South west Scotland is deep in the summer doldrums. However already there are signs of approaching autumn. Along the Clyde, gulls and possibly terns are moving restlessly. Even the Swallows and House Martins seen on the drive from Ayr to Howwood this afternoon seemed to be particularly urgent in their feeding. However some birds are still nesting - there was a big gull chick calling for food from the roof of the Ayrshire Hospice and a Pied Wagtail feeding a juvenile on a road over the braes. Also seen on todays drive were 3 Buzzards, a Kestrel and a Grey Heron.

Monday, July 30th, 2007
Caught a snatch of Grasshopper Warbler song from roadside vegetation near Auchenfoil Farm as I headed to work this lunchtime.

Friday, July 27, 2007
Intended to walk up to the coll on the Sierra Son Jordi today. However on arriving at Costa des Pins, found the track cut off by a high fence. This was a real pity as the forest looked and sounded really exciting (with a glimpse of a noisy Sparrowhawk dashing through, and the almost deafening sound of humming insects). Decided to walk to Punt des Pins instead. It turned out to be a good walk with plenty of highlights including a very obliging Turtle Dove (see picture), a singing Blackcap and two possible Wrynecks flying and calling through roadside gardens.