19th April 2009 - hazy sun NE3/2/1
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0915), as murky conditions again took hold, produced 123 Common Scoter, 120 Sandwich Tern, 33 Gannet, 16 Red-throated Diver, 15 Red-breasted Merganser, 5 Guillemot, 3 Arctic Tern, 2 Little Gull, 2 Manx Shearwater and a Fulmar.
Grounded Migrants
The first 2 Whitethroat were newly arrived and other sightings again provided variety rather than quantity with 23 Willow Warbler, 8 Wheatear, 4 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Grasshopper Warbler and single Yellow Wagtail, Blackcap and Sedge Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
Swallow and Meadow Pipit again trickled through but the second Great Spotted Woodpecker of the spring provided the highlight.
Wildfowl and Waders
Although generally elusive the flock of 60 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain. Waders included 8 Black-tailed Godwit and 7 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail was located in suitable breeding habitat while Merlin and Short-eared, Barn and Little Owl all continue to hunt the island.
Butterflies
The first Orange Tip and Large White are now on the wing.
