Velvet Scoter

13th December 2015 – overcast/early frost/rain later SE1/2
Offshore
Early morning observations (0855-0955) saw birds taking advantage of the lull in the weather with 50 Red-throated Diver, 23 Common Scoter, 18 Shag, 12 Razorbill, 4 Red-breasted Merganser and 2 Goosander logged. Later two female Velvet Scoter were found sheltering on the eastern side of the island at high tide.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 285 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Miscellaneous
A Yellowhammer was an unexpected bonus. A Merlin continues to hunt the island though a dead Short-eared Owl was a likely victim of the recent wet and windy weather.