by the Eagles (who else?)
Like some parts of the country, we've had some really wild weather here on Mull - our thoughts are with those people suffering from flood damage and the family of the Policeman who tragically lost his life as the bridge collapsed in Workington. Just another reminder of the sheer strength of Mother Nature.
This evening, as I went out to put the chickens away, I could hardly stand up - the rain was virtually horizontal. But for those of you who have been to Mull, you know how quickly the weather can change.
This week at the Hide, one group of visitors experienced a hail storm, sunshine, and torrential rain. However, it didn't stop them from seeing some of our fantastic wildlife. A golden eagle flew over the hide with two buzzards for company - it is great when you see these two species together as it gives you an idea of the difference in size and profile. I think one of the questions I get asked most is "how can you tell the difference between a buzzard and a golden eagle? When you see them both together, there is no doubt.
We wandered down into the field, which was very soggy to say the least. On a couple of occasions, I have spotted Skye and Frisa sat at the edge of the loch where a burn runs out, looking for fish. As we arrived at the bottom of the field, out of the corner of my eye I saw something move. About 100 yards from us were two stags with huge antlers - we just froze.
As a shower was advancing up the Loch, we made for the Hide to shelter. As we got back inside, the rain lashed down and the wind howled around us. This continued until the tour was coming to an end. It was then that I stuck my head outside the door for a quick look round - "Eagle!" I shouted. Above the trees in front of the hide one of our adults was flying towards us - it veered in front of the larches and then disappeared. We watched the gap at the side of the hide waiting for it to appear but nothing. Then, suddenly a cry of "there it is!" Frisa appeared from the trees, legs down ready to land - she was only about 20 yards in front of us! She landed in the field we had just walked through at a spot where the burn rises and is level with the field. She sat and watched the rushing water, waiting for a fish to appear. It has to be one of our closest encounters - just yards away. We sat in awe watching from the hide, barely whispering in case she heard us. I'm sure she knew we were there as from time to time she looked straight at us. She stayed for about 20 minutes, and then took off giving us a fantastic view of that beautiful white tail. She flew across the Loch and then, directly above her, flew a male hen harrier - what a photo that would have been! What a great way to spend an afternoon. However, I had to charge home to collect my daughter from a friend who was going away for the weekend. Talk about leaving it to the last minute, or, taking it to the limit, one more time. I wonder how many more times they will do this to me.
Buzzard - Photo Debby Thorne
Even with the weather not at its best, we still get stunning views of our wildlife. Don't forget, the hide is staying open over the winter. Full details here http://www.rspb.org.uk/datewithnature/sites/mull/index.asp Call 01680 812556 to book a trip. We will run the trips to fit in with demand so give us a call if you are on the Island.
Rainbow over The Sound of Mull - photo Debby Thorne
Don't forget to watch Blue Peter this Tuesday, 16.35 on BBC1! I wonder if its still Valerie Singleton, Peter Purves and John Noakes??
Debby Thorne
White Tailed Eagle Information Officer, Isle of Mull