Walney Bird Observatory

Hen Harrier new in

2012-01-29T19:19:00.006Z

29th January 2012 – overcast/early frost/E1/2
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced small numbers of Kittiwake, Red-throated Diver and Common Scoter.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck and female Scaup were again in residence while 8 Greenshank were seen.
Miscellaneous
The pale looking 1stW Glaucous Gull – a hulking great beast, was again present and a ringtail Hen Harrier was logged.

Glaucous Gull headlines

2012-01-29T19:19:00.001Z

28th January 2012 – bright and sunny/early frost/calm
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced 5 Shag and small numbers of Red-throated Diver and Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
Several small skeins of Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck and female Scaup remain in residence.
Miscellaneous
A Glaucous Gull was seen and 4 Raven were logged.

WeBS Counts

2012-01-23T20:15:00.002Z

23rd January 2012 – sunny spells WNW4/5
Offshore
Small numbers of Common Scoter and Red-throated Diver were again offshore.
Wildfowl and Waders
Totals from the monthly island WeBS count included: 149 pale-bellied Brent Goose, 450 Shelduck, 780 Wigeon, 668 Teal, 78 Mallard, 71 Pintail, 147 Eider, 26 Goldeneye, 44 Red-breasted Merganser, 4991 Oystercatcher, 78 Ringed Plover, 231 Grey Plover, 800 Golden Plover, 1024 Lapwing, 2784 Knot, 97 Sanderling, 10 Purple Sandpiper, 2000 Dunlin, 15 Snipe, 1378 Curlew, 16 Greenshank, 1197 Redshank and 194 Turnstone.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl hunted and 12 Rock Pipit were flushed from the salt marshes by the high tide.

Scaup newly arrived

2012-01-22T19:32:00.001Z

22nd January 2012 – sunny spells W6/7
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced small numbers of Red-throated Diver and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
A Blackbird – the first bird to trouble the ringers in 2012 – hinted at some movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence also seen were a female Scaup and redhead Goosander.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl and 2 Short-eared Owl were seen.

Long-tailed Duck still in residence

2012-01-16T19:29:00.000Z

15th January 2012 – bright and sunny/early frost SE3/4
Offshore
Small numbers of Common Scoter and Red-throated Diver were again on the move.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 120 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck remained amongst 26 Goldeneye and 6 Greenshank were seen.
Miscellaneous
A flock of 20 Twite were seen and 6 Rock Pipit were logged
Images
Long-tailed Duck amongst Goldeneye.

Excellent winter birding

2012-01-16T19:22:00.001Z

14th January 2012 – bright and sunny/early frost E2/3
Offshore
Small numbers of Common Scoter and Red-throated Diver were on the move but the highlights involved 10 Shag and an out of season Great Skua.
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 11 Whooper Swan headed north and a total of 110 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A brace of Black-necked Grebe were the pick of the sightings which also included the long-staying Long-tailed Duck amongst 20 Goldeneye and 10 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl hunted over the salt marsh with both Little Owl and Peregrine also seen.

Goosander heads sightings

2012-01-11T18:36:00.003Z

11th January 2012 – overcast/drizzle at times SW3
Offshore
Small numbers of Common Scoter and Red-throated Diver were on the move.
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 10 Whooper Swan flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A redhead Goosander was the bird of the day, however the Long-tailed Duck remains, 143 pale-bellied Brent Geese were logged and waders included 800 Lapwing, 600 Golden Plover and 12 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 22 Little Egret remain and a flock of 36 Twite were logged.

Bird Racing!

2012-01-09T19:05:00.001Z

8th January 2012 – overcast/drizzle soon SW1/2
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced 10 Shag and small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter, Razorbill, Kittiwake and Guillemot.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and waders included 11 Greenshank and 4 Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
Single Barn Owl and Little Owl were seen.
Bird Racing
Walney Wanderers, the team representing Walney Bird Observatory, again took up the challenge of the annual Cumbria Winter Bird Race and amassed a total of 108 species within the confines of the county boundaries to once again lift the trophy. The team, assembled at a local woodland to broken skies and light winds and soon a Tawny Owl called at 0630hrs to set the total running. Heading back on to more familiar territory steady progress was made with local specialities such as Brent Goose, Long-tailed Duck, Merlin, Purple Sandpiper, Greenshank and Twite all added and the total had increased to an impressive 70 species by the time the team left Walney Island at 1020hrs. A tour of the Furness Peninsula in increasingly wet and murky conditions, due to the onset of persistent drizzle, added a further 15 species, although Gadwall, Peregrine, Green Sandpiper and Mediterranean Gull were all missed, before a Kingfisher was added en route to the woodland stage. Woodland species were steadily accumulated and a Lakeland stream provided Grey Wagtail and Dipper before a Treecreeper brought up the century at 1430hrs – remarkably the same species that had brought up the 100 in 2011. Several Goldcrest, a flock of six Hawfinches and a Sparrowhawk were further additions as the weather relented before roadside stubble fields near Flookburgh provided the long-staying flock of Eurasian White-fronted Geese. Raven and Goosander were then added before the same stubble fields yielded a flock of Linnet. A final dash to Whinfell Tarn on the outskirts of Kendal produced redhead Smew in fading light before a leisurely drive to the 1700hrs finish in The Hawkshead Brewery at Staveley failed to add to the total.

Brent Geese remain

2012-01-09T19:04:00.003Z

6th January 2012 – overcast SW2
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 105 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl was logged.

Glaucous Gull

2012-01-09T19:04:00.001Z

5th January 2012
Offshore
A Glaucous Gull flew south along the maritime shore.

Whooper Swans on the move

2012-01-09T19:03:00.003Z

4th January 2012
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Whooper Swan flew north and 10 Shoveler were logged.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets are still to be found along the eastern shore.

Long-tailed Duck sees in the New Year

2012-01-09T19:03:00.001Z

1st January 2012 – rain at times SW3/4/5
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
A flock of 50 Twite were logged

Little Gulls and late Arctic Skuas

2011-12-15T20:16:00.002Z

15th December 2011 – sunshine and showers W2/3
Offshore
A check over the sea on the rising tide (1015-1115) produced 2 adult Little Gull and 2 Arctic Skua amongst 480 Kittiwake, 21 Red-throated Diver, 14 Common Scoter and 8 Shag.
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 8 Whooper Swan and a Brambling were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
Just 10 pale-bellied Brent Geese were logged but the Long-tailed Duck remains.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets continue to show well along the eastern shore.

Brent Geese continue to set records

2011-12-12T20:13:00.001Z

12th December 2011 – sunshine and showers W4
Offshore
A check over the sea on the rising tide (0930-1030) produced single Gannet and Fulmar amongst 67 Razorbill, 46 Kittiwake, 25 Common Scoter and 13 Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held a record 165 pale-bellied birds and highlights of the monthly WeBS count were 3370 Oystercatcher, 3050 Knot, 1825 Dunlin, 1400 Golden Plover, 1245 Redshank, 1095 Lapwing, 760 Wigeon, 622 Curlew, 598 Teal, 230 Turnstone, 163 Shelduck, 140 Sanderling, 120 Ringed Plover, 98 Grey Plover, 55 Pintail, 49 Red-breasted Merganser, 34 Snipe, 22 Goldeneye, and 6 Shoveler.
Miscellaneous
Peregrine and Merlin continue to hunt the island.

Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck and Mediterranean Gull

2011-12-11T19:13:00.001Z

11th December 2011 – rain at times SW3
Offshore
Highlights involved an adult Mediterranean Gull and a female Velvet Scoter.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and waders included 26 Purple Sandpiper, 8 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock held 92 birds and a Merlin was logged. At least 21 Little Egret remain in residence along the eastern shore

Goosander added to year list

2011-12-10T20:19:00.002Z

10th December 2011 – sunny spells W4/5/6
Offshore
Early morning observations on the rising tide saw 2 adult Little Gulls amongst small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter and Kittiwake.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Eurasian White-fronted Goose, Whooper Swan and Goosander and 157 pale-bellied Brent Geese were amongst good numbers of wildfowl. Waders included 22 Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn Owl and Littlev Owl were hunting the island at dawn and a flock of 40 Twite were logged.

Snow Bunting finally added to year list

2011-12-06T19:56:00.001Z

6th December 2011 – overcast/heavy hail showers NW2
Offshore
A check over the sea on the falling tide produced 22 Razorbill and 10 Red-throated Diver along with a few Kittiwake, Common Scoter and Guillemot.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 5 Whooper Swan flew through.
Grounded Migrants
A very confiding Snow Bunting which was new for the year and a solitary Fieldfare were perhaps the first evidence of the start of some cold weather movement.
Miscellaneous
A group of 30 Twite were logged and 2 Raven flew over.

Gales finally yield a Grey Phalarope

2011-12-04T16:04:00.000Z

4th December 2011 – overcast W4/5
Rarities
The persistent westerly winds of recent days finally yielded a Grey Phalarope which appeared on the gate pool at South Walney Nature Reserve.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0820-0920) were led by a drake Velvet Scoter amongst 27 Razorbill, 21 Kittiwake, 9 Common Scoter and single Red-throated Diver, Goldeneye and Guillemot.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained 120 pale-bellied and 10 dark-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
A Raven tormented the Little Egret population.
Images
Grey Phalarope

Late seabirds

2011-12-02T12:01:00.001Z

1st December 2011 – sunny spells W4/5
Rarities
The Water Pipit again showed well in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Offshore
Heavy overnight rain and gales initiated a quick seawatch off the western shore (0830-0930) which produced a late Arctic Skua and Gannet amongst 160 Kittiwake, 14 Razorbill, 10 Common Scoter, 4 Shag, 4 Red-throated Diver and 2 Guillemot.

Winter specialities settle in

2011-11-30T20:09:00.001Z

30th November 2011 – overcast/showers S4/5
Rarities
The Water Pipit again showed well in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Offshore
A check over the sea on the falling tide produced a party of 7 Shag sheltering in the calmer waters along the eastern shore while small numbers of Kittiwake, Common Scoter and Razorbill braved the rougher conditions off the maritime coast.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and the Brent Goose flock held 153 pale-bellied birds, waders included 6 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A total of 130 Twite were logged and a Raven flew over.
Ringing
The last vestiges of autumn passage produced a further 216 birds of 17 species, an excellent total for November. Individual species totals involved: Greenfinch (82), Blackbird (42), Goldfinch (41), Chaffinch (16), Tree Sparrow (9), Song Thrush (7), House Sparrow (4), Dunnock (3), Goldcrest (2), Blackcap (2), Robin (1), Redwing (1), Woodcock (1), Twite (1), Sparrowhawk (1), Fieldfare (1), Brambling (1), Lesser Redpoll (1).

Great Skua and Long-tailed Duck

2011-11-28T20:44:00.002Z

28th November 2011 – overcastS3/4
Offshore
A Great Skua was the pick of sightings which otherwise included 25 Common Scoter, 14 Red-throated Diver and a few Kittiwake and Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and the Brent Goose flock held 157 pale-bellied birds, waders included 8 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 100 Twite remain and a Peregrine was seen.

Little Gull and White-fronted Geese

2011-11-27T20:42:00.002Z

27th November 2011 – bright and sunny WNW6/5
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) were led by an adult Little Gull and juvenile Gannet amongst small numbers of Kittiwake, Razorbill and Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
Two Eurasian White-fronted Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained 161 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
At least 35 Twite remain.
Ringing
The Twite flock contained a colour-ringed individual that had previously been ringed at Machrihanish during 2010. A Greenfinch ringed at South Walney during post-breeding dispersal on 9th August 2011 was controlled at Heysham on 17th November 2011 (19km E)

Brent Geese continue to increase!

2011-11-25T15:21:00.001Z

25th November 2011 – overcast/showers WSW5/6/7/8
Rarities
The Water Pipit again showed well in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-1030) produced 245 Razorbill, 180 Kittiwake, 12 Gannet, 5 Guillemot, 4 Common Scoter and 2 Red-breasted Merganser.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock provided another record with 157 pale-bellied birds present; including at least 29 juveniles while 55 Snipe were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin continued to stalk the high tide wader roosts.

Great Northern Diver finally added to year list!

2011-11-24T20:03:00.001Z

24th November 2011 – overcast S4/5/6
Rarities
The Water Pipit showed well in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
A Great Northern Diver sought refuge in the sheltered waters along the eastern shore while morning observations over rough seas (0830-0930) off the maritime coast produced 110 Razorbill, 45 Common Scoter, 17 Kittiwake, 11 Guillemot, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and single Gannet and Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held a record 155 pale-bellied birds; including at least 29 juveniles and 48 Pintail were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin stalked the high tide wader roosts and 2 Raven were seen.

Record numbers of Brent Geese

2011-11-23T20:04:00.001Z

23rd November 2011 – overcast SW4/5/6
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Morning observations (0915-1015) produced 33 Common Scoter, 23 Razorbill, 16 Kittiwake, 9 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Gannet, 2 Guillemot and a Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock continues to build and held record numbers with 153 pale-bellied birds (at least 29 juveniles) and 50 dark-bellied birds (at least 6 juveniles) present.

Some late movement

2011-11-22T20:31:00.002Z

22nd November 2011 – misty/calm then sunny spells NW3
Offshore
Two Shag were the pick of offshore sightings.
Grounded Migrants
A Fieldfare was amongst a small fall of Blackbird and Song Thrush and 3 Blackcap were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Two Lesser Redpoll were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck continues in residence the Brent Goose flock held 60 pale-bellied birds.
Images
Fieldfare.

Water Pipit and Long-tailed Duck remain

2011-11-21T20:12:00.001Z

21st November 2011 – damp and murky
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 10 Razorbill, 6 Kittiwake, 5 Gannet, 3 Common Scoter and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Single Fieldfare and Redwing provided the only interest.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck continues in residence and waders included 6 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A couple of Water Rail were seen, 4 Raven were logged and the Twite flock held 120 birds.

Old favourites

2011-11-19T20:55:00.001Z

19th November 2011 – overcast SE3
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 105 Razorbill, 12 Kittiwake, 7 Common Scoter, 2 Guillemot and 2 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Again there was very little sign of any newly grounded birds with just a few Blackbirds in evidence.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 13Pink-footed Geese headed south and a late Grey Wagtail was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 23 Barnacle Geese remain and the Long-tailed Duck continues to linger.
Miscellaneous
At least 37 Little Egret continue to patrol the eastern shore and a Short-eared Owl was logged.

Water Pipit and Long-tailed Duck

2011-11-17T19:59:00.001Z

17th November 2011 – bright and sunny SSE3
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0815-0915) produced 152 Razorbill, 85 Kittiwake, 20 Common Scoter, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Guillemot, 2 Red-throated Diver and a late Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and an aberrant plumaged Curlew provided some interest.
Images
Aberrant Curlew.

Autumn over?

2011-11-16T19:50:00.001Z

16th November 2011 – hazy SE2
Rarities
A Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Grounded Migrants
Two Redwing were amongst a few Blackbirds and Song Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck is still in residence.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 150 birds and a Peregrine was logged.

High numbers of Brent Geese

2011-11-15T20:08:00.001Z

15th November 2011 – hazy sun E3/4
Offshore
Just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter and Razorbill were offshore early morning.
Diurnal Migration
Four rather late Meadow Pipit flew through.
Grounded Migrants
Another or the same Woodcock was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, the Brent Goose flock held 117 pale-bellied and 50 dark-bellied birds, an overnight influx saw 500 Teal present and waders included 10 Greenshank and 2 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail squealed and 2 Raven were seen. A flock of 80 Twite were present.
Images
Twite.

Little Egret numbers continue to build

2011-11-14T20:04:00.000Z

14th November 2011 – overcast E3
Offshore
Just small numbers of Common Scoter and Razorbill were offshore early morning.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 75 Pink-footed Geese headed south along with single Great Spotted Woodpecker, Lesser Redpoll, Mistle Thrush and Grey Wagtail.
Grounded Migrants
A Woodcock was the sole evidence of newly grounded birds.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck was amongst 11 Goldeneye and a Pochard while highlights of the monthly WeBS count involved: 5950 Oystercatcher, 2195 Dunlin, 1853 Redshank, 1325 Knot, 996 Curlew, 724 Lapwing, 655 Wigeon, 650 Golden Plover, 393 Teal, 322 Ringed Plover, 211 Turnstone, 92 Mallard, 85 Sanderling, 67 Shelduck and 25 Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A total of 43 Little Egret formed a pre-roost gathering along the eastern shore and 100 Twite were logged.
Images
Long-tailed Duck and Goldeneye.

Brent Goose influx

2011-11-13T19:34:00.002Z

13th November 2011 – bright and sunny SE3
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 127 Razorbill, 120 Common Scoter, 100 Kittiwake, 6 Red-throated Diver and a late Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Again there was very little sign of any newly grounded birds with just a few Blackbirds in evidence.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 35 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 117 pale-bellied birds and 23 Barnacle Geese and 3 Whooper Swan were logged. Waders included 17 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 130 birds.

Water Pipit remains

2011-11-12T19:41:00.003Z

12th November 2011 – bright and sunny after early showers SE3
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit was again in the flooded horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations provided just small numbers of Common Scoter, Razorbill, Guillemot and Kitiwake.
Grounded Migrants
There was very little evidence of any newly grounded birds with 2 Redwing the best on offer.
Diurnal Migration
Single Great Spotted Woodpecker and Grey Wagtail were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and waders included 21 Purple Sandpiper, 11 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Short-eared Owl and the flock of 60 Twite remain.
Ringing
A Goldcrest ringed on the island on 28th March 2011 was controlled on the Teifi Estuary, Wales on 6th November 2011

Water Pipits attract

2011-11-11T15:36:00.001Z

11th November 2011 – sunny spells E4/5/6
Rarities
There are now 2 Water Pipit in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Diurnal Migration
A small southbound skein of 23 Pink-footed Geese and a solitary Lesser Redpoll were the only records of note.
Grounded Migrants
Apart from a single Woodcock grounded birds were again limited to early morning thrushes with 23 Blackbird, 21 Fieldfare and 9 Redwing logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, the Brent Goose flock held 20 pale-bellied birds and 4 Greenshank were seen.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock held 20 birds, Little Egret remain prominent and at least one Short-eared Owl remains.

Black Guillemot, Barnacle Geese and a late Swift

2011-11-10T20:21:00.001Z

10th November 2011 – sunny spells SE2
Rarities
The Water Pipit was amongst 5 Rock Pipit in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Offshore
A check over the sea (0945-1015) produced 4 Shag and a Black Guillemot amongst small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Kittiwake, Razorbill, Guillemot and Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
A very late Swift was seen but the supporting cast was limited to just 24 Jackdaw, 11 Meadow Pipit and a Lesser Redpoll.
Grounded Migrants
Very little evidence of any newly grounded birds though early morning thrushes involved 3 Song Thrush and 2 Redwing amongst a handful of Blackbird.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, a total of 37 pale-bellied Brent Geese and a flock of 24 Barnacle Geese were logged. Waders included 19 Purple Sandpiper, 9 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock has increased to 60 birds, at least one Short-eared Owl remains and 2 Water Rail squealed.

Water Pipit and White-fronted Geese

2011-11-09T20:14:00.002Z

9th November 2011 – overcast/rain later SE3
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Offshore
A check over the sea late morning produced a late Gannet amongst small numbers of Kittiwake, Razorbill and Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
A few wildfowl were again on the move with 16 White-fronted Geese and 9 Whooper Swan logged. A Rock Pipit was the best of the rest.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 10 Blackbird and 3 Song Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, Teal and Pintail have increased to 260 and 34 birds respectively and 3 Shoveler were seen. Waders included Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A group of 34 Twite and 3 Raven were seen.

Water Pipit returns

2011-11-08T20:12:00.002Z

8th November 2011 – overcast/mizzle E2
Rarities
A Water Pipit has returned to the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Diurnal Migration
Again slim pickings but a late Swallow was accompanied by 2 Siskin and single Brambling, Lesser Redpoll and Grey Wagtail.
Grounded Migrants
At least one Black Redstart remains and early morning thrushes involved 12 Blackbird, 7 Song Thrush, 2 Fieldfare and a Redwing. A single Goldcrest was the only other record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and the first 8 Pintail have returned to their winter haunt along the eastern shore. At least 4 Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A group of 32 Twite were seen.
Images
The low light levels were not conducive to digiscoping but a couple of record shots of today’s Water Pipit.

Blackbird invasion

2011-11-07T20:11:00.002Z

7th November 2011 – early frost then bright and sunny E1
Offshore
A quick check over the sea provided just small numbers of Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
Rather slim pickings with just 60 Starling, 40 Jackdaw, 5 Raven, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Tree Sparrow and single Barnacle Goose and Great Spotted Woodpecker logged.
Grounded Migrants
A Blackbird invasion was evident at first light with 110 birds logged before they melted away as the sun rose. Also seen were 30 Redwing, 8 Song Thrush, 2 Mistle Thrush and single Fieldfare and Goldcrest.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Short-eared Owl remain and a flock of 50 Twite were seen.
Dragonflies
Two late Migrant Hawker were recorded.
Butterflies
Red Admiral are still on the wing.

Black Redstart double

2011-11-06T19:48:00.000Z

6th November 2011 – bright and sunny/calm
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were led by two first-winter Black Redstarts. Also seen were 24 Blackbird, 14 Song Thrush, 3 Rock Pipit, 2 Redwing and single Fieldfare, Mistle Thrush and Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Wildfowl were again on the move with 370 Pink-footed Geese and 5 Whooper Swan logged along with 400 Jackdaw, 110 Starling, 22 Greenfinch, 12 Chaffinch, 5 Tree Sparrow, 3 Pied Wagtail, 3 Raven and single Brambling and Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
Short-eared, Barn and Little Owl were again recorded, the flock of 50 Twite remain and 3 Water Rail squealed.
Ringing
The Twite flock included a bird colour ringed at Machrihanish, Scotland during the autumn of 2010.
Moths
Silver Y and Brick were attracted to the moth trap overnight.
Images
Short-eared Owl.

Another Black Redstart

2011-11-05T19:31:00.000Z

5th November 2011 – bright and sunny N1/2
Grounded Migrants
A first-winter Black Redstart was the pick of the newly grounded migrants with 46 Blackbird, 18 Song Thrush, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Mistle Thrush, Fieldfare and Wheatear also logged.
Diurnal Migration
Wildfowl were on the move with 620 Pink-footed Geese and 7 Whooper Swan logged along with 29 Tree Sparrow, 25 Greenfinch, 22 Jackdaw, 12 Chaffinch, 3 Skylark and a Stock Dove also seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence, the Brent Goose flock held 13 pale=bellied and 3 dark-bellied birds and waders included 4 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn and Little Owl were recorded, the flock of 50 Twite remain and 3 Water Rail squealed.
Moths
Immigrants in the moth trap involved Pearly Underwing and Rusty Dot Pearl.

Yellow-browed Warbler

2011-11-04T19:51:00.002Z

4th November 2011 – sunny spells SW1
Rarities
A Yellow-browed Warbler showed well in the scrub near the old pier at South Walney Nature Reserve – present 1300-1330 at least.
Grounded Migrants
Again a few early morning thrushes were seen with 10 Blackbird, 5 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush and a Fieldfare logged along with single Whinchat and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A small passage was noted early morning with 23 Tree Sparrow, 22 Greenfinch, 10 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling and a Lesser Redpoll recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and 2 Shoveler were amongst 220 Teal. Waders included 5 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Short-eared Owl remains, the flock of Twite increased to 50 birds and at least 10 Little Egret were along the eastern shore.
Butterflies
A late Peacock was on the wing.
Moths
Immigrants in the moth trap were limited to a Silver Y.

Long-tailed Duck remains in residence

2011-11-02T19:07:00.001Z

2nd November 2011 – sunny spells SW2
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 3 Redwing and 3 Fieldfare, otherwise sightings of newly grounded birds were limited to single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Still a few birds on the move with 85 Jackdaw, 10 Greenfinch, 6 Chaffinch and 5 Meadow Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and at least 43 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain. A Greenshank was the best of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A small flock of 12 Twite were seen and include a bird sporting a single red/white colour ring on the right leg.
Butterflies
At least one Red Admiral was still on the wing.
Moths
Attractions were limited to single Silver Y and Brick.

Late summer migrants

2011-11-02T07:41:00.001Z

1st November 2011 – sunny spells SW2
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 10 Blackbird and a few Fieldfare, Redwing, Song Thrush. Also seen were single Whinchat and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds continue to move through with 125 Jackdaw, 60 Greenfinch, 12 Tree Sparrow, 10 Chaffinch, 3 Swallow, 3 Meadow Pipit, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Brambling and a Rock Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
At least one Short-eared Owl and 12 Twite were logged.
Moths
Attractions included Silver Y, Angle Shades and Large Wainscot.

Another month, another record!

2011-10-31T20:01:00.001Z

31st October 2011 – overcast/rain at times SSE2/3
Offshore
A quick check over the sea provided 28 Common Scoter and a few Razorbill and Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move early morning with 135 Jackdaw, 50 Greenfinch, 14 Tree Sparrow, 12 Chaffinch, 3 Fieldfare and a Grey Wagtail logged.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Short-eared Owl remain and a flock of 32 Twite were seen.
Ringing
Another exceptional month saw the ringing team setting more records. Despite the seemingly incessant wind they managed to ring 1255 birds of 25 species with an exceptional finch passage boosting the monthly total to record levels and totally eclipsing the previous best - 783 birds of 27 species which was achieved just last month! In addition, a Goldfinch provided the 3000th bird to be ringed this year, a landmark which was also achieved for the first time, despite below average numbers of Wren, Blackbird, Song Thrush and Redwing. Individual species totals for the month involved: Greenfinch (393), Goldfinch (236), Chaffinch (233), Meadow Pipit (144), Tree Sparrow (46), House Sparrow (40), Goldcrest (35), Lesser Redpoll (21), Dunnock (16), Blue Tit (16), Song Thrush (14), Blackbird (9), Long-tailed Tit (8), Blackcap (7), Robin (6), Linnet (6), Wren (6), Brambling (3), Chiffchaff (3), Coal Tit (3), Reed Bunting (3), Great Tit (2), Siskin (2), Sparrowhawk (2), Kestrel (1).
Mammals
A Harbour Porpoise was offshore and a Fox was an unwelcome visitor.
Moths
Immigrants involved Dark Swordgrass and Silver Y.

First Woodcock of the autumn

2011-10-30T19:37:00.000Z

30th October 2011 – sunny spells SW3/2
Grounded Migrants
Scant evidence of any newly grounded birds with just 3 Stonechat, 3 Song Thrush and single Redwing, Fieldfare and Mistle Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
The skies proved quiet this morning with only 240 Jackdaw, 80 Starling, 40 Greenfinch, 9 Carrion Crow, 6 Chaffinch, 2 Siskin, 1 Lesser Redpoll and a late Swallow logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and waders included the first Woodcock of the autumn along with 11 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
At least 38 Little Egret are now to be found along the eastern shore and 24 Twite were logged.
Moths
A varied selection involved Silver Y, Angle Shades, Dark Swordgrass, Satellite, Large Wainscot and Dark Chestnut.
Images
Dawn over Biggar.

Greenfinch invasion

2011-10-28T20:12:00.001+01:00

28th October 2011 – overcast SW1/2/3
Grounded Migrants
Evidence of newly grounded birds involved 10 Blackbird, 6 Song Thrush, 6 Dunnock and a Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Finches were again prominent through the morning with 150 Greenfinch, 20 Tree Sparrow, 15 Chaffinch and 3 Lesser Redpoll logged along with 280 Starling, 170 Jackdaw, 50 Skylark, 30 Meadow Pipit, 4 alba Wagtail and single Redwing, Fieldfare and Rock Pipit.
Miscellaneous
Three Short-eared Owls hunted the island along with a Barn Owl and Merlin.
Ringing
Yet another excellent day in what has been a record breaking autumn saw a total of 102 birds ringed, individual species totals involved: Greenfinch (64), Goldfinch (13), Chaffinch (6), Tree Sparrow (4), Dunnock (3), Lesser Redpoll (3), Blackbird (2), Song Thrush (2), House Sparrow (2), Blue Tit (2) and Meadow Pipit (1).

Black Redstart leads sightings

2011-10-27T19:51:00.001+01:00

27th October 2011 – overcast SE3/2/1
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were headlined by a splendid male Black Redstart and early morning thrushes involved 44 Blackbird, 14 Song Thrush, 26 Redwing, 7 Fieldfare and 2 Mistle Thrush. Additional sightings included 9 Goldcrest, 6 Blackcap, 6 Long-tailed Tit, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker and a Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds remain on the move with 210 Starling, 110 Jackdaw, 100 Goldfinch, 32 Chaffinch, 30 Greenfinch, 10 Meadow Pipit, 10 Lesser Redpoll, 8 Tree Sparrow and 3 Rock Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 70 pale-bellied birds and 4 Shoveler and 3 Pintail were seen. Waders included 5500 Oystercatcher and 1000 Golden Plover.
Miscellaneous
The two Short-eared Owl hunted over the island early morning and at least 2 Water Rail were present. The current round of high tides saw 15 Rock Pipit flushed from the salt marsh.
Ringing
Another good day saw a total of 70 birds ringed involving Goldfinch (30), Greenfinch (14), Lesser Redpoll (7), Chaffinch (7), Goldcrest (4), Blackbird (2), Song Thrush (2), Tree Sparrow (2), House Sparrow (1) Linnet (1).
Moths
Satellite, Silver Y and Angle Shades were attracted to the moth trap overnight.

Late Swallows pass through

2011-10-26T20:20:00.002+01:00

26th October 2011 – sunny spells SE4/5/6
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 35 Blackbird, 15 Song Thrush, 7 Redwing, 4 Fieldfare and 3 Mistle Thrush, while other sightings included 8 Blackcap, 3 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and a Bullfinch
Diurnal Migration
Despite the continued wind birds were on the move with 280 Starling, 220 Jackdaw, 50 Skylark, 44 Chaffinch, 30 Tree Sparrow, 24 Greenfinch, 8 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Swallow and single Great Spotted Woodpecker, Rock Pipit, Brambling and Siskin logged.
Miscellaneous
The Water Rail continues to squeal and at least one Short-eared Owl remains.
Ringing
The ringing team achieved two milestones during the day ringing the 1000th bird for the month and 3000th bird for the year – the first time in the observatory’s history that either of these landmarks have been achieved.
Moths
The Satellite, Brick, Silver Y, Angle Shades and Dark Chestnut were all attracted to the moth trap overnight – the latter being the first for the island.
Images
Lesser Redpoll, Dark Chestnut and Short-eared Owl.

Short-eared Owls arrive

2011-10-25T19:49:00.002+01:00

25th October 2011 – sunny spells SE5/4/3
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 17 Blackbird, 9 Redwing and 3 Mistle Thrush, other sightings included 14 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest and single Chiffchaff and Stonechat.
Diurnal Migration
A slight drop in the wind saw a few birds on the move early morning with 350 Starling, 300 Jackdaw, 20 Greenfinch, 12 Woodpigeon, 10 Chaffinch, 8 Whooper Swan and single Grey Wagtail, Lesser Redpoll and Tree Sparrow logged .
Wildfowl and Waders
Teal, Shelduck and Wigeon numbers continue to build slowly and a few Greenshank continue to linger.
Miscellaneous
Birds of prey included 2 Short-eared Owl, Barn Owl, Peregrine, Merlin, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel. The Twite flock has increased to 40 birds and a Water Rail squealed.

First Jack Snipe of the autumn

2011-10-20T19:14:00.004+01:00

20th October 2011 – calm/early morning rain, then sunny spells W1/2/3
Offshore
A quick check over the sea produced just small numbers of Kittiwake and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Birds grounded by the early morning rain included 80 Greenfinch, 60 Chaffinch, 20 Linnet, 18 Tree Sparrow, 10 Blue Tit, 6 Fieldfare, 5 Goldcrest, 2 Brambling, 2 Mistle Thrush and single Redwing, Stonechat, Wheatear, Coal Tit and Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move through the morning including 500 Starling, 100 Jackdaw, 70 Pink-footed Goose, 16 Whooper Swan, 10 Meadow Pipit, 6 Siskin, 3 Rock Pipit and 2 Lesser Redpoll .
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Long-tailed Duck remain and waders included 16 Greenshank and the first Jack Snipe of the autumn.
Miscellaneous
At least 20 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore.
Ringing
At last a day that dawned calm and despite a false start due to early morning rain the ringers again hit the century mark with 118 birds of 9 species ringed. Individual species totals involved Greenfinch (47), Chaffinch (31), Goldfinch (12), Tree Sparrow (12), Blue Tit (8), Goldcrest (4), House Sparrow (2), Brambling (1), Dunnock (1).

Pale-bellied Brent Geese return

2011-10-19T19:25:00.003+01:00

19th October 2011 – sunshine and early morning heavy showers NW5/6
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced just small numbers of Gannet, Kittiwake, Common Scoter and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
A few birds were grounded by several heavy showers early morning sightings included: 30 Greenfinch, 20 Chaffinch, 10 Tree Sparrow, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Goldcrest and a Brambling.
Diurnal Migration
Birds on the move were limited to 50 Skylark and a group of 5 Whooper Swan.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains and 71 pale-bellied Brent Goose have now returned for the winter.
Miscellaneous
Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Little Owl were all logged.
Images
Brambling – easily identified as a first-winter male due to the renewed alula being the same glossy black as the renewed greater coverts which contrast with the duller primary coverts.

WeBS counting

2011-10-17T20:27:00.001+01:00

17th October 2011 – overcast/rain at times SW5/6/7
Offshore
The wind and the rain returned with a vengeance and sightings on the rising tide (0830-1030) involved 67 Razorbill, 53 Common Scoter, 27 Kittiwake, 23 Common Gull, 20 Teal, 7 Gannet, 3 Red-throated Diver and 2 Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
The miserable conditions allowed for little evidence of newly grounded birds, however, a single Chiffchaff was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains and the monthly WeBS count produced 4830 Oystercatcher, 1990 Redshank, 917 Curlew, 531 Turnstone, 300 Wigeon, 268 Lapwing, 227 Dunlin, 202 Knot, 160 Teal, 138 Mallard, 130 Grey Plover, 100 Sanderling, 100 Bar-tailed Godwit and 28 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl continues to show.
Moths
An Angle Shades and Large Wainscot were the only attractions to the moth trap.

Long-tailed Duck remains

2011-10-16T20:19:00.001+01:00

16th October 2011 – sunshine and showers WSW2/3
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced 3 Shag and small numbers of Common Scoter and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
A smattering of grounded birds involved 60 Greenfinch, 20 Chaffinch, 5 Goldcrest, 5 Blackbird, 4 Redwing, 4 Blackcap, 2 Coal Tit and single Fieldfare and Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Birds on the move included 264 Jackdaw, 40 Greenfinch, 30 Meadow Pipit, 26 Tree Sparrow, 14 alba Wagtail, 10 Chaffinch, 10 Linnet, 5 Reed Bunting, 4 Lesser Redpoll and 3 Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains, 7 Goldeneye were newly arrived and 28 Greenshank were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl was hunting the island at dawn.
Moths
The Brick and Satellite were the highlights of a small catch.

Common Buzzard heads diurnal migration

2011-10-15T20:13:00.001+01:00

15th October 2011 – bright and sunny SE3/2
Grounded Migrants
A selection of grounded birds included 40 Greenfinch, 20 Chaffinch, 8 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Goldcrest, 2 Coal Tit, 2 Blackcap and 2 Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
A varied selection of species were again on the move a Common Buzzard leading sightings which also included: 480 Starling, 175 Jackdaw, 100 Meadow Pipit, 45 alba Wagtail, 45 Linnet, 30 Chaffinch, 30 Greenfinch, 5 Swallow, 5 Skylark, 3 Tree Sparrow, 3 Pintail, 3 Rook, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Siskin and single Lesser Redpoll and Brambling.
Miscellaneous
At least 30 Little Egret are now present along the eastern shore.

First Redwing and Fieldfare of the autumn

2011-10-14T20:03:00.002+01:00

14th October 2011 – overcast SE2/3
Grounded Migrants
Thrushes grounded early morning involved: 47 Fieldfare, 6 Song Thrush, 5 Redwing and 3 Blackbird, also logged were 50 Chaffinch, 50 Greenfinch, 4 Goldcrest, 2 Coal Tit and single Brambling and Lesser Redpoll.
Diurnal Migration
A good selection of species were on the move with 620 Starling, 300 Meadow Pipit, 140 Chaffinch, 70 Pink-footed Goose, 53 Jackdaw, 60 Linnet, 30 Greenfinch, 30 alba Wagtail, 20 Skylark, 9 Tree Sparrow, 7 Redwing, 4 Siskin, 4 Brambling, 4 Reed Bunting, 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Song Thrush logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least one Long-tailed Duck remains.
Ringing
The ringers again hit the century before declaring with 102 birds of 12 species ringed, individual species totals involved: Greenfinch (36), Chaffinch (32), Goldfinch (17), House Sparrow (6), 2 Blue Tit (2), Coal Tit (2), Dunnock (2), Goldcrest (1), Robin (1), Blackbird (1), Lesser Redpoll (1) and Brambling (1).

Brace of Long-tailed Ducks

2011-10-13T19:56:00.002+01:00

13th October 2011 – overcast E1/2
Grounded Migrants
Finches proved to be the order of the day with 150 Goldfinch, 100 Linnet, 50 Greenfinch and 30 Chaffinch logged along with 5 Goldcrest and single Wheatear and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 9 adult Whooper Swan headed south – the first of the autumn, also seen were 440 Pink-footed Goose, 300 Meadow Pipit, 60 Chaffinch, 60 Skylark, 40 Greenfinch, 10 alba Wagtail, 4 Siskin, 2 Brambling, 2 Lesser Redpoll and single Mistle Thrush and Swallow .
Wildfowl and Waders
A brace of Long-tailed Duck were the pick of the wildfowl.
Ringing
Another good effort by the ringing team saw 122 birds ringed of 11 species with individual totals as follows: Goldfinch (36), Greenfinch (31), Meadow Pipit (20), Chaffinch (19), House Sparrow (4), Linnet (3), Goldcrest (3), Wren (2), Robin (2), Reed Bunting (1) and Dunnock (1).
Moths
Immigrants included Silver Y and Rusty Dot Pearl.
Images
Long-tailed Ducks.

Scaup, Brambling and Twite

2011-10-12T21:08:00.000+01:00

12th October 2011 – heavy/torrential rain, drier later NW4/3/2
Grounded Migrants
A Brambling – the first of the autumn, was the pick of today’s grounded birds which also included: 20 Goldcrest, 20 Greenfinch, 20 Chaffinch, 9 Wheatear, 6 Lesser Redpoll, 4 Siskin, 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Song Thrush and a late Whinchat.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 300 Pink-footed Geese headed south at dusk.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Scaup was newly arrived and waders included 30 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The first 10 Twite have now returned, at least 18 Little Egret were scattered along the eastern shore, 2 Water Rail squealed and 2 Merlin hunted the finch flocks.
Moths
Just 2 Angle Shades troubled the recorder.

Will it ever stop raining?

2011-10-12T21:00:00.002+01:00

11th October 2011 – rain NW4/3/2
Grounded Migrants
Birds grounded by the seemingly incessant belt of rain that has lingered over the island for the last 10 days included: 60 alba Wagtail, 40 Chaffinch, 30 Greenfinch, 4 Wheatear and single Siskin and Lesser Redpoll
Wildfowl and Waders
A late Whimbrel was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 5 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore.
Moths
The rain even got into the moth trap electrics!

Another Leach’s Petrel

2011-10-10T21:07:00.001+01:00

10th October 2011 – overcast/rain WSW5/6/7
Offshore
Early mornimg (0900-1100) produced a single Leach’s Petrel moving out of Morecambe Bay along with 22 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill and single Gannet and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
The miserable conditions allowed for little evidence of newly grounded birds, however, a single Wheatear was logged.
Diurnal Migration
A rather impetuous Swallow was seen.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets and Merlin continue to show.
Moths
An Angle Shades was the only attraction to the moth trap.

Leach's Petrel headlines

2011-10-09T21:10:00.000+01:00

9th October 2011 – overcast/rain at times WSW4/5
Offshore
After a couple of blank days due to unsuitable winds morning observations (0930-1100) were highlighted by a single Leach’s Petrel moving out of Morecambe Bay. Also seen were 30 Common Scoter, 11 Razorbill, 5 Kittiwake, 4 Red-throated Diver and a Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Again there were few grounded birds with 3 Goldcrest the best on offer.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 130 Bar-tailed Godwit roosted over the tide.
Miscellaneous
Little Egret continue to show and raptors included Merlin, Kestrel and Sparrowhawk.

Brent Geese newly arrived

2011-10-06T20:25:00.001+01:00

6th October 2011 – overcast/rain at times W4/5/6/7
Offshore
The sea provided little (0800-1000 with just 8 Common Scoter logged.
Grounded Migrants
Again there were few grounded birds with just 2 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 13 dark-bellied Brent Goose were newly arrived and waders included 32 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 18 Little Egret remain and a Merlin was logged.
Mammals
A Harbour Porpoise was the pick of seawatching activities.

Moth takes the headlines

2011-10-04T20:47:00.000+01:00

4th October 2011 – overcast/rain at times W4/5
Offshore
The sea provided some autumn variety (0800-0900) with Arctic Skua the pick along with 49 Common Scoter, 4 Gannet, 3 Razorbill, 2 Kittiwake and single Red-throated Diver and Sandwich Tern .
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by 3 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff .
Diurnal Migration
With weather conditions not conducive to migrations single Grey Wagtail and Lesser Redpoll were the best that could be mustered.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Greenshank continue to be logged.
Miscellaneous
At least 13 Little Egret remain and a Merlin was seen.
Moths
A Blair’s Shoulder-knot captured a few days ago was the first island record.
Images
Blair’s Shoulder-knot.

Very mundane

2011-10-03T20:09:00.002+01:00

3rd October 2011 – overcast/rain at times SW3/4/5
Offshore
Early mornimg (0800-0900) produced 32 Common Scoter, 5 Razorbill, 3 Gannt, 3 Shag and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
The trickle of Chiffchaff, Goldcrest, Wheatear and Blackcap continues.
Diurnal Migration
The limited highlights involved 2 Swallow, 2 Siskin and a Grey Wagtail.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets and Little Owl continue to show.
Moths
Two Blair's Shoulder-knot supplemented a recent first island record and recent additions for the year involved The Vestal, Treble Bar and Canary Shouldered Thorn.
Images
The Vestal and Treble Bar.

Ringers hit double century

2011-10-01T21:49:00.001+01:00

1st October 2011 – overcast/calm
Offshore
A single Gannet was the only bird logged.
Grounded Migrants
Truly grounded birds remained in short supply with a sprinkling of Robin holding 3 Coal Tit, 2 Goldcrest and single Tree Sparrow, Chiffchaff and Blackcap .
Diurnal Migration
Diurnal migration was again much in evidence with 2500 Meadow Pipit, 550 Pink-footed Goose, 80 alba Wagtail, 80 Greenfinch, 80 Skylark, 60 Linnet, 50 Chaffinch, 30 Siskin, 10 Jackdaw, 10 Starling, 6 Swallow, 4 Grey Wagtail and 4 Lesser Redpoll logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Black-tailed Godwit was amongst 10 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 14 Little Egret remain and a Merlin was seen.
Ringing
Ideal conditions, heavy cloud to the north with very light winds and a few light showers early morning, provided a remarkable day with a total of over 200 birds of 16 species ringed. Individual totals involved 123 Meadow Pipit, 34 Greenfinch, 14 Chaffinch, 13 Goldfinch, 5 House Sparrow, 4 Blue Tit, 2 Goldcrest and single Kestrel, Robin, Reed Bunting, Dunnock, Linnet, Great Tit, Tree Sparrow, Siskin and Wren.
Images
Kestrel and Tree Sparrow.

Record monthly ringing total

2011-09-30T21:52:00.001+01:00

30th September 2011 –hazy sun ESE3/2/1
Offshore
A few Common Scoter were again the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Still little evidence of newly grounded birds with 3 Goldcrest, 3 Chiffchaff and a Blackcap the best that could be mustered.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were much quieter than of late, however, 710 Meadow Pipit, 470 Pink-footed Goose, 150 Linnet, 90 alba Wagtail, 90 Skylark, 33 Chaffinch, 8 Jackdaw, 6 Grey Wagtail, 3 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting, 2 Swallow and a Snipe were still logged.
Miscellaneous
Two Water Rail squealed.
Ringing
Despite the nagging and persistent wind, with very few calm days, the ringing team were again busy through the month. The rewards were an all time monthly record total involving 783 birds of 27 species which eclipsed the 705 birds ringed in October 2010. Individual species totals were as follows: Meadow Pipit (362), Chaffinch (79), Goldfinch (73), Greenfinch (71), Chiffchaff (39), Blue Tit (31), Robin (27), Goldcrest (21), House Sparrow (15), Great Tit (13), Dunnock (10), Blackcap (9), Whitethroat (6), Reed Bunting (4), Wren (4), Linnet (4), Tree Sparrow (3), Sparrowhawk (2), Swallow (2), Moorhen (1), Song Thrush (1), Garden Warbler (1), Tree Pipit (1), Willow Warbler (1), Coal Tit (1), Skylark (1) and Stonechat (1).

Diurnal passage remains impressive

2011-09-30T06:36:00.002+01:00

29th September 2011 – murky start then hazy sun SE3/2/1
Offshore
A few Common Scoter was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Another Coal Tit was amongst a further wave of Great Tit and Blue Tit and 2 Stonechat were a welcome sight; otherwise newly grounded birds were limited to 3 Chiffchaff and a Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Diurnal migration was again the main focus of attention and another strong passage through the morning included: 3000 Meadow Pipit, 420 Linnet, 120 Starling, 100 Skylark, 78 alba Wagtail, 40 Pink-footed Goose, 36 Swallow, 30 Chaffinch, 21 Siskin, 12 Lesser Redpoll, 10 Grey Wagtail, 10 Goldfinch, 8 Jackdaw, 4 Reed Bunting and 4 Tree Sparrow.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl bathed in the midday sun and a Water Rail squealed.
Butterflies
A selection of butterflies included newly emerged Small Copper and a rather worn Painted Lady.
Dragonflies
Around five Migrant Hawker were on the wing.

More strong diurnal passage

2011-09-28T19:58:00.001+01:00

28th September 2011 – murky start then hazy sun
Offshore
A Common Scoter was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
A Coal Tit was amongst a further wave of Blue Tit; otherwise newly grounded birds were limited to 3 Goldcrest and 2 Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
A strong passage through the morning produced 2020 Meadow Pipit, 420 Linnet, 300 Starling, 160 Pink-footed Goose, 130 Skylark, 85 alba Wagtail, 60 Swallow, 55 Greenfinch, 50 Chaffinch, 18 Redpoll, 11 Grey Wagtail, 10 Siskin, 9 House Martin, 5 Jackdaw, 5 Carrion Crow and a Tree Sparrow.
Ringing
The recent influx of Blue Tit include a controlled bird, past recoveries suggest that this will be found to be from a relatively local nest box ringing scheme from the woodlands of Lakeland.
Dragonflies
Two Migrant Hawker were seen.

First Song Thrush of the autumn

2011-09-27T21:00:00.002+01:00

27th September 2011 – overcast S3/4
Offshore
A quick check over the sea (0700-0730) produced just small numbers of Razorbill, Gannet, Common Scoter, Guillemot, Red-throated Diver and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Newly grounded birds included 12 Blue Tit, 6 Great Tit, 4 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Blackcap and Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings included: 180 Meadow Pipit, 140 Starling, 100 Chaffinch, 55 Greenfinch, 30 Swallow, 22 alba Wagtail, 20 Skylark, 12 House Martin, 3 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Siskin.
Miscellaneous
It appears to be a poor autumn for several species with Robin and Goldcrest currently well below expectant levels and an almost compete dearth of Stonechat reflects the effect of the series of harsh winters.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was seen.

Late Willow Warbler

2011-09-26T20:10:00.001+01:00

26th September 2011 – bright and sunny W4/3/2
Offshore
A solitary Gannet and Red-throated Diver were the only sightings.
Grounded Migrants
A late Willow Warbler was amongst 3 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
What a difference a day makes, 20 Chaffinch, 3 House Martin and single Siskin and Grey Wagtail were the pick amongst small numbers of Swallow, Meadow Pipit and Skylark.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets and Little Owl continue to show.
Moths
A Green Brindled Crescent was new for the year.

Heavy diurnal movement

2011-09-25T20:09:00.000+01:00

25th September 2011 – overcast S3/4
Offshore
A quick check over the sae produced just 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of any newly grounded birds with just 2 Chiffchaff and 2 Goldcrest logged.
Diurnal Migration
There was a heavy diurnal movement through the course of the morning with 2400 Meadow Pipit, 795 Linnet, 255 Swallow, 125 Skylark, 120 alba Wagtail, 120 House Martin, 50 Chaffinch, 15 Sand Martin, 6 Grey Wagtail, 6 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting and a Jackdaw.
Miscellaneous
At least 20 Little Egret remain along the eastern shoreline.
Moths
Red-line Quaker and Feathered Rannunculus were new for the year.
Images
Skylark.

Offshore diversity

2011-09-23T20:20:00.000+01:00

23rd September 2011 – overcast then sunny spells SW4/3
Offshore
Morning observations (0845-0945) produced small numbers of a wide selection of species with 27 Common Scoter, 9 Kittiwake, 5 Red-throated Diver, 3 Razorbill and single Gannet, Fulmar, Shag, Arctic Skua, Black Guillemot, Manx Shearwater and Leach’s Petrel – the latter heading into Morecambe Bay at 0915hrs.
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of any grounded birds with just 2 Chiffchaff and a single Blackcap logged.
Diurnal Migration
A Grey Wagtail was amongst a trickle of Swallow, Skylark and Meadow Pipit.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was recorded.
Moths
Attractions to the moth trap overnight included 18 Lunar Underwing, 2 Square-spot Rustic and single Rush Veneer, Frosted Orange, Angle Shades and White-line Dart.

The quiet spell continues

2011-09-22T20:59:00.000+01:00

22nd September 2011 – sunny spells W5/4
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0845) produced 51 Common Scoter, 9 Razorbill, 3 Kittiwake and single Manx Shearwater and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of any grounded birds with just 3 Wheatear, 2 Chiffchaff and a Goldcrest logged.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swallow were observed flying out over the sea.
Wildfowl and Waders
An elusive Pink-footed Goose was in residence and waders included 17 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Owl and a Peregrine were logged.
Images
Juvenile Pink-footed Goose.

Seawatching again

2011-09-21T20:48:00.002+01:00

21st September 2011 – overcast/rain soon SW5/6
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0945) produced 77 Kittiwake, 58 Razorbill, 28 Common Scoter, 6 Guillemot, 4 Gannet, 3 Fulmar, 2 Arctic Skua, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Little evidence of any grounded birds with 3 White Wagtail and a Chiffchaff the only sightings logged.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swallow were observed flying out over the sea.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 11 Little Egret remain.
Moths
A Black Rustic was new for the year and immigrants involved Rusty Dot Pearl and Silver Y.

Late Whitethroat and Sedge Warbler

2011-09-19T19:55:00.001+01:00

19th September 2011 – overcast/rain soon SW3
Offshore
A solitary Gannet was the only sighting.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded migrants included 300 Meadow Pipit, 40 Skylark, 7 Robin, 3 Chiffchaff and single Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move early morning before the weather closed in with 30 Swallow, 30 Chaffinch, 20 Jackdaw, 5 alba Wagtail and single Lesser Redpoll and Grey Wagtail logged.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets continue to show along the eastern shore.

Pipits Galore

2011-09-18T19:40:00.002+01:00

18th September 2011 – bright and sunny/calm
Offshore
A few Sandwich Tern were the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Few grounded birds were noted with 17 Robin, 7 Goldcrest and 3 Chiffchaff the best that could be mustered.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included a conservative estimate of 1000 Meadow Pipit plus 120 Skylark, 115 Pink-footed Goose, 110 Swallow, 14 House Martin, 10 alba Wagtail, 7 Redpoll, 4 Chaffinch, 4 Siskin and 3 Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A noticeable influx of Little Egret saw a pre roost gathering of 22 birds.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was logged.

Pink-footed Geese and Meadow Pipit on the move

2011-09-15T21:17:00.001+01:00

15th September 2011 – bright and sunny/calm
Offshore
Afew Sandwich Tern were the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds included 12 Robin, 6 Whitethroat, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest and a Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included 2000 Meadow Pipit, 750 Pink-footed Goose, 110 Swallow, 45 Skylark, 40 Starling, 30 Chaffinch, 17 Siskin, 10 alba Wagtail, 2 Sand Martin and 2 Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Good numbers of Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl basked in the early morning sunshine.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was logged.

Early morning Sabine’s Gull and Leach’s Petrels

2011-09-14T19:15:00.002+01:00

14th September 2011 – sunshine and showers WNW3/2
Offshore
The gales of the last few days had blown themselves out overnight and early morning saw the pick of the sightings with an adult Sabine’s Gull, 5 Leach’s Petrel and a Great Skua heading out of Morecambe Bay, also seen were 38 Common Scoter, 10 Red-throated Diver, 8 Gannet, 5 Razorbill, 3 Shag, 2 Sandwich Tern, 2 Kittiwake and single Manx Shearwater and Fulmar. A noticeable southbound passage of Lesser Black-backed Gull was also evident with 205 birds recorded.
Grounded Migrants
A few more grounded birds were in evidence with 11 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap and a Wheatear logged.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included 100 House Martin, 40 Siskin, 20 Meadow Pipit, 10 Swallow and single Grey Wagtail and Tree Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 5 Shoveler were seen and waders included 20 Greenshank, 4 Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail was heard.

Sabine’s Gull and Leach’s Petrels

2011-09-13T19:41:00.001+01:00

13th September 2011 – sunshine and showers WSW6/7/8
Offshore
Conditions saw most observations concentrated along the western shore over the high tide (0715-1600) with a juvenile Sabine’s Gull (@1035) and 3 Leach’s Petrels (@0905, 1405 & 1520) the highlights amongst 124 Gannet, 57 Common Scoter, 47 Kittiwake, 27 Sandwich Tern, 19 Razorbill, 16 Guillemot, 12 Fulmar, 8 Manx Shearwater, 8 Great Skua, 6 Arctic Skua, 4 Shag, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
A single Chiffchaff and 2 Wheatear were the only migrants logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Ruff and Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret saw out the tide along the eastern shore.

Sabine’s Gull

2011-09-12T20:17:00.001+01:00

12th September 2011 – overcast/showers SW6/7/8
Offshore
Observations along the western shore over the tide (0800-1400) were led by a juvenile Sabine’s gull moving out of Morcambe Bay at 1340hrs, also seen were 45 Common Scoter, 27 Kittiwake, 20 Gannet, 7 Sandwich Tern, 5 Great Skua, 3 Arctic Skua, 3 Manx Shearwater, 2 Razorbill and a Fulmar. High tide along the eastern shore saw 12 Sandwich Tern, 6 Gannet and single Little Tern and Black Guillemot sheltering from the teeth of the gale.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail continues to linger.
Wildfowl and Waders
Highlights of the monthly WeBS cout included 4350 Oystercatcher, 1885 Redshank, 840 Knot, 787 Curlew, 490 Turnstone, 260 Cormorant, 126 Ringed Plover, 118 Dunlin, 111 Grey Plover, 85 Sanderling, 50 Teal, 34 Wigeon, 6 Bar-tailed Godwit and 3 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
At least 8 Little Egret were along the eastern shore.

Good numbers of Greenshank now present

2011-09-12T17:16:00.002+01:00

11th September 2011 – overcast/rain at times S6
Offshore
Observations on the rising tide produced 66 Common Scoter, 12 Sandwich Tern, 9 Kittiwake, 3 Little Tern, 2 Gannet, 2 Arctic Skua and a Great Skua.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail continues to linger and other sightings were limited to 2 Chiffchaff and single Goldcrest and Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 44 Greenshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was logged.
Moths
Lunar Underwing was new for the year.

Low key migration

2011-09-12T16:57:00.002+01:00

10th September 2011 – overcast/showers, heavy at times S3
Offshore
Just small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Common Scoter were logged.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail continues to linger and other sightings included 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Wheatear and single Blackcap and White Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, Swallow and Sand Martin were amongst 60 Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Peregrine were logged.
Moths
Green Carpet was new for the year.

First Water Rail of the autumn

2011-09-09T15:56:00.001+01:00

9th September 2011 – overcast/mizzle SSW1/2/3
Offshore
The wind had decreased overnight and poor visibility hampered observations through the morning with only small numbers of Gannet, Common Scoter, Fulmar, Razorbill, Kittiwake and Arctic Tern logged.
Grounded Migrants
The was evidence of a few grounded birds early morning with 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Wheatear, 2 Whitethroat and a Redstart recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Single Tree Pipit and Grey Wagtail were amongst an early morning trickle of Swallow and Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The first Water Rail of the autumn was logged.
Mammals
Two Harbour Porpoise were close inshore.

Persistence finally pays dividends

2011-09-08T21:17:00.002+01:00

8th September 2011 – overcast/showers WSW5/4/3
Offshore
A slight hint of southwest in the wind today and the results were more impressive with observations (0900-1000 & 1145-1315) producing single Leach’s Petrel and Storm Petrel amongst totals of 43 Sandwich Tern, 30 Kittiwake, 23 Common Scoter, 12 Fulmar, 4 Razorbill, 3 Gannet and single Red-throated Diver and Guillemot. The highlights of the day were all moving slowly out of Morecambe Bay and remarkably occurred within a 20 minute spell early afternoon as the wind decreased!
Grounded Migrants
There are now 2 Yellow Wagtail amongst a group of 25 Pied Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 800 Knot and a flock of 24 Greenshank that roosted over the tide.
Miscellaneous
Single Little Owl and Little Egret were the best of the rest.

More autumnal gales

2011-09-07T19:59:00.001+01:00

7th September 2011 – heavy showers W5/6/7
Offshore
Despite the continued strong westerly wind or perhaps because of it – south westerlies are the favoured direction, morning observations (0830-1000) were disappointing with just 26 Common Scoter, 11 Sandwich Tern, 10 Fulmar, 6 Gannet, 5 Kittiwake, 4 Razorbill and a Manx Shearwater logged.
Grounded Migrants
Single Chiffchaff and Goldcrest were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper continue to linger.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret sheltered along the eastern shore.

Autumnal gales

2011-09-06T20:00:00.001+01:00

6th September 2011 – heavy showers W5/6/7
Offshore
The weather conditions saw most efforts placed on the sea where observations (0800-1030 & 1130-1230) provided variety if not quality with 2 Arctic Skua the highlight amongst 90 Common Scoter, 48 Gannet, 15 Fulmar, 12 Razorbill, 11 Kittiwake, 10 Sandwich Tern, 6 Manx Shearwater, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Guillemot and an Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Not a day to look for grounded birds however, a Yellow Wagtail remains amongst 25 Pied Wagtail and 2 Wheatear and single Chiffchaff and Goldcrest were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper were recorded.

Osprey heads south

2011-09-05T19:54:00.001+01:00

5th September 2011 – heavy showers W2/3/4/5/6
Offshore
A late morning check over the sea as the wind freshened (1100-1200) produced variety if not quantity with 25 Gannet, 16 Common Scoter, 14 Sandwich Tern, 3 Razorbill, 2 Fulmar, 2 Kittiwake, 2 Pintail and single Manx Shearwater and Red-throated Diver logged.
Grounded Migrants
Totals of 10 Chiffchaff, 10 Pied Wagtail, 4 White Wagtail, 5 Goldcrest, 3 Wheatear, 2 Robin and single Tree Pipit and Whitethroat included at least some leftovers from yesterday.
Diurnal Migration
An Osprey flew south east along the maritime shore at 1140hrs to provide the highlight for the day.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 20 Greenshank, 3 Curlew Sandpiper and single Little Stint and Green Sandpiper.

Chiffchaff influx

2011-09-05T17:05:00.005+01:00

4th September 2011 – bright and sunny/calm
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced just small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A small fall produced 30 Chiffchaff, 15 Pied Wagtail, 10 Whitethroat, 8 Robin, 6 White Wagtail, 5 Wheatear, 4 Goldcrest, 2 Willow Warbler and single Garden Warbler, Sedge Warbler and Yellow Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
Only a small passage despite the clear skies and light winds with 100 Swallow, 50 Meadow Pipit, 10 alba Wagtail, 4 Grey Wagtail, 3 House Martin, 3 Siskin, 3 Tree Pipit and single Redpoll, Sand Martin and Yellow Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Stint and 3 Curlew Sandpiper remain.
Moths
A Bulrush Wainscot was the first to be trapped on the island since 2000 while Garden Dart was new for the year.

Curlew Sandpipers still in residence

2011-09-03T17:49:00.001+01:00

3rd September 2011 – rain, persistent and heavy at times S3
Offshore
The rising tide produced just a handful of Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
The persistent and heavy rain was not conducive to either birds or birders and consequently sightings of grounded birds were limited to 3 Wheatear and single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon numbers are starting to build and waders included 16 Greenshank and 3 Curlew Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret saw out the tide along the eastern shore.

White Wagtail influx

2011-09-02T15:00:00.001+01:00

2nd September 2011 – overcast with light showers S2/3
Offshore
Again small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were noted early morning.
Grounded Migrants
An influx of White Wagtail saw 20 birds logged along with 20 Pied Wagtail, 5 Wheatear, 5 Robin, 2 Whitethroat and 2 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 6 Tree Sparrow was the only record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Stint remains and the first Pintail of the autumn was recorded.
Moths
The moth traps held the first Large Wainscot of the year and a couple of Silver Y were the only immigrants.

Little Stint remains

2011-09-01T20:46:00.001+01:00

1st September 2011 – overcast then hazy sun SE2
Offshore
Only small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were noted early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Although both Yellow Wagtail and White Wagtail were amongst 40 Pied Wagtail otherwise there were very few grounded birds with just a few Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler, Willow Warbler and Robin logged
Diurnal Migration
Again little evidence of migration with 10 House Martin the only record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Stint remains.
Moths
Dark Sword Grass and Silver Y were the only immigrants in the moth traps.

Little Stint new in

2011-08-31T20:02:00.001+01:00

31st August 2011 – overcast/calm
Offshore
Only small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were noted early morning.
Grounded Migrants
The conditions produced a scattering of newly grounded migrants with 10 Pied Wagtail, 9 Wheatear, 8 Whitethroat, 7 Robin, 5 Willow Warbler, 2 White Wagtail and single Goldcrest, Blackcap and Spotted Flycatcher logged
Diurnal Migration
Despite the day dawning to calm conditions for the first time in a while the expectant flood of passage birds failed to materialise with 28 Tree Sparrow and single Tree Pipit and Yellow Wagtail the only birds of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 6 Wigeon of the autumn appeared and waders included a newly arrived juvenile Little Stint, 3 Whimbrel, 2 Curlew Sandpiper and a few Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Three Little Egret were logged and raptors involved Kestrel, Sparrowhawk – targeting the local Goldfinch population, Merlin, Peregrine and Little Owl.
Ringing
A monthly total of 244 birds of 22 species was the best August total for several years and comprised Willow Warbler (55), Greenfinch (31), House Sparrow (29), Robin (28), Whitethroat (27), Meadow Pipit (13), Sedge Warbler (13), Goldfinch (12), Swallow (8), Dunnock (5), Linnet (5), Blackcap (3), Blackbird (3), Garden Warbler (2), Sparrowhawk (2), Reed Bunting (2), Reed Warbler (1), Goldcrest (1), Wren (1), Pied Wagtail (1), Magpie (1) and Chiffchaff (1).

Curlew Sandpipers remain

2011-08-30T20:05:00.001+01:00

30th August 2011 – overcast WNW4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0830-0930) produced a steady stream of Sandwich Tern with 315 birds logged, also seen were 35 Gannet, 4 Common Scoter and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail remained amongst 30 Pied Wagtail and a Chiffchaff was new in..
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 17 Greenshank, 3 Curlew Sandpiper and a Green Sandpiper.
Moths
Single Silver Y and Dark Sword Grass were the only immigrants in the moth traps.

First Short-eared Owl of the autumn arrives

2011-08-29T20:15:00.000+01:00

29th August 2011 –sunny spells NW4/5/6
Offshore
An early morning check over the sea revealed 40 Sandwich Tern, 20 Gannet and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A Yellow Wagtail was amongst 30 Pied Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 16 Tree Sparrow flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Whimbrel, Green Sandpiper, Greenshank and Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The first Short-eared Owl of the autumn was flushed from the salt marsh by the rising tide.
Moths
A Silver Y was the only immigrant in the moth traps.
Images
Short-eared Owl – moulting adult.

Green Sandpiper and Yellow Wagtail

2011-08-28T21:12:00.001+01:00

28th August 2011 – sunshine and showers NW4/5/6
Offshore
The rising tide produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 25 Gannet, 4 Manx Shearwater, 3 Razorbill and 2 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
A Yellow Wagtail was the pick of sightings.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Green Sandpiper remains.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.

First Curlew Sandpiper and Goldcrest of the autumn

2011-08-27T20:19:00.001+01:00

27th August 2011 – sunny spells NW2/3
Offshore
The rising tide produced 40 Sandwich Tern, 22 Gannet, 7 Arctic Tern and a Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of newly grounded birds saw 15 Pied Wagtail, 6 Whitethroat, 5 Robin, 4 Wheatear, 3 Willow Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest – the first of the autumn and single White Wagtail, Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler and Spotted Flycatcher logged.
Diurnal Migration
A quieter day with 18 Tree Sparrow, 3 Tree Pipit and a Grey Wagtail the highlights.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Greenshank, 2 Curlew Sandpiper – the first of the autumn and single Green Sandpiper and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
A flock of 300 Linnet were logged and at least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.
Moths
Rusty Dot Pearl was the only record of note.

The skies have it!

2011-08-26T16:09:00.003+01:00

26th August 2011 –bright and sunny NE1
Offshore
A check over the sea on the rising tide revealed a feeding flock of 70 Sandwich Tern and 20 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
After a couple of virtually blank days a few more grounded birds were in evidence with 8 Whitethroat, 7 Willow Warbler, 6 Robin, 3 Sedge Warbler, 3 Wheatear and single Spotted Flycatcher and Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
The first large movement of the autumn produced 1400 Swallow, 80 Sand Martin, 40 Linnet, 28 Tree Sparrow, 23 Grey Wagtail, 12 House Martin, 6 Pied Wagtail, 5 Meadow Pipit, 2 Swift and a Tree Pipit.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Egret were seen and raptors involved 5 Kestrel, 3 Sparrowhawk and single Merlin, Peregrine and Little Owl.
Moths
A micro photographed a couple of days ago has been identified as Pyrausta despicata – the first island record, while Canary-shouldered Thorn was new for the year.
Butterflies
A few Wall Brown are now on the wing and a Painted Lady was seen.
Images
Pyrausta despicata.

Very disappointing

2011-08-23T19:57:00.001+01:00

23rd August 2011 –overcast E2
Offshore
A check over the sea revealed just a few Sandwich Tern and Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
An early start with the forecast favourable weather conditions in place, however, the morning proved very disappointing with little evidence of grounded birds, just 4 Wheatear and a solitary Willow Warbler were evidence of migration.
Diurnal Migration
Again disappointing with just 3 Yellow Wagtail and a Grey Wagtail logged.
Miscellaneous
At least 8 Little Egret are now along the eastern shore.
Moths
Two migrant Dark Swordgrass and a Mullein Wave was the best that the traps could muster.

Green Sandpiper and Tree Sparrows

2011-08-22T19:49:00.001+01:00

22nd August 2011 –bright and sunny W1/2
Offshore
A check over the sea revealed just a few Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Despite the bright and clear conditions a smattering of migrants was evident with 15 Pied Wagtail, 11 Willow Warbler, 9 Whitethroat, 7 Sedge Warbler, 4 Wheatear, 4 Robin and a Whinchat logged.
Diurnal Migration
Although passage was light it provided the greatest variety of the autumn so far with 30 Swallow, 14 Tree Sparrow, 3 Tree Pipit, 2 Sand Martin and single House Martin and Grey Wagtail recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Green Sandpiper was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Owl were again on show.
Moths
A Rusty Dot Pearl was the only immigrant, however Agriphila geniculea and Feathered Gothic were new for the year.

Limited Fare

2011-08-21T20:11:00.001+01:00

21st August 2011 – sunny spells SW3/2
Offshore
Only small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Two Yellow Wagtail were the highlights amongst limited fare, comprising small numbers of Wheatear, Willow Warbler, Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler and Robin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A couple of Shoveler were amongst increasing numbers of Teal and waders included 100 Sanderling, 20 Greenshank, 10 Knot, 4 Whimbrel, 2 Common Sandpiper and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.
Moths
Rusty Dot Pearl was the only record of note.