Winter Atlas turns up a few surprises

17th December 2007 - early frost SE2/3
Grounded Migrants
The theme of the last few days continues with 2 Fieldfare and a Mistle Thrush providing further evidence of some cold weather movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 2 Purple Sandpiper fed on the exposed scars at low tide.
Miscellaneous
The fine weather finally allowed for some Winter Atlas survey work in the less frequently visited areas of the island and this produced a few surprises. Single Buzzard and Yellowhammer were recorded, both excellent records, their island status a reflection of differing local trends on the nearby mainland. Buzzard is currently on the increase and Yellowhammer in decline. A Ring-necked Parakeet on the centre of the island was perhaps of more dubious origins.