The one that almost got away

31st May 2013 – early mist/fog then sunny spells NW3/4
Rarities
Confirmation of a Red-spotted Bluethroat on the island on 20th May 2013 was finally established with the emergence of an image of the bird.
Offshore
Morning observations in deteriorating conditions (0730-0830) produced just small numbers of Gannet, Common Scoter, Sandwich Tern, Guillemot and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to single Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A few Lesser Redpoll continue to move through.
Ringing
A total of 90 birds of 18 species were trapped and ringed during the month with finches heading the list. Individual species totals were as follows: Linnet (19), Goldfinch (15), Lesser Redpoll (12), Willow Warbler (10), Starling (9), Sedge Warbler (5), Chaffinch (3), Whitethroat (3), Dunnock (2), Woodpigeon (2), Reed Bunting (2), Wren (2), Goldcrest (1), Chiffchaff (1), Robin (1), Pied Wagtail (1), Blackcap (1) and Spotted Flycatcher (1).
Moths
Another reasonable catch produced 2 immigrant Diamond-back Moths while Common Swift and Bright-line Brown-eye were new for the year.
Images
Male Red-spotted Bluethroat (Barbara Murphy).