As a gentle introduction to the Orkneys, I decided to explore the area around the Peedie Sea in Kirkwall today. Mute Swans had bred successfully with dependednt cygnets in tow. Numerous Mallards were present but with the breeding season over, all were in eclipse plumage. Hiding among them were two Teal and a surprise in the form of a Goosander. A handful of juvenile Black-headed Gulls were present and I wondered if some pairs were breeding in an industrial compound nearby. A pair of Pied Wagtails were certainly breeding there, taking food to their chicks. An afternoon visit to the Italian Chapel produced the first of numerous broods of Eider ducklings as well as singing Skylark and meadow Pipit. Later, a Kestrel was near Finstown.