Wknd 8-9 February

Saturday at dusk on Seton Sands, old friend red-7P8 Med Gull was the only one I could spot, a narrow dark mask and no sign of summer plumage; all her movements characteristic, running back and forth in the roost to adjust her position and when stood constantly swinging her head from side to side looking around, as I have noted on so many previous occasions - indeed October this year will mark 10 full years since I first saw this bird on the shore here, not long after moving to Longniddry; she flew out onto the sea to roost at 17:25hrs. Several BHG now with hoods developing and one entirely complete and dark.

Earlier had finally confirmed Carrion Crow in NT58G and NT67D, couldn't find one in NT67E though Magpie was an addition there, indeed also a tetrad tick - two nests at Tyninghame village. Also spent some time looking for Jay nest in excellent habitat including many yews around Gilmerton House, one live Jay and plenty of pigeon nests and squirrel dreys but the real thing remained elusive. Crow map improved but still weak along Lammermuir edge and top of NT27 - Edinburgh:

[PS - during week did a quick tour through northern Edinburgh, no trouble to fill every remaining gap for Woodpigeon, Carrion Crow and Magpie, including the tiny fragments of land in NT26Y and NT36C; remaining tiny fragments to check at NT37S and NT68G, both will have Woodpigeon.]

Mainly Mute Swans at Fenton Barns, 19 ad + 6 juvs, just 3 ad Whoopers with them.

A male Peregrine was hunting at Ballencrieff castle, plunging down over the field at Corn Hill but failed to catch anything. Also a Peregrine at work (King's Buildings) recently, new office has a view east instead of west, flank of Arthur's Seat just visible, hopefully better for the likes of raptors if I ever have time to look out of the window!

During week Chaffinch in weak song Fernyness wood and King's Buildings.