Survival

Its grim outside - view from the kitchen window, Terns sheltering 

Adults sitting tight on small young 

Hatched yesterday - Arctic Tern chick...

...and today looking healthy



Friday 15th June comments:  The weather forecasters made no mistake today as strong easterly winds combined with driving rain has made the day very grim for everything and everyone connected with the islands. The breeding birds have had it tough this season and it continues to challenge them as the conditions have been far from perfect. However with just very small young, many birds may just get away with it, as chicks can shelter under parents and escape the worst of it. We could just do with it brightening up and staying that way for a few months, then we might be happy!

Across the Arctic Tern colonies, small chicks continue to hatch and without disturbance, will be fine under their parents. The weather appears to be clearing as the rain clouds are predicted to be moving on, so hopefully life will return to 'normal' on the islands. I keep saying it, but what a summer we've had so far. Will it ever improve? Fingers crossed (yet again) as we move into mid-June.