While the autumnal equinox is still some weeks away, the alternatively termed meteorological summer is set to end on August the 31st.
But, as is nature's way, the seasons rarely stick to a set schedule, particularly in these times of quick-paced climate change.
Even without access to a calendar, subtle signs of change across the island suggest that time is passing and things are about to turn once more.
The flocks of sheep scattered across the crofts of the Outer Hebrides are one such indication. The rams and ewes will have been well-sheared by now, and their fleeces show regrowth signs.
Their lambs will have grown fat on summer grass, and while some will still bother their mother for milk, most will now be ready for weaning. It can be a noisy time of separation, but things soon settle down.
Out at sea, the dolphins and whales scoop up the last of the summer bounty of mackerel and herring, while local fisherman will still be filling their creels with lobster and langoustines.
Their lambs will have grown fat on summer grass, and while some will still bother their mother for milk, most will now be ready for weaning. It can be a noisy time of separation, but things soon settle down.
Out at sea, the dolphins and whales scoop up the last of the summer bounty of mackerel and herring, while local fisherman will still be filling their creels with lobster and langoustines.
