Up Helly Aa: Shetland’s Fiery Winter Spectacle

Tucked away at the northernmost tip of the British Isles, the Shetland Islands are famous for their dramatic coastlines, rich Norse heritage, and one incredible winter tradition: Up Helly Aa. This fiery festival, held annually during the darkest months, is a celebration of Shetland’s Viking roots and an experience like no other.

At the weekend, I finally had the chance to witness the magic of Up Helly Aa in Scalloway, Shetland’s ancient capital. After braving the winter weather and embarking on a whirlwind journey—including an overnight ferry and snow-dusted landscapes—we arrived just in time for the festivities.

At 7pm sharp, the torch-lit procession began. Leading the charge was the Guizer Jarl, Shetland’s Viking-in-chief for the day, dressed in full Norse regalia—helmet, shield, axe, and all. Alongside the Jarl was the Jarl Squad, a band of equally fierce Vikings, who marched proudly through the streets, singing and carrying flaming torches. The atmosphere was electric, a fiery spectacle that truly brought Shetland’s history to life.

The grand finale was the dramatic burning of the Viking galley at the harbour. Watching the flames roar into the night sky, surrounded by the cheers of onlookers and the smell of smoke in the crisp winter air, was an unforgettable experience. Fireworks lit up the snowy hillsides, adding a final touch of magic to an already extraordinary night.

While the largest Up Helly Aa takes place in Lerwick, Scalloway’s more intimate festival offers a unique opportunity to get up close to the action and immerse yourself in Shetland’s welcoming community spirit. 

Britain's 10th American Coot

 

Just back from a brilliant weekend in Shetland for the Scalloway fire festival, where I was lucky enough to see Britain’s 10th American Coot at Loch Spiggie. This rarity has been around for a few months, and I was thrilled it stuck around for my visit, securing my first new bird of the year.

Although it stayed distant, I managed a few record shots in the winter sunshine. A fantastic start to 2025!

Patch Ring-necked Duck find

I found this 1st winter drake Ring-necked Duck last weekend (17th November) along with a Scaup. On Sunday, I ventured down again and the RND was showing quite well in very windy conditions! Fantastic first my Deeping Lakes list!

 

More Aurora

 

Aurora was stunning over the Lincolnshire fens tonight.

A few more of the Asian Desert Warbler

 

Just a few more of the Asian Desert Warbler in Norfolk at the weekend. 

More Asian Desert Warbler

Birthday Surprise: Asian Desert Warbler in Norfolk

 

Today, Amy and I made an unexpected but thrilling trip to Norfolk to spot Britain’s 14th-ever Asian Desert Warbler. On this special occasion—my birthday—we met up with Dan and Francis, making the adventure even more memorable.

The views of this rare visitor were simply fantastic. A new species for me, the Asian Desert Warbler is not something you encounter every day, and to see it up close felt like a real treat. It’s not every day you get a lifer on your birthday, and this sighting will remain a special highlight for me.

What a brilliant day spent with great friends, enjoying nature and celebrating in the best way possible—watching birds!

Seabird Saturday Spotlight

There's something magical about spending time with Puffins on the cliffs of Hermaness, Unst in Shetland. These charismatic seabirds are a joy to watch as they hop along the grassy cliff edges, their colourful beaks glowing in the summer sun. 

Although they've now set off for their oceanic wintering grounds, looking back at photos from the season brings a wave of nostalgia. The Puffin’s distinctive look and endearing behaviour make them a favourite among birdwatchers and photographers alike. 

This summer, I was lucky enough to capture a moment of a Puffin perched majestically on the cliff, reminding me why I love spending time with these incredible creatures. Can't wait for their return next year!

Capturing Sanderlings on Shetland’s Sandy Shores

This July, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph Sanderlings on the beautiful, wet, sandy beaches of Shetland. These small, quick-moving waders are known for their energetic behaviour along the shoreline, constantly darting back and forth in search of food. Getting down to their level was a challenge, but it was all worth it to capture these unique moments.

Photographing Sanderlings requires patience and a willingness to get a bit wet and sandy. By laying on the beach, I was able to get a low-angle perspective that truly brings out the beauty and detail of these birds. The experience reminded me that wildlife photography is as much about the adventure and connection with nature as it is about the final image.

Shetland's beaches are a haven for birdwatchers and photographers alike, offering stunning opportunities to observe a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat. These Sanderling photos are a testament to the rewards of embracing the elements and immersing yourself in the environment to capture the perfect shot.

Up Close with Guillemots off Noss, Shetland

During my recent trip to Shetland, I had the chance to photograph Guillemots up close while on a Seabirds and Seals boat tour off the coast of Noss. Watching these birds in flight is truly fascinating—they don’t glide through the air like most seabirds but instead flap their wings rapidly, looking almost as though they're working extra hard to stay airborne.

Despite their awkwardness in flight, Guillemots are incredibly agile and powerful swimmers, perfectly adapted to life on the water. Capturing them on camera was both a challenge and a thrill, as they zipped by against the bright blue summer sky.

Experiences like this remind me of the unique beauty of Shetland's wildlife. The sheer number of seabirds and the rugged landscapes make it a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers alike. I'm already looking forward to my next adventure out on the water!

Local Ferruginous Duck

 

A stunning find by Josh Jones; this drake Ferruginous Duck looked great in the evening light. My fourth new bird locally this year!

Osprey at the River Spey

During my summer visit to the mouth of the River Spey in late July, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph an Osprey in action. 

This location is famous for its Osprey sightings, and it certainly lived up to its reputation! The moment this majestic bird appeared with a small fish in its talons, I knew it was going to be a special experience. 

Despite the challenges of the midday haze, the Osprey's graceful flight and powerful presence were captivating. Watching it soar overhead and then dive back down to fish again was a thrilling reminder of nature’s beauty and the remarkable skills of these raptors. The River Spey truly offers an unforgettable wildlife experience, perfect for any birding enthusiast!

Discovering Juvenile Robins in Their Unique Plumage

 

Juvenile Robins can be quite a surprise to new birdwatchers. Unlike the familiar red-breasted adults, young Robins have a distinctive speckled brown plumage that helps them blend into their surroundings, offering a clever camouflage against predators. This striking difference often leads people to mistake them for an entirely different species!

I recently photographed this confiding juvenile Robin perched on a mossy stone wall. Its quiet demeanour and unique plumage made for a captivating image, showcasing the bird in its natural habitat. Moments like these remind us of the unexpected beauty in the stages of a bird's life.

If you're a fan of bird photography or just love discovering the diverse wildlife of the British countryside, keep an eye out for these young Robins—they’re a delightful part of nature's tapestry.

Stay tuned for more wildlife photography and insights into the wonders of British nature!