Isle of Lewis

[Mozel]

Hi there

Off to Lewis for hol in May/June, anyone know any good areas for maybe seeing an elusive Corncrake or two?
Thanks
Mozel

[Dr. Gonzo]

Hello

While you're waiting for the knowledgable people to reply, my in-laws live on Lewis, and there is a small reserve/ loch at Ness, north end of t'island, where corncrakes may be seen from the hide. Take an attractive sounding comb! We believe this may be the only bird hide on Lewis....

You have picked a good time of year as the midgies are more deadly in July and August.

Happy trails.....

[devon.birder]

Hello

While you're waiting for the knowledgable people to reply, my in-laws live on Lewis, and there is a small reserve/ loch at Ness, north end of t'island, where corncrakes may be seen from the hide. Take an attractive sounding comb! We believe this may be the only bird hide on Lewis....

You have picked a good time of year as the midgies are more deadly in July and August.

Happy trails.....

The reserve is at Loch Stiapavat near the Butt of Lewis. I saw Corncrake there from the hide last May. From memory you park near the police station and you can see the small hide the other side of a small field. From the hide you can overlook a small wet area. In 2005 I saw Pinfooted Geese, Arctic Terns, Whooper Swans, Garganey, Rock Doves and at least 50 Wheatears from the hide. Nearby there were Twite at Skigeresta. Roger

[Mozel]

Many thanks look forward to a Hide visit.
Sounds great cant wait for hol.

[redshift]

Hi there

Off to Lewis for hol in May/June, anyone know any good areas for maybe seeing an elusive Corncrake or two?
Thanks
Mozel

Just keep your eyes (and ears) open. My wife saw one stroll across the garden on Barra. She was looking out of the kitchen window whilst washing up!

[AStevenson]

The others are right - the hide at Loch Stiapavat is the only one in Lewis - the loch and its surrounding area are the only local Nature Reserve inthe Outer Hebs! It also lies within Ness and Barvas Special Protection Area for corncrakes. Best advice for seing one other than sitting in the hide is that if you hear one close to a road/track hang about quietly as it may come out and cross the road. They like calling beside rocks, walls and buildings as it amplifies their calls. The other main are for corncrakes on Lewis is from Stonoway north to Coll and Back villages.

Cheers,Andrew

[Mozel]

Many thanks all for your help will keep you posted how we get on!

[Simon HB9DRV]

Many thanks all for your help will keep you posted how we get on!
Am thinking of visiting Lewis in mid-May 2007, would be interested in hearing about your trip.