30th April 2008 - early rain then sunny SW2
Offshore
A flock of 50 Sandwich Tern and 5 Little Tern fed in the mouth of Morecambe Bay on the rising tide.
Diurnal Migration
A Short-eared Owl flew through.
Grounded Migrants
Wheatears led the way on the ground with 50 birds logged, other sightings were rather sparse in comparison with just 6 Willow Warbler, 5 Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, 2 Sedge Warbler and 2 Whitethroat logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A single Black-tailed Godwit and 5 Whimbrel were the only records of note.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted the island at dusk.
Garganey steals the show
29th April 2008 - sunny spells/showers SE1/2/3/4
Offshore
Morning observations (0615-0900) produced 90 Common Scoter, 80 Sandwich Tern, 40 Gannet, 29 Red-throated Diver, 20 Razorbill, 8 Manx Shearwater, 7 Guillemot and single pale and dark phase Arctic Skua.
Diurnal Migration
Steady passage throughout the morning produced a total of 300 Swallow.
Grounded Migrants
Although modest in comparison to recent days totals included 20 Willow Warbler, 17 Wheatear, 8 Whitethroat, 4 Blackcap, 4 Sedge Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Garden Warbler and single Ring Ouzel, Chiffchaff and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain and a drake Garganey favoured the gate pool at South Walney, waders included 7 Whimbrel and a Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine stalked waders over the evening tide.
Offshore
Morning observations (0615-0900) produced 90 Common Scoter, 80 Sandwich Tern, 40 Gannet, 29 Red-throated Diver, 20 Razorbill, 8 Manx Shearwater, 7 Guillemot and single pale and dark phase Arctic Skua.
Diurnal Migration
Steady passage throughout the morning produced a total of 300 Swallow.
Grounded Migrants
Although modest in comparison to recent days totals included 20 Willow Warbler, 17 Wheatear, 8 Whitethroat, 4 Blackcap, 4 Sedge Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Garden Warbler and single Ring Ouzel, Chiffchaff and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain and a drake Garganey favoured the gate pool at South Walney, waders included 7 Whimbrel and a Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine stalked waders over the evening tide.
Ring Ouzel newly arrived
28th April 2008 - early mist/rain, calm
Grounded Migrants
The day dawned as yesterday with early mist and drizzle but the results were to prove somewhat less spectacular. However a female Ring Ouzel was the pick of the day and other migrants included 25 Wheatear, 22 Willow Warbler, 7 Blackcap, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Grasshopper Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff and single Robin and Sedge Warbler.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain and waders included 110 Golden Plover, 5 Whimbrel and 2 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 2 Peregrine along with Merlin and Little Owl.
Grounded Migrants
The day dawned as yesterday with early mist and drizzle but the results were to prove somewhat less spectacular. However a female Ring Ouzel was the pick of the day and other migrants included 25 Wheatear, 22 Willow Warbler, 7 Blackcap, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Grasshopper Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff and single Robin and Sedge Warbler.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain and waders included 110 Golden Plover, 5 Whimbrel and 2 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 2 Peregrine along with Merlin and Little Owl.
Fall conditions produce the first Cuckoo, Whinchat and Garden Warbler
27th April 2008 - early mist/drizzle calm
Offshore
Casual observations produced 60 Sandwich Tern, 25 Common Scoter and a Guillemot.
Diurnal Migration
With efforts concentrated on the land overhead records were somewhat neglected although 50 Swallow, 10 Sand Martin, 4 White Wagtail and a Siskin were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning mist and drizzle conspired to create the second major fall of the spring, new arrivals included: 260 Willow Warbler, 70 Wheatear, 50 Blackcap, 21 Whitethroat, 19 Sedge Warbler, 7 Redstart, 7 Stonechat, 7 Robin, 7 Chiffchaff, 5 Goldcrest, 4 Grasshopper Warbler, 3 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat and single Fieldfare, Redwing, Cuckoo, Tree Pipit, and Whinchat.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2000 Knot, 100 Golden Plover, 36 Whimbrel, 17 Black-tailed Godwit and 2 Common Sandpiper.
Offshore
Casual observations produced 60 Sandwich Tern, 25 Common Scoter and a Guillemot.
Diurnal Migration
With efforts concentrated on the land overhead records were somewhat neglected although 50 Swallow, 10 Sand Martin, 4 White Wagtail and a Siskin were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning mist and drizzle conspired to create the second major fall of the spring, new arrivals included: 260 Willow Warbler, 70 Wheatear, 50 Blackcap, 21 Whitethroat, 19 Sedge Warbler, 7 Redstart, 7 Stonechat, 7 Robin, 7 Chiffchaff, 5 Goldcrest, 4 Grasshopper Warbler, 3 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat and single Fieldfare, Redwing, Cuckoo, Tree Pipit, and Whinchat.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2000 Knot, 100 Golden Plover, 36 Whimbrel, 17 Black-tailed Godwit and 2 Common Sandpiper.
An early Swift flies through
26th April 2008 - overcast/rain later SW3/4
Offshore
Morning observations (0730-1000) produced 85 Common Scoter, 65 Gannet, 18 Red-throated Diver, 15 Razorbill, 9 Sandwich Tern, 3 Guillemot, 3 Fulmar, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Arctic Tern and single Common Tern and Manx Shearwater.
Diurnal Migration
There was some evidence of small scale movement with an early Swift and 30 Swallow, 10 Meadow Pipit, 4 Sand Martin and a House Martin logged.
Grounded Migrants
Further new arrivals included 25 Wheatear, 5 Willow Warbler, 5 Sedge Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 2 Whitethroat and single Chiffchaff and Lesser Whitethroat.
Wildfowl and Waders
Although wildfowl continue to dwindle at least 21 Teal remain and waders included 2000 Knot, 220 Golden Plover and 65 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
What was considered to be the same elusive Hooded Crow put in another brief appearance.
Offshore
Morning observations (0730-1000) produced 85 Common Scoter, 65 Gannet, 18 Red-throated Diver, 15 Razorbill, 9 Sandwich Tern, 3 Guillemot, 3 Fulmar, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Arctic Tern and single Common Tern and Manx Shearwater.
Diurnal Migration
There was some evidence of small scale movement with an early Swift and 30 Swallow, 10 Meadow Pipit, 4 Sand Martin and a House Martin logged.
Grounded Migrants
Further new arrivals included 25 Wheatear, 5 Willow Warbler, 5 Sedge Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 2 Whitethroat and single Chiffchaff and Lesser Whitethroat.
Wildfowl and Waders
Although wildfowl continue to dwindle at least 21 Teal remain and waders included 2000 Knot, 220 Golden Plover and 65 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
What was considered to be the same elusive Hooded Crow put in another brief appearance.
Common Sandpiper new in
25th April 2008 - overcast/rain later S3
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0745-0845) produced totals of 120 Common Scoter, 23 Razorbill, 22 Sandwich Tern, 11 Gannet, 5 Guillemot, 5 Red-throated Diver, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and an Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Limited coverage provided little evidence of many newly arrived birds with just 2 Goldcrest and single Whitethroat, Blackcap and Chiffchaff logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 28 Whimbrel and a Common Sandpiper were seen.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0745-0845) produced totals of 120 Common Scoter, 23 Razorbill, 22 Sandwich Tern, 11 Gannet, 5 Guillemot, 5 Red-throated Diver, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and an Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Limited coverage provided little evidence of many newly arrived birds with just 2 Goldcrest and single Whitethroat, Blackcap and Chiffchaff logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 28 Whimbrel and a Common Sandpiper were seen.
First Common Tern and House Martin of the year
24th April 2008 - overcast/early showers then sunny S3/4
Offshore
An extended period of observations (0845-1145) as the weather began to clear produced totals of 565 Common Scoter, 155 Guillemot, 90 Razorbill, 65 Gannet, 60 Sandwich Tern, 22 Red-throated Diver, 11 Kittiwake, 11 Fulmar, 7 Red-breasted Merganser, 4 Manx Shearwater and single pale phase Arctic Skua, Common Tern, Shoveler and Bar-tailed Godwit.
Diurnal Migration
Not much evidence of movement with just 20 Meadow Pipit, 12 Swallow, 4 Jackdaw, 2 Sand Martin and the first House Martin of the year recorded.
Grounded Migrants
After the recent hive of activity, a much quieter day with just 10 Willow Warbler. 8 Wheatear and a single Goldcrest and White Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 360 Golden Plover remain and 11 Whimbrel were seen.
Offshore
An extended period of observations (0845-1145) as the weather began to clear produced totals of 565 Common Scoter, 155 Guillemot, 90 Razorbill, 65 Gannet, 60 Sandwich Tern, 22 Red-throated Diver, 11 Kittiwake, 11 Fulmar, 7 Red-breasted Merganser, 4 Manx Shearwater and single pale phase Arctic Skua, Common Tern, Shoveler and Bar-tailed Godwit.
Diurnal Migration
Not much evidence of movement with just 20 Meadow Pipit, 12 Swallow, 4 Jackdaw, 2 Sand Martin and the first House Martin of the year recorded.
Grounded Migrants
After the recent hive of activity, a much quieter day with just 10 Willow Warbler. 8 Wheatear and a single Goldcrest and White Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 360 Golden Plover remain and 11 Whimbrel were seen.
More new arrivals
23rd April 2008 - early rain/mist, then sunny SW1/2
Offshore
Observations on the rising tide as the weather cleared (1130-1300) produced 220 Common Scoter, 60 Sandwich Tern, 6 Gannet, 6 Razorbill, 3 Arctic Skua, 3 Red-throated Diver and single Guillemot and Whimbrel.
Diurnal Migration
Further evidence of movement as soon a the mist began to clear (1000-1100) was provided by 50 Meadow Pipit, 20 Linnet, 10 Swallow, 4 Siskin, 3 Collared Dove, 2 White Wagtail and a Sand Martin.
Grounded Migrants
The early morning rain grounded small numbers of birds and new arrivals for the year involved 2 Whitethroat and single Lesser Whitethroat and Sedge Warbler. Also seen were 35 Willow Warbler, 20 Wheatear, 4 Goldcrest, 3 Grasshopper Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 3 Fieldfare, 2 Chiffchaff and a single Redstart, Robin and Collared Dove.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret remains among the tidal creeks on the eastern edge of the island. A ringtail Hen Harrier soared over the island mid-afternoon.
Offshore
Observations on the rising tide as the weather cleared (1130-1300) produced 220 Common Scoter, 60 Sandwich Tern, 6 Gannet, 6 Razorbill, 3 Arctic Skua, 3 Red-throated Diver and single Guillemot and Whimbrel.
Diurnal Migration
Further evidence of movement as soon a the mist began to clear (1000-1100) was provided by 50 Meadow Pipit, 20 Linnet, 10 Swallow, 4 Siskin, 3 Collared Dove, 2 White Wagtail and a Sand Martin.
Grounded Migrants
The early morning rain grounded small numbers of birds and new arrivals for the year involved 2 Whitethroat and single Lesser Whitethroat and Sedge Warbler. Also seen were 35 Willow Warbler, 20 Wheatear, 4 Goldcrest, 3 Grasshopper Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 3 Fieldfare, 2 Chiffchaff and a single Redstart, Robin and Collared Dove.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret remains among the tidal creeks on the eastern edge of the island. A ringtail Hen Harrier soared over the island mid-afternoon.
Redstart and Grasshopper Warbler are new in
22nd April 2008 - hazy sun NE4/3
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0925) provided 45 Common Scoter, 35 Sandwich Tern, 25 Gannet, 7 Razorbill and 3 Red-throated Diver. In addition 4 Arctic Tern flew through late morning.
Diurnal Migration
A steady passage through the morning (0900-1200) produced totals of 120 Swallow, 100 Meadow Pipit, 28 Sand Martin, 5 Siskin and 4 White Wagtail.
Grounded Migrants
Although not as productive as yesterday the recent increase in activity was sustained with 3 Redstart and a Grasshopper Warbler newly arrived accompanied by a supporting cast of 31 Wheatear, 26 Willow Warbler, 2 White Wagtail and single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 6 Shoveler continue to linger and waders included 450 Golden Plover and 21 Whimbrel, there was however no sign of yesterdays massive flock of Knot!
Miscellaneous
A single Merlin continues to roam the island.
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0925) provided 45 Common Scoter, 35 Sandwich Tern, 25 Gannet, 7 Razorbill and 3 Red-throated Diver. In addition 4 Arctic Tern flew through late morning.
Diurnal Migration
A steady passage through the morning (0900-1200) produced totals of 120 Swallow, 100 Meadow Pipit, 28 Sand Martin, 5 Siskin and 4 White Wagtail.
Grounded Migrants
Although not as productive as yesterday the recent increase in activity was sustained with 3 Redstart and a Grasshopper Warbler newly arrived accompanied by a supporting cast of 31 Wheatear, 26 Willow Warbler, 2 White Wagtail and single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 6 Shoveler continue to linger and waders included 450 Golden Plover and 21 Whimbrel, there was however no sign of yesterdays massive flock of Knot!
Miscellaneous
A single Merlin continues to roam the island.
Spring finally takes off
21st April 2008 - sunny spells E3
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0745-0845) were limited to 30 Razorbill, 25 Sandwich Tern, 12 Gannet, 5 Arctic Tern and single Red-throated Diver and dark phase Arctic Skua.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning (0800-1200) included 800 Meadow Pipit, 150 Swallow, 80 Sand Martin, 4 Rook, 2 Tree Pipit and a solitary Siskin.
Grounded Migrants
The first major fall of the spring produced 155 Wheatear, 50 Willow Warbler and singles of White Wagtail, Goldcrest, Chiffchaff and Blackcap - the latter the first for the year.
Wildfowl and Waders
A spectacular flock of 45000 Knot were an impressive sight as the wheeled around over Morecambe Bay on the rising tide. Also seen were 700 Turnstone and 60 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
A single Merlin was logged.
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0745-0845) were limited to 30 Razorbill, 25 Sandwich Tern, 12 Gannet, 5 Arctic Tern and single Red-throated Diver and dark phase Arctic Skua.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning (0800-1200) included 800 Meadow Pipit, 150 Swallow, 80 Sand Martin, 4 Rook, 2 Tree Pipit and a solitary Siskin.
Grounded Migrants
The first major fall of the spring produced 155 Wheatear, 50 Willow Warbler and singles of White Wagtail, Goldcrest, Chiffchaff and Blackcap - the latter the first for the year.
Wildfowl and Waders
A spectacular flock of 45000 Knot were an impressive sight as the wheeled around over Morecambe Bay on the rising tide. Also seen were 700 Turnstone and 60 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
A single Merlin was logged.
Seabirds take the plaudits
20th April 2008 - overcast E5/6
Offshore
Despite the persistent easterly winds of the last few days morning observations on the rising tide (0830-1030) conspired to provide variety if not quantity. Highlights were 4 dark phase Arctic Skua heading into Morecambe Bay along with 2 Little Tern, 2 Arctic Tern and a Black Guillemot resplendent in its summer plumage. Also seen were 255 Sandwich Tern, 140 Razorbill, 20 Guillemot, 16 Common Scoter, 14 Gannet, 11 Red-throated Diver, 3 Shag and 2 Manx Shearwater.
Diurnal Migration
Just small numbers of Swallow and Sand Martin fought their way in off the sea.
Grounded Migrants
Again meagre rations with only 4 Willow Warbler and a Chiffchaff seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
The group of 34 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and waders included 500 Golden Plover, 300 Turnstone and a Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A single Merlin was logged.
Offshore
Despite the persistent easterly winds of the last few days morning observations on the rising tide (0830-1030) conspired to provide variety if not quantity. Highlights were 4 dark phase Arctic Skua heading into Morecambe Bay along with 2 Little Tern, 2 Arctic Tern and a Black Guillemot resplendent in its summer plumage. Also seen were 255 Sandwich Tern, 140 Razorbill, 20 Guillemot, 16 Common Scoter, 14 Gannet, 11 Red-throated Diver, 3 Shag and 2 Manx Shearwater.
Diurnal Migration
Just small numbers of Swallow and Sand Martin fought their way in off the sea.
Grounded Migrants
Again meagre rations with only 4 Willow Warbler and a Chiffchaff seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
The group of 34 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and waders included 500 Golden Plover, 300 Turnstone and a Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A single Merlin was logged.
Yellowhammer provides surprise
19th April 2008 - sunny spells E5/6
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) included 160 Sandwich Tern, 60 Razorbill, 10 Gannet, 3 Red-throated Diver and a Fulmar.
Diurnal Migration
Limited to 10 Meadow Pipit and a Siskin.
Grounded Migrants
A Yellowhammer was a surprise but was only backed up by 5 Wheatear, 2 Willow Warbler and a single White Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 34 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and waders included 560 Golden Plover and 12 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin dined on a recently caught Sanderling.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) included 160 Sandwich Tern, 60 Razorbill, 10 Gannet, 3 Red-throated Diver and a Fulmar.
Diurnal Migration
Limited to 10 Meadow Pipit and a Siskin.
Grounded Migrants
A Yellowhammer was a surprise but was only backed up by 5 Wheatear, 2 Willow Warbler and a single White Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 34 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and waders included 560 Golden Plover and 12 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin dined on a recently caught Sanderling.
Velvet Scoters lead sightings
18th April 2008 - overcast E4/5/6
Offshore
Early morning observations (0615-0815) were led by a group of 3 Velvet Scoter flying out of Morecambe Bay. Additional sightings included: 160 Sandwich Tern, 100 Razorbill, 70 Common Scoter, 8 Gannet, 3 Red-throated Diver and 3 Red-breasted Merganser. Later in the day, the falling tide (1500-1600) produced 200 Sandwich Tern, 15 Razorbill and single Red-throated Diver and Gannet.
Diurnal Migration
Another slow day, just 5 Meadow Pipit, 5 Linnet and 4 Swallow were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Birds continue to be thin on the ground with just 2 Wheatear providing any positive evidence of passerine migration.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 12 Whimbrel and a flock of 200 Golden Plover.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow put in another appearance and raptors included 2 Merlin and a Peregrine.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0615-0815) were led by a group of 3 Velvet Scoter flying out of Morecambe Bay. Additional sightings included: 160 Sandwich Tern, 100 Razorbill, 70 Common Scoter, 8 Gannet, 3 Red-throated Diver and 3 Red-breasted Merganser. Later in the day, the falling tide (1500-1600) produced 200 Sandwich Tern, 15 Razorbill and single Red-throated Diver and Gannet.
Diurnal Migration
Another slow day, just 5 Meadow Pipit, 5 Linnet and 4 Swallow were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Birds continue to be thin on the ground with just 2 Wheatear providing any positive evidence of passerine migration.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 12 Whimbrel and a flock of 200 Golden Plover.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow put in another appearance and raptors included 2 Merlin and a Peregrine.
Remaining quiet
17th April 2008 - overcast ENE3/4/5
Offshore
A cursory glance over the sea (0645-0715) produced 20 Sandwich Tern, 10 Common Scoter, 8 Gannet and 5 Razorbill. Thereafter a period of sustained observation (0745-0945) provided 75 Gannet, 45 Sandwich Tern, 6 Red-throated Diver, 6 Razorbill, 4 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Common Scoter and single Fulmar and Merlin.
Grounded Migrants
New arrivals were limited to 11 Wheatear and a single Willow Warbler.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Spotted Redshank and Whimbrel were logged.
Offshore
A cursory glance over the sea (0645-0715) produced 20 Sandwich Tern, 10 Common Scoter, 8 Gannet and 5 Razorbill. Thereafter a period of sustained observation (0745-0945) provided 75 Gannet, 45 Sandwich Tern, 6 Red-throated Diver, 6 Razorbill, 4 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Common Scoter and single Fulmar and Merlin.
Grounded Migrants
New arrivals were limited to 11 Wheatear and a single Willow Warbler.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Spotted Redshank and Whimbrel were logged.
Its oh so quiet
16th April 2008 - sunny spells E2/3
Offshore
A total of 20 Sandwich Tern was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 5 Willow Warbler and single Chiffchaff, Wheatear and Fieldfare were the only evidence of migration.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Whimbrel, 2 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Offshore
A total of 20 Sandwich Tern was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 5 Willow Warbler and single Chiffchaff, Wheatear and Fieldfare were the only evidence of migration.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Whimbrel, 2 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Migrant passerines remain in short supply
15th April 2008 - bright and sunny NW2
Offshore
Early morning observations on the rising tide (0615-0715) produced 140 Sandwich Tern, 130 Common Scoter, 110 Razorbill, 20 Kittiwake, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Manx Shearwater, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Scaup.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest and single White Wagtail and Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 8 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and a Whimbrel was logged.
Miscellaneous
Just a single Little Egret was seen.
Offshore
Early morning observations on the rising tide (0615-0715) produced 140 Sandwich Tern, 130 Common Scoter, 110 Razorbill, 20 Kittiwake, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Manx Shearwater, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Scaup.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest and single White Wagtail and Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 8 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and a Whimbrel was logged.
Miscellaneous
Just a single Little Egret was seen.
Another Osprey
14th April 2008 - bright and sunny NW3/4/5
Offshore
Sightings early morning on the falling tide (0615-0715) involved 110 Sandwich Tern, 80 Razorbill, 28 Common Scoter, 8 Red-breasted Merganser, 6 Red-throated Diver, 2 Fulmar and a Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
The second Osprey of the spring flew through mid-afternnon.
Offshore
Sightings early morning on the falling tide (0615-0715) involved 110 Sandwich Tern, 80 Razorbill, 28 Common Scoter, 8 Red-breasted Merganser, 6 Red-throated Diver, 2 Fulmar and a Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
The second Osprey of the spring flew through mid-afternnon.
Limited fare
13th April 2008 - sunny spells N1
Offshore
Morning observations (0900-1100) over a flat calm sea produced 125 Razorbill, 31 Sandwich Tern, 18 Common Scoter, 15 Red-throated Diver, 5 Gannet, 2 Guillemot and a single Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
Despite the light winds passage was limited to 30 Meadow Pipit and single Swallow and Sand Martin.
Grounded Migrants
A group of 5 White Wagtail feeding along the tide line was the only record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 400 Golden Plover - many now in summer plumage - and 25 Purple Sandpiper were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Little Egret remain.
Butterflies
The first Peacock were on the wing.
Offshore
Morning observations (0900-1100) over a flat calm sea produced 125 Razorbill, 31 Sandwich Tern, 18 Common Scoter, 15 Red-throated Diver, 5 Gannet, 2 Guillemot and a single Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
Despite the light winds passage was limited to 30 Meadow Pipit and single Swallow and Sand Martin.
Grounded Migrants
A group of 5 White Wagtail feeding along the tide line was the only record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 400 Golden Plover - many now in summer plumage - and 25 Purple Sandpiper were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Little Egret remain.
Butterflies
The first Peacock were on the wing.
First Whimbrel of the year
12th April 2008 - sunshine and showers W4/5
Offshore
Extended observations (0730-1030) produced 110 Gannet, 100 Razorbill, 70 Common Scoter, 45 Sandwich Tern, 16 Red-throated Diver, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Guillemot and a Fulmar.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 4 Sand Martin and a Swallow were logged.
Grounded Migrants
The female Black Redstart put in another appearance, otherwise there was again just a smattering of migrants with 4 Wheatear, 3 Goldcrest and single Chiffchaff and White Wagtail recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
An early Whimbrel was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Little Egret continue to linger and 2 Little Owl were seen.
Offshore
Extended observations (0730-1030) produced 110 Gannet, 100 Razorbill, 70 Common Scoter, 45 Sandwich Tern, 16 Red-throated Diver, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Guillemot and a Fulmar.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 4 Sand Martin and a Swallow were logged.
Grounded Migrants
The female Black Redstart put in another appearance, otherwise there was again just a smattering of migrants with 4 Wheatear, 3 Goldcrest and single Chiffchaff and White Wagtail recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
An early Whimbrel was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Little Egret continue to linger and 2 Little Owl were seen.
Slim pickings
11th April 2008 - overcast/showers SE4
Offshore
A quiet day over the sea, observations (0900-1000) produced 60 Common Scoter, 25 Sandwich Tern, 14 Razorbill, 6 Gannet, 3 Red-throated Diver and a Guillemot.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 100 Meadow Pipit and a single Swallow flew through during the morning.
Grounded Migrants
Again only slim pickings were on offer with just 10 Goldcrest, 2 Robin and a Chiffchaff logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Just 2 Wigeon remain from the thousands of wintering birds and a flock of 300 Golden Plover were seen.
Offshore
A quiet day over the sea, observations (0900-1000) produced 60 Common Scoter, 25 Sandwich Tern, 14 Razorbill, 6 Gannet, 3 Red-throated Diver and a Guillemot.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 100 Meadow Pipit and a single Swallow flew through during the morning.
Grounded Migrants
Again only slim pickings were on offer with just 10 Goldcrest, 2 Robin and a Chiffchaff logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Just 2 Wigeon remain from the thousands of wintering birds and a flock of 300 Golden Plover were seen.
Changing of the seasons
10th April 2008 - overcast S3
Offshore
Morning sightings (0800-0900) included 75 Common Scoter, 32 Sandwich Tern, 6 Red-throated Diver, 5 Gannet and single Manx Shearwater, Kittiwake and Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
The changing of the seasons was typified by a northbound skein of 47 Pink-footed Geese and a single Swallow.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by 3 Goldcrest and a White Wagtail.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret were seen.
Mammals
A Weasel and 2 Stoat were logged.
Offshore
Morning sightings (0800-0900) included 75 Common Scoter, 32 Sandwich Tern, 6 Red-throated Diver, 5 Gannet and single Manx Shearwater, Kittiwake and Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
The changing of the seasons was typified by a northbound skein of 47 Pink-footed Geese and a single Swallow.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by 3 Goldcrest and a White Wagtail.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret were seen.
Mammals
A Weasel and 2 Stoat were logged.
Black Redstart and first Swallow
9th April 2008 - showers V1/2
Offshore
Morning observations (0830-0930) produced 220 Common Scoter, 30 Sandwich Tern, 8 Red-breasted Merganser, 6 Red-throated Diver, 3 Razorbill and a Gannet.
Diurnal Migration
A limited movement (0830-1030) produced 150 Meadow Pipit, 3 Pied Wagtail, 2 Sand Martin and the first Swallow of the year.
Grounded Migrants
Although a female Black Redstart was new in the supporting cast was limited to 10 Goldcrest, 2 Wheatear and single Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler
Miscellaneous
Single Peregrine and Little Egret were logged.
Butterflies
The first Speckled Wood were on the wing.
Offshore
Morning observations (0830-0930) produced 220 Common Scoter, 30 Sandwich Tern, 8 Red-breasted Merganser, 6 Red-throated Diver, 3 Razorbill and a Gannet.
Diurnal Migration
A limited movement (0830-1030) produced 150 Meadow Pipit, 3 Pied Wagtail, 2 Sand Martin and the first Swallow of the year.
Grounded Migrants
Although a female Black Redstart was new in the supporting cast was limited to 10 Goldcrest, 2 Wheatear and single Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler
Miscellaneous
Single Peregrine and Little Egret were logged.
Butterflies
The first Speckled Wood were on the wing.
Osprey and Egyptian Goose
8th April 2008 - overcast then sunny SE1/2
Offshore
Observations (0800-0900) produced 100 Common Scoter, 7 Razorbill, 4 Sandwich Tern and a single Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A small movement produced 14 Goldcrest, 5 Stonechat, 2 Chiffchaff and single Willow Warbler and White Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
The only significant sighting involved an Osprey which flew north late afternoon.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 51 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and an Egyptian Goose was a surprise.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Little Egret remain
Offshore
Observations (0800-0900) produced 100 Common Scoter, 7 Razorbill, 4 Sandwich Tern and a single Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A small movement produced 14 Goldcrest, 5 Stonechat, 2 Chiffchaff and single Willow Warbler and White Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
The only significant sighting involved an Osprey which flew north late afternoon.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 51 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and an Egyptian Goose was a surprise.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Little Egret remain
Passerine migration blocked
7th April 2008 - sunny spells N3/4
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0745-0845) involved 60 Razorbill, 10 Sandwich Tern, 3 Common Scoter, 2 Shag and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A single Chiffchaff was the only bird of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The flock of 65 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and the pair of Gadwall continue to linger. Waders included 4 Greenshank and the long-staying Spotted Redshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret remain.
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0745-0845) involved 60 Razorbill, 10 Sandwich Tern, 3 Common Scoter, 2 Shag and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A single Chiffchaff was the only bird of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The flock of 65 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and the pair of Gadwall continue to linger. Waders included 4 Greenshank and the long-staying Spotted Redshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret remain.
Whooper Swans still on the move
6th April 2008 - early frost/snow showers NE3/4
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) produced 55 Sandwich Tern, 25 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver and a single Gannet while a second watch over the tide provided 18 Sandwich Tern, 16 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver, 2 Shag and a Guillemot
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 52 Whooper Swan flew north.
Grounded Migrants
Just 4 Stonechat, 3 Pied Wagtail, 3 Blackbird, 2 Wheatear, 2 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The flock of 65 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and waders included 3 Greenshank and single Black-tailed Godwit and Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret remain and 70 Twite and a Merlin were logged.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) produced 55 Sandwich Tern, 25 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver and a single Gannet while a second watch over the tide provided 18 Sandwich Tern, 16 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver, 2 Shag and a Guillemot
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 52 Whooper Swan flew north.
Grounded Migrants
Just 4 Stonechat, 3 Pied Wagtail, 3 Blackbird, 2 Wheatear, 2 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The flock of 65 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain and waders included 3 Greenshank and single Black-tailed Godwit and Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret remain and 70 Twite and a Merlin were logged.
Hooded Crow headlines
5th April 2008 - bright and sunny/wintry showers N4/5
Offshore
Observations early morning (0830-0930) produced an obvious northerly passage with 115 Sandwich Tern, 110 Razorbill, 14 Red-breastedMerganser, 10 Red-throated Diver, 5 Gannet, 3 Common Scoter and single Guillemot and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A Hooded Crow was the pick of a meagre bunch which was limited to 12 Pied Wagtail, 5 Goldcrest, 4 White Wagtail, 3 Blackbird, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Stonechat and a Fieldfare.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl numbers continue to dwindle however the long-staying flock of 65 pale-bellied Brent Geese still linger and waders included 300 Golden Plover and 15 Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
At least 50 Twite remain and 2 Little Owl and a Little Egret were logged.
Mammals
Both Weasel and Brown Hare were seen.
Offshore
Observations early morning (0830-0930) produced an obvious northerly passage with 115 Sandwich Tern, 110 Razorbill, 14 Red-breastedMerganser, 10 Red-throated Diver, 5 Gannet, 3 Common Scoter and single Guillemot and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A Hooded Crow was the pick of a meagre bunch which was limited to 12 Pied Wagtail, 5 Goldcrest, 4 White Wagtail, 3 Blackbird, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Stonechat and a Fieldfare.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl numbers continue to dwindle however the long-staying flock of 65 pale-bellied Brent Geese still linger and waders included 300 Golden Plover and 15 Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
At least 50 Twite remain and 2 Little Owl and a Little Egret were logged.
Mammals
Both Weasel and Brown Hare were seen.
First Manx Shearwater and a migrant Woodcock
4th April 2008 - overcast/showers W3/4
Offshore
Observations on the falling tide (1300-1400) produced the first Manx Shearwater of the year. Also logged were 18 Sandwich Tern, 12 Razorbill and 3 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of migrants were led by a Woodcock with 8 Goldcrest, 6 Wheatear and 3 Chiffchaff also seen.
Miscellaneous
The continued presence of a pair of Long-tailed Tit raises speculation of a breeding attempt - an unusual event on the island. At least 2 Little Egret remain.
Offshore
Observations on the falling tide (1300-1400) produced the first Manx Shearwater of the year. Also logged were 18 Sandwich Tern, 12 Razorbill and 3 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of migrants were led by a Woodcock with 8 Goldcrest, 6 Wheatear and 3 Chiffchaff also seen.
Miscellaneous
The continued presence of a pair of Long-tailed Tit raises speculation of a breeding attempt - an unusual event on the island. At least 2 Little Egret remain.
Firecrest takes star billing
3rd April 2008 - overcast/misty/calm
Grounded Migrants
The overcast and murky conditions induced the second small fall of the spring with a Firecrest located amongst a total of 24 Goldcrest taking star billing. Also logged were 6 Chiffchaff, 5 Wheatear, 5 Robin, 5 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare and a Willow Warbler.
Miscellaneous
Just a single Little Egret was logged.
Grounded Migrants
The overcast and murky conditions induced the second small fall of the spring with a Firecrest located amongst a total of 24 Goldcrest taking star billing. Also logged were 6 Chiffchaff, 5 Wheatear, 5 Robin, 5 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare and a Willow Warbler.
Miscellaneous
Just a single Little Egret was logged.
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