Day Twenty 23 05 25

12.30 pm, on my last walking day of on-site field work research for my project “A Tapestry of Connection”. I turned up the path towards Blathaisbhal hill and was greeted by a cuckoo perched on a post, its presence as clear as day. I’ve been serenaded by its distinctive call on several walks, but today it decided to make a more personal appearance. This pretty little migratory bird only sings its signature tune when breeding, and I felt privileged to witness it. It’s amazing to think that this bird has flown all the way from East Africa, where it maintains a more subdued tone. The Common Cuckoo are known for their unique breeding habits – they are brood parasites. They lay their eggs in the nests of other birds, which then raise the cuckoo chicks as their own.

references

• Cuckoo Facts. – The RSPB
• Common Cuckoo. – BirdLife International
• Migration Patterns of the Common Cuckoo -National Geographic
• Brood Parasitism in Birds. – Encyclopedia Britannica
• Cuckoo Breeding Habits. – BBC Wildlife

I continued my walk, I looked up to see the sea eagle soaring above me once again – I’m thrilled to have had this encounter.

As I reflect on my month-long journey in one of the hottest springs on record, I noticed a significant transformation in this peaty boggy landscape. Initially, the ground was wet and boggy, necessitating the use of wellingtons due to the saturated terrain. However, as the days passed, I observed that the landscape began to dehydrate, with the tips of the heather drying out and the pathways becoming parched.

The drying out of heather tips is also a notable indicator of the changing environmental conditions. Heather, a plant commonly found in peatland ecosystems, is sensitive to moisture levels. Studies have shown that drought stress can lead to a decline in heather health and productivity.

reference

• Impacts of drought on heather moorland – Journal of Ecology

I finish my mile-long walk and notice the temperature dropping and a few drops of rain starting to fall. The dry and warm weather we’ve been experiencing has been lovely, but I’m glad to see some much-needed rain finally arriving.

This was the last day of my month long research of the mile-long walk along the Hebridean way. This has not just been a physical endeavour; it has been a reflective exploration of the intricate dynamics between eco-tourism and sustainable environments.

spotted:

• Two swans
• An oyster catcher
• A heron
• A shelduck
• A cuckoo
• A sea eagle

In response to my experiences along the Hebridean Way, I will now dedicate a month in my studio to creating photopolymer etchings. This time allows me to reflect on the landscape and emotions I encountered during my journey, translating them into intricate artworks that reflect upon the nature of this experience. I aim to make weekly blog progress reports…

A Tapestry of Connection

Day Nineteen 22 05 25

I sat on my designated sitting spot, I couldn’t help but notice the dry and warm weather slowly giving way to a cooler atmosphere. I spent the day engrossed in drawing. Two English middle-aged walkers strolled by, their eyes fixed on the path ahead. Their demeanour was somewhat aloof, and although they consented to having their photograph taken from behind as they walked away, their reluctance to engage in conversation was palpable.

It was as if they were on a mission to traverse the Hebridean Way without being sidetracked by human interaction. I couldn’t help but ponder whether this was a characteristic trait of theirs or if they were simply having a bad day?

In an era where long-distance hiking is gaining popularity, it’s intriguing to observe how different cultures interact with one another along these trails.

spotted:

• A sea eagle

A Tapestry of Connection

Day Eighteen 21 05 25

I set out for my walk on this Wednesday evening, it was lovely and sunny, although the temperature had dropped a little compared to the last few days. The blue sky was still visible, with some interesting and puffy clouds starting to build.

Right at the beginning of my walk, I met Marco, a hiker from the Netherlands. He told me that he had walked from Land’s End in Cornwall, a journey that had taken him 7 weeks so far. Marco mentioned that during his trek, it had only rained twice. This is not ideal, as Spring and early Summer usually have more rain and are not typically this warm. This unusual dry and hot weather could potentially be linked to climate change.

Marco shared with me that his wife had met him as he crossed over into Scotland from England, just to spend some quality time with him and ensure he hadn’t become too worn out from his journey. I was impressed by his determination and grateful that he let me take his photograph.

The Hebridean Way is more than just a hiking trail; it’s a vital part of the local community and a reflection of the region’s unique culture and natural beauty. As I continued to explore this trail, I’m reminded that this trail is not just for hikers but also for residents like Moira and Poppy who regularly walk on this section.

I was thrilled to spot the sea eagle again – only one this time, but most likely to be one of the same pair that I saw yesterday. As I watched it soar into the horizon, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at its majesty. I watched it through my binoculars and was able to observe this magnificent bird up close as it flew away.

spotted:

• Two swans
• An oyster catcher
• A sea eagle