Boulmer birding - Tuesday

Today was more of a family day - spent in Bamburgh. However the easterly winds that greeted us in the morning meant a quick check of the bushes was necessary. Very quiet though, the only notable birds being a Woodcock over our heads, and a pair of Whimbrel in with the Curlew.
Bamburgh was lovely in the sun and the castle as impressive as always.

Views across to Holy Island and the Farne Islands were clear. Brought back memories of searching for Elsie, the Lesser Crested Tern.
On our return to Boulmer a seawatch was a necessity as good seabirds were being reported along the east coast. Large numbers of Kittiwakes were flying north, and a few Guillemot and Razorbill. Then the first of two small, fast black and white blobs flew through. Little Auk. Excellent. Groups of Common Scoter flew north as well. First 15, then 10, then larger groups of 30+. In the last group seen, Simon picked up an all dark Scoter with white on the back of the head. Views were brief but looked very good for male Surf Scoter.
The now usual waders were on the sea-weed with the Purple Sandpiper showing off very nicely. Managed to connect with the Water Pipit again, and better views than before.