EXCITING FUTURE FOR WORLD FAMOUS OBSERVATORY

For decades the world famous Fair Isle Bird Observatory has attracted bird-watchers, scientists and island lovers to Scotland’s most remote, inhabited island. They go to study the wildlife and enjoy the dramatic scenery as well as to meet the crofters who live there. Now there’s to be a new building allowing visitors an even more comfortable stay.

The decision to build an exciting 21st century building has been taken by the Directors of the Fair Isle Bird Observatory Trust. They are planning to commission an eco-friendly building, able to withstand the stormy Fair Isle winters and accommodate a wide range of visitors. The timing of the project will allow bird watching to continue during the crucial spring and autumn migrations and it is hoped it will be underway by 2007.

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 21^st 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.

The chair of the Trust is Roy Dennis MBE, the ornithologist and broadcaster. 

He says: ‘The Observatory has a crucial role to play in bringing people to Fair Isle and providing a base for bird-watching and scientific research.  We believe the time is ripe for a new and exciting eco-friendly building suited to the 21^st century. We recognise that raising the funds will be a challenge for a small trust, but we are certain it is not only possible but also essential for economic well-being of the Fair Islanders.’

Robin Pellew, Chief Executive of the National Trust for Scotland, the owners of Fair Isle said “The Trust is delighted that the Fair Isle Bird Observatory directors have decided to build a new observatory and lodge on the island; it shows commitment to the future of the island and we support them wholeheartedly”.

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