Many Happy Re-terns

Look who's back... (Will Scott)

but this time at the lighthouse (David Kinchin-smith)

On the wall at the lighthouse (David Kinchin-smith)

With Arctic Terns (David Kinchin-smith)



Sunday 14th July comments: Expect the unexpected with the Farne Islands. Its an amazing place and anything can happen at any time. And so it did on Saturday. Our outstanding visitor of the summer (Britain's 24th Bridled Tern) reappeared having been away from the islands on a tour of the north-east of England.

Since its departure, the bird has visited southern Northumberland, County Durham and was last seen three days ago heading south past Flamborough Head, off East Yorkshire. Birders in Norfolk and Suffolk were on full alert, as surely the bird would appear in a Tern colony at Titchwell, Minsmere or Blakeney Point. Surely? However against the odds and to the shock of the ranger team, its back and enjoying life on the Farnes.

Today it's been present on and off, showing well to visitors and at one stage was even enjoying the Farnes with a pair of Roseate Terns. It's never dull and the summer of joy continues. The Bride has returned.