Storm force

Staple Island not open for business (Ciaran Hatsell)

The storm from Brownsman (Ciaran Hatsell)

Great Grey Shrike dinner - a Brambling speared ready to eat (Ciaran Hatsell)

Oblivious to the storm, a pup suckles (Ciaran Hatsell)

Tuesday 25th October comments: The storm raged for a second day, bringing with it huge seas, heavy rain and strong south-easterly wind. Despite the carnage, the Grey Seals got on with business as usual, with mothers protecting young pups from the might of the North Sea. On the bird front, the weather appeared to block any serious movement, with very few 'new' arrivals across the islands although the Great Grey Shrike remained for second day.

However with forecasts suggesting a drop in wind strength tomorrow could be a better day. As we head to bed tonight, the wardens are sharing the rooms with roosting Starlings, a Brambling and even a male Black Redstart which is roosting in the toilet. Welcome to planet Farnes, it really is a strange and wonderful place.

Today's highlights: Merlin 2, Woodcock 7, Moorhen 1 adult, Pomarine Skua 1 juv, Great Skua 4N, Little Auk 2S, Short-eared Owl, Great Grey Shrike present for second day and killed another Brambling, Black Redstart 4, Blackcap 12, Chiffchaff 5, Willow Warbler and Brambling 11.