12th April 2012 – overcast then sunny calm then NW3/4
Offshore
A few Sandwich Tern were logged.
Grounded Migrants
A brief overnight respite in the persistent north wind allowed a few summer migrants to filter through. Grounded birds included 12 Willow Warbler, 6 Wheatear, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest and a Blackcap with additional Willow Warblers appearing back on territory in traditional breeding localities.
Diurnal Migration
The first 2 Swallow of the year and 2 Sand Martin were amongst 50 Meadow Pipit and a skein of 150 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 35 pale-bellied birds and the long-staying Long-tailed Duck and Scaup remain in residence. Waders included the first Common Sandpiper of the year along with 440 Golden Plover and 5 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was again the best of the rest.
Moths and Butterflies
A Red Sword Grass graced the moth trap and the first Small White are now on the wing.
