31st July 2008 - overcast/showers E3/4
Offshore
Very quiet offshore (0800-0900) with just 9 Sandwich Tern, 6 Gannet and 4 Common Scoter recorded.
Grounded Migrants
Willow Warblers continue to trickle through with 4 birds seen and a single Wheatear was logged.
Diurnal Migration
Just 5 Swift and 2 Sand Martin were noted.
Wildfowl and Waders
A good selection of waders included 13 Greenshank, 12 Whimbrel, 12 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Green Sandpiper and a Common Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A juvenile Water Rail raised speculation of breeding, or perhaps it was just an early mover!
Gadwall provides surprise
30th July 2008 - rain then showers SSE4/5
Offshore
Observations on the rising tide (0830-1000) produced 141 Common Scoter, 72 Sandwich Tern, 63 Manx Shearwater, 41 Gannet, 4 Arctic Tern, 3 Teal and a dark phase Arctic Skua.
Diurnal Migration
Only evidenced by a group of 4 Swift heading south.
Wildfowl and Waders
A female Gadwall was newly arrived and waders included a Black-tailed Godwit amongst 22 Bar-tailed Godwit and a single Common Sandpiper.
Butterflies
A transect count produced an exceptional 48 Gatekeeper.
Offshore
Observations on the rising tide (0830-1000) produced 141 Common Scoter, 72 Sandwich Tern, 63 Manx Shearwater, 41 Gannet, 4 Arctic Tern, 3 Teal and a dark phase Arctic Skua.
Diurnal Migration
Only evidenced by a group of 4 Swift heading south.
Wildfowl and Waders
A female Gadwall was newly arrived and waders included a Black-tailed Godwit amongst 22 Bar-tailed Godwit and a single Common Sandpiper.
Butterflies
A transect count produced an exceptional 48 Gatekeeper.
Green Sandpiper new in
29th July 2008 - early rain then sunshine and showers SE3/4
Offshore
Morning sightings (0815-0915) involved 50 Common Scoter, 34 Manx Shearwater, 7 Sandwich Tern, 5 Arctic Tern and 2 Gannet.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swallow moved through, with 20 birds logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Green Sandpiper was new for the year and other sightings included 53 Turnstone and 37 Grey Plover as shoreline waders begin to increase.
Breeding Birds
The view that Whitethroat numbers are significantly down this year would appear to be confirmed by census results. Recent analysis of data show a 41% decline in the island breeding population in direct comparison to areas surveyed in 2005.
Moths
A Double Lobed was just the third island record.
Offshore
Morning sightings (0815-0915) involved 50 Common Scoter, 34 Manx Shearwater, 7 Sandwich Tern, 5 Arctic Tern and 2 Gannet.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swallow moved through, with 20 birds logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Green Sandpiper was new for the year and other sightings included 53 Turnstone and 37 Grey Plover as shoreline waders begin to increase.
Breeding Birds
The view that Whitethroat numbers are significantly down this year would appear to be confirmed by census results. Recent analysis of data show a 41% decline in the island breeding population in direct comparison to areas surveyed in 2005.
Moths
A Double Lobed was just the third island record.
Further low key movement
28th July 2008 - overcast then hot with hazy sunshine SE2/3
Offshore
Early morning (0730-0830) produced 70 Manx Shearwater, 28 Common Scoter, 28 Sandwich Tern, 4 Gannet and 3 Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
Another light sprinkling of early southbound migrants included 6 Willow Warbler and 2 Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Sporadic observations through the morning produced 32 Swallow, 18 Sand Martin and 10 Swift.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 30 Sanderling, 6 Grey Plover, 6 Knot and 5 Bar-tailed Godwit.
Offshore
Early morning (0730-0830) produced 70 Manx Shearwater, 28 Common Scoter, 28 Sandwich Tern, 4 Gannet and 3 Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
Another light sprinkling of early southbound migrants included 6 Willow Warbler and 2 Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Sporadic observations through the morning produced 32 Swallow, 18 Sand Martin and 10 Swift.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 30 Sanderling, 6 Grey Plover, 6 Knot and 5 Bar-tailed Godwit.
Honey Buzzard leads sightings
27th July 2008 - early mist then hazy sunshine N1/2
Rarities
A pale morph Honey Buzzard drifted low over the south end of the island before heading north-east when attracting the attentions of the gull colony.
Grounded Migrants
A further small-scale movement of Willow Warbler was evident with 10 birds logged. Also seen were 20 Pied Wagtail and single Wheatear, Lesser Whitethroat and Grey Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallow and Swift flew through and after the sun had burned off the morning mist an Osprey headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Teal and Shoveler numbers continue to build slowly. Waders highlights were led by a brace of juvenile Little Ringed Plover - the first of the year, along with 3 Whimbrel, 2 Greenshank and 2 Common Sandpiper.
Mammals
Both Red Fox and Brown Hare were logged.
Moths
A Small Rufous was just the second island record.
Rarities
A pale morph Honey Buzzard drifted low over the south end of the island before heading north-east when attracting the attentions of the gull colony.
Grounded Migrants
A further small-scale movement of Willow Warbler was evident with 10 birds logged. Also seen were 20 Pied Wagtail and single Wheatear, Lesser Whitethroat and Grey Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallow and Swift flew through and after the sun had burned off the morning mist an Osprey headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Teal and Shoveler numbers continue to build slowly. Waders highlights were led by a brace of juvenile Little Ringed Plover - the first of the year, along with 3 Whimbrel, 2 Greenshank and 2 Common Sandpiper.
Mammals
Both Red Fox and Brown Hare were logged.
Moths
A Small Rufous was just the second island record.
Willow Warblers begin to move
26th July 2008 - overcast then hazy sun N1
Offshore
Observations as the tide began to fall (0700-0800) produced 130 Common Scoter, 20 Sandwich Tern, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Manx Shearwater, 2 Gannet and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings included 14 Willow Warbler and 3 Lesser Whitethroat.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 13 Sanderling, 5 Turnstone, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Whimbrel.
Butterflies
The first Painted Lady of the year was recorded along with 3 Gatekeeper.
Offshore
Observations as the tide began to fall (0700-0800) produced 130 Common Scoter, 20 Sandwich Tern, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Manx Shearwater, 2 Gannet and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings included 14 Willow Warbler and 3 Lesser Whitethroat.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 13 Sanderling, 5 Turnstone, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Whimbrel.
Butterflies
The first Painted Lady of the year was recorded along with 3 Gatekeeper.
Good numbers of Manx Shearwater on an easterly!
25th July 2008 -hazy sun, showers by evening E3/4
Offshore
Despite the east wind morning observations (0615-0715) produced 300 Manx Shearwater, 28 Sandwich Tern, 10 Gannet and 6 Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
A Kestrel flew out to sea and other sightings (0630-0700) included 10 Swallow and single Grey Wagtail and Sand Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 20 Knot, 10 Grey Plover - several still in summer regalia, and 3 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The Little Egret put in another appearance and a Peregrine hunted over the island.
Butterflies
A transect count produced 14 Gatekeeper.
Offshore
Despite the east wind morning observations (0615-0715) produced 300 Manx Shearwater, 28 Sandwich Tern, 10 Gannet and 6 Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
A Kestrel flew out to sea and other sightings (0630-0700) included 10 Swallow and single Grey Wagtail and Sand Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 20 Knot, 10 Grey Plover - several still in summer regalia, and 3 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The Little Egret put in another appearance and a Peregrine hunted over the island.
Butterflies
A transect count produced 14 Gatekeeper.
Swallows on the move
24th July 2008 - bright and sunny SE3/4
Offshore
A quiet morning over the sea (0615-0715) with sightings limited to 20 Manx Shearwater, 18 Sandwich Tern, 2 Gannet and 2 Red-breasted Merganser.
Diurnal Migration
Swallows were on the move early morning (0630-0700) with 51 birds logged, along with 3 Sand Martin, 2 Swift and 2 Snipe. A further 15 Swift headed south in the evening.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 14 Greenshank were amongst 500 Redshank and other waders included 6 Whimbrel, 4 Grey Plover, 2 summer plumaged Bar-tailed Godwit and a Common Sandpiper.
Butterflies
The first Gatekeepers were on the wing.
Offshore
A quiet morning over the sea (0615-0715) with sightings limited to 20 Manx Shearwater, 18 Sandwich Tern, 2 Gannet and 2 Red-breasted Merganser.
Diurnal Migration
Swallows were on the move early morning (0630-0700) with 51 birds logged, along with 3 Sand Martin, 2 Swift and 2 Snipe. A further 15 Swift headed south in the evening.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 14 Greenshank were amongst 500 Redshank and other waders included 6 Whimbrel, 4 Grey Plover, 2 summer plumaged Bar-tailed Godwit and a Common Sandpiper.
Butterflies
The first Gatekeepers were on the wing.
Bits and pieces
23rd July 2008 - overcast/calm
Grounded Migrants
A total of 3 Willow Warbler included the first juvenile of the autumn.
Diurnal Migration
A Grey Heron caused consternation among the gull colony and 80 Swift flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Bar-tailed Godwit and a Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
Both Grasshopper Warbler and Reed Warbler continue to hold territory and several family groups of Lesser Whitethroat were seen.
Dragonflies
Brown Hawker, Common Darter and Blue-tailed Damselfly were logged.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 3 Willow Warbler included the first juvenile of the autumn.
Diurnal Migration
A Grey Heron caused consternation among the gull colony and 80 Swift flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Bar-tailed Godwit and a Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
Both Grasshopper Warbler and Reed Warbler continue to hold territory and several family groups of Lesser Whitethroat were seen.
Dragonflies
Brown Hawker, Common Darter and Blue-tailed Damselfly were logged.
Further hints of autumn
22nd July 2008 - overcast, drizzle at times SW3/2/1
Offshore
Early morning observations (0630-0800) were brightened by 4 Storm Petrel and a dark phase Arctic Skua. Otherwise sightings were limited to 56 Common Scoter, 17 Sandwich Tern, 11 Gannet, 2 Razorbill and a Kittiwake. A brief evening watch produced another Storm Petrel.
Grounded Migrants
Both Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler were new in.
Diurnal Migration
A Yellow Wagtail flew through.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0630-0800) were brightened by 4 Storm Petrel and a dark phase Arctic Skua. Otherwise sightings were limited to 56 Common Scoter, 17 Sandwich Tern, 11 Gannet, 2 Razorbill and a Kittiwake. A brief evening watch produced another Storm Petrel.
Grounded Migrants
Both Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler were new in.
Diurnal Migration
A Yellow Wagtail flew through.
An autumnal feel to the day
21st July 2008 - bright and sunny NW3/2
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0615-0715) were limited to 30 Sandwich Tern, 16 Gannet, 2 Manx Shearwater and single Red-throated Diver, Red-breasted Merganser, Guillemot and Common Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Further signs of autumn were provided by 30 Pied Wagtail and single Lesser Whitethroat, Willow Warbler and Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Greenshank, 2 Whimbrel and a Common Sandpiper.
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0615-0715) were limited to 30 Sandwich Tern, 16 Gannet, 2 Manx Shearwater and single Red-throated Diver, Red-breasted Merganser, Guillemot and Common Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Further signs of autumn were provided by 30 Pied Wagtail and single Lesser Whitethroat, Willow Warbler and Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Greenshank, 2 Whimbrel and a Common Sandpiper.
More petrels and skuas
20th July 2008 - bright and sunny NW3/4/5
Offshore
Morning sightings (0830-1000) were highlighted by four Storm Petrel and a dark phase Arctic Skua. Otherwise it proved to be fairly quiet with just 42 Gannet, 10 Sandwich Tern and a Great Crested Grebe seen. Further observations on the falling tide produced 11 Sandwich Tern, 23 Arctic Tern, 20 Little Tern and a Great Skua.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Shelduck have all departed for the moulting grounds and waders included 565 Redshank, 50 Dunlin, 46 Sanderling, 15 Greenshank, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Common Sandpiper, 3 Whimbrel and the first Snipe of the autumn.
Miscellaneous
A total of 14 Stonechat were logged and a Little Owl sunned itself in the lee of the wind.
Offshore
Morning sightings (0830-1000) were highlighted by four Storm Petrel and a dark phase Arctic Skua. Otherwise it proved to be fairly quiet with just 42 Gannet, 10 Sandwich Tern and a Great Crested Grebe seen. Further observations on the falling tide produced 11 Sandwich Tern, 23 Arctic Tern, 20 Little Tern and a Great Skua.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Shelduck have all departed for the moulting grounds and waders included 565 Redshank, 50 Dunlin, 46 Sanderling, 15 Greenshank, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Common Sandpiper, 3 Whimbrel and the first Snipe of the autumn.
Miscellaneous
A total of 14 Stonechat were logged and a Little Owl sunned itself in the lee of the wind.
Seabirds and Waders
19th July 2008 - sunshine and showers, W then NW 3/4/5
Offshore
A series of observations through the day (0830-100, 1200-1330 & 1600-1700) produced totals of 360 Gannet, 105 Sandwich Tern, 63 Common Scoter, 41 Manx Shearwater, 5 Arctic Skua, 5 Kittiwake, 4 Little Tern, 3 Storm Petrel, 3 Red-breasted Merganser and single Fulmar, Guillemot and Razorbill. In addition, a high tide roost on the east shore held 70 Sandwich Tern and 2 Little Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders are beginning to increase and sightings included 460 Curlew, 40 Dunlin, 26 Sanderling, 25 Turnstone, 10 Knot, 2 Whimbrel, 2 Grey Plover and a Common Sandpiper.
Breeding Birds
A total of 23 juvenile Shelduck are a notable increase in breeding success on recent years.
Offshore
A series of observations through the day (0830-100, 1200-1330 & 1600-1700) produced totals of 360 Gannet, 105 Sandwich Tern, 63 Common Scoter, 41 Manx Shearwater, 5 Arctic Skua, 5 Kittiwake, 4 Little Tern, 3 Storm Petrel, 3 Red-breasted Merganser and single Fulmar, Guillemot and Razorbill. In addition, a high tide roost on the east shore held 70 Sandwich Tern and 2 Little Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders are beginning to increase and sightings included 460 Curlew, 40 Dunlin, 26 Sanderling, 25 Turnstone, 10 Knot, 2 Whimbrel, 2 Grey Plover and a Common Sandpiper.
Breeding Birds
A total of 23 juvenile Shelduck are a notable increase in breeding success on recent years.
More Stormies
18th July 2008 - rain SW3/4
Offshore
Another dank and dreary morning with low visibilty (0830-0930) was brightened by three Storm Petrels moving north just beyond the surf line. Also seen were 60 Sandwich Tern, 15 Gannet, 14 Manx Shearwater, 12 Common Scoter and single Common Tern and Razorbill.
Offshore
Another dank and dreary morning with low visibilty (0830-0930) was brightened by three Storm Petrels moving north just beyond the surf line. Also seen were 60 Sandwich Tern, 15 Gannet, 14 Manx Shearwater, 12 Common Scoter and single Common Tern and Razorbill.
Petrels and skuas amongst the gloom
17th July 2008 - rain SW4
Offshore
Morning observations in persistent rain and murk (0800-1000) were slow, although 5 Storm Petrel and 3 Arctic Skua (2 dark, 1 pale) were seen, sightings of the commoner species were limited to just 18 Manx Shearwater, 18 Sandwich Tern, 16 Gannet, 15 Common Scoter and single Kittiwake and Guillemot. The sheltered eastern shore provided a roosting flock of 100 Sandwich Tern and 5 Little Tern at high tide.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Shoveler remains and waders included 60 Black-tailed Godwit and 10 Bar-tailed Godwit.
Offshore
Morning observations in persistent rain and murk (0800-1000) were slow, although 5 Storm Petrel and 3 Arctic Skua (2 dark, 1 pale) were seen, sightings of the commoner species were limited to just 18 Manx Shearwater, 18 Sandwich Tern, 16 Gannet, 15 Common Scoter and single Kittiwake and Guillemot. The sheltered eastern shore provided a roosting flock of 100 Sandwich Tern and 5 Little Tern at high tide.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Shoveler remains and waders included 60 Black-tailed Godwit and 10 Bar-tailed Godwit.
Wood Sandpiper new in
16th July 2008 - overcast W4
Offshore
A quieter morning than yesterday (0745-0845) sightings were led by a single Storm Petrel and dark phase Arctic Skua along with 85 Gannet, 45 Sandwich Tern, 20 Common Scoter, 15 Manx Shearwater, 2 Kittiwake and a Common Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Shoveler have returned and waders were led by a Wood Sandpiper - the first of the year, with Common Sandpiper and 10 Sanderling also logged.
Offshore
A quieter morning than yesterday (0745-0845) sightings were led by a single Storm Petrel and dark phase Arctic Skua along with 85 Gannet, 45 Sandwich Tern, 20 Common Scoter, 15 Manx Shearwater, 2 Kittiwake and a Common Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Shoveler have returned and waders were led by a Wood Sandpiper - the first of the year, with Common Sandpiper and 10 Sanderling also logged.
Bonxie finally makes it on to year list
15th July 2008 - sunny spells W4
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900 & 1115-1215) produced two Storm Petrel and single Great Skua and dark phase Arctic Skua amongst totals of 425 Gannet, 150 Sandwich Tern, 50 Manx Shearwater, 50 Common Scoter, 5 Kittiwake, 4 Guillemot, 2 Little Tern and single Fulmar and Common Tern.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine stalked the post-breeding flocks of Starling.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900 & 1115-1215) produced two Storm Petrel and single Great Skua and dark phase Arctic Skua amongst totals of 425 Gannet, 150 Sandwich Tern, 50 Manx Shearwater, 50 Common Scoter, 5 Kittiwake, 4 Guillemot, 2 Little Tern and single Fulmar and Common Tern.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine stalked the post-breeding flocks of Starling.
Petrels, skuas and divers
14th July 2008 - overcast/early drizzle WSW3/4
Offshore
Two spells of observations (0800-0900 & 1200-1300) produced totals of 175 Sandwich Tern, 86 Common Scoter, 25 Manx Shearwater, 12 Gannet, 3 Storm Petrel, 2 Arctic Skua (1 dark, 1 pale) and a summer plumaged Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
Both Greenshank and Common Sandpiper were logged.
Offshore
Two spells of observations (0800-0900 & 1200-1300) produced totals of 175 Sandwich Tern, 86 Common Scoter, 25 Manx Shearwater, 12 Gannet, 3 Storm Petrel, 2 Arctic Skua (1 dark, 1 pale) and a summer plumaged Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
Both Greenshank and Common Sandpiper were logged.
Grey Partridge and Little Egret lead sightings
13th July 2008 - sunny spells W2
Grounded Migrants
Grey Wagtail, Willow Warbler, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat were early forerunners of autumn migration.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 7 Greenshank were amongst 250 Redshank and 3 Common Sandpiper were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Grey Partridge was an increasingly rare sight on the island while the first Little Egret has returned..
Grounded Migrants
Grey Wagtail, Willow Warbler, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat were early forerunners of autumn migration.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 7 Greenshank were amongst 250 Redshank and 3 Common Sandpiper were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Grey Partridge was an increasingly rare sight on the island while the first Little Egret has returned..
Willow Warbler passage begins
12th July 2008 - sunny spells NW4
Offshore
Morning observations (0730-0830) proved to be uninspiring with just 40 Sandwich Tern, 21 Common Scoter, 20 Gannet, 3 Kittiwake and a pale-phase Arctic Skua logged.
Grounded Migrants
The first returning Willow Warbler - an adult - was seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
A single Common Sandpiper was the pick of the waders logged.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl sunned itself in the lee of the northwest breeze.
Offshore
Morning observations (0730-0830) proved to be uninspiring with just 40 Sandwich Tern, 21 Common Scoter, 20 Gannet, 3 Kittiwake and a pale-phase Arctic Skua logged.
Grounded Migrants
The first returning Willow Warbler - an adult - was seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
A single Common Sandpiper was the pick of the waders logged.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl sunned itself in the lee of the northwest breeze.
First Sanderling return
11th July 2008 - overcast, rain at times N1/2/3/4
Offshore
Morning observations before the rain (0615-0715) provided 70 Manx Shearwater, 55 Sandwich Tern, 30 Common Scoter, 30 Gannet, 2 Little Tern and single pale phase Arctic Skua and a Razorbill. The evening tide (1530-1630) produced 110 Sandwich Tern, 20 Gannet, 5 Arctic Tern and 3 Arctic Skua (2 pale, 1 dark).
Diurnal Migration
A single Grey Wagtail and 3 Swift flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 50 Knot, 30 Sanderling and single Turnstone and Common Sandpiper.
Offshore
Morning observations before the rain (0615-0715) provided 70 Manx Shearwater, 55 Sandwich Tern, 30 Common Scoter, 30 Gannet, 2 Little Tern and single pale phase Arctic Skua and a Razorbill. The evening tide (1530-1630) produced 110 Sandwich Tern, 20 Gannet, 5 Arctic Tern and 3 Arctic Skua (2 pale, 1 dark).
Diurnal Migration
A single Grey Wagtail and 3 Swift flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 50 Knot, 30 Sanderling and single Turnstone and Common Sandpiper.
Black Guillemot tours the bay
10th July 2008 - overcast SW4/3
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0615-0715) provided the usual suspects with 180 Manx Shearwater, 85 Sandwich Tern, 60 Gannet and a Kittiwake logged. The evening tide produced 120 Sandwich Tern roosting while 15 Little Tern and 20 Arctic Tern fed offshore and a Black Guillemot toured the outer reaches of Morecambe Bay.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 12 Greenshank roosted amongst 90 Redshank and other waders included 110 Dunlin, 4 Whimbrel, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Common Sandpiper and a Bar-tailed Godwit. Five summer plumaged Knot were the first returning birds rather than part of the summering flock.
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0615-0715) provided the usual suspects with 180 Manx Shearwater, 85 Sandwich Tern, 60 Gannet and a Kittiwake logged. The evening tide produced 120 Sandwich Tern roosting while 15 Little Tern and 20 Arctic Tern fed offshore and a Black Guillemot toured the outer reaches of Morecambe Bay.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 12 Greenshank roosted amongst 90 Redshank and other waders included 110 Dunlin, 4 Whimbrel, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Common Sandpiper and a Bar-tailed Godwit. Five summer plumaged Knot were the first returning birds rather than part of the summering flock.
Arctic Skuas and Storm Petrel
9th July 2008 - overcast, rain by evening SE1/2/3
Offshore
Early morning observations over a calm sea (0615-0715) produced a steady southward movement of Manx Shearwater with 310 birds recorded. Also seen were 145 Common Scoter, 105 Sandwich Tern, 30 Gannet, 2 Arctic Skua (1 dark, 1 pale), 2 Common Tern and a Storm Petrel. As the weather deteriorated an early evening watch (1615-1715) saw 40 Sandwich Tern, 30 Manx Shearwater, 15 Gannet, 2 Arctic Skua (both pale phase) and a single Common Tern logged.
Offshore
Early morning observations over a calm sea (0615-0715) produced a steady southward movement of Manx Shearwater with 310 birds recorded. Also seen were 145 Common Scoter, 105 Sandwich Tern, 30 Gannet, 2 Arctic Skua (1 dark, 1 pale), 2 Common Tern and a Storm Petrel. As the weather deteriorated an early evening watch (1615-1715) saw 40 Sandwich Tern, 30 Manx Shearwater, 15 Gannet, 2 Arctic Skua (both pale phase) and a single Common Tern logged.
Greenshank numbers begin to build
8th July 2008 - overcast/showers SW3/4
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0615-0715) were limited to 80 Sandwich Tern, 66 Common Scoter, 46 Gannet, 5 Manx Shearwater, 5 Guillemot, 4 Kittiwake and a Fulmar.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 10 Greenshank amongst 70 Redshank and 2 Whimbrel were also seen.
Breeding Birds
The gulls continue to take their toll on the Shelducklings - a creche of 20 has been reduced to 11 in in just a couple of days.
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0615-0715) were limited to 80 Sandwich Tern, 66 Common Scoter, 46 Gannet, 5 Manx Shearwater, 5 Guillemot, 4 Kittiwake and a Fulmar.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 10 Greenshank amongst 70 Redshank and 2 Whimbrel were also seen.
Breeding Birds
The gulls continue to take their toll on the Shelducklings - a creche of 20 has been reduced to 11 in in just a couple of days.
Stoat focus's minds
7th July 2008 - early rain then sunny spells W3
Wildfowl and Waders
Greenshank, Common Sandpiper and Whimbrel were logged.
Breeding Birds
BTO Breeding Atlas work produced an eighth territorial Reed Warbler on the island.
Miscellaneous
A Stoat attracted the attentions of 9 Stonechat, 2 Whitethroat, 2 Sedge Warbler and a Lesser Whitethroat.
Wildfowl and Waders
Greenshank, Common Sandpiper and Whimbrel were logged.
Breeding Birds
BTO Breeding Atlas work produced an eighth territorial Reed Warbler on the island.
Miscellaneous
A Stoat attracted the attentions of 9 Stonechat, 2 Whitethroat, 2 Sedge Warbler and a Lesser Whitethroat.
Treecreeper surprise
6th July 2008 - showers SE3/2/1
Offshore
Morning observations (0830-1030) produced 125 Sandwich Tern, 36 Common Scoter, 22 Manx Shearwater, 17 Gannet, 2 Common Tern, 2 Little Tern and single Great Crested Grebe and Tufted Duck.
Grounded Migrants
A Treecreeper was the first for the year and a Lesser Whitethroat was on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
An increase in passage waders was evident with 172 Dunlin, 115 Redshank, 46 Knot, 8 Greenshank, 4 Grey Plover, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Common Sandpiper and a Whimbrel logged.
Breeding Birds
It was pleasing to see that two broods of Shelduck had managed to run the gauntlet of the gullery and had reached the shore.
Offshore
Morning observations (0830-1030) produced 125 Sandwich Tern, 36 Common Scoter, 22 Manx Shearwater, 17 Gannet, 2 Common Tern, 2 Little Tern and single Great Crested Grebe and Tufted Duck.
Grounded Migrants
A Treecreeper was the first for the year and a Lesser Whitethroat was on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
An increase in passage waders was evident with 172 Dunlin, 115 Redshank, 46 Knot, 8 Greenshank, 4 Grey Plover, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Common Sandpiper and a Whimbrel logged.
Breeding Birds
It was pleasing to see that two broods of Shelduck had managed to run the gauntlet of the gullery and had reached the shore.
Seawatching on an easterly!
5th July 2008 - early rain then thunderstorms E4
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0945) produced 285 Sandwich Tern, 280 Manx Shearwater, 60 Gannet, 48 Common Scoter, 3 Kittiwake and single Fulmar, Common Tern and Guillemot.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 12 Dunlin and 2 Whimbrel were the pick of the waders.
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0945) produced 285 Sandwich Tern, 280 Manx Shearwater, 60 Gannet, 48 Common Scoter, 3 Kittiwake and single Fulmar, Common Tern and Guillemot.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 12 Dunlin and 2 Whimbrel were the pick of the waders.
Summer doldrums!
4th July 2008 - sunny spells SW2
Offshore
Early morning observations (0715-0815) continue to be relatively unproductive with just 70 Sandwich Tern, 20 Common Scoter, 8 Gannet, 3 Little Tern, 2 Arctic Tern and single Guillemot logged.
Grounded Migrants
Perhaps more akin to post-breeding dispersal at this time rather than true migration 7 juvenile Stonechat and 5 Grey Wagtail were recorded.
Diurnal Migration
A Grey Heron flew out to sea and a single Sand Martin flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a single Greenshank.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0715-0815) continue to be relatively unproductive with just 70 Sandwich Tern, 20 Common Scoter, 8 Gannet, 3 Little Tern, 2 Arctic Tern and single Guillemot logged.
Grounded Migrants
Perhaps more akin to post-breeding dispersal at this time rather than true migration 7 juvenile Stonechat and 5 Grey Wagtail were recorded.
Diurnal Migration
A Grey Heron flew out to sea and a single Sand Martin flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a single Greenshank.
Autumn creeps closer
3rd July 2008 - sunny spells and thundery showers
Offshore
Morning sightings (0830-0930) continue to dwindle with just 32 Sandwich Tern - including the first fledged juveniles - 20 Gannet, 6 Common Scoter, 4 Manx Shearwater and single Teal and Guillemot logged.
Grounded Migrants
A Wheatear and 3 Grey Wagtail were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Whimbrel, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Bar-tailed Godwit and a Common Sandpiper.
Breeding Birds
Post-breeding flocks of Goldfinch, Greenfinch and Linnet are already beginning to form.
Offshore
Morning sightings (0830-0930) continue to dwindle with just 32 Sandwich Tern - including the first fledged juveniles - 20 Gannet, 6 Common Scoter, 4 Manx Shearwater and single Teal and Guillemot logged.
Grounded Migrants
A Wheatear and 3 Grey Wagtail were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Whimbrel, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Bar-tailed Godwit and a Common Sandpiper.
Breeding Birds
Post-breeding flocks of Goldfinch, Greenfinch and Linnet are already beginning to form.
Storm Petrel and Puffin
2nd July 2008 - early sun the overcast with rain later S3/2
Offshore
Despite the unfavourable conditions early morning (0815-0915) sightings included 65 Sandwich Tern, 16 Common Scoter, 5 Gannet, 3 Manx Shearwater, 2 Common Gull and a Kittiwake. A second period of observations as the cloud rolled in (1200-1300) produced 35 Sandwich Tern, 65 Gannet, 4 Common Scoter and single Puffin, Storm Petrel and Guillemot.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 5 Swift flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 8 Black-tailed Godwit and a Whimbrel
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine stalked the post-breeding Starling flocks
Offshore
Despite the unfavourable conditions early morning (0815-0915) sightings included 65 Sandwich Tern, 16 Common Scoter, 5 Gannet, 3 Manx Shearwater, 2 Common Gull and a Kittiwake. A second period of observations as the cloud rolled in (1200-1300) produced 35 Sandwich Tern, 65 Gannet, 4 Common Scoter and single Puffin, Storm Petrel and Guillemot.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 5 Swift flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 8 Black-tailed Godwit and a Whimbrel
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine stalked the post-breeding Starling flocks
Another Storm Petrel
1st July 2008 - bright and sunny S3
Offshore
The unfavourable conditions early morning (0815-0915) reduced sightings. Although a single Storm Petrel was seen other records were limited to 45 Sandwich Tern, 32 Manx Shearwater, 12 Gannet and single Common Scoter, Arctic Tern and Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 660 Curlew, 2 Whimbrel and 2 Greenshank.
Dragonflies
Blue-tailed Damselfly, Common Blue Damselfly and Large Red Damselfly were all logged.
Offshore
The unfavourable conditions early morning (0815-0915) reduced sightings. Although a single Storm Petrel was seen other records were limited to 45 Sandwich Tern, 32 Manx Shearwater, 12 Gannet and single Common Scoter, Arctic Tern and Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 660 Curlew, 2 Whimbrel and 2 Greenshank.
Dragonflies
Blue-tailed Damselfly, Common Blue Damselfly and Large Red Damselfly were all logged.
Bits and pieces
30th June 2008 - overcast then sunny SW4
Offshore
A quieter day than of late (0800-0900) produced 165 Sandwich Tern, 40 Manx Shearwater, 17 Common Scoter, 16 Gannet, 6 Kittiwake and 2 Guillemot.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included Grey Plover, Whimbrel and Bar-tailed Godwit - the latter still in summer plumage.
Offshore
A quieter day than of late (0800-0900) produced 165 Sandwich Tern, 40 Manx Shearwater, 17 Common Scoter, 16 Gannet, 6 Kittiwake and 2 Guillemot.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included Grey Plover, Whimbrel and Bar-tailed Godwit - the latter still in summer plumage.
Breeding Birds
A seventh territorial Reed Warbler was located on the island.
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