Spring is definitely in the air following the arrival of the first Longtails to the Island this week.

Bermuda Audubon Society vice president Andrew Dobson said the Longtails were spotted flying along the coast near Spittal Pond.

The first Longtail was seen on Wednesday and others have been spotted since.

"The second week of February is the usual time of year for the first spring arrivals," Mr. Dobson said.

"However, the majority of birds won't arrive until March and April."

He said members of the society will be monitoring the breeding population this year following the destruction of many of the nest sites in cliffs along the South Shore after Hurricane Fabian.

"A programme is underway to provide artificial Longtail igloos in suitable sites around the Island," said Mr. Dobson.

He urged members of the public to check regular Longtail nest sites and remove any trash that may have become lodged in the cliff holes.

"Providing a small amount of sand in the base of the nest will also encourage the Longtails to breed, as they lay a single egg on the bare rock," he said.