31st May 2008 - hazy sun W1/2
Offshore
Early morning observations (0715-0815) were led by a brace of Puffin. Also seen were 33 Sandwich Tern, 20 Common Scoter, 15 Gannet, 2 Fulmar and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A smattering of late moving migrants included 2 Wheatear and single Whitethroat, Whinchat and Spotted Flycatcher.
Diurnal Migration
A Grey Heron flew through and 2 Siskin were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese and 2 Whimbrel continue to linger.
Butterflies
The first Small Heath was on the wing.
Low key migration continues
30th May 2008 - sunny spells, calm
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of movement with just a Spotted Flycatcher and a late White Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese and a Whimbrel continue to linger.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn Owl and Little Owl were recorded.
Butterflies
The first Large Skipper are now on the wing.
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of movement with just a Spotted Flycatcher and a late White Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese and a Whimbrel continue to linger.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn Owl and Little Owl were recorded.
Butterflies
The first Large Skipper are now on the wing.
A return to normal fare
29th May 2008 - misty start then sunny SW1
Rarities
Unfortunately, despite the early morning mist raising expectations, the Bluethroat departed overnight.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0615-0715) produced 180 Sandwich Tern, 100 Gannet, 40 Kittiwake, 21 Common Scoter, 15 Manx Shearwater, 5 Common Tern and 3 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
After the excitement of yesterday sightings were much more mundane with just a Wheatear and a Willow Warbler logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese continue to linger and waders included 180 Dunlin, 100 Ringed Plover, 21 Turnstone and 3 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
Both Little Owl and Peregrine were seen.
Mammals
A single Hare was logged.
Rarities
Unfortunately, despite the early morning mist raising expectations, the Bluethroat departed overnight.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0615-0715) produced 180 Sandwich Tern, 100 Gannet, 40 Kittiwake, 21 Common Scoter, 15 Manx Shearwater, 5 Common Tern and 3 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
After the excitement of yesterday sightings were much more mundane with just a Wheatear and a Willow Warbler logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese continue to linger and waders included 180 Dunlin, 100 Ringed Plover, 21 Turnstone and 3 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
Both Little Owl and Peregrine were seen.
Mammals
A single Hare was logged.
Bluethroat surprise
28th May 2008 - early rain then mist/fog E1/2
Rarities
Finally the strong NE wind of the last few days dropped and a singing male Red-spotted Bluethroat was a surprise find at South Walney Nature Reserve this evening. Easily the bird of the spring so far, although generally elusive, it showed well on and off.
Breeding Birds
The first broods of Eiderlings are now starting to emerge.
Rarities
Finally the strong NE wind of the last few days dropped and a singing male Red-spotted Bluethroat was a surprise find at South Walney Nature Reserve this evening. Easily the bird of the spring so far, although generally elusive, it showed well on and off.
Breeding Birds
The first broods of Eiderlings are now starting to emerge.
Little of note
27th May 2008 - overcast/rain at times NE5
Offshore
Very quiet early morning (0615-0715) with just 100 Sandwich Tern, 15 Gannet and 3 Guillemot logged. The evening tide produced a mixed feeding flock of 30 Sandwich Tern, 7 Arctic Tern and 2 Little Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese show no signs of departing and waders included 40 Dunlin, 15 Sanderling and 3 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
Post-breeding flocks of Starling are already starting to form.
Offshore
Very quiet early morning (0615-0715) with just 100 Sandwich Tern, 15 Gannet and 3 Guillemot logged. The evening tide produced a mixed feeding flock of 30 Sandwich Tern, 7 Arctic Tern and 2 Little Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese show no signs of departing and waders included 40 Dunlin, 15 Sanderling and 3 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
Post-breeding flocks of Starling are already starting to form.
Bits and pieces
26th May 2008 - bright and sunny NE5/6/7
Offshore
Observations on the flooding tide (1100-1300) produced 385 Sandwich Tern, 35 Gannet, 3 dark phase Arctic Skua and single Fulmar, Manx Shearwater and Arctic Tern.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallow and House Martin remain on the move and a late Grey Wagtail was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese remain and waders included 800 Knot, 15 Sanderling and a Whimbrel.
Offshore
Observations on the flooding tide (1100-1300) produced 385 Sandwich Tern, 35 Gannet, 3 dark phase Arctic Skua and single Fulmar, Manx Shearwater and Arctic Tern.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallow and House Martin remain on the move and a late Grey Wagtail was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese remain and waders included 800 Knot, 15 Sanderling and a Whimbrel.
Marsh Harrier flies through
25th May 2008 - bright and sunny NE6/7
Offshore
A pale phase Arctic Skua harried a feeding flock of 320 Sandwich Tern and 20 Gannet on the flooding tide at midday. Coordinated observations earlier in the day (0830-1000) produced 180 Sandwich Tern, 3 Guillemot, 50 Gannet and single Red-throated Diver and Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
A female Marsh Harrier flew through and hirundines remain on the move with 10 House Martin and 5 Swallow logged.
Grounded Migrants
A single Wheatear was seen.
Offshore
A pale phase Arctic Skua harried a feeding flock of 320 Sandwich Tern and 20 Gannet on the flooding tide at midday. Coordinated observations earlier in the day (0830-1000) produced 180 Sandwich Tern, 3 Guillemot, 50 Gannet and single Red-throated Diver and Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
A female Marsh Harrier flew through and hirundines remain on the move with 10 House Martin and 5 Swallow logged.
Grounded Migrants
A single Wheatear was seen.
Seabirds and hirundines
24th May 2008 - bright and sunny NE4
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 20 Gannet, 10 Common Scoter, 4 Guillemot, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Arctic Tern, 2 Fulmar and 2 dark phase Arctic Skua.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 40 Swallow and 15 House Martin were logged.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 20 Gannet, 10 Common Scoter, 4 Guillemot, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Arctic Tern, 2 Fulmar and 2 dark phase Arctic Skua.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 40 Swallow and 15 House Martin were logged.
Seabirds again to the fore
23rd May 2008 - hazy sun E2/3
Offshore
Morning observations (0645-0930) produced 380 Sandwich Tern, 120 Gannet, 6 Arctic Tern, 5 Razorbill, 5 Manx Shearwater, 4 Arctic Skua, 3 Kittiwake and single Red-throated Diver and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Another couple of Spotted Flycatcher was the only evidence of grounded migrants.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of hirundines remain on the move with 10 Swallow and 4 House Martin logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 2 Whimbrel continue to linger.
Offshore
Morning observations (0645-0930) produced 380 Sandwich Tern, 120 Gannet, 6 Arctic Tern, 5 Razorbill, 5 Manx Shearwater, 4 Arctic Skua, 3 Kittiwake and single Red-throated Diver and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Another couple of Spotted Flycatcher was the only evidence of grounded migrants.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of hirundines remain on the move with 10 Swallow and 4 House Martin logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 2 Whimbrel continue to linger.
Further movement
22nd May 2008 - hazy sun SE3/4
Offshore
Late morning observations on the flooding tide (1000-1100) produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 40 Common Scoter, 35 Gannet, 25 Manx Shearwater, 6 Guillemot and a single dark phase Arctic Skua and Red-thoated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings involved 2 Spotted Flycatcher and a Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 40 Swallow, 30 House Martin and 10 Swift were logged through the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 4 Whimbrel continue to linger.
Offshore
Late morning observations on the flooding tide (1000-1100) produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 40 Common Scoter, 35 Gannet, 25 Manx Shearwater, 6 Guillemot and a single dark phase Arctic Skua and Red-thoated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings involved 2 Spotted Flycatcher and a Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 40 Swallow, 30 House Martin and 10 Swift were logged through the morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 4 Whimbrel continue to linger.
Pomarine Skua stars
21st May 2008 - overcast E3
Offshore
Cloudy conditions early morning (0700-0800) produced a few more birds than of late with a pale phase Pomarine Skua and 2 dark phase Arctic Skua heading the sightings. Also seen were 190 Sandwich Tern, 60 Common Scoter, 45 Gannet, 30 Manx Shearwater, 17 Arctic Tern, 10 Guillemot, 3 Little Tern, 2 Razorbill and a Fulmar.
Grounded Migrants
At least 3 Spotted Flycatcher and a Willow Warbler were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
Hirundines involved 40 Swallow and 10 House Martin, a group of 3 Jackdaw was unusual.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese still remain and 4 Whimbrel and a Black-tailed Godwit were seen.
Moths
Buff-tip and Shark were attracted to the light.
Offshore
Cloudy conditions early morning (0700-0800) produced a few more birds than of late with a pale phase Pomarine Skua and 2 dark phase Arctic Skua heading the sightings. Also seen were 190 Sandwich Tern, 60 Common Scoter, 45 Gannet, 30 Manx Shearwater, 17 Arctic Tern, 10 Guillemot, 3 Little Tern, 2 Razorbill and a Fulmar.
Grounded Migrants
At least 3 Spotted Flycatcher and a Willow Warbler were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
Hirundines involved 40 Swallow and 10 House Martin, a group of 3 Jackdaw was unusual.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese still remain and 4 Whimbrel and a Black-tailed Godwit were seen.
Moths
Buff-tip and Shark were attracted to the light.
Still slow
20th May 2008 - bright and sunny SE2
Offshore
Just a handful of Gannet, Manx Shearwater, Common Scoter and Sandwich Tern were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Hirundines on the move involved 3 House Martin 2 Swallow.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese continue to linger and 5 Whimbrel remain.
Breeding Birds
The first broods of Stonechat are now beginning to fledge.
Butterflies
A Dingy Skipper was logged.
Offshore
Just a handful of Gannet, Manx Shearwater, Common Scoter and Sandwich Tern were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Hirundines on the move involved 3 House Martin 2 Swallow.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese continue to linger and 5 Whimbrel remain.
Breeding Birds
The first broods of Stonechat are now beginning to fledge.
Butterflies
A Dingy Skipper was logged.
More Spotted Flycatchers and a Cuckoo
19th May 2008 - bright and sunny NE2/1
Offshore
With no coordinated observations undertaken sightings were limited to 20 Sandwich Tern and 16 Arctic Tern.
Diurnal Migration
Hirundines continue to move through with 25 Swallow and a House Martin logged.
Grounded Migrants
A gang of 5 Spotted Flycatcher and the second Cuckoo of the spring were the only obvious sign of grounded birds.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 100 Ringed Plover, 4 Bar-tailed Godwit and 3 Whimbrel were the pick of the waders available.
Mammals
An Otter - the first live modern day record - was easily the highlight of the day.
Dragonflies
The second Four-spotted Chaser of the spring was recorded.
Offshore
With no coordinated observations undertaken sightings were limited to 20 Sandwich Tern and 16 Arctic Tern.
Diurnal Migration
Hirundines continue to move through with 25 Swallow and a House Martin logged.
Grounded Migrants
A gang of 5 Spotted Flycatcher and the second Cuckoo of the spring were the only obvious sign of grounded birds.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 100 Ringed Plover, 4 Bar-tailed Godwit and 3 Whimbrel were the pick of the waders available.
Mammals
An Otter - the first live modern day record - was easily the highlight of the day.
Dragonflies
The second Four-spotted Chaser of the spring was recorded.
Spotted Flycatchers move in
18th May 2008 - bright and sunny NE3
Offshore
Early observations set the theme for the day with little activity apart from 50 Sandwich Tern and 5 Gannet feeding offshore.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 5 Spotted Flycatcher were seen.
Diurnal Migration
The small-scale movement continues with 20 Swallow and 2 House Martin coming in off the sea and a single Lesser Redpoll logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Four Whimbrel, a Common Sandpiper and 2 Bar-tailed Godwit were the best of a poor bunch.
Moths
Day flying moths included Small Magpie and Cinnabar.
Offshore
Early observations set the theme for the day with little activity apart from 50 Sandwich Tern and 5 Gannet feeding offshore.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 5 Spotted Flycatcher were seen.
Diurnal Migration
The small-scale movement continues with 20 Swallow and 2 House Martin coming in off the sea and a single Lesser Redpoll logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Four Whimbrel, a Common Sandpiper and 2 Bar-tailed Godwit were the best of a poor bunch.
Moths
Day flying moths included Small Magpie and Cinnabar.
Continuing quiet
17th May 2008 - overcast E2/3
Offshore
Although no coordinated observations were undertaken a flock of 120 Gannet were located feeding offshore on the falling tide. Also seen were 165 Sandwich Tern, 25 Arctic Tern, 6 Little Tern, 6 Guillemot, 2 Common Scoter and single Fulmar and Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallow continue to move through with 10 birds logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 170 Ringed Plover, 50 Sanderling, 30 Turnstone and 5 Whimbrel.
Offshore
Although no coordinated observations were undertaken a flock of 120 Gannet were located feeding offshore on the falling tide. Also seen were 165 Sandwich Tern, 25 Arctic Tern, 6 Little Tern, 6 Guillemot, 2 Common Scoter and single Fulmar and Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallow continue to move through with 10 birds logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 170 Ringed Plover, 50 Sanderling, 30 Turnstone and 5 Whimbrel.
Seabirds provide the main interest
16th May 2008 - overcast E2/1
Offshore
Early morning observations (0615-0715) produced 180 Sandwich Tern, 24 Common Scoter, 15 Gannet, 12 Red-throated Diver, 8 Manx Shearwater, 3 Guillemot and a Razorbill. A second stint at low tide (1530-1630) was surprisingly productive with 40 Sandwich Tern, 26 Common Scoter, 4 Gannet, 3 Guillemot, 2 Shag, 2 Red-throated Diver and single dark phase Arctic Skua and Manx Shearwater logged.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swallow were on the move with 20 birds logged.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by a single Wheatear.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0615-0715) produced 180 Sandwich Tern, 24 Common Scoter, 15 Gannet, 12 Red-throated Diver, 8 Manx Shearwater, 3 Guillemot and a Razorbill. A second stint at low tide (1530-1630) was surprisingly productive with 40 Sandwich Tern, 26 Common Scoter, 4 Gannet, 3 Guillemot, 2 Shag, 2 Red-throated Diver and single dark phase Arctic Skua and Manx Shearwater logged.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swallow were on the move with 20 birds logged.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by a single Wheatear.
Remaining quiet
15th May 2008 - bright and suny NNE3
Offshore
Early morning observations on the rising tide (0615-0715) included 265 Sandwich Tern, 30 Manx Shearwater, 16 Common Scoteer, 10 Gannet, 4 Guillemot, 4 Kittiwake and 2 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Newly arrived birds were limited to 2 Willow Warbler and a Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese still linger and waders included 500 Dunlin and 200 Ringed Plover.
Moths
'In field' records included Brown Silver-line and Silver-ground Carpet.
Offshore
Early morning observations on the rising tide (0615-0715) included 265 Sandwich Tern, 30 Manx Shearwater, 16 Common Scoteer, 10 Gannet, 4 Guillemot, 4 Kittiwake and 2 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Newly arrived birds were limited to 2 Willow Warbler and a Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese still linger and waders included 500 Dunlin and 200 Ringed Plover.
Moths
'In field' records included Brown Silver-line and Silver-ground Carpet.
Another quiet day
14th May 2008 - bright and sunny NE4
Offshore
Early morning sightings on the rising tide (0615-0715) included 100 Sandwich Tern, 20 Manx Shearwater, 15 Gannet, 5 Razorbill, 2 Guillemot, 2 Pink-footed Geese, 2 Common Tern and single Red-throated Diver and Fulmar.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 200 Sanderling, 130 Ringed Plover and 14 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
Large numbers of Whitethroat and Sedge Warbler are now spread across the island, whilst around 12 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Grasshopper Warbler and 3 Reed Warbler also hold territory.
Offshore
Early morning sightings on the rising tide (0615-0715) included 100 Sandwich Tern, 20 Manx Shearwater, 15 Gannet, 5 Razorbill, 2 Guillemot, 2 Pink-footed Geese, 2 Common Tern and single Red-throated Diver and Fulmar.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 200 Sanderling, 130 Ringed Plover and 14 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
Large numbers of Whitethroat and Sedge Warbler are now spread across the island, whilst around 12 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Grasshopper Warbler and 3 Reed Warbler also hold territory.
Migration continues to slow
13th May 2008 - bright and sunny NE4
Offshore
The clearer conditions early morning revealed a few more birds over the sea than of late with observations over the tide (0615-0715) producing 120 Sandwich Tern, 50 Gannet, 30 Common Scoter, 20 Manx Shearwater, 4 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver, 2 Guillemot and 2 Arctic Tern.
Diurnal Migration
No Swallow movement was evident and just single Yellow Wagtail and Sand Martin were logged.
Grounded Migrants
A single Spotted Flycatcher was the only record considered attributable to a newly grounded bird.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese still remain and waders included 4 Whimbrel and a Purple Sandpiper.
Butterflies
The first Dingy Skipper was on the wing and Orange Tip numbers reached unprecedented heights with around 40 individuals seen.
Offshore
The clearer conditions early morning revealed a few more birds over the sea than of late with observations over the tide (0615-0715) producing 120 Sandwich Tern, 50 Gannet, 30 Common Scoter, 20 Manx Shearwater, 4 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver, 2 Guillemot and 2 Arctic Tern.
Diurnal Migration
No Swallow movement was evident and just single Yellow Wagtail and Sand Martin were logged.
Grounded Migrants
A single Spotted Flycatcher was the only record considered attributable to a newly grounded bird.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese still remain and waders included 4 Whimbrel and a Purple Sandpiper.
Butterflies
The first Dingy Skipper was on the wing and Orange Tip numbers reached unprecedented heights with around 40 individuals seen.
Spring passage coming to an end!
12th May 2008 - hazy sun E2/3
Offshore
No coordinated observations were undertaken, however, 20 Sandwich Tern, 5 Little Tern, 2 Arctic Tern, 2 Gannet and 2 Common Scoter were recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of hirundines continue to pass through with a total of 20 Swallow logged.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a single Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese continue to linger and waders included a flock of 230 Ringed Plover, 2 Whimbrel and a Purple Sandpiper.
Breeding Birds
At least 3 pairs of Long-tailed Tit are breeding on the island - an unprecedented event.
Offshore
No coordinated observations were undertaken, however, 20 Sandwich Tern, 5 Little Tern, 2 Arctic Tern, 2 Gannet and 2 Common Scoter were recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of hirundines continue to pass through with a total of 20 Swallow logged.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a single Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese continue to linger and waders included a flock of 230 Ringed Plover, 2 Whimbrel and a Purple Sandpiper.
Breeding Birds
At least 3 pairs of Long-tailed Tit are breeding on the island - an unprecedented event.
Passage continues to slow
11th May 2008 - hazy sun, calm
Offshore
Although 60 Sandwich Terrn fed offshore it was generally quiet over the sea (0900-1000), with movement limited to 2 Gannet and single Red-throated Diver and Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
Passage continues to slow with just 40 Swallow logged.
Grounded Migrants
Again meagre rations with 2 Wheatear and single Whinchat and Spotted Flycatcher the only evidence of grounded birds.
Dragonflies
Both Four-spotted Chaser and Large Red Damselfly were on the wing.
Butterflies
The first Wall Brown were seen.
Offshore
Although 60 Sandwich Terrn fed offshore it was generally quiet over the sea (0900-1000), with movement limited to 2 Gannet and single Red-throated Diver and Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
Passage continues to slow with just 40 Swallow logged.
Grounded Migrants
Again meagre rations with 2 Wheatear and single Whinchat and Spotted Flycatcher the only evidence of grounded birds.
Dragonflies
Both Four-spotted Chaser and Large Red Damselfly were on the wing.
Butterflies
The first Wall Brown were seen.
Yellow Wagtail and Whinchat
10th May 2008 - mist and murk W1
Offshore
Although conditions cleared slightly mid-afternoon to allow some observations on the rising tide(1400-1500) just 15 Guillemot, 15 Sandwich Tern, 6 Razorbill, 5 Arctic Tern and a single Common Tern were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Birds continue to move through with 100 Swallow and single House Martin and Yellow Wagtail emerging through the gloom.
Grounded Migrants
Another poor showing with just 2 Wheatear and single Whinchat and Willow Warbler recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese remain and waders included 400 Sanderling and 11 Whimbrel.
Moths
The moth trap finally began to produce with 18 species trapped including Dark Swordgrass, Pebble Prominent and Ruby Tiger.
Offshore
Although conditions cleared slightly mid-afternoon to allow some observations on the rising tide(1400-1500) just 15 Guillemot, 15 Sandwich Tern, 6 Razorbill, 5 Arctic Tern and a single Common Tern were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Birds continue to move through with 100 Swallow and single House Martin and Yellow Wagtail emerging through the gloom.
Grounded Migrants
Another poor showing with just 2 Wheatear and single Whinchat and Willow Warbler recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 2 Pink-footed Geese remain and waders included 400 Sanderling and 11 Whimbrel.
Moths
The moth trap finally began to produce with 18 species trapped including Dark Swordgrass, Pebble Prominent and Ruby Tiger.
Swallows continue to pour through
9th May 2008 - early showers E2
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 110 Common Scoter, 90 Sandwich Tern, 10 Gannet, 2 Arctic Tern and single dark phase Arctic Skua, Manx Shearwater and Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
Hirundines continue to pour through, morning totals (0800-1100) involved 540 Swallow, 4 Sand Martin and 2 House Martin.
Grounded Migrants
Despite the early showers grounded birds were limited to a single Wheatear.
Miscellaneous
A Harbour Porpoise was offshore.
Butterflies
The first Common Blue was on the wing and a total of 16 Orange Tip would appear to be the largest number ever recorded on the island.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 110 Common Scoter, 90 Sandwich Tern, 10 Gannet, 2 Arctic Tern and single dark phase Arctic Skua, Manx Shearwater and Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
Hirundines continue to pour through, morning totals (0800-1100) involved 540 Swallow, 4 Sand Martin and 2 House Martin.
Grounded Migrants
Despite the early showers grounded birds were limited to a single Wheatear.
Miscellaneous
A Harbour Porpoise was offshore.
Butterflies
The first Common Blue was on the wing and a total of 16 Orange Tip would appear to be the largest number ever recorded on the island.
More of the same
8th May 2008 hazy sun E4
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) provided 70 Sandwich Tern, 50 Arctic Tern, 21 Manx Shearwater, 16 Gannet, 8 Guillemot, 4 Little Tern, 3 Common Scoter and 2 Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
Morning totals involved 200 Swallow, 7 House Martin, 4 Sand Martin, 3 Swift and single Siskin and Mute Swan.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 5 Wheatear and a solitary Blackcap.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Teal and a single Shoveler continue to linger and 2 Pink-footed Geese were newly arrived. Waders included 8 Bar-tailed Godwit and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Moths
Red Chestnut and Clouded Drab were new for the year.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) provided 70 Sandwich Tern, 50 Arctic Tern, 21 Manx Shearwater, 16 Gannet, 8 Guillemot, 4 Little Tern, 3 Common Scoter and 2 Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
Morning totals involved 200 Swallow, 7 House Martin, 4 Sand Martin, 3 Swift and single Siskin and Mute Swan.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 5 Wheatear and a solitary Blackcap.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Teal and a single Shoveler continue to linger and 2 Pink-footed Geese were newly arrived. Waders included 8 Bar-tailed Godwit and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Moths
Red Chestnut and Clouded Drab were new for the year.
Migrants continue to trickle through
7th May 2008 - hazy sun E4/3
Offshore
A quiet day over the sea with just the usual suspects logged (0745-0845) totals included 40 Sandwich Tern, 16 Manx Shearwater, 4 Gannet, 4 Guillemot, 2 Common Scoter and single Kittiwake and Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
Intermittent observations through the morning provided 30 Swallow, 7 Mute Swan, 3 House Martin, 2 Swift and a Tree Pipit.
Grounded Migrants
Obvious new migrants were at a premium but included 12 Wheatear, 6 Willow Warbler and single Grasshopper Warbler and Blackcap.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 70 Whimbrel, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Spotted Redshank.
Offshore
A quiet day over the sea with just the usual suspects logged (0745-0845) totals included 40 Sandwich Tern, 16 Manx Shearwater, 4 Gannet, 4 Guillemot, 2 Common Scoter and single Kittiwake and Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
Intermittent observations through the morning provided 30 Swallow, 7 Mute Swan, 3 House Martin, 2 Swift and a Tree Pipit.
Grounded Migrants
Obvious new migrants were at a premium but included 12 Wheatear, 6 Willow Warbler and single Grasshopper Warbler and Blackcap.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 70 Whimbrel, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Spotted Redshank.
Pomarine Skua, Long-tailed Duck and Puffin
6th May 2008 - hazy sun E3/4
Offshore
A quiet day over the sea (0745-0845) was enlivened by several notable sightings with a pale phase Pomarine Skua, 3 Long-tailed Duck and a Puffin all heading into the outer reaches of Morecambe Bay. Otherwise sightings were limited to 115 Sandwich Tern, 11 Common Scoter, 11 Manx Shearwater, 3 Guillemot, 2 Razorbill, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Gannet and a Grey Heron.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 230 Swallow and 2 Swift moved through during the morning.
Grounded Migrants
A sprinkling of migrants involved 10 Wheatear, 2 Willow Warbler and single Lesser Whitethroat, Spotted Flycatcher, Chiffchaff and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 42 Whimbrel and a Black-tailed Godwit were logged.
Butterflies
The first Large White were on the wing.
Offshore
A quiet day over the sea (0745-0845) was enlivened by several notable sightings with a pale phase Pomarine Skua, 3 Long-tailed Duck and a Puffin all heading into the outer reaches of Morecambe Bay. Otherwise sightings were limited to 115 Sandwich Tern, 11 Common Scoter, 11 Manx Shearwater, 3 Guillemot, 2 Razorbill, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Gannet and a Grey Heron.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 230 Swallow and 2 Swift moved through during the morning.
Grounded Migrants
A sprinkling of migrants involved 10 Wheatear, 2 Willow Warbler and single Lesser Whitethroat, Spotted Flycatcher, Chiffchaff and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 42 Whimbrel and a Black-tailed Godwit were logged.
Butterflies
The first Large White were on the wing.
Pomarine Skua leads sightings
5th May 2008 - bright and sunny SE1
Offshore
Morning observations (0750-0850) over calm seas were led by a pale phase Pomarine Skua and a feeding raft of 80 Manx Shearwater. Also seen were 120 Sandwich Tern, 35 Common Scoter, 20 Guillemot, 15 Gannet, 5 Arctic Tern, 3 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver, 2 Arctic Skua (1 dark, 1 pale) and a Great Crested Grebe.
Diurnal Migration
Hirundines remain on the move with 80 Swallow and 2 Sand Martin logged.
Grounded Migrants
A smattering of birds included 7 Wheatear, 4 Willow Warbler, 3 Whitethroat and 2 Chiffchaff.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 54 Whimbrel and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Moths
The Robinson trap produced the first significant catch of the year with Dark Swordgrass, Hebrew Character, Nutmeg, Spectacle and Flame Shoulder all recorded.
Offshore
Morning observations (0750-0850) over calm seas were led by a pale phase Pomarine Skua and a feeding raft of 80 Manx Shearwater. Also seen were 120 Sandwich Tern, 35 Common Scoter, 20 Guillemot, 15 Gannet, 5 Arctic Tern, 3 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver, 2 Arctic Skua (1 dark, 1 pale) and a Great Crested Grebe.
Diurnal Migration
Hirundines remain on the move with 80 Swallow and 2 Sand Martin logged.
Grounded Migrants
A smattering of birds included 7 Wheatear, 4 Willow Warbler, 3 Whitethroat and 2 Chiffchaff.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 54 Whimbrel and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Moths
The Robinson trap produced the first significant catch of the year with Dark Swordgrass, Hebrew Character, Nutmeg, Spectacle and Flame Shoulder all recorded.
Spotted Flycatcher new in
4th May 2008 - overcast/rain SE3/4
Offshore
Morning observations (0900-1000) produced just 18 Common Scoter, 7 Sandwich Tern, 4 Gannet, 2 Manx Shearwater, 2 Razorbill and single Red-throated Diver and Guillemot. Later sightings on the falling tide (1500-1600) were slightly more productive providing 28 Sandwich Tern, 18 Arctic Tern, 12 Common Scoter, 3 Little Tern, 2 Razorbill and a Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 250 Swallow, 3 Sand Martin and 2 Swift were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Although the first Spotted Flycatcher of the year was newly arrived the only other sighting attributable to grounded birds involved 16 Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2500 Knot, 50 Bar-tailed Godwit, 31 Whimbrel and 4 Purple Sandpiper.
Butterflies
The first Red Admiral of the year was logged.
Offshore
Morning observations (0900-1000) produced just 18 Common Scoter, 7 Sandwich Tern, 4 Gannet, 2 Manx Shearwater, 2 Razorbill and single Red-throated Diver and Guillemot. Later sightings on the falling tide (1500-1600) were slightly more productive providing 28 Sandwich Tern, 18 Arctic Tern, 12 Common Scoter, 3 Little Tern, 2 Razorbill and a Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 250 Swallow, 3 Sand Martin and 2 Swift were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Although the first Spotted Flycatcher of the year was newly arrived the only other sighting attributable to grounded birds involved 16 Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2500 Knot, 50 Bar-tailed Godwit, 31 Whimbrel and 4 Purple Sandpiper.
Butterflies
The first Red Admiral of the year was logged.
Yellow Wagtail and Reed Warbler
3rd May 2008 - sunny spells SE3
Offshore
Early morning observations (0830-0930) provided variety but little quantity with 35 Common Scoter, 18 Manx Shearwater, 6 Guillemot, 4 Razorbill, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Kittiwake, 2 pale phase Arctic Skua and a single Gannet.
Diurnal Migration
Some evidence of movement with 25 Swallow, 5 Jackdaw and a single Swift along with the first Yellow Wagtail of the year logged.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 16 Wheatear and a Garden Warbler were the only evidence of grounded birds. However, the number of territorial Sedge Warbler, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat continue to increase and a Reed Warbler was newly arrived.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2000 Knot, 1000 Dunlin, 62 Whimbrel, 23 Black-tailed Godwit and 8 Golden Plover.
Butterflies
The first Orange Tip and Small Copper are now on the wing.
Mammals
Weasel, Stoat and Brown Hare were all seen.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0830-0930) provided variety but little quantity with 35 Common Scoter, 18 Manx Shearwater, 6 Guillemot, 4 Razorbill, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Kittiwake, 2 pale phase Arctic Skua and a single Gannet.
Diurnal Migration
Some evidence of movement with 25 Swallow, 5 Jackdaw and a single Swift along with the first Yellow Wagtail of the year logged.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 16 Wheatear and a Garden Warbler were the only evidence of grounded birds. However, the number of territorial Sedge Warbler, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat continue to increase and a Reed Warbler was newly arrived.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2000 Knot, 1000 Dunlin, 62 Whimbrel, 23 Black-tailed Godwit and 8 Golden Plover.
Butterflies
The first Orange Tip and Small Copper are now on the wing.
Mammals
Weasel, Stoat and Brown Hare were all seen.
Passerine passage remains light
2nd May 2008 - bright and sunny SW2/1
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0615-0715) included 160 Sandwich Tern, 150 Comon Scoter, 110 Manx Shearwater, 20 Red-throated Diver, 18 Razorbill, 12 Gannet, 6 Guillemot and 3 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Although a further 25 Wheatear were seen grounded birds were generally scarce under the clear skies with just 6 Sedge Warbler, 4 Willow Warbler, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Collared Dove and single Blackcap, Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat and a White Wagtail among the new arrivals.
Wildfowl and Waders
Pick of the waders involved 2500 Knot, 400 Sanderling, 260 Turnstone, 10 Whimbrel, 5 Purple Sandpiper and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret remains.
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0615-0715) included 160 Sandwich Tern, 150 Comon Scoter, 110 Manx Shearwater, 20 Red-throated Diver, 18 Razorbill, 12 Gannet, 6 Guillemot and 3 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Although a further 25 Wheatear were seen grounded birds were generally scarce under the clear skies with just 6 Sedge Warbler, 4 Willow Warbler, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Collared Dove and single Blackcap, Whitethroat, Lesser Whitethroat and a White Wagtail among the new arrivals.
Wildfowl and Waders
Pick of the waders involved 2500 Knot, 400 Sanderling, 260 Turnstone, 10 Whimbrel, 5 Purple Sandpiper and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret remains.
Migrants continue to dwindle
1st May 2008 - early rain then sunny SW3/4
Offshore
Early morning sightings were hampered by heavy rain (0630-0715) and were limited to 40 Sandwich Tern, 10 Common Scoter, 10 Razorbill, 5 Gannet, 4 Manx Shearwater, 2 Kittiwake and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Although 30 Wheatear were logged other migrants passerines continue to dwindle with totals limited to 4 Willow Warbler, 3 Sedge Warbler and 2 Blackcap.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Greenshank continues to linger amongst small numbers of Redshank.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret was logged.
Offshore
Early morning sightings were hampered by heavy rain (0630-0715) and were limited to 40 Sandwich Tern, 10 Common Scoter, 10 Razorbill, 5 Gannet, 4 Manx Shearwater, 2 Kittiwake and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Although 30 Wheatear were logged other migrants passerines continue to dwindle with totals limited to 4 Willow Warbler, 3 Sedge Warbler and 2 Blackcap.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Greenshank continues to linger amongst small numbers of Redshank.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret was logged.
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