26th May 2025 – overcast/WSW5/7 rain later
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0630-0930) produced 305 Manx Shearwater, 152 Sandwich Tern, 85 Gannet, 43 Common Scoter, 43 Guillemot, 31 Kittiwake, 8 Razorbill, 4 Fulmar and a Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows continue to trickle through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Wigeon and Gadwall remain in residence.
Long-tailed Ducks and Arctic Skuas
25th May 2025 – bright and sunny W5/7
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0630-0830) revealed 510 Manx Shearwater, 211 Guillemot, 123 Gannet, 111 Kittiwake, 95 Common Scoter, 79 Sandwich Tern, 26 Razorbill, 8 Arctic Skua, 4 Fulmar, 3 Arctic Tern, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Long-tailed Duck and single Red-breasted Merganser and Puffin.
Grounded Migrants
A Spotted Flycatcher was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Gadwall and 2 Wigeon remain.
Dragonflies
A female Broad-bodied Chaser was unusual – there are only a few previous island records.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 205 moths of 23 species – with Treble Lines, Flame Shoulder and Heart and Dart the dominant species while Dusky Brocade was new for the year.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0630-0830) revealed 510 Manx Shearwater, 211 Guillemot, 123 Gannet, 111 Kittiwake, 95 Common Scoter, 79 Sandwich Tern, 26 Razorbill, 8 Arctic Skua, 4 Fulmar, 3 Arctic Tern, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Long-tailed Duck and single Red-breasted Merganser and Puffin.
Grounded Migrants
A Spotted Flycatcher was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Gadwall and 2 Wigeon remain.
Dragonflies
A female Broad-bodied Chaser was unusual – there are only a few previous island records.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 205 moths of 23 species – with Treble Lines, Flame Shoulder and Heart and Dart the dominant species while Dusky Brocade was new for the year.
First Fulmars finally appear offshore
24th May 2025 – overcast/rain clearing to showers WSW3/5
Offshore
Extended observations over the sea between the showers (0630-1130) produced 1465 Common Scoter, 720 Manx Shearwater, 425 Sandwich Tern, 260 Guillemot, 167 Gannet, 80 Kittiwake, 23 Razorbill, 9 Arctic Tern, 6 Fulmar, 6 Puffin, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and an Arctic Skua.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows continue to trickle through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Wigeon and Gadwall remain in residence and 400 Sanderling were the pick of the waders.
Offshore
Extended observations over the sea between the showers (0630-1130) produced 1465 Common Scoter, 720 Manx Shearwater, 425 Sandwich Tern, 260 Guillemot, 167 Gannet, 80 Kittiwake, 23 Razorbill, 9 Arctic Tern, 6 Fulmar, 6 Puffin, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and an Arctic Skua.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows continue to trickle through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Wigeon and Gadwall remain in residence and 400 Sanderling were the pick of the waders.
First Shelducklings appear
23rd May 2025 – bright and sunny/hazy NW1/2
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0600-0700) produced 57 Guillemot, 54 Common Scoter, 50 Sandwich Tern, 19 Gannet, 7 Razorbill, 4 Kittiwake, 4 Manx Shearwater and 2 Puffin.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows continue to trickle through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon and Gadwall remain in residence and a Whimbrel was the pick of the waders.
Breeding Birds
The first Shelduck brood has emerged and several Mallard families were seen.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 106 moths of 26 species – with Treble Lines, Heart and Dart and Small Square-spot were the dominant species while Campion was new for the year.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0600-0700) produced 57 Guillemot, 54 Common Scoter, 50 Sandwich Tern, 19 Gannet, 7 Razorbill, 4 Kittiwake, 4 Manx Shearwater and 2 Puffin.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows continue to trickle through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon and Gadwall remain in residence and a Whimbrel was the pick of the waders.
Breeding Birds
The first Shelduck brood has emerged and several Mallard families were seen.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 106 moths of 26 species – with Treble Lines, Heart and Dart and Small Square-spot were the dominant species while Campion was new for the year.
Little Gull
22nd May 2025 – overcast then sunny spells ENE3/4
Offshore
The sea (0630-0730) was quieter than of late but observations included a first-summer Little Gull amongst 60 Sandwich Tern, 21 Gannet, 16 Guillemot, 12 Common Scoter, 7 Manx Shearwater, 3 Razorbill and 2 Puffin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Gadwall and Wigeon remain.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 125 moths of 33 species – with Treble Lines, Flame Shoulder, Heart and Dart and Lime Speck Pug the dominant species while Mullein Wave and Archers Dart were new for the year.
Offshore
The sea (0630-0730) was quieter than of late but observations included a first-summer Little Gull amongst 60 Sandwich Tern, 21 Gannet, 16 Guillemot, 12 Common Scoter, 7 Manx Shearwater, 3 Razorbill and 2 Puffin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Gadwall and Wigeon remain.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 125 moths of 33 species – with Treble Lines, Flame Shoulder, Heart and Dart and Lime Speck Pug the dominant species while Mullein Wave and Archers Dart were new for the year.
Auks and scoters
21st May 2025 – bright and sunny/hazy NW1/2
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0600-0730) produced 730 Common Scoter, 410 Guillemot, 50 Sandwich Tern, 41 Razorbill, 29 Gannet, 15 Manx Shearwater, 10 Puffin, 6 Red-throated Diver and 4 Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
House Martin and Swallow continue to trickle through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon and Gadwall remain in residence.
Breeding Birds
Following successful breeding in 2024 a male Goldcrest was again singing in suitable habitat on the island.
Cetaceans
Four Bottle-nosed Dolphin were also offshore.
Butterflies and Moths
The first Large Skipper are now on the wing and the light trap held 208 moths of 36 species – with Treble Lines, Flame Shoulder, Heart and Dart and Small Square-spot remain the dominant species while Heart and Club and Yellow-barred Brindle were new for the year.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0600-0730) produced 730 Common Scoter, 410 Guillemot, 50 Sandwich Tern, 41 Razorbill, 29 Gannet, 15 Manx Shearwater, 10 Puffin, 6 Red-throated Diver and 4 Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
House Martin and Swallow continue to trickle through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon and Gadwall remain in residence.
Breeding Birds
Following successful breeding in 2024 a male Goldcrest was again singing in suitable habitat on the island.
Cetaceans
Four Bottle-nosed Dolphin were also offshore.
Butterflies and Moths
The first Large Skipper are now on the wing and the light trap held 208 moths of 36 species – with Treble Lines, Flame Shoulder, Heart and Dart and Small Square-spot remain the dominant species while Heart and Club and Yellow-barred Brindle were new for the year.
Long-tailed Duck
19th May 2025 – overcast then sunny spells ENE2/4
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0530-0630) produced 1000 Common Scoter, 100 Sandwich Tern, 46 Gannet, 30 Guillemot, 3 Red-throated Diver and single Puffin, Arctic Skua and Long-tailed Duck. In addition, the large flock of Common Scoter remain assembled in the mouth of the bay.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Gadwall and Wigeon remain.
Cetaceans
Six Bottle-nosed Dolphin were offshore.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 151 moths of 26 species – with Treble Lines, Flame Shoulder, Heart and Dart and Small Square-spot the dominant species.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0530-0630) produced 1000 Common Scoter, 100 Sandwich Tern, 46 Gannet, 30 Guillemot, 3 Red-throated Diver and single Puffin, Arctic Skua and Long-tailed Duck. In addition, the large flock of Common Scoter remain assembled in the mouth of the bay.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Gadwall and Wigeon remain.
Cetaceans
Six Bottle-nosed Dolphin were offshore.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 151 moths of 26 species – with Treble Lines, Flame Shoulder, Heart and Dart and Small Square-spot the dominant species.
Gadwall new in
18th May 2025 – bright and sunny E2/4
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0530-0630) produced 125 Sandwich Tern, 120 Common Scoter, 25 Guillemot, 24 Gannet, 10 Razorbill, 9 Manx Shearwater, 6 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Kittiwake and single Red-throated Diver and Shag.
Grounded Migrants
A single Spotted Flycatcher was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Gadwall was the first for several years while waders included 3 Whimbrel.
Reptiles
A Common Lizard was seen.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 287 moths of 41 species – the highest so far this year, totals remain dominated by Flame Shoulder and Treble Lines while Common Marbled Carpet, Garden Carpet, Tawny Shears, Mottled Rustic and Thistle Ermine were new for the year.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0530-0630) produced 125 Sandwich Tern, 120 Common Scoter, 25 Guillemot, 24 Gannet, 10 Razorbill, 9 Manx Shearwater, 6 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Kittiwake and single Red-throated Diver and Shag.
Grounded Migrants
A single Spotted Flycatcher was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Gadwall was the first for several years while waders included 3 Whimbrel.
Reptiles
A Common Lizard was seen.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 287 moths of 41 species – the highest so far this year, totals remain dominated by Flame Shoulder and Treble Lines while Common Marbled Carpet, Garden Carpet, Tawny Shears, Mottled Rustic and Thistle Ermine were new for the year.
More Puffins and Spotted Flycatchers
17th May 2025 – bright and sunny NE1/2 the W2/3
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0530-0630) produced 160 Common Scoter, 150 Sandwich Tern, 48 Guillemot, 7 Gannet, 6 Razorbill, 4 Puffin and 2 Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Two Spotted Flycatcher were logged.
Breeding Birds
Several family parties of Long-tailed Tit were seen.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl was the best of the rest.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0530-0630) produced 160 Common Scoter, 150 Sandwich Tern, 48 Guillemot, 7 Gannet, 6 Razorbill, 4 Puffin and 2 Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Two Spotted Flycatcher were logged.
Breeding Birds
Several family parties of Long-tailed Tit were seen.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl was the best of the rest.
Puffins and Spotted Flycatcher
16th May 2025 – bright and sunny WNW1/3
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0530-0630) produced 305 Common Scoter, 260 Sandwich Tern, 46 Guillemot, 12 Gannet, 11 Kittiwake, 5 Puffin, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Shoveler, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater and a Common Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Single Spotted Flycatcher and Willow Warbler were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
The first Greenfinch youngsters have now fledged and it was good to see House Martins are nest building.
Dragonflies
The Azure Damselfly is now on the wing.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 166 moths of 32 species –totals were again dominated by Treble Lines while Nutmeg and Dark Arches were new for the year.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0530-0630) produced 305 Common Scoter, 260 Sandwich Tern, 46 Guillemot, 12 Gannet, 11 Kittiwake, 5 Puffin, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Shoveler, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater and a Common Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Single Spotted Flycatcher and Willow Warbler were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
The first Greenfinch youngsters have now fledged and it was good to see House Martins are nest building.
Dragonflies
The Azure Damselfly is now on the wing.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 166 moths of 32 species –totals were again dominated by Treble Lines while Nutmeg and Dark Arches were new for the year.
Arctic Tern and Arctic Skua
15th May 2025 – bright and sunny E2/4
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0530-0700) produced 134 Common Scoter, 130 Sandwich Tern, 80 Gannet, 18 Guillemot, 7 Manx Shearwater, 4 Kittiwake, 3 Arctic Tern and single Arctic Skua, Puffin and Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
A single House Martin was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Whimbrel while a single Pink-footed Goose and Wigeon continue to linger.
Breeding Birds
Several Lapwing chicks were seen and the first Eiderlings have emerged.
Miscellaneous
Single Peregrine and Raven were the best of the rest.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 165 moths of 24 species, totals remain dominated by Flame Shoulder and Treble Lines. The first Dingy Skipper are now on the wing.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0530-0700) produced 134 Common Scoter, 130 Sandwich Tern, 80 Gannet, 18 Guillemot, 7 Manx Shearwater, 4 Kittiwake, 3 Arctic Tern and single Arctic Skua, Puffin and Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
A single House Martin was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Whimbrel while a single Pink-footed Goose and Wigeon continue to linger.
Breeding Birds
Several Lapwing chicks were seen and the first Eiderlings have emerged.
Miscellaneous
Single Peregrine and Raven were the best of the rest.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 165 moths of 24 species, totals remain dominated by Flame Shoulder and Treble Lines. The first Dingy Skipper are now on the wing.
Another Marsh Harrier
14th May 2025 – warm and sunny ENE3/5
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0530-0700) produced 350 Sandwich Tern, 144 Common Scoter, 100 Gannet, 14 Kittiwake, 12 Arctic Tern, 6 Red-throated Diver and 2 Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Two Spotted Flycatcher were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Single Swift and 2 House Martin were amongst a trickle of Swallow and another Marsh Harrier flew through
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 6 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Breeding Birds
The first House Sparrow, Starling and Dunnock youngsters have now fledged while Meadow Pipit and Skylark are feeding young.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 189 moths of 30 species – the highest so far this year, totals were again dominated by Line-speck Pug Flame Shoulder and Treble Lines while Marbled Coronet, Flame, Large Yellow Underwing, Small Magpie and Poplar Hawkmoth were new for the year.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0530-0700) produced 350 Sandwich Tern, 144 Common Scoter, 100 Gannet, 14 Kittiwake, 12 Arctic Tern, 6 Red-throated Diver and 2 Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Two Spotted Flycatcher were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Single Swift and 2 House Martin were amongst a trickle of Swallow and another Marsh Harrier flew through
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 6 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Breeding Birds
The first House Sparrow, Starling and Dunnock youngsters have now fledged while Meadow Pipit and Skylark are feeding young.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 189 moths of 30 species – the highest so far this year, totals were again dominated by Line-speck Pug Flame Shoulder and Treble Lines while Marbled Coronet, Flame, Large Yellow Underwing, Small Magpie and Poplar Hawkmoth were new for the year.
First Spotted Flycatcher arrives
13th May 2025 – warm and sunny ENE3/5
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0530-0700) produced 460 Sandwich Tern, 160 Common Scoter, 49 Gannet, 11 Manx Shearwater, 7 Kittiwake, 7 Guillemot, 4 Red-throated Diver and 2 Puffin
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Spotted Flycatcher was logged - the first of the year.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
Seven singing Reed Warbler are spread across five sites and the island holds a population of 115-125 territorial male Sedge Warblers.
Mammals
A Grey Squirrel was seen while recent sightings of Badger, Otter and Red Fox do not bode well for the island’s ground nesting species.
Dragonflies
Four-spotted Chaser, Blue-tailed Damselfly, Common Blue Damselfly and Large Red Damselfly have now all emerged.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0530-0700) produced 460 Sandwich Tern, 160 Common Scoter, 49 Gannet, 11 Manx Shearwater, 7 Kittiwake, 7 Guillemot, 4 Red-throated Diver and 2 Puffin
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Spotted Flycatcher was logged - the first of the year.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
Seven singing Reed Warbler are spread across five sites and the island holds a population of 115-125 territorial male Sedge Warblers.
Mammals
A Grey Squirrel was seen while recent sightings of Badger, Otter and Red Fox do not bode well for the island’s ground nesting species.
Dragonflies
Four-spotted Chaser, Blue-tailed Damselfly, Common Blue Damselfly and Large Red Damselfly have now all emerged.
Swallow passage finally increases
12th May 2025 – warm and sunny E3/5
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0530-0700) before the heat haze from the hottest day of the year so far kicked in produced 495 Sandwich Tern, 86 Common Scoter, 120 Gannet, 61 Black-headed Gull, 6 Arctic Tern, 3 Puffin, 3 Kittiwake, 2 Shag and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Chiffchaff was logged.
Diurnal Migration
Single Swift and House Martin were amongst 50 Swallow.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 200 Sanderling.
Miscellaneous
Single Hooded Crow and Raven were the best of the rest.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 120 moths of 24 species, totals were dominated by Line-speck Pug and Treble Lines while Setaceous Hebrew Character and Heart and Dart were new for the year.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0530-0700) before the heat haze from the hottest day of the year so far kicked in produced 495 Sandwich Tern, 86 Common Scoter, 120 Gannet, 61 Black-headed Gull, 6 Arctic Tern, 3 Puffin, 3 Kittiwake, 2 Shag and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Chiffchaff was logged.
Diurnal Migration
Single Swift and House Martin were amongst 50 Swallow.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 200 Sanderling.
Miscellaneous
Single Hooded Crow and Raven were the best of the rest.
Butterflies and Moths
The light trap held 120 moths of 24 species, totals were dominated by Line-speck Pug and Treble Lines while Setaceous Hebrew Character and Heart and Dart were new for the year.
Brent Goose and Wigeon continue to linger
11th May 2025 – warm and sunny ENE2/4
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0530-0700) produced 505 Sandwich Tern, 72 Common Scoter, 41 Gannet, 14 Guillemot, 5 Manx Shearwater, 4 Razorbill, 4 Red-throated Diver, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Puffin and an Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Lesser Whitethroat was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A single light-bellied Brent Goose and Wigeon continue to linger and waders included 1345 Oystercatcher, 100 Sanderling, 20 Turnstone and 3 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
Several Red Admiral were seen and the moth trap held 116 moths of 27 species, totals were dominated by Line-speck Pug, Treble Lines and Brown Silver-line while Silver Y and The Herald were the highlights.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0530-0700) produced 505 Sandwich Tern, 72 Common Scoter, 41 Gannet, 14 Guillemot, 5 Manx Shearwater, 4 Razorbill, 4 Red-throated Diver, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Puffin and an Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Lesser Whitethroat was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A single light-bellied Brent Goose and Wigeon continue to linger and waders included 1345 Oystercatcher, 100 Sanderling, 20 Turnstone and 3 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
Several Red Admiral were seen and the moth trap held 116 moths of 27 species, totals were dominated by Line-speck Pug, Treble Lines and Brown Silver-line while Silver Y and The Herald were the highlights.
Marsh Harrier
10th May 2025 – warm and sunny ESE2/4
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0615-0715) produced 100 Guillemot, 82 Sandwich Tern, 40 Common Scoter, 35 Gannet, 10 Puffin, 10 Kittiwake, 4 Razorbill, 4 Red-throated Diver, 3 Manx Shearwater and an Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A Marsh Harrier flew through mid-morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 800 Knot, 350 Dunlin, 120 Sanderling, 120 Ringed Plover and 7 Whimbrel.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap held 101 moths of 24 species, totals were dominated by Line-speck Pug, Flame Shoulder and Brown Silver-line while Sandy Carpet was new for the year.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0615-0715) produced 100 Guillemot, 82 Sandwich Tern, 40 Common Scoter, 35 Gannet, 10 Puffin, 10 Kittiwake, 4 Razorbill, 4 Red-throated Diver, 3 Manx Shearwater and an Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A Marsh Harrier flew through mid-morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 800 Knot, 350 Dunlin, 120 Sanderling, 120 Ringed Plover and 7 Whimbrel.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap held 101 moths of 24 species, totals were dominated by Line-speck Pug, Flame Shoulder and Brown Silver-line while Sandy Carpet was new for the year.
First Common Tern of the year
9th May 2025 – bright and sunny E1/2
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0600-0700) produced 310 Sandwich Tern, 86 Common Scoter, 51 Gannet, 16 Red-throated Diver, 5 Manx Shearwater, 5 Puffin and the first Common Tern of the year.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Whinchat, Wheatear and Willow Warbler were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A Swift flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 3 dark-bellied Brent Geese and a Pink-footed Goose while 32 Whimbrel were the pick of the waders.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0600-0700) produced 310 Sandwich Tern, 86 Common Scoter, 51 Gannet, 16 Red-throated Diver, 5 Manx Shearwater, 5 Puffin and the first Common Tern of the year.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Whinchat, Wheatear and Willow Warbler were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A Swift flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 3 dark-bellied Brent Geese and a Pink-footed Goose while 32 Whimbrel were the pick of the waders.
Spring passage limps towards a finish?
8th May 2025 – sunny spells ESE1/2
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0630-0730) produced 94 Sandwich Tern, 63 Common Scoter, 31 Gannet, 20 Guillemot, 2 Red-throated Diver and single Puffin and Kittiwake. In addition, a flock of 1000 Common Scoter were off the north end of the island.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap totals remain dominated by Flame Shoulder while Pebble Prominent was new for the year.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0630-0730) produced 94 Sandwich Tern, 63 Common Scoter, 31 Gannet, 20 Guillemot, 2 Red-throated Diver and single Puffin and Kittiwake. In addition, a flock of 1000 Common Scoter were off the north end of the island.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap totals remain dominated by Flame Shoulder while Pebble Prominent was new for the year.
Puffins and Arctic Skuas
7th May 2025 – bright and sunny NW2/4
Offshore
Morning observations over the sea revealed 113 Sandwich Tern, 70 Guillemot, 60 Common Scoter, 22 Gannet, 14 Puffin, 4 Arctic Skua and single Arctic Tern, Kittiwake, Shag and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single White Wagtail, Blackcap and Lesser Whitethroat were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 1000 Knot, 450 Sanderling, 300 Dunlin, 6 Whimbrel and a Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Two Hooded Crows were logged.
Breeding Birds
The first Stonechat juveniles have emerged.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap totals remain dominated by Flame Shoulder and Brown Silver-line while Lychnis and Scalloped Hazel were new for the year.
Offshore
Morning observations over the sea revealed 113 Sandwich Tern, 70 Guillemot, 60 Common Scoter, 22 Gannet, 14 Puffin, 4 Arctic Skua and single Arctic Tern, Kittiwake, Shag and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just a single White Wagtail, Blackcap and Lesser Whitethroat were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 1000 Knot, 450 Sanderling, 300 Dunlin, 6 Whimbrel and a Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Two Hooded Crows were logged.
Breeding Birds
The first Stonechat juveniles have emerged.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap totals remain dominated by Flame Shoulder and Brown Silver-line while Lychnis and Scalloped Hazel were new for the year.
More Puffins
6th May 2025 – bright and sunny ESE1/2
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0630-0730) produced 64 Sandwich Tern, 38 Common Scoter, 30 Gannet, 26 Guillemot, 8 Kittiwake, 6 Puffin and single Little Tern and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just single Wheatear, Whinchat and Blackcap were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 2 dark-bellied Brent Geese and a Wigeon.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap totals remain dominated by Flame Shoulder and Brown Silver-line while White Ermine was new for the year.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0630-0730) produced 64 Sandwich Tern, 38 Common Scoter, 30 Gannet, 26 Guillemot, 8 Kittiwake, 6 Puffin and single Little Tern and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just single Wheatear, Whinchat and Blackcap were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 2 dark-bellied Brent Geese and a Wigeon.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap totals remain dominated by Flame Shoulder and Brown Silver-line while White Ermine was new for the year.
Whinchat and Yellow Wagtail
5th May 2025 – bright and sunny NE3/4
Offshore
A check of the sea (0630-0730) provided 83 Common Scoter, 33 Sandwich Tern, 20 Gannet, 9 Guillemot and single Puffin, Shag and Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
A Whinchat was amongst 2 Wheatear and a Chiffchaff was seen.
Diurnal Migration
Two Yellow Wagtail flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 14 Grey Plover and 2 dark-bellied Brent Geese continue to linger.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0630-0730) provided 83 Common Scoter, 33 Sandwich Tern, 20 Gannet, 9 Guillemot and single Puffin, Shag and Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
A Whinchat was amongst 2 Wheatear and a Chiffchaff was seen.
Diurnal Migration
Two Yellow Wagtail flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 14 Grey Plover and 2 dark-bellied Brent Geese continue to linger.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains.
First Garden Warbler of the year
4th May 2025 – sunny spells NE2/4
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0645-0745) revealed 195 Common Scoter, 70 Sandwich Tern, 22 Gannet, 17 Guillemot, 2 Puffin, 2 Arctic Skua, 2 Little Tern and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just 3 Wheatear and single Garden Warbler, Blackcap and Chiffchaff were seen.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows continue to trickle through and 4 Swift were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap totals were dominated by Flame Shoulder while Rustic Shoulder-knot and Treble Lines were new for the year. The first Common Blue are now on the wing.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0645-0745) revealed 195 Common Scoter, 70 Sandwich Tern, 22 Gannet, 17 Guillemot, 2 Puffin, 2 Arctic Skua, 2 Little Tern and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just 3 Wheatear and single Garden Warbler, Blackcap and Chiffchaff were seen.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows continue to trickle through and 4 Swift were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap totals were dominated by Flame Shoulder while Rustic Shoulder-knot and Treble Lines were new for the year. The first Common Blue are now on the wing.
More Hooded Crows
3rd May 2025 – sunny spells NW3/5
Offshore
A check of the sea (0630-0730) provided 42 Common Scoter, 30 Guillemot, 24 Sandwich Tern, 10 Gannet, 4 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Little Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Just 7 Wheatear were seen.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows continue to trickle through and a Yellow Wagtail was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 88 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains and was not impressed by the arrival of 3 additional first-summer birds.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0630-0730) provided 42 Common Scoter, 30 Guillemot, 24 Sandwich Tern, 10 Gannet, 4 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Little Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Just 7 Wheatear were seen.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows continue to trickle through and a Yellow Wagtail was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 88 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains and was not impressed by the arrival of 3 additional first-summer birds.
First Swifts arrive
2nd May 2025 – sunny spells NNW1/2
Offshore
A check of the sea (0630-0730) provided 66 Common Scoter, 30 Sandwich Tern, 28 Gannet, 3 Guillemot, 3 Little Tern, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Shag and single Arctic Skua and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just 5 Wheatear and 4 Willow Warbler were seen.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows trickled through and the first Swifts have returned.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Wigeon and Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains and was again joined by a second individual.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0630-0730) provided 66 Common Scoter, 30 Sandwich Tern, 28 Gannet, 3 Guillemot, 3 Little Tern, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Shag and single Arctic Skua and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just 5 Wheatear and 4 Willow Warbler were seen.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows trickled through and the first Swifts have returned.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Wigeon and Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains and was again joined by a second individual.
A Hobby flies through
1st May 2025 – warm and sunny after early mist SE1/2
Offshore
A check of the sea (0630-0730) in poor visibility produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 67 Gannet, 32 Common Scoter, 22 Arctic Tern, 8 Guillemot, 5 Shag and an Arctic Skua. In addition, the huge flock of Common Scoter was still in the mouth of the bay.
Grounded Migrants
A Blackcap and 4 Willow Warbler were seen along with 4 Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
A Hobby was the highlight along with 2 Yellow Wagtail and a Stock Dove.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 6 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains.
Breeding Birds
Sedge Warbler numbers continue to increase at breeding sites across the island.
Butterflies and Moths
The first Wall Brown and Small Copper are now on the wing.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0630-0730) in poor visibility produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 67 Gannet, 32 Common Scoter, 22 Arctic Tern, 8 Guillemot, 5 Shag and an Arctic Skua. In addition, the huge flock of Common Scoter was still in the mouth of the bay.
Grounded Migrants
A Blackcap and 4 Willow Warbler were seen along with 4 Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
A Hobby was the highlight along with 2 Yellow Wagtail and a Stock Dove.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 6 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow remains.
Breeding Birds
Sedge Warbler numbers continue to increase at breeding sites across the island.
Butterflies and Moths
The first Wall Brown and Small Copper are now on the wing.
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