The population of a rare bird, the corncrake, has made a triumphant recovery over recent years, according to reports.

Corncrakes migrate to Scotland in April and May from sub-Saharan Africa, where they spend the winter and the inner Hebridean and Argyll islands have traditionally proved particularly popular with the shy bird.

Numbers of corncrakes have seriously declined in recent years but RSPB Scotland claims that they have now risen to their highest in nearly three decades of monitoring.

The population now stands at 1,273 calling males following a recovery programme started by the RSPB and crofters in 1993, when there were only 470 calling males in the UK.

Flora MacLean, who crofts with her husband Lachie on Tiree, told the BBC: "This year more birds than ever returned and the croft was alive to the sound of males trying to attract a mate.

"There were also a lot more to be seen, which is a thrilling experience because they are normally so elusive."

For planting advice, visit Planting Up