North Ronaldsay Bird Observatory

North Ronaldsay's famous seaweed eating sheep (and a Little Gull) at Brides Loch this morning.

Always a treat when the Long-billed Dowitcher returns to @NRonBirdObs, the 1st March being it earliest return date yet

Hooded Crows bullying a cat. Six birds took it in turns running up to have a go, much to the cat's nonchalance. Not something I've seen before🤔

Some interesting beach combing finds recently. A Lobster tag most likely from Newfoundland from 2008, and a buddha from who knows where! Thanks to @peediepuss for all the info.

The Little Gull in Nouster Bay brightened up an otherwise wet and windy day here at @NRonBirdObs. Will the rain ever stop!? 🌧️

First day back @NRonBirdObs in 2026 and despite the horrible weather the birds didn't disappoint. Glaucous Gull, Little Gull, Purple Sand and White-fronted Goose all new for the year!

🚨JOB OPENING🚨 We are looking to employ a housekeeper for the 2026 season, part or full time roles available! Accommodation at the observatory included. For more information and to apply please contact alison@nrbo.co.uk Please share!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from everyone at NRBO!

Another season has finished for the year with all the staff having left the island (some will be back before Christmas). A big thanks to all the staff, volunteers and guests that have contributed to another brilliant year

And so another season ends @NRonBirdObs. Far too many highlights to mention so thank you to everyone who made the year so great. On to next year!

Morning! Sibe Rubythroat before breakfast.

Second island record in the nets this morning, and the first male! What a day and it’s only 0830!

Not the phone call we were expecting from Rob at the nets this morning. 1cy male Siberian Rubythroat trapped at Holland!

Didn’t think the day could get much better after the Radde’s, then this Black-throated Thrush ended up in a net at Holland! @NRonBirdObs

Thats it! 300 up! Black-throated Thrush #IslandListGoals

A nice birthday treat for @George_NRBO when we found this Radde’s Warbler at the obs this evening!

Massive gull numbers round the island today @NRonBirdObs, with this Iceland Gull being the highlight in amongst 1000s of Herring Gull, GBBG and Common Gull.

Nice to bump into this Red-breasted Flycatcher at Dennishill today.

It was a bit of a surprise to find this Black-headed Bunting at the Beacon today @NRonBirdObs! It gave nice views as it tried its best to fit in with the Rock Pipits!

What an exciting day @NRonBirdObs! An epic time in the field with loads of common migrants, including Rosefinch, Redstarts, Blackcaps, Garden Warblers, Tree Pipits etc. And finishing with ringing this Wryneck!