Izzy Wheatear @ Godrevy Point

News broke of an Isabelline Wheatear at Godrevy Point, so Calum and I had to go up there to take a look. Although not a new bird for me, having seen the bird in Pembrokeshire in 2013, I was still very keen to see this one. The last report before we left said "showing well," surely we couldn't fail! We arrived at Godrevy shortly after 4pm and from the car park, a group of birders were immediately visible watching something...hopefully the Wheatear. We quickly walked up to join them and were soon onto the fantastic ISABELLINE WHEATEAR. It showed very well and reasonably close throughout, allowing us to see the plumage details that distinguish it from Northern Wheatear. The black alula wasn't always visible seemingly covered by the covert feather at times. The upperparts were sandy brown throughout with little contrast with the underparts. The buffish supercilium was prominent at all angles, the lores appeared dark and the ear coverts were the same as the rest of the plumage In flight, the black tail band was obvious and clearly broader than the length of the protruding black on centre tail feathers. The stance was very upright  with the long legs almost vertical. Its movements were a series of  jerking runs then pauses and it would frequently pump its tail, particularly upon landing.

ISABELLINE WHEATEAR

Comparison between Northern Wheatear (left) and Isabelline Wheatear (right)

After watching the Wheatear for about an hour we decided to have a look for the *Snow Buntings* that had also been seen on the point for the last few days. We soon found a few birders watching the four birds feeding on the heather seeds. Just as I got my scope out they took off and flew to the other side of the headland. I followed them and eventually stumble across them near to where they were before. I had the stunning birds to myself and got very close at times, almost a metre away! Here's some pictures...

Snow Buntings