Rare bird on Arran a first in island's history

24th March

By Rebecca GarrettReporter

A rare species of bird has been spotted on Arran for the first time in the island’s history.

According to local wildlife group, Arran Birding, sightings of the water pipit were first reported on Saturday, February 23. The bird was trapped, ringed, photographed and released in Machrie Bay. The sighting was then reported to the Clyde Bird Rarities Panel.

Since then, the water pipit has been seen feeding on the tide line just south of the slipway with occasional forays across the road and up the hill to a favoured wet area.

Arran Birding said on their website: “This winter has been exceptional for recording water pipits in Scotland with at least 30 records to date (normally there are about one-three records). Ayrshirealone has had eight records this winter. Most of the birds are long-stayers, so let’s hope the Machrie bird, a first for Arran, is no exception so that people can watch and enjoy this rare visitor.”

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