Fair Isle, which is only 3 miles long, lies half way between Shetland and Orkney. It’s officially part of Shetland and can be reached from there by boat or plane. The Observatory was established by the ornithologist, George Waterston, nearly 60 years ago, as a way of studying migrant birds and securing the future of Fair Isle and its people.

Fair Isle Bird Observatory has played a pioneering role in the study of bird migration and its research on seabirds has become very important due to the dramatic changes in the marine environment. The aim is to lead the way in 21st century migration studies and a new approach to the sustainable management and enjoyment of the coastal environment. Although, to begin with, it was little more than a collection of old naval huts, the present Observatory houses the Warden and Administrator,  Deryk and Hollie Shaw and their family – and provides accommodation for 30 visitors. With the growth of eco tourism, it now attracts more people than ever, from twitchers - on the look out for rare migrants - to island enthusiasts. Bill Oddie with Roger Riddington and Tim Loseby (two FIBO Directors), lending his support to the appeal.

The chair of the Trust is Roy Dennis MBE, the ornithologist and broadcaster.  He says: "This is a very great but very exciting challenge: to build a new, eco-friendly observatory, fit for the 21st century, which will provide excellent facilities for bird watchers, researchers and visitors to Fair Isle and play a crucial role in the future of the island and its residents.  For us, it will help sustain our long-term studies into bird migration and our threatened seabird populations, studies which have taken on renewed significance in the light of climate change.  It will allow us to extend our educational and ranger roles on the island, and encourage a new generation to come to know and love Fair Isle and its birds.  We already have the financial backing of Shetland Islands Council and other public bodies, but we need you, as bird watchers and lovers of Fair Isle, to make the new observatory possible.  Please donate what you can and help us to achieve our goal: to open our brand new Fair Isle Bird Observatory in 2010".

Roy Dennis accepting from Bert Mitchell the first cheque at the launch at the Bird Fair

Bill Oddie, a regular visitor to the Observatory, is giving his public backing to the Appeal at the Rutland Bird Fair this weekend, August 16th/17th . Bill says: “Fair Isle is one of my favourite birding locations. I first went as a schoolboy, a visit to my ornithological mecca – I’ve been back many times and seen some cracking rare birds. I encourage everyone to donate generously and help build the new Observatory – and I hope to be one of its first birding visitors”

Bill adds his support at  www.birdguides.com

Mark Adderley, Chief Executive of the National Trust for Scotland charity, who own Fair Isle, visited last month and was thrilled by what he saw. He also adds NTS weight to the FIBO Trust appeal. "I visited Fair Isle in July as a volunteer on one of our Thistle Camps and listened to the islanders’ thoughts for the island going forward. We have supported many initiatives to boost the Fair Isle economy over the years and we commend the Fair Isle Bird Observatory directors in their ambitious and committed goal to build a new observatory and lodge on the island.”

Fair Isle Community Councillor, Fiona Mitchell added “This venture is a real investment in the future of the Bird Observatory and Fair Isle. I feel this positive decision is good news for our island economy, services and transport links that depend on the continued success of the Fair Isle Bird Observatory”.

Around 70 people live on Fair Isle. It’s a mainly crofting community with a wide variety of musical and craft skills, including the traditional and highly distinctive knitting.

 For further information contact Hollie or Deryk Shaw (Administrator and Warden at the Bird Observatory) on Fair Isle at 01595 760258