the SW corner of the car park of Banchory Tesco's tonight - in sight of Woodend Barn! Origin as always a bit uncertain - could be the Kemnay bird (of unknown origin) of the last 2 springs, but also a good time for a genuine overshoot. I guess it's likely to be off early doors.
Marcus, perhaps try Crovie Head north of Gardenstown for Tysties if you're near Troup.
Whereabouts is the new shelter?
jeebus! if that's gone by the time I get to work tomorrow I shall be pretty ticked off!
did you get a photo hugh?
It's near the end of the trail, looking south at the cliff with the cave in it where the puffins usually are.