What is it with me and Buntings on the Farnes?

Several years ago I missed a Black-headed on Inner Farne whilst away on holiday (I haven’t forgotten Mr Parnaby…) whilst a Yellow-breasted escaped us just a few years ago (remember that Mr Moss and Mr Cockram…) and then today happened.

I departed the Farne Islands for the regional National Trust HQ at 08:00 this morning. With poor phone reception, I was out of contact all morning and what a few hours. In that time, I missed over twenty phone calls, hundreds of texts and various other forms of contact as a Black-headed Bunting had been discovered on Staple Island by the team.

The shock discovery was totally unexpected and the team enjoyed great views along with a few visitors. However I was mainland bound and birdless, not been able to enjoy the islands fifth Black-headed (and the Farnes third spring) record of Black-headed Bunting. Regardless the photographs show that it was a cracking bird and well enjoyed by the warden team.

Having suffered a disappointing spring, we’ve now cashed in with Red-breasted Flycatcher, two Spoonbills and now this. Welcome to Planet Farnes. Its brilliant, just brilliant.