My husband and I have moved back to Canada, but despite all the packing and preparing, we were able to squeeze in one last trip. We decided to visit the Shetland Islands, as it seemed somewhat remote and rugged. What I also learned is that it is a bird lover's paradise. Not only were we able to enjoy walks and scenery, but the Shetlands are host to a number of birds, some of whose populations are declining, and some of whom having substantial nesting grounds in the region. We visited Sumburgh Head, on the southern tip of the main island. There's a beautiful lighthouse there, and along the way, there are many different birds you can see. During breeding season, you will catch large numbers of puffins and razorbacks, but these had departed by the time we left, although I did catch a couple of puffin stragglers. But one bird I came across was this little sweetie, a twite. According to the RSPB, they are on the red list, meaning their populations are of great concern. So it was wonderful to see so many of them on the island. Perhaps they are declining elsewhere, but they seem to be quite prolific on the main island because I saw them everywhere. The twite is a good lesson on why you shouldn't dismiss little brown birds as sparrows (i.e. house sparrows). For one, house sparrows are native to the UK and are also in decline, but mainly for the second reason: you don't know if that little brown bird is a sparrow or something else. While the differences between a twite and a femal house sparrow may not be that noticeable when the bird is sitting like this, you can't trust the corner of your eyes or your eyes at a great distance. It's always worth taking the photo, just in case...
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