29th September 2024 – overcast ESE3/6
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) revealed 270 Common Scoter, 68 Gannet, 40 Razorbill, 4 Red-throated Diver, 3 Pintail, 2 Arctic Tern and single Mediterranean Gull and Brent Goose.
Grounded Migrants
Nothing was evident in the blustery conditions.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow put in another appearance.
Founded in 1964, the work of Walney Bird Observatory is funded entirely by membership subscription. Since 1965 it has been an accredited member of the British Trust for Ornithology’s bird observatories network which operates across Britain and Ireland. Bird Observatories are at the forefront of conservation, monitoring bird populations through the medium of census work, daily recording of migrants and ringing.
Record numbers of Mediterranean Gull
28th September 2024 – sunny and showers/calm
Offshore
An early morning check of the tranquil sea revealed a feeding flock of “small gulls” involving 210 Black-headed Gull, 125 Common Gull and 16 Mediterranean Gull (15 adults + first-year). Also seen were 33 Common Scoter, 30 Shag, 24 Gannet, 14 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver and 2 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 2 Blackcap and single Chiffchaff and Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Considering the conditions it was very quiet with just 20 Chaffinch, 4 Siskin, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Swallow logged.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow put in another appearance and 2 Water Rail and a Merlin were the best of the rest.
Offshore
An early morning check of the tranquil sea revealed a feeding flock of “small gulls” involving 210 Black-headed Gull, 125 Common Gull and 16 Mediterranean Gull (15 adults + first-year). Also seen were 33 Common Scoter, 30 Shag, 24 Gannet, 14 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver and 2 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 2 Blackcap and single Chiffchaff and Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Considering the conditions it was very quiet with just 20 Chaffinch, 4 Siskin, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Swallow logged.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow put in another appearance and 2 Water Rail and a Merlin were the best of the rest.
Great Spotted Woodpecker and Treecreeper
27th September 2024 – sunny spells NNW3/5
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0715-0815) saw 250 Gannet, 190 Common Scoter, 45 Razorbill, 27 Red-throated Diver, 4 Guillemot, 4 Red-breasted Merganser and a Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Wheatear, 2 Stonechat and a Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Two Barnacle Geese were amongst 185 Pink-footed Goose.
Wildfowl and Waders
The leucistic Curlew continues its winter residency.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was the only raptor logged and a visit to the island’s woodland added 6 Chiffchaff, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker and the second Treecreeper of the year.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0715-0815) saw 250 Gannet, 190 Common Scoter, 45 Razorbill, 27 Red-throated Diver, 4 Guillemot, 4 Red-breasted Merganser and a Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Wheatear, 2 Stonechat and a Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Two Barnacle Geese were amongst 185 Pink-footed Goose.
Wildfowl and Waders
The leucistic Curlew continues its winter residency.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was the only raptor logged and a visit to the island’s woodland added 6 Chiffchaff, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker and the second Treecreeper of the year.
A reasonable variety
25th September 2024 – rain early and late E2/3
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0715-0815) revealed 150 Common Scoter, 28 Gannet, 16 Red-throated Diver, 8 Guillemot, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and a Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Another reasonable selection of grounded migrants involved 21 Robin, 10 Chiffchaff, 6 Wheatear, 6 Stonechat, 4 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest and single Spotted Flycatcher and Whitethroat.
Diurnal Migration
The skies added 850 Pink-footed Goose, 100 Meadow Pipit, 30 Linnet, 29 Skylark 6 Pied Wagtail, 3 Swallow seen through the course of the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Whimbrel was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Barn Owl and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0715-0815) revealed 150 Common Scoter, 28 Gannet, 16 Red-throated Diver, 8 Guillemot, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and a Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Another reasonable selection of grounded migrants involved 21 Robin, 10 Chiffchaff, 6 Wheatear, 6 Stonechat, 4 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest and single Spotted Flycatcher and Whitethroat.
Diurnal Migration
The skies added 850 Pink-footed Goose, 100 Meadow Pipit, 30 Linnet, 29 Skylark 6 Pied Wagtail, 3 Swallow seen through the course of the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Whimbrel was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Barn Owl and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Buzzard and Barn Owl
24th September 2024 – overcast/showers NW2/4
Offshore
An early scan of the sea revealed 34 Common Scoter, 27 Shag and 3 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A reasonable selection of grounded migrants involved 16 Robin, 12 Chiffchaff, 2 Wheatear and single Spotted Flycatcher and Stonechat.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were quiet with just 100 Meadow Pipit, 3 Grey Wagtail and a Swallow seen through the course of the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Shoveler were amongst increasing numbers of Wigeon.
Miscellaneous
Four Raven and single Buzzard, Barn Owl and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Offshore
An early scan of the sea revealed 34 Common Scoter, 27 Shag and 3 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A reasonable selection of grounded migrants involved 16 Robin, 12 Chiffchaff, 2 Wheatear and single Spotted Flycatcher and Stonechat.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were quiet with just 100 Meadow Pipit, 3 Grey Wagtail and a Swallow seen through the course of the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Shoveler were amongst increasing numbers of Wigeon.
Miscellaneous
Four Raven and single Buzzard, Barn Owl and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Bottle-nosed Dolphins!
23rd September 2024 – overcast/rain/clearing later NE1/2
Offshore
Early morning observations (0715-0815) produced 190 Common Scoter, 20 Guillemot, 11 Gannet, 9 Red-throated Diver, 4 Arctic Tern, 3 Razorbill, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and 2 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
A reasonable selection of grounded migrants involved 35 Robin, 15 Wren, 10 Wheatear, 6 Chiffchaff and single Spotted Flycatcher, Whitethroat, Blackcap and Goldcrest – the latter has been scarce so far this autumn.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were very quiet with just 4 Grey Wagtail seen through the course of a damp morning.
Miscellaneous
Raptors involved 3 Kestrel, 2 Sparrowhawk and a Peregrine. Two Water Rail and 2 Raven were the best of the rest.
Mammals
A pod of 10 Bottle-nosed Dolphin was offshore.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0715-0815) produced 190 Common Scoter, 20 Guillemot, 11 Gannet, 9 Red-throated Diver, 4 Arctic Tern, 3 Razorbill, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and 2 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
A reasonable selection of grounded migrants involved 35 Robin, 15 Wren, 10 Wheatear, 6 Chiffchaff and single Spotted Flycatcher, Whitethroat, Blackcap and Goldcrest – the latter has been scarce so far this autumn.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were very quiet with just 4 Grey Wagtail seen through the course of a damp morning.
Miscellaneous
Raptors involved 3 Kestrel, 2 Sparrowhawk and a Peregrine. Two Water Rail and 2 Raven were the best of the rest.
Mammals
A pod of 10 Bottle-nosed Dolphin was offshore.
Wood Warbler on quiet day!
22nd September 2024 – overcast/showers NE3/5
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed 11 Shag and small numbers of Common Scoter, Red-throated Diver, Gannet and Brent Goose.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded migrants involved 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Wheatear and a single Whitethroat and Wood Warbler – the latter the latest ever recorded on the island.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were quiet with just 100 Meadow Pipit, 60 Pink-footed Goose, 12 Swallow and 2 Grey Wagtail seen through the course of a blustery morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 10 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A flock of 300 Linnet, 2 Raven, 2 Peregrine and a Buzzard were the best of the rest.
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed 11 Shag and small numbers of Common Scoter, Red-throated Diver, Gannet and Brent Goose.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded migrants involved 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Wheatear and a single Whitethroat and Wood Warbler – the latter the latest ever recorded on the island.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were quiet with just 100 Meadow Pipit, 60 Pink-footed Goose, 12 Swallow and 2 Grey Wagtail seen through the course of a blustery morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 10 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A flock of 300 Linnet, 2 Raven, 2 Peregrine and a Buzzard were the best of the rest.
Treecreeper remains!
21st September 2024 –sunny spells ENE3/5
Grounded Migrants
Grounded migrants involved 3 Wheatear and single Spotted Flycatcher, Chiffchaff and Treecreeper.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were again less active than of late with just 100 Meadow Pipit, 100 Pink-footed Goose, 24 Swallow and 8 Grey Wagtail seen through the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 12 Greenshank and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Marsh Harrier and the long-staying Hooded Crow were the best of the rest.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded migrants involved 3 Wheatear and single Spotted Flycatcher, Chiffchaff and Treecreeper.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were again less active than of late with just 100 Meadow Pipit, 100 Pink-footed Goose, 24 Swallow and 8 Grey Wagtail seen through the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 12 Greenshank and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Marsh Harrier and the long-staying Hooded Crow were the best of the rest.
Treecreeper new for the year!
20th September 2024 – bright start then sunny spells ENE2/4
Offshore
A quick early morning scan of the sea revealed 33 Shag, 2 Gannet, 2 Guillemot and single Red-breasted Merganser and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A decent selection of grounded birds included 20 Robin, 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Whitethroat and single Goldcrest, Spotted Flycatcher, Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Grasshopper Warbler and Treecreeper.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were less active than of late although a Buzzard drifted over and 600 Meadow Pipit, 160 Pink-footed Goose, 60 Swallow, 28 Skylark, 12 Grey Wagtail, 10 Jackdaw and 2 Siskin were seen through the morning.
Miscellaneous
Marsh Harrier and Merlin were the pick of the resident raptors while the long-staying Hooded Crow and 2 Raven also remain.
Offshore
A quick early morning scan of the sea revealed 33 Shag, 2 Gannet, 2 Guillemot and single Red-breasted Merganser and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A decent selection of grounded birds included 20 Robin, 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Whitethroat and single Goldcrest, Spotted Flycatcher, Blackcap, Garden Warbler, Grasshopper Warbler and Treecreeper.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were less active than of late although a Buzzard drifted over and 600 Meadow Pipit, 160 Pink-footed Goose, 60 Swallow, 28 Skylark, 12 Grey Wagtail, 10 Jackdaw and 2 Siskin were seen through the morning.
Miscellaneous
Marsh Harrier and Merlin were the pick of the resident raptors while the long-staying Hooded Crow and 2 Raven also remain.
Red-breasted Flycatcher
19th September 2024 – bright and sunny NE1/2
Rarities
A Red-breasted Flycatcher – just the second 21st century record for the island and the earliest ever autumn record spent the day flitting around the sycamores and pines in the observatory garden. The behaviour and attitude of some observers who failed to follow the on-site requests to respect the privacy of residents by viewing only from the outside of garden unfortunately means that future rarity sightings from this location are unlikely to be released to the Bird Information Services.
Offshore
An early morning scan of the sea revealed 32 Shag, 3 Red-throated Diver and 2 Goosander.
Grounded Migrants
Apart from the flycatcher there were only a few grounded birds in the clear conditions with 6 Chiffchaff, 5 Wheatear and single Spotted Flycatcher, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Goldcrest and Great Tit likely contenders as new arrivals.
Diurnal Migration
The skies again proved to be more active with 800 Meadow Pipit, 250 Swallow, 185 Pink-footed Goose, 170 Linnet, 30 Skylark, 28 Pied Wagtail, 10 Grey Wagtail, 3 Chaffinch, 2 Siskin and single Sand Martin and House Martin seen through the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 11 Pintail and 3 Shoveler and a Ruff remains the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains and 2 Merlin and a Peregrine were the best of the rest.
Rarities
A Red-breasted Flycatcher – just the second 21st century record for the island and the earliest ever autumn record spent the day flitting around the sycamores and pines in the observatory garden. The behaviour and attitude of some observers who failed to follow the on-site requests to respect the privacy of residents by viewing only from the outside of garden unfortunately means that future rarity sightings from this location are unlikely to be released to the Bird Information Services.
Offshore
An early morning scan of the sea revealed 32 Shag, 3 Red-throated Diver and 2 Goosander.
Grounded Migrants
Apart from the flycatcher there were only a few grounded birds in the clear conditions with 6 Chiffchaff, 5 Wheatear and single Spotted Flycatcher, Blackcap, Whitethroat, Goldcrest and Great Tit likely contenders as new arrivals.
Diurnal Migration
The skies again proved to be more active with 800 Meadow Pipit, 250 Swallow, 185 Pink-footed Goose, 170 Linnet, 30 Skylark, 28 Pied Wagtail, 10 Grey Wagtail, 3 Chaffinch, 2 Siskin and single Sand Martin and House Martin seen through the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 11 Pintail and 3 Shoveler and a Ruff remains the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains and 2 Merlin and a Peregrine were the best of the rest.
Marsh Harrier and Yellow Wagtails
18th September 2024 – bright and sunny E1/2
Offshore
A scan of the sea revealed 16 Shag and 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
As expected few birds were grounded in the clear conditions with just 11 Robin, 7 Wheatear, 2 Stonechat and a single Chiffchaff likely to be newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
The skies again proved to be more productive with 2400 Meadow Pipit, 300 Pink-footed Geese, 240 Swallow, 30 Linnet, 22 Skylark, 10 Pied Wagtail, 8 Grey Wagtail and 3 Yellow Wagtail seen through the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 170 light-bellied Brent Geese, 360 Wigeon, 220 Teal, 4 Pintail and a Shoveler were seen. Waders included: 6,947 Oystercatcher, 1,324 Redshank, 897 Curlew, 412 Turnstone, 210 Sanderling, 70 Grey Plover, 17 Greenshank and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains and 74 Little Egret were recorded. A Marsh Harrier, 2 Peregrine and a Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Offshore
A scan of the sea revealed 16 Shag and 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
As expected few birds were grounded in the clear conditions with just 11 Robin, 7 Wheatear, 2 Stonechat and a single Chiffchaff likely to be newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
The skies again proved to be more productive with 2400 Meadow Pipit, 300 Pink-footed Geese, 240 Swallow, 30 Linnet, 22 Skylark, 10 Pied Wagtail, 8 Grey Wagtail and 3 Yellow Wagtail seen through the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 170 light-bellied Brent Geese, 360 Wigeon, 220 Teal, 4 Pintail and a Shoveler were seen. Waders included: 6,947 Oystercatcher, 1,324 Redshank, 897 Curlew, 412 Turnstone, 210 Sanderling, 70 Grey Plover, 17 Greenshank and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains and 74 Little Egret were recorded. A Marsh Harrier, 2 Peregrine and a Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Ruff added to year list
17th September 2024 – bright and sunny ESE1/2
Offshore
A check of the sea at dawn produced 22 Gannet, 17 Common Scoter, 11 Red-throated Diver, 8 Guillemot, 4 Shag, 4 Kittiwake, 3 Razorbill and a Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Only a few birds were grounded in the clear conditions with 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Spotted Flycatcher and single Blackcap and Goldcrest logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies proved to be more productive with 800 Meadow Pipit, 320 Pink-footed Geese, 130 Swallow, 40 Linnet, 22 Grey Wagtail, 10 Pied Wagtail, 10 Skylark, 4 Sand Martin and 3 Chaffinch seen through the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 88 light-bellied Brent Geese have now arrived back from Canada and a Ruff was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Single Peregrine and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Mammals
A pod of 6 Bottle-nosed Dolphin was offshore.
Offshore
A check of the sea at dawn produced 22 Gannet, 17 Common Scoter, 11 Red-throated Diver, 8 Guillemot, 4 Shag, 4 Kittiwake, 3 Razorbill and a Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Only a few birds were grounded in the clear conditions with 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Spotted Flycatcher and single Blackcap and Goldcrest logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies proved to be more productive with 800 Meadow Pipit, 320 Pink-footed Geese, 130 Swallow, 40 Linnet, 22 Grey Wagtail, 10 Pied Wagtail, 10 Skylark, 4 Sand Martin and 3 Chaffinch seen through the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 88 light-bellied Brent Geese have now arrived back from Canada and a Ruff was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Single Peregrine and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Mammals
A pod of 6 Bottle-nosed Dolphin was offshore.
Fog bound
16th September 2024 – fog clearing later ESE1/2
Offshore
Just 10 Gannet and 2 Sandwich Tern appeared out of the gloom.
Grounded Migrants
Disappointing considering the conditions with just single Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Spotted Flycatcher and Wheatear logged.
Diurnal Migration
Several flocks of Pink-footed Geese headed south and 6 Grey Wagtail were seen.
Miscellaneous
Single Short-eared Owl and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Offshore
Just 10 Gannet and 2 Sandwich Tern appeared out of the gloom.
Grounded Migrants
Disappointing considering the conditions with just single Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Spotted Flycatcher and Wheatear logged.
Diurnal Migration
Several flocks of Pink-footed Geese headed south and 6 Grey Wagtail were seen.
Miscellaneous
Single Short-eared Owl and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Back to looking at the sea
14th September 2024 –overcast/rain clearing SW4/6
Offshore
The weather conditions saw sightings limited to extended observations over the sea (0730-1030) which produced 400 Common Scoter, 77 Gannet, 18 Guillemot, 14 Manx Shearwater, 8 Red-throated Diver, 6 Sandwich Tern, 5 Fulmar, 5 Kittiwake, 2 Arctic Skua, 2 Razorbill and a Red-breasted Merganser.
Offshore
The weather conditions saw sightings limited to extended observations over the sea (0730-1030) which produced 400 Common Scoter, 77 Gannet, 18 Guillemot, 14 Manx Shearwater, 8 Red-throated Diver, 6 Sandwich Tern, 5 Fulmar, 5 Kittiwake, 2 Arctic Skua, 2 Razorbill and a Red-breasted Merganser.
Yellow Wagtail
13th September 2024 –sunny spells/calm
Offshore
A quick check of the sea at dawn revealed 8 Gannet, 6 Common Scoter, 5 Shag and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Only a few birds were grounded in the clear conditions including 8 Robin, 3 Wheatear and single Sedge Warbler, Whitethroat, Blackcap and Garden Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 350 Meadow Pipit, 155 Pink-footed Goose, 17 Grey Wagtail, 12 Skylark, 9 Swallow, 2 Tree Pipit, 2 Chaffinch and a Yellow Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon and Teal numbers begin to build and a group of 10 Greenshank were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Raptors involved 2 Kestrel and single Sparrowhawk and Barn Owl.
Offshore
A quick check of the sea at dawn revealed 8 Gannet, 6 Common Scoter, 5 Shag and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Only a few birds were grounded in the clear conditions including 8 Robin, 3 Wheatear and single Sedge Warbler, Whitethroat, Blackcap and Garden Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 350 Meadow Pipit, 155 Pink-footed Goose, 17 Grey Wagtail, 12 Skylark, 9 Swallow, 2 Tree Pipit, 2 Chaffinch and a Yellow Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon and Teal numbers begin to build and a group of 10 Greenshank were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Raptors involved 2 Kestrel and single Sparrowhawk and Barn Owl.
Birds back on the move
12th September 2024 – early showers then sunny spells NNW3/4
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) yielded 185 Common Scoter, 27 Gannet, 8 Sandwich Tern, 6 Guillemot and single Shag and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Totals of 8 Robin, 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Wheatear, 2 Blackcap and a Willow Warbler were recorded.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 3,525 Pink-footed Geese moved through in 45 skeins through the morning, also logged were 200 Meadow Pipit, 14 Swallow and 4 Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Whimbrel was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Finch flocks included 100 Linnet.
Butterflies and Moths
Migrants in the moth trap involved 3 Silver Y and a Dark Swordgrass.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) yielded 185 Common Scoter, 27 Gannet, 8 Sandwich Tern, 6 Guillemot and single Shag and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Totals of 8 Robin, 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Wheatear, 2 Blackcap and a Willow Warbler were recorded.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 3,525 Pink-footed Geese moved through in 45 skeins through the morning, also logged were 200 Meadow Pipit, 14 Swallow and 4 Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Whimbrel was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Finch flocks included 100 Linnet.
Butterflies and Moths
Migrants in the moth trap involved 3 Silver Y and a Dark Swordgrass.
Green Sandpiper
11th September 2024 – heavy showers and sunny spells WNW4/6
Offshore
Further extended observations over the sea (0730-1030) produced 107 Common Scoter, 30 Gannet, 11 Red-throated Diver, 10 Kittiwake, 5 Sandwich Tern and single Manx Shearwater and light-bellied Brent Goose.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Green Sandpiper was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Finch flocks included 40 Goldfinch.
Mammals
A Weasel was logged.
Offshore
Further extended observations over the sea (0730-1030) produced 107 Common Scoter, 30 Gannet, 11 Red-throated Diver, 10 Kittiwake, 5 Sandwich Tern and single Manx Shearwater and light-bellied Brent Goose.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Green Sandpiper was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Finch flocks included 40 Goldfinch.
Mammals
A Weasel was logged.
The sea fails to deliver!
10th September 2024 – rain the sunny spells W6/8
Offshore
Extended observations over the sea (0730-1030) produced 101 Common Scoter, 42 Gannet, 37 Sandwich Tern, 10 Guillemot, 6 Kittiwake, 6 Manx Shearwater and 5 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just 4 White Wagtail were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 250 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Offshore
Extended observations over the sea (0730-1030) produced 101 Common Scoter, 42 Gannet, 37 Sandwich Tern, 10 Guillemot, 6 Kittiwake, 6 Manx Shearwater and 5 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just 4 White Wagtail were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 250 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
A quieter day
9th September 2024 – sunny spells NW4/6
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) produced 75 Sandwich Tern, 70 Common Scoter, 34 Guillemot, 19 Gannet, 4 Red-throated Diver and 4 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Just single Chiffchaff, Wheatear, Whinchat and Stonechat were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 52 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) produced 75 Sandwich Tern, 70 Common Scoter, 34 Guillemot, 19 Gannet, 4 Red-throated Diver and 4 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Just single Chiffchaff, Wheatear, Whinchat and Stonechat were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 52 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Pied Flycatcher
8th September 2024 – overcast/rain later NNE1
Offshore
A scan of the sea produced 8 Sandwich Tern and 6 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Variety and quantity in the conducive conditions with 33 Robin, 24 Willow Warbler, 6 Chiffchaff, 4 Wheatear, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest and single Pied Flycatcher, Spotted Flycatcher, Lesser Whitethroat and Whinchat recorded.
Diurnal Migration
A quieter day than yesterday with 100 Swallow, 80 Meadow Pipit, 14 Grey Wagtail and a Tree Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 10 dark-bellied Brent Goose and a Shoveler amongst 54 Teal and 10 Wigeon.
Miscellaneous
Single Water Rail and Barn Owl were the best of the rest.
Butterflies and Moths
A few Red Admiral were on the wing and migrants in the fairly quiet moth trap involved several Silver Y.
Offshore
A scan of the sea produced 8 Sandwich Tern and 6 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Variety and quantity in the conducive conditions with 33 Robin, 24 Willow Warbler, 6 Chiffchaff, 4 Wheatear, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest and single Pied Flycatcher, Spotted Flycatcher, Lesser Whitethroat and Whinchat recorded.
Diurnal Migration
A quieter day than yesterday with 100 Swallow, 80 Meadow Pipit, 14 Grey Wagtail and a Tree Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 10 dark-bellied Brent Goose and a Shoveler amongst 54 Teal and 10 Wigeon.
Miscellaneous
Single Water Rail and Barn Owl were the best of the rest.
Butterflies and Moths
A few Red Admiral were on the wing and migrants in the fairly quiet moth trap involved several Silver Y.
Diurnal Migration picks up the pace!
7th September 2024 – warm and sunny ENE1/3
Offshore
A scan of the sea saw 35 Sandwich Tern, 26 Common Scoter, 7 Shag and 3 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Variety rather than quantity in the clear skies with 4 Wheatear, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 White Wagtail and single Whinchat, Spotted Flycatcher, Whitethroat, Willow Warbler and Sedge Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Visible migration begins to gain momentum with 600 Meadow Pipit, 400 Swallow, 20 Linnet, 17 Grey Wagtail, 10 Skylark, 3 Tree Pipit, 3 Tree Sparrow, 3 Chaffinch, 3 House Martin, 2 Sand Martin, 2 Yellow Wagtail and a Swift recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Raven was the best of the rest.
Dragonflies
Four Migrant Hawker and a Brown Hawker were seen.
Offshore
A scan of the sea saw 35 Sandwich Tern, 26 Common Scoter, 7 Shag and 3 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Variety rather than quantity in the clear skies with 4 Wheatear, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 White Wagtail and single Whinchat, Spotted Flycatcher, Whitethroat, Willow Warbler and Sedge Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Visible migration begins to gain momentum with 600 Meadow Pipit, 400 Swallow, 20 Linnet, 17 Grey Wagtail, 10 Skylark, 3 Tree Pipit, 3 Tree Sparrow, 3 Chaffinch, 3 House Martin, 2 Sand Martin, 2 Yellow Wagtail and a Swift recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Raven was the best of the rest.
Dragonflies
Four Migrant Hawker and a Brown Hawker were seen.
First Pink-footed Geese head south
6th September 2024 – hot and sunny NE3/6
Offshore
Observations over the sea produced 515 Sandwich Tern, 100 Gannet, 60 Common Scoter, 14 Wigeon, 8 Manx Shearwater, 4 Red-throated Diver, 2 Razorbill, 2 Pintail and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Again only a few birds were in evidence in the bright and blustery conditions with 5 White Wagtail, 3 Wheatear and a Whitethroat logged.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 35 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 22 Greenshank and 4 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Single Merlin and Peregrine were the best of the rest.
Mammals
The Otter put in an appearance.
Offshore
Observations over the sea produced 515 Sandwich Tern, 100 Gannet, 60 Common Scoter, 14 Wigeon, 8 Manx Shearwater, 4 Red-throated Diver, 2 Razorbill, 2 Pintail and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Again only a few birds were in evidence in the bright and blustery conditions with 5 White Wagtail, 3 Wheatear and a Whitethroat logged.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 35 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 22 Greenshank and 4 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Single Merlin and Peregrine were the best of the rest.
Mammals
The Otter put in an appearance.
Spotted Redshank and Grasshopper Warbler
4th September 2024 – sun and showers V1/2
Offshore
Observations over the sea produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 66 Common Scoter, 23 Gannet, 16 Shag and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Again a few birds were in evidence with 12 Robin, 4 Wheatear, 4 Chiffchaff, 3 Willow Warbler, 3 White Wagtail and single Grasshopper Warbler, Whinchat and Blackcap logged.
Diurnal Migration
Just 35 Meadow Pipit, 30 Swallow, 12 Grey Wagtail, 2 Tree Pipit and a single House Martin were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a single Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
Finch flocks included 100 Goldfinch.
Offshore
Observations over the sea produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 66 Common Scoter, 23 Gannet, 16 Shag and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Again a few birds were in evidence with 12 Robin, 4 Wheatear, 4 Chiffchaff, 3 Willow Warbler, 3 White Wagtail and single Grasshopper Warbler, Whinchat and Blackcap logged.
Diurnal Migration
Just 35 Meadow Pipit, 30 Swallow, 12 Grey Wagtail, 2 Tree Pipit and a single House Martin were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a single Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
Finch flocks included 100 Goldfinch.
Short-eared Owl, Marsh Harrier and Spotted Redshank
3rd September 2024 – sunny spells W2/3
Offshore
Observations over the sea produced 110 Sandwich Tern, 24 Common Scoter, 10 Shag, 3 Gannet and 3 Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Again only a few birds were in evidence with 2 Wheatear, 2 Chiffchaff and single Whitethroat and Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Just 70 Meadow Pipit, 50 Swallow, 18 Grey Wagtail, 3 Tree Pipit and 2 Sand Martin were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included single Spotted Redshank and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The run of raptor sightings continued with the Marsh Harrier remaining and Short-eared Owl, Merlin and Peregrine also seen.
Offshore
Observations over the sea produced 110 Sandwich Tern, 24 Common Scoter, 10 Shag, 3 Gannet and 3 Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Again only a few birds were in evidence with 2 Wheatear, 2 Chiffchaff and single Whitethroat and Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Just 70 Meadow Pipit, 50 Swallow, 18 Grey Wagtail, 3 Tree Pipit and 2 Sand Martin were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included single Spotted Redshank and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The run of raptor sightings continued with the Marsh Harrier remaining and Short-eared Owl, Merlin and Peregrine also seen.
Marsh Harrier headlines
2nd September 2024 – overcast/calm/rain soon
Offshore
Observations over the sea produced 140 Sandwich Tern, 15 Shag, 10 Gannet and 2 Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Only a few birds were in evidence with 7 Wheatear, 7 Robin, 4 Whitethroat, 3 Chiffchaff and single Stonechat and Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Just 55 Swallow and 9 Grey Wagtail were seen before the weather closed in.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 10 Greenshank and a Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The run of raptor sightings continued with a Marsh Harrier early morning. The Hooded Crow remains.
Offshore
Observations over the sea produced 140 Sandwich Tern, 15 Shag, 10 Gannet and 2 Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Only a few birds were in evidence with 7 Wheatear, 7 Robin, 4 Whitethroat, 3 Chiffchaff and single Stonechat and Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Just 55 Swallow and 9 Grey Wagtail were seen before the weather closed in.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 10 Greenshank and a Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The run of raptor sightings continued with a Marsh Harrier early morning. The Hooded Crow remains.
Osprey headlines
1st September 2024 – overcast E4/5
Offshore
A scan of the sea saw 50 Sandwich Tern, 10 Common Scoter and a Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
After the excesses of yesterday just 12 Wheatear and a Sedge Warbler were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 60 Teal, 21 Wigeon, 2 light-bellied Brent Goose and a Shoveler.
Miscellaneous
Raptors involved an Osprey fishing on the tide, 2 Kestrel and single Sparrowhawk and Peregrine. The Hooded Crow remains.
Offshore
A scan of the sea saw 50 Sandwich Tern, 10 Common Scoter and a Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
After the excesses of yesterday just 12 Wheatear and a Sedge Warbler were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 60 Teal, 21 Wigeon, 2 light-bellied Brent Goose and a Shoveler.
Miscellaneous
Raptors involved an Osprey fishing on the tide, 2 Kestrel and single Sparrowhawk and Peregrine. The Hooded Crow remains.
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