31st December 2010 – overcast/calm
Offshore
A quick check over the calm sea produced 220 Eider and a group of 10 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 17 Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
A Snow Bunting flew through amongst a few Skylark and Meadow Pipit.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 4 Short-eared Owl, Common Buzzard and Merlin. At least 3 Little Egret remain.
Ringing
December is traditionally a quiet month for the observatory with few passerines on the move, however despite the weather limiting opportunities; this year has continued the theme of record breaking monthly totals with 140 birds of 11 species trapped and ringed, easily surpassing the previous best of 79 in 1995. Individual species totals involved Brambling (47), Linnet (28), Goldfinch (14), Blackbird (10), House Sparrow (8), Greenfinch (8), Starling (7), Woodcock (6), Chaffinch (6), Song Thrush (4) and Robin (2). The number of Brambling was especially remarkable; previous to 2010 the observatory had only trapped and ringed 9 individuals on the island.
Moths
An emergence of Winter Moths was evident with 13 individuals seen.
If visiting the island over the Christmas and New Year break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the recent severe weather has had a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which were beginning to struggle and now need to replenish fat reserves.
Raptors still to the fore
30th December 2010 – overcast/calm
Offshore
A check over the calm sea produced 200 Eider, 35 Common Scoter, 16 Shag, 9 Red-throated Diver and 2 Great Crested Grebe.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 22 Fieldfare and 3 Redwing and a single Woodcock was seen.
Diurnal Migration
Two skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 175 birds headed south.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included Hen Harrier, Common Buzzard and Merlin. At least 3 Little Egret and 100 Twite were logged.
If visiting the island over the Christmas and New Year break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the recent severe weather has had a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which were beginning to struggle and now need to replenish fat reserves.
Offshore
A check over the calm sea produced 200 Eider, 35 Common Scoter, 16 Shag, 9 Red-throated Diver and 2 Great Crested Grebe.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 22 Fieldfare and 3 Redwing and a single Woodcock was seen.
Diurnal Migration
Two skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 175 birds headed south.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included Hen Harrier, Common Buzzard and Merlin. At least 3 Little Egret and 100 Twite were logged.
If visiting the island over the Christmas and New Year break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the recent severe weather has had a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which were beginning to struggle and now need to replenish fat reserves.
Water Pipit reappears
29th December 2010 – overcast/drizzle ESE1/2
Rarities
The rapid thaw sees the recently frozen fields now waterlogged and a Water Pipit took advantage of the conditions to once again feed in the horse paddocks around Biggar.
Grounded Migrants
At least 3 Woodcock remain.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2500 Knot and 2 Greenshank while 8 Shoveler were seen.
Miscellaneous
Raptors continue to remain prominent with Hen Harrier, Common Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Merlin and Kestrel all seen. At least 5 Little Egret have survived the freeze and 95 Twite were logged.
Ringing
The flock of Twite held birds previously ringed at Machrihanish and Heysham.
If visiting the island over the Christmas break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the recent severe weather has had a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which were beginning to struggle and now need to replenish fat reserves.
Rarities
The rapid thaw sees the recently frozen fields now waterlogged and a Water Pipit took advantage of the conditions to once again feed in the horse paddocks around Biggar.
Grounded Migrants
At least 3 Woodcock remain.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2500 Knot and 2 Greenshank while 8 Shoveler were seen.
Miscellaneous
Raptors continue to remain prominent with Hen Harrier, Common Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Merlin and Kestrel all seen. At least 5 Little Egret have survived the freeze and 95 Twite were logged.
Ringing
The flock of Twite held birds previously ringed at Machrihanish and Heysham.
If visiting the island over the Christmas break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the recent severe weather has had a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which were beginning to struggle and now need to replenish fat reserves.
Thaw sets in
28th December 2010 – overcast/drizzle SE1/2
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying group of 35 Barnacle Geese attracted a flock of 56 dark-bellied Brent Geese and a Greenshank was the best of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Raptors continue to remain prominent with Hen Harrier and Common Buzzard seen. At least 2 Little Egret have survived the freeze.
Ringing
The flock of dark-bellied Brent Geese held three colour-ringed individuals that had previously been ringed at Terschelling, The Netherlands on 17th May 2006.
If visiting the island over the Christmas and New Year break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the recent severe weather has had a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which were beginning to struggle and now need to replenish fat reserves.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying group of 35 Barnacle Geese attracted a flock of 56 dark-bellied Brent Geese and a Greenshank was the best of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Raptors continue to remain prominent with Hen Harrier and Common Buzzard seen. At least 2 Little Egret have survived the freeze.
Ringing
The flock of dark-bellied Brent Geese held three colour-ringed individuals that had previously been ringed at Terschelling, The Netherlands on 17th May 2006.
If visiting the island over the Christmas and New Year break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the recent severe weather has had a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which were beginning to struggle and now need to replenish fat reserves.
Winter maintains its icy grip
26th December 2010 – overcast and frosty/lying snow SE1/2
Grounded Migrants
Just how many Woodcock have passed through the island during this spell of cold weather can only be speculated but a Hen Harrier flushed 4 from a small area in 10 minutes and 2 additional birds were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 113 pale-bellied birds and the long-staying group of 35 Barnacle Geese remain but just 2 Greenshank were found.
Miscellaneous
Raptors continue to be prevalent with 3 Hen Harrier, 3 Merlin Common Buzzard, Peregrine and Sparrowhawk and Kestrel all logged. A total of 182 Twite were seen.
Ringing
The Twite flock again held birds previously ringed at Heysham (2), Duddon Estuary (2) and Machrihanish.
Images
Dawn breaks over the island and Golden Plover struggle to survive the frost and snow
If visiting the island over the Christmas break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the continuing severe freeze is now beginning to have a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which are now starting to struggle to survive as temperatures remain below freezing throughout the day.
Grounded Migrants
Just how many Woodcock have passed through the island during this spell of cold weather can only be speculated but a Hen Harrier flushed 4 from a small area in 10 minutes and 2 additional birds were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 113 pale-bellied birds and the long-staying group of 35 Barnacle Geese remain but just 2 Greenshank were found.
Miscellaneous
Raptors continue to be prevalent with 3 Hen Harrier, 3 Merlin Common Buzzard, Peregrine and Sparrowhawk and Kestrel all logged. A total of 182 Twite were seen.
Ringing
The Twite flock again held birds previously ringed at Heysham (2), Duddon Estuary (2) and Machrihanish.
Images
Dawn breaks over the island and Golden Plover struggle to survive the frost and snow
If visiting the island over the Christmas break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the continuing severe freeze is now beginning to have a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which are now starting to struggle to survive as temperatures remain below freezing throughout the day.
Refugees from the cold
24th December 2010 – bright and frosty/lying snow N1
Grounded Migrants
An influx of Skylark, Blackbird, Song Thrush and Linnet was apparent and further refugees from the continued severe weather involved 6 Fieldfare, 3 Brambling, 2 Woodcock and a Redwing.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock increased to 125 pale-bellied birds and the long-staying group of 35 Barnacle Geese attracted a dark-bellied Brent Goose. A female Scaup and 2 Pochard were newly arrived and 100 Pintail were among1650 Wigeon. A total of 10 Greenshank were found amongst 370 Redshank.
Miscellaneous
The flock of 160 Twite remain and raptors included a ringtail Hen Harrier, 3 Merlin, 2 Sparrowhawk, 2 Barn Owl and a Common Buzzard. No Little Egret were seen over the high tide period for the first time since early autumn - perhaps they have all now departed for warmer climes.
If visiting the island over the Christmas break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the continuing severe freeze is now beginning to have a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which are now starting to struggle to survive as temperatures remain below freezing throughout the day.
Grounded Migrants
An influx of Skylark, Blackbird, Song Thrush and Linnet was apparent and further refugees from the continued severe weather involved 6 Fieldfare, 3 Brambling, 2 Woodcock and a Redwing.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock increased to 125 pale-bellied birds and the long-staying group of 35 Barnacle Geese attracted a dark-bellied Brent Goose. A female Scaup and 2 Pochard were newly arrived and 100 Pintail were among1650 Wigeon. A total of 10 Greenshank were found amongst 370 Redshank.
Miscellaneous
The flock of 160 Twite remain and raptors included a ringtail Hen Harrier, 3 Merlin, 2 Sparrowhawk, 2 Barn Owl and a Common Buzzard. No Little Egret were seen over the high tide period for the first time since early autumn - perhaps they have all now departed for warmer climes.
If visiting the island over the Christmas break please try to avoid disturbance to roosting and feeding birds, the continuing severe freeze is now beginning to have a very noticeable affect, especially amongst wildfowl and waders which are now starting to struggle to survive as temperatures remain below freezing throughout the day.
Pink-footed Geese on the move
19th December 2010 – bright and frosty/lying snow NE1
Offshore
An early morning scan over the sea yielded just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Shag, Common Scoter and Kitiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A small influx of Song Thrush was evident.
Diurnal Migration
The first hour after dawn saw 17 skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 2140 birds heading north. A few passerines were also on the move with 23 Skylark and single Rock Pipit and Siskin logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A check on the flocks of wild geese wintering on the island revealed an increase with 121 pale-bellied Brent Geese and 35 Barnacle Geese found. At least 5 Greenshank remain and a flock of 2600 Dunlin fed on the edge of the ebbing tide.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 ringtail Hen Harriers remain and the lingering Common Buzzard found the view from the catching box of the heligoland trap to its liking. Additional raptors included Merlin, Peregrine, Short-eared Owl and Little Owl. Also seen were a flock of 160 Twite and 2 Little Egret.
Ringing
The Twite flock held birds previously ringed at Machrihanish, Heysham and the Duddon Estuary.
Images
Common Buzzard and Hen Harrier.
Offshore
An early morning scan over the sea yielded just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Shag, Common Scoter and Kitiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A small influx of Song Thrush was evident.
Diurnal Migration
The first hour after dawn saw 17 skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 2140 birds heading north. A few passerines were also on the move with 23 Skylark and single Rock Pipit and Siskin logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A check on the flocks of wild geese wintering on the island revealed an increase with 121 pale-bellied Brent Geese and 35 Barnacle Geese found. At least 5 Greenshank remain and a flock of 2600 Dunlin fed on the edge of the ebbing tide.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 ringtail Hen Harriers remain and the lingering Common Buzzard found the view from the catching box of the heligoland trap to its liking. Additional raptors included Merlin, Peregrine, Short-eared Owl and Little Owl. Also seen were a flock of 160 Twite and 2 Little Egret.
Ringing
The Twite flock held birds previously ringed at Machrihanish, Heysham and the Duddon Estuary.
Images
Common Buzzard and Hen Harrier.
Walney turns into the Tundra overnight!
18th December 2010 - snow and frost NE1/2
Miscellaneous
A snowy wasteland greeted observers early morning and ringtail Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl were hunting over the island.
Images
A couple of wintery scenes
Miscellaneous
A snowy wasteland greeted observers early morning and ringtail Hen Harrier and Short-eared Owl were hunting over the island.
Images
A couple of wintery scenes
Frost and snow returns
17th December 2010 – overcast/snow showers/cold/calm
Grounded Migrants
A further 2 Woodcock were the only evidence of newly arrived grounded birds.
Wildfowl and Waders
A pair of Gadwall and 8 Shoveler were amongst 400 Teal and the Long-tailed Duck remains among 30 Goldeneye. At least 3 Greenshank continue to sit out the freeze,
Miscellaneous
Two ringtail Hen Harrier and a Common Buzzard were seen and several Little Egret are still along the eastern shore.
Grounded Migrants
A further 2 Woodcock were the only evidence of newly arrived grounded birds.
Wildfowl and Waders
A pair of Gadwall and 8 Shoveler were amongst 400 Teal and the Long-tailed Duck remains among 30 Goldeneye. At least 3 Greenshank continue to sit out the freeze,
Miscellaneous
Two ringtail Hen Harrier and a Common Buzzard were seen and several Little Egret are still along the eastern shore.
Further evidence of cold weather movement
12th December 2010 – bright and frosty/calm
Grounded Migrants
Hints of further cold weather movement were provided by several Blackbird and Song Thrush along with another Woodcock.
Diurnal Migration
Several skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 280 birds headed south and 4 Brambling were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 10 Shoveler were amongst 300 Teal and 5 Greenshank were logged.
Miscellaneous
Several Merlin and 80 Twite were the best of the rest.
Grounded Migrants
Hints of further cold weather movement were provided by several Blackbird and Song Thrush along with another Woodcock.
Diurnal Migration
Several skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 280 birds headed south and 4 Brambling were seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 10 Shoveler were amongst 300 Teal and 5 Greenshank were logged.
Miscellaneous
Several Merlin and 80 Twite were the best of the rest.
Raptor-fest
11th December 2010 – sunny spells W2
Grounded Migrants
The return to mild conditions finally allowed a search of some of the traditional Woodcock haunts on the island – the result, a total of 17 birds indicating that a large influx occurred during the recent severe weather. Singles of Treecreeper and Goldcrest amongst 21 Long-tailed Tits were good winter records and 5 Brambling were found.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 106 pale-bellied birds and 7 first-winter Mute Swan dropped in. Waders included 3 Purple Sandpiper and a Greenshank..
Miscellaneous
Raptors were prominent with 4 Short-eared Owl, 4 Merlin, 3 Sparrowhawk, 2 Barn Owl, 2 Hen Harrier, 2 Kestrel and single Common Buzzard, Peregrine and Little Owl all hunting over the island.
Moths
The milder conditions saw the emergence of 6 Winter Moths.
Grounded Migrants
The return to mild conditions finally allowed a search of some of the traditional Woodcock haunts on the island – the result, a total of 17 birds indicating that a large influx occurred during the recent severe weather. Singles of Treecreeper and Goldcrest amongst 21 Long-tailed Tits were good winter records and 5 Brambling were found.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 106 pale-bellied birds and 7 first-winter Mute Swan dropped in. Waders included 3 Purple Sandpiper and a Greenshank..
Miscellaneous
Raptors were prominent with 4 Short-eared Owl, 4 Merlin, 3 Sparrowhawk, 2 Barn Owl, 2 Hen Harrier, 2 Kestrel and single Common Buzzard, Peregrine and Little Owl all hunting over the island.
Moths
The milder conditions saw the emergence of 6 Winter Moths.
Thaw sets in!
10th December 2010 – overcast/rain at times W3
Grounded Migrants
All the frost and snow of the last week has vanished overnight and there was a change to damp westerlies, consequently there were not many birds in evidence early morning with 2 Brambling the pick of the sightings.
Wildfowl and Waders
A party of 8 Shoveler and 2 Greenshank were logged.
Miscellaneous
At least one of yesterdays Hen Harriers remains and 400 Skylark, 100 Twite, 2 Merlin and 2 Little Egret were seen.
Grounded Migrants
All the frost and snow of the last week has vanished overnight and there was a change to damp westerlies, consequently there were not many birds in evidence early morning with 2 Brambling the pick of the sightings.
Wildfowl and Waders
A party of 8 Shoveler and 2 Greenshank were logged.
Miscellaneous
At least one of yesterdays Hen Harriers remains and 400 Skylark, 100 Twite, 2 Merlin and 2 Little Egret were seen.
Hen Harrier influx
9th December 2010 – overcast WNW1/2/3, significantly milder than of late
Offshore
A solitary Shag was the only notable record on the sea.
Grounded Migrants
Further hints of cold weather new arrivals were provided by 20 Brambling, 10 Greenfinch, 10 Chaffinch, 4 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush and single Woodcock and Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
A small skein of 9 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Pintail numbers continue to increase slowly with114 birds logged, also seen were the long-staying Long-tailed Duck and 110 pale-bellied Brent Geese. Waders were led by 8 Purple Sandpiper and 3 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
There are now 3 Hen Harriers on the island with a male and 2 ringtails seen. The flock of 60 Twite were again present and at least 3 Little Egret remain. Several Water Rail continue to see out the freeze.
Images
Mindful of the weather another short ringing session saw several more Brambling trapped in what is a record autumn for numbers caught on the island. The first-winter female shown illustrates the plumage subtleties compared to the more obvious males from yesterday.
Brambling (first-winter female) - plumage differences are more subtle on females than males due to the more subdued feather colouration. However there is a slight contrast evident between the four outermost greater coverts and the inner greater coverts with duller feather centres and whitish not rusty tips. In addition note the darker colouration of the two moulted tertials compared to the washed out appearance of longest unmoulted tertial. The pointed tail feathers and the slight wear to the two central tail feathers are also indicative of a first-winter bird.
Offshore
A solitary Shag was the only notable record on the sea.
Grounded Migrants
Further hints of cold weather new arrivals were provided by 20 Brambling, 10 Greenfinch, 10 Chaffinch, 4 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush and single Woodcock and Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
A small skein of 9 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Pintail numbers continue to increase slowly with114 birds logged, also seen were the long-staying Long-tailed Duck and 110 pale-bellied Brent Geese. Waders were led by 8 Purple Sandpiper and 3 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
There are now 3 Hen Harriers on the island with a male and 2 ringtails seen. The flock of 60 Twite were again present and at least 3 Little Egret remain. Several Water Rail continue to see out the freeze.
Images
Mindful of the weather another short ringing session saw several more Brambling trapped in what is a record autumn for numbers caught on the island. The first-winter female shown illustrates the plumage subtleties compared to the more obvious males from yesterday.
Brambling (first-winter female) - plumage differences are more subtle on females than males due to the more subdued feather colouration. However there is a slight contrast evident between the four outermost greater coverts and the inner greater coverts with duller feather centres and whitish not rusty tips. In addition note the darker colouration of the two moulted tertials compared to the washed out appearance of longest unmoulted tertial. The pointed tail feathers and the slight wear to the two central tail feathers are also indicative of a first-winter bird.
More Brambling and Woodcock
8th December 2010 – bright and frosty/calm
Grounded Migrants
A flock of 50 Brambling and 3 Woodcock were the best of the newly arrived grounded birds which also included small numbers of Fieldfare, Redwing, Song Thrush and Blackbird.
Diurnal Migration
A small skein of 10 Pink-footed Geese were overhead and additional evidence of movement was provided by 10 Skylark and a Rock Pipit.
Miscellaneous
Single Merlin and Little Egret were the best of the rest.
Images
A short ringing session saw several Brambling trapped to continue the good run for this species this autumn, the first adult male of the autumn allowed excellent comparison of plumage subtleties in ageing this species.
Grounded Migrants
A flock of 50 Brambling and 3 Woodcock were the best of the newly arrived grounded birds which also included small numbers of Fieldfare, Redwing, Song Thrush and Blackbird.
Diurnal Migration
A small skein of 10 Pink-footed Geese were overhead and additional evidence of movement was provided by 10 Skylark and a Rock Pipit.
Miscellaneous
Single Merlin and Little Egret were the best of the rest.
Images
A short ringing session saw several Brambling trapped to continue the good run for this species this autumn, the first adult male of the autumn allowed excellent comparison of plumage subtleties in ageing this species.
Brambling (first-winter male) - the three unmoulted brownish outer greater coverts and the primary coverts lack the glossy black appearance of the moulted inner greater coverts, also note the whitish not rusty brown tips to the unmoulted greater coverts and the pointed tail shape and the washed out appearance of the tail feathers.
Brambling (adult male) - the whole wing shows the uniform glossy black appearance with no contrast between the outer webs of the greater coverts and primary coverts while the tail feathers are more rounded in appearance with a more glossy look to the colouration.
Brambling (adult male) - the whole wing shows the uniform glossy black appearance with no contrast between the outer webs of the greater coverts and primary coverts while the tail feathers are more rounded in appearance with a more glossy look to the colouration.
Weather delayed WeBS
7th December 2010 – overnight snow/frost/calm
Wildfowl and Waders
The results of a weather delayed monthly WeBS count involved: 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Little Grebe, 11 Great Crested Grebe, 136 Cormorant, 5 Shag, 5 Little Egret, 8 Grey Heron, 1 Mute Swan, 16 Pink-footed Geese, 14 Greylag Geese, 36 Canada Goose, 110 pale-bellied Brent Goose, 35 Barnacle Goose, 82 Shelduck, 1255 Wigeon, 860 Teal, 151 Mallard, 101 Pintail, 11 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 68 Eider, 1 Long-tailed Duck, 30 Goldeneye, 26 Red-breasted Merganser, 8400 Oystercatcher, 57 Ringed Plover, 222 Golden Plover, 167 Grey Plover, 317 Lapwing, 2255 Knot, 318 Sanderling, 14 Purple Sandpiper, 2880 Dunlin, 78 Snipe, 85 Bar-tailed Godwit, 507 Curlew, 948 Redshank, 10 Greenshank and 293 Turnstone.
While the diversity of waterfowl and wader species to be found on the island at this time of the year is immediately apparent, the figures show that less weather tolerant species such as Shelduck, Lapwing and Golden Plover are much reduced on the expected levels for this time of the year.
Miscellaneous
A ringtail Hen Harrier and the flock of 60 Twite were again seen. Following on from yesterdays theme, several hundred Barrel Jellyfish Rhizostoma octopus were found washed up along a 2 kilometre section of shoreline.
Wildfowl and Waders
The results of a weather delayed monthly WeBS count involved: 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Little Grebe, 11 Great Crested Grebe, 136 Cormorant, 5 Shag, 5 Little Egret, 8 Grey Heron, 1 Mute Swan, 16 Pink-footed Geese, 14 Greylag Geese, 36 Canada Goose, 110 pale-bellied Brent Goose, 35 Barnacle Goose, 82 Shelduck, 1255 Wigeon, 860 Teal, 151 Mallard, 101 Pintail, 11 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 68 Eider, 1 Long-tailed Duck, 30 Goldeneye, 26 Red-breasted Merganser, 8400 Oystercatcher, 57 Ringed Plover, 222 Golden Plover, 167 Grey Plover, 317 Lapwing, 2255 Knot, 318 Sanderling, 14 Purple Sandpiper, 2880 Dunlin, 78 Snipe, 85 Bar-tailed Godwit, 507 Curlew, 948 Redshank, 10 Greenshank and 293 Turnstone.
While the diversity of waterfowl and wader species to be found on the island at this time of the year is immediately apparent, the figures show that less weather tolerant species such as Shelduck, Lapwing and Golden Plover are much reduced on the expected levels for this time of the year.
Miscellaneous
A ringtail Hen Harrier and the flock of 60 Twite were again seen. Following on from yesterdays theme, several hundred Barrel Jellyfish Rhizostoma octopus were found washed up along a 2 kilometre section of shoreline.
Fog 1 Birding 0
6th December 2010 – Freezing Fog E1
Wildfowl and Waders
The island was enveloped in freezing fog for much of the day producing low visibility and freezing temperatures. A flock of 30 pale-bellied Brent Geese, 70 Pintail and a Greenshank appeared out of the gloom
Miscellaneous
The flock of 60 Twite were seen and 3 Rock Pipit fed along the tideline with 30 Skylark and 15 Reed Bunting. At least 4 Little Egret remain.
Late News
A Leatherback Turtle was seen offshore from a boat transferring staff to the wind farms on 2nd September 2010.
Images
Leatherback Turtle and a frozen Walney at midday!
Wildfowl and Waders
The island was enveloped in freezing fog for much of the day producing low visibility and freezing temperatures. A flock of 30 pale-bellied Brent Geese, 70 Pintail and a Greenshank appeared out of the gloom
Miscellaneous
The flock of 60 Twite were seen and 3 Rock Pipit fed along the tideline with 30 Skylark and 15 Reed Bunting. At least 4 Little Egret remain.
Late News
A Leatherback Turtle was seen offshore from a boat transferring staff to the wind farms on 2nd September 2010.
Images
Leatherback Turtle and a frozen Walney at midday!
Starling brings up the 2000
5th December 2010 – bright and sunny with early morning frost/calm
Offshore
Again relatively quiet over the sea with 5 Shag and 2 Red-throated Diver the pick of the sightings.
Grounded Migrants
An early morning gaggle of 16 Pink-footed Geese were the only evidence of grounded birds..
Diurnal Migration
Still some small scale movement in evidence with 55 Pink-footed Geese, 36 Skylark, 11 Chaffinch, 7 Brambling and single Whooper Swan and Mute Swan logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck and 28 Barnacle Geese remain while waders included 9 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl attracted the attentions of the local Carrion Crows.
Ringing
A Starling was the 2000th bird trapped and ringed on the island by the observatory during 2010.
Images
Early morning Pink-footed Geese.
Offshore
Again relatively quiet over the sea with 5 Shag and 2 Red-throated Diver the pick of the sightings.
Grounded Migrants
An early morning gaggle of 16 Pink-footed Geese were the only evidence of grounded birds..
Diurnal Migration
Still some small scale movement in evidence with 55 Pink-footed Geese, 36 Skylark, 11 Chaffinch, 7 Brambling and single Whooper Swan and Mute Swan logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck and 28 Barnacle Geese remain while waders included 9 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl attracted the attentions of the local Carrion Crows.
Ringing
A Starling was the 2000th bird trapped and ringed on the island by the observatory during 2010.
Images
Early morning Pink-footed Geese.
A hint of cold weather movement
4th December 2010 – early frost then overcast/calm
Offshore
A group of 5 Shag was the best that the sea could muster.
Grounded Migrants
Two Woodcock were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
Some evidence of movement with 42 Skylark, 10 Chaffinch, 5 Brambling, 2 Siskin and a Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
A further wildfowl influx saw 550 Teal and 11 Shoveler seen. The Long-tailed Duck remains amongst 30 Goldeneye and 21 Red-breasted Merganser. The Brent Goose flock increased to 110 pale-bellied birds and the 28 Barnacle Geese remain. Waders included 5 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Merlin, a Short-eared Owl and 60 Twite remain.
Ringing
Amongst the Brent Goose flock were several colour-ringed birds, including N4WW which was ringed at Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland on 16th October 2007 and has been seen on Walney Island each winter since.
Images
Woodcock and Brambling – the good autumn passage for this species continues.
Offshore
A group of 5 Shag was the best that the sea could muster.
Grounded Migrants
Two Woodcock were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
Some evidence of movement with 42 Skylark, 10 Chaffinch, 5 Brambling, 2 Siskin and a Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
A further wildfowl influx saw 550 Teal and 11 Shoveler seen. The Long-tailed Duck remains amongst 30 Goldeneye and 21 Red-breasted Merganser. The Brent Goose flock increased to 110 pale-bellied birds and the 28 Barnacle Geese remain. Waders included 5 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Merlin, a Short-eared Owl and 60 Twite remain.
Ringing
Amongst the Brent Goose flock were several colour-ringed birds, including N4WW which was ringed at Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland on 16th October 2007 and has been seen on Walney Island each winter since.
Images
Woodcock and Brambling – the good autumn passage for this species continues.
Hen Harriers and Short-eared Owls!
3rd December 2010 – hard frost then overcast/snow by evening E1 then S4
Grounded Migrants
Despite the weather there was little evidence of any hard weather movement with a single Siskin the only record of note.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 120 Pink-footed Geese flew south.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and a solitary Greenshank was logged.
Miscellaneous
Two ringtail Hen Harriers and at least 2 Short-eared Owls hunted the island and a minimum of 6 Little Egret continue to see out the freeze. A flock of 100 Twite were seen.
Grounded Migrants
Despite the weather there was little evidence of any hard weather movement with a single Siskin the only record of note.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 120 Pink-footed Geese flew south.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and a solitary Greenshank was logged.
Miscellaneous
Two ringtail Hen Harriers and at least 2 Short-eared Owls hunted the island and a minimum of 6 Little Egret continue to see out the freeze. A flock of 100 Twite were seen.
Continental Goldfinch?
30th November 2010 – cold with a light sprinkling of snow overnight NE3/4
Ringing
Following on from a record breaking October, the dedication of the small ringing team again produced fitting rewards with another excellent monthly ringing total involving 291 birds of 18 species trapped and ringed on the island during November. Individual species totals involved Goldfinch (97), Greenfinch (57), Chaffinch (33), Blackbird (27), Tree Sparrow (18), House Sparrow (15), Long-tailed Tit (12), Song Thrush (9), Wren (5), Starling (5), Dunnock (4), Robin (2), Brambling (2), Goldcrest (1), Blackcap (1), Lesser Redpoll (1), Sparrowhawk (1) and Twite (1). This number has only been surpassed once before when 307 birds were captured in 1983 when totals were dominated by a heavy Greenfinch passage which account for over half the birds caught.
Amongst the birds caught this month was a male Goldfinch with a wing length of 85mm and a weight of 19.6g. This would appear to be the easily the largest Goldfinch ever caught on Walney Island with the biometrics suggesting it may have been of the continental race Carduelis carduelis carduelis from northern, central and southeast Europe which averages larger than the British race Carduelis carduelis britannica.
In Sweden wing measurements for males vary from 76-89mm and Britain 76-82mm (Svennsson 1992) while measurements on British ringed birds average 79.3mm (76-82mm n16530) with an average weight of 16.1g (14.3-18.1g n12823) (BTO Ringing Scheme Data 2005).
Ringing
Following on from a record breaking October, the dedication of the small ringing team again produced fitting rewards with another excellent monthly ringing total involving 291 birds of 18 species trapped and ringed on the island during November. Individual species totals involved Goldfinch (97), Greenfinch (57), Chaffinch (33), Blackbird (27), Tree Sparrow (18), House Sparrow (15), Long-tailed Tit (12), Song Thrush (9), Wren (5), Starling (5), Dunnock (4), Robin (2), Brambling (2), Goldcrest (1), Blackcap (1), Lesser Redpoll (1), Sparrowhawk (1) and Twite (1). This number has only been surpassed once before when 307 birds were captured in 1983 when totals were dominated by a heavy Greenfinch passage which account for over half the birds caught.
Amongst the birds caught this month was a male Goldfinch with a wing length of 85mm and a weight of 19.6g. This would appear to be the easily the largest Goldfinch ever caught on Walney Island with the biometrics suggesting it may have been of the continental race Carduelis carduelis carduelis from northern, central and southeast Europe which averages larger than the British race Carduelis carduelis britannica.
In Sweden wing measurements for males vary from 76-89mm and Britain 76-82mm (Svennsson 1992) while measurements on British ringed birds average 79.3mm (76-82mm n16530) with an average weight of 16.1g (14.3-18.1g n12823) (BTO Ringing Scheme Data 2005).
Barnacle Geese origins revealed
29th November 2010 – cold and frosty with another light dusting of snow, NE1/2
Ringing
The results of the darvic ringed Barnacle Geese whose colour ring sequences were read over the weekend are already in – thanks are due to the prompt response from Larry Griffin at The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust. ZAA and ZFD are male and female birds ringed on 31st July 2008 as adults on the Nordenskioldkytsten coast in Sptisbergen (3600km NNE). They were seen a couple of times at Caerlaverock, Dumfries and Galloway on the Scottish side of the Solway last winter, and appear to be a pair, last being seen on 12th February 2010. CXL on the other hand was ringed on the Solway on 3rd November 2006 as a first-winter female and was last seen last winter on 11th March 2010 at Caerlaverock, Dumfries and Galloway.
Ringing
The results of the darvic ringed Barnacle Geese whose colour ring sequences were read over the weekend are already in – thanks are due to the prompt response from Larry Griffin at The Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust. ZAA and ZFD are male and female birds ringed on 31st July 2008 as adults on the Nordenskioldkytsten coast in Sptisbergen (3600km NNE). They were seen a couple of times at Caerlaverock, Dumfries and Galloway on the Scottish side of the Solway last winter, and appear to be a pair, last being seen on 12th February 2010. CXL on the other hand was ringed on the Solway on 3rd November 2006 as a first-winter female and was last seen last winter on 11th March 2010 at Caerlaverock, Dumfries and Galloway.
Winter Wonderland!
28th November 2010 – bright and frosty with another early dusting of snow SE3/2/1
Offshore
The group of 14 Shags remained and the Slavonian Grebe was off the sheltered eastern shore.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 220 Pink-footed Geese headed south in 2 skeins.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and the long-staying flock of 28 Barnacle Geese held a dark-bellied Brent Goose.
Miscellaneous
A further decline in the numbers of Little Egret present was apparent with just 17 birds found along the eastern shore of the island – presumably others have headed for warmer climes.
Images
Early morning winter wonderland and Snipe
Offshore
The group of 14 Shags remained and the Slavonian Grebe was off the sheltered eastern shore.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 220 Pink-footed Geese headed south in 2 skeins.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and the long-staying flock of 28 Barnacle Geese held a dark-bellied Brent Goose.
Miscellaneous
A further decline in the numbers of Little Egret present was apparent with just 17 birds found along the eastern shore of the island – presumably others have headed for warmer climes.
Images
Early morning winter wonderland and Snipe
Quality rather than quantity!
27th November 2010 – bright and frosty with an early dusting of snow NNE4/3/2
Offshore
The now seemingly resident group of Shags off the maritime coast increased to 14 birds and a Slavonian Grebe was off the sheltered eastern shore.
Grounded Migrants
A Long-eared Owl was the only obvious evidence of cold weather movement.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 185 Pink-footed Geese headed south in 3 skeins.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and the long-staying flock of 28 Barnacle Geese held a dark-bellied Brent Goose. The pale-bellied Brent Goose flock contained 98 birds.
Miscellaneous
The recent cold snap seems to have reduced the numbers of Little Egret with just 29 birds found along the eastern shore of the island on the flooding tide.
Ringing
The flock of Barnacle Geese held 3 darvic ringed individuals, initial enquires suggest they are part of the Svalbard population and had been ringed on the Solway.
Images
Twite
Offshore
The now seemingly resident group of Shags off the maritime coast increased to 14 birds and a Slavonian Grebe was off the sheltered eastern shore.
Grounded Migrants
A Long-eared Owl was the only obvious evidence of cold weather movement.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 185 Pink-footed Geese headed south in 3 skeins.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and the long-staying flock of 28 Barnacle Geese held a dark-bellied Brent Goose. The pale-bellied Brent Goose flock contained 98 birds.
Miscellaneous
The recent cold snap seems to have reduced the numbers of Little Egret with just 29 birds found along the eastern shore of the island on the flooding tide.
Ringing
The flock of Barnacle Geese held 3 darvic ringed individuals, initial enquires suggest they are part of the Svalbard population and had been ringed on the Solway.
Images
Twite
The few continue to trickle through
26th November 2010 – cold and frosty E1
Offshore
A quick check over the sea revealed just a single Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
Early morning produced a further trickle of birds with 14 Greenfinch, 12 Chaffinch, 8 Whooper Swan, 3 Mute Swan, 3 Siskin and a Rock Pipit logged.
Miscellaneous
Two Raven included the returning colour-ringed individual and several flocks of Twite totalling 81 birds were seen.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea revealed just a single Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
Early morning produced a further trickle of birds with 14 Greenfinch, 12 Chaffinch, 8 Whooper Swan, 3 Mute Swan, 3 Siskin and a Rock Pipit logged.
Miscellaneous
Two Raven included the returning colour-ringed individual and several flocks of Twite totalling 81 birds were seen.
Water Pipit influx
25th November 2010 – early frost then cold and sunny N3/4
Rarities
There were 4 Water Pipit and 2 Rock Pipit amongst a flock of 35 Meadow Pipit in the flooded fields and horse paddocks along Biggar Bank. Please view only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning sightings on the rising tide (0845-0945) produced 16 Red-breasted Merganser, 6 Red-throated Diver, 6 Razorbill, 5 Common Scoter, 2 Kittiwake and a late Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Single Mistle Thrush and Brambling were leftovers from earlier in the week.
Diurnal Migration
Early morning produced 3 Whooper Swan and a Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 100 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
Raptors were led by a Common Buzzard and also included Little Owl, Peregrine and Merlin while a Raven was logged.
Rarities
There were 4 Water Pipit and 2 Rock Pipit amongst a flock of 35 Meadow Pipit in the flooded fields and horse paddocks along Biggar Bank. Please view only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning sightings on the rising tide (0845-0945) produced 16 Red-breasted Merganser, 6 Red-throated Diver, 6 Razorbill, 5 Common Scoter, 2 Kittiwake and a late Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Single Mistle Thrush and Brambling were leftovers from earlier in the week.
Diurnal Migration
Early morning produced 3 Whooper Swan and a Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 100 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
Raptors were led by a Common Buzzard and also included Little Owl, Peregrine and Merlin while a Raven was logged.
Late autumn trickle continues
24th November 2010 – early frost then sunny N1
Offshore
A small flock of 10 Common Scoter was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded thrushes involved a handful of Blackbird and Song Thrush and a single Chiffchaff was recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Early morning produced 9 Chaffinch, 4 Greenfinch, 2 Brambling and single Whooper Swan, Siskin and Stock Dove – the latter an increasingly rare sight on the island.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck and at least 79 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain. The hardest frost of the winter so far saw an influx in dabbling duck including 350 Teal and 52 Pintail.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included Little Owl, Peregrine and Merlin and a Water Rail was logged.
Images
Brambling – it has been a good autumn for this species.
Offshore
A small flock of 10 Common Scoter was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded thrushes involved a handful of Blackbird and Song Thrush and a single Chiffchaff was recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Early morning produced 9 Chaffinch, 4 Greenfinch, 2 Brambling and single Whooper Swan, Siskin and Stock Dove – the latter an increasingly rare sight on the island.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck and at least 79 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain. The hardest frost of the winter so far saw an influx in dabbling duck including 350 Teal and 52 Pintail.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included Little Owl, Peregrine and Merlin and a Water Rail was logged.
Images
Brambling – it has been a good autumn for this species.
Willow Warbler continues to linger
23rd November 2010 – sunny spells N1/2
Grounded Migrants
The Willow Warbler – the latest ever recorded – continues to linger.
Diurnal Migration
A light early morning movement consisted of 5 Siskin, 5 Greenfinch, 3 Tree Sparrow, 2 Redpoll, 2 Rock Pipit and 2 Chaffinch.
Wildfowl and Waders
A further increase in the size of the Brent Goose flock was noted with 102 pale-bellied birds present.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail and 8 Twite were seen.
Moths
The moth trap provided Winter Moth and Chestnut the first attractions since the beginning of the month.
Grounded Migrants
The Willow Warbler – the latest ever recorded – continues to linger.
Diurnal Migration
A light early morning movement consisted of 5 Siskin, 5 Greenfinch, 3 Tree Sparrow, 2 Redpoll, 2 Rock Pipit and 2 Chaffinch.
Wildfowl and Waders
A further increase in the size of the Brent Goose flock was noted with 102 pale-bellied birds present.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail and 8 Twite were seen.
Moths
The moth trap provided Winter Moth and Chestnut the first attractions since the beginning of the month.
Another Snow Bunting flies through
22nd November 2010 – sunny spells NE1/2
Grounded Migrants
A Mistle Thrush was the only candidate for newly arrived grounded birds.
Diurnal Migration
Still evidence of some movement early morning with 50 Jackdaw, 10 Chaffinch, 8 Greenfinch, 5 Siskin, 2 Meadow Pipit and a Snow Bunting logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
An overnight influx saw the Brent Goose flock increase to 81 pale-bellied birds. Other sightings included 1200 Golden Plover, 32 Pintail and 16 Purple Sandpiper.
Grounded Migrants
A Mistle Thrush was the only candidate for newly arrived grounded birds.
Diurnal Migration
Still evidence of some movement early morning with 50 Jackdaw, 10 Chaffinch, 8 Greenfinch, 5 Siskin, 2 Meadow Pipit and a Snow Bunting logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
An overnight influx saw the Brent Goose flock increase to 81 pale-bellied birds. Other sightings included 1200 Golden Plover, 32 Pintail and 16 Purple Sandpiper.
Hen Harrier puts in another appearance!
21st November 2010 – sunny spells and showers NE1/2
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit remains in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
A group of 10 Shag was the pick of the sightings.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a Fieldfare and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Seven Tree Sparrow and 2 Lesser Redpoll were the only obvious evidence of visible migration.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 62 pale-bellied Brent Geese were logged, the Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and 4 Whooper Swan and 8 Greenshank were seen
Miscellaneous
A total of 50 Twite were seen and raptors included a ringtail Hen Harrier, Peregrine and 2 Little Owl.
Image
Lesser Redpoll
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit remains in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
A group of 10 Shag was the pick of the sightings.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a Fieldfare and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Seven Tree Sparrow and 2 Lesser Redpoll were the only obvious evidence of visible migration.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 62 pale-bellied Brent Geese were logged, the Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and 4 Whooper Swan and 8 Greenshank were seen
Miscellaneous
A total of 50 Twite were seen and raptors included a ringtail Hen Harrier, Peregrine and 2 Little Owl.
Image
Lesser Redpoll
Snow Bunting and a late Wheatear
20th November 2010 – bright and sunny NE2/1
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit remains in the fields along Biggar Bank.
Offshore
Observations provided 87 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill, 3 Shag and 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 7 Blackbird, 5 Song Thrush and 2 Fieldfare. Also seen were 2 Goldcrest, a Chiffchaff and a late Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of birds remain on the move with 35 Pink-footed Geese, 20 Meadow Pipit, 15 Jackdaw, 7 Siskin, 2 Brambling, 2 Rock Pipit and a Snow Bunting logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and 11 Greenshank were seen
Miscellaneous
A total of 140 Twite were seen and raptors included 3 Merlin, 3 Sparrowhawk, Peregrine and a day-flying Barn Owl. Two Raven tussled with 8 Carrion Crow and 2 Water Rail were heard. Several flocks of Long-tailed Tit and a Great Spotted Woodpecker were the best of the rest.
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit remains in the fields along Biggar Bank.
Offshore
Observations provided 87 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill, 3 Shag and 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 7 Blackbird, 5 Song Thrush and 2 Fieldfare. Also seen were 2 Goldcrest, a Chiffchaff and a late Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of birds remain on the move with 35 Pink-footed Geese, 20 Meadow Pipit, 15 Jackdaw, 7 Siskin, 2 Brambling, 2 Rock Pipit and a Snow Bunting logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and 11 Greenshank were seen
Miscellaneous
A total of 140 Twite were seen and raptors included 3 Merlin, 3 Sparrowhawk, Peregrine and a day-flying Barn Owl. Two Raven tussled with 8 Carrion Crow and 2 Water Rail were heard. Several flocks of Long-tailed Tit and a Great Spotted Woodpecker were the best of the rest.
Black Redstart finally added to year list
19th November 2010 – early mist then sunny E2/1
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope remains in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank for its seventh day Also on the same flood today was at least one Water Pipit. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Grounded Migrants
A small hint of movement today was led by a Black Redstart, also seen were 3 Song Thrush, 3 Blackbird, 2 Blackcap and a Goldcrest.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
The post-roost gathering of Little Egret contained 43 birds. A Barn Owl was seen hunting at dusk and 100 Twite remain.
Images
Black Redstart
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope remains in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank for its seventh day Also on the same flood today was at least one Water Pipit. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Grounded Migrants
A small hint of movement today was led by a Black Redstart, also seen were 3 Song Thrush, 3 Blackbird, 2 Blackcap and a Goldcrest.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
The post-roost gathering of Little Egret contained 43 birds. A Barn Owl was seen hunting at dusk and 100 Twite remain.
Images
Black Redstart
Grey Phalarope continues to linger
18th November 2010 - rain E5/4/3
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope was again on floodwater in the fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted over the fields at dusk.
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope was again on floodwater in the fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted over the fields at dusk.
More colour-ringed Twite
17th November 2010 – rain SE4/5/6
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope was again in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Miscellaneous
Dusk saw a pre-roost gathering of 42 Little Egret.
Ringing
A total of 100 Twite in several small groups included at least three colour-ringed birds originating from Machrihanish (2) and Heysham (1).
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope was again in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Miscellaneous
Dusk saw a pre-roost gathering of 42 Little Egret.
Ringing
A total of 100 Twite in several small groups included at least three colour-ringed birds originating from Machrihanish (2) and Heysham (1).
Grey Phalarope still
16th November 2010 – misty/murky start E2
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope was again in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope was again in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Grey Phalarope remains
15th November 2010 – early frost then sunny spells E1/2
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope was still in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Miscellaneous
A pre-roost gathering of Little Egret contained 45 birds.
Ringing
The colour-ringed Raven, originally ringed as a nestling at Sandside, Cumbria during 2005, has returned to the island for its second winter
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope was still in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Miscellaneous
A pre-roost gathering of Little Egret contained 45 birds.
Ringing
The colour-ringed Raven, originally ringed as a nestling at Sandside, Cumbria during 2005, has returned to the island for its second winter
Grey Phalarope and Long-tailed Duck
14th November 2010 – sunny spells and showers N2/3
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope remained in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank throughout the day. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations saw an influx of Shag with 10 birds logged, also seen were small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 5 Blackbird, 4 Redwing and single Fieldfare and Song Thrush. The long-staying Willow Warbler is still present and becomes the latest ever seen on the island.
Diurnal Migration
A small skein of 9 Pink-footed Geese was the sole noteworthy record.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Barnacle Goose flock held at least 20 individuals with at least 3 birds sporting darvic colour-ring, frustratingly to distant to read. The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 100 birds and 2 Raven again squabbled with 5 Carrion Crow over dead carrion.
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope remained in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank throughout the day. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations saw an influx of Shag with 10 birds logged, also seen were small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 5 Blackbird, 4 Redwing and single Fieldfare and Song Thrush. The long-staying Willow Warbler is still present and becomes the latest ever seen on the island.
Diurnal Migration
A small skein of 9 Pink-footed Geese was the sole noteworthy record.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Barnacle Goose flock held at least 20 individuals with at least 3 birds sporting darvic colour-ring, frustratingly to distant to read. The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 100 birds and 2 Raven again squabbled with 5 Carrion Crow over dead carrion.
Second Grey Phalarope of the autumn
13th November 2010 – sunny spells and showers W4/3
Rarities
The day after the storms provided better viewing conditions and a Grey Phalarope was quickly located in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0745-0845 & 0945-1045) produced totals of105 Kittiwake, 40 Common Gull, 13 Common Scoter, 5 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver and single juvenile Arctic Skua and adult Little Gull.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by a single Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Limited to 15 Jackdaw and a Raven.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained just 7 pale-bellied individuals.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 100 birds and 2 Raven squabbled with 5 Carrion Crow over dead carrion.
Rarities
The day after the storms provided better viewing conditions and a Grey Phalarope was quickly located in the flooded fields along Biggar Bank. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0745-0845 & 0945-1045) produced totals of105 Kittiwake, 40 Common Gull, 13 Common Scoter, 5 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver and single juvenile Arctic Skua and adult Little Gull.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by a single Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Limited to 15 Jackdaw and a Raven.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained just 7 pale-bellied individuals.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 100 birds and 2 Raven squabbled with 5 Carrion Crow over dead carrion.
Great Skua
12th November 2010 – sunny spells W7/8
Offshore
The winds gusting to severe gale made for a spectacular seascape, however, seabirds were thin on the ground with a single Great Skua the pick of the sightings which were otherwise limited to 15 Kittiwake, 9 Razorbill and a Shag.
Offshore
The winds gusting to severe gale made for a spectacular seascape, however, seabirds were thin on the ground with a single Great Skua the pick of the sightings which were otherwise limited to 15 Kittiwake, 9 Razorbill and a Shag.
Greenshank origins revealed
11th November 2010 – heavy showers WSW 6/7/8/9
Offshore
A Great Skua hurtled into Morecambe Bay, but nothing else was seen over a very rough sea.
Grounded Migrants
Two Fieldfare were the only birds of note.
Ringing
The colour-ringed Greenshank recorded on the island between 4th and 20th October 2010 had been ringed on passage at Montrose Basin, Scotland on 13th August 2010.
Offshore
A Great Skua hurtled into Morecambe Bay, but nothing else was seen over a very rough sea.
Grounded Migrants
Two Fieldfare were the only birds of note.
Ringing
The colour-ringed Greenshank recorded on the island between 4th and 20th October 2010 had been ringed on passage at Montrose Basin, Scotland on 13th August 2010.
Good autumn passage of Tree Sparrow and Brambling continues
10th November 2010 – bright and sunny/early frost N1
Grounded Migrants
Grounded thrushes today involved 26 Blackbird and 4 Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds took advantage of the first decent day in a while with 130 Jackdaw, 12 Greenfinch, 10 Chaffinch, 5 Tree Sparrow, 2 Siskin, 2 Brambling and single Whooper Swan, Redpoll and Rock Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held just 11 pale-bellied birds and a small influx of Pintail saw 29 birds present.
Miscellaneous
A pair of Raven, 10 Twite and single Merlin and Water Rail were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded thrushes today involved 26 Blackbird and 4 Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds took advantage of the first decent day in a while with 130 Jackdaw, 12 Greenfinch, 10 Chaffinch, 5 Tree Sparrow, 2 Siskin, 2 Brambling and single Whooper Swan, Redpoll and Rock Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held just 11 pale-bellied birds and a small influx of Pintail saw 29 birds present.
Miscellaneous
A pair of Raven, 10 Twite and single Merlin and Water Rail were logged.
First Woodcock of the autumn
9th November 2010 – sunshine and showers NE5/6/7
Grounded Migrants
Grounded thrushes involved 10 Blackbird and single Redwing, Song Thrush and Fieldfare.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Woodcock of the autumn was logged and the Brent Goose flock held 53 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
A pair of Raven and 10 Twite were seen.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded thrushes involved 10 Blackbird and single Redwing, Song Thrush and Fieldfare.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Woodcock of the autumn was logged and the Brent Goose flock held 53 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
A pair of Raven and 10 Twite were seen.
Little Egret reveals origins
8th November 2010 – heavy rain SE5/6/7
Wildfowl and Waders
Results of the monthly WeBS count for the island included totals of 208 Shelduck, 1,287 Wigeon, 342 Teal, 26 Red-breasted Merganser, 10,471 Oystercatcher, 1,500 Golden Plover, 277 Grey Plover, 1,036 Lapwing, 202 Sanderling, 2,637 Dunlin, 1,048 Curlew, 2,215 Redshank and 256 Turnstone.
Ringing
Details have just been received of the first of the colour-ringed Little Egrets to be seen on the island earlier in the autumn – it had been rung as a nestling in North Wales on 7th June 2010 and was relocated on the island on 30th August 2010.
Wildfowl and Waders
Results of the monthly WeBS count for the island included totals of 208 Shelduck, 1,287 Wigeon, 342 Teal, 26 Red-breasted Merganser, 10,471 Oystercatcher, 1,500 Golden Plover, 277 Grey Plover, 1,036 Lapwing, 202 Sanderling, 2,637 Dunlin, 1,048 Curlew, 2,215 Redshank and 256 Turnstone.
Ringing
Details have just been received of the first of the colour-ringed Little Egrets to be seen on the island earlier in the autumn – it had been rung as a nestling in North Wales on 7th June 2010 and was relocated on the island on 30th August 2010.
Long-tailed Duck & Snow Buntings
7th November 2010 – bright and sunny NE1 then S2
Offshore
A single Great Skua harassing 20,000 Herring Gulls feeding on a large wreck of starfish and a Shag and Gannet were the pick of the sightings over the sea.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved: 21 Redwing, 15 Blackbird, 4 Fieldfare and 4 Song Thrush. The lingering Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff both remain in residence. A Snow Bunting was found at the northern tipof the island.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of birds were again on the move early morning with 142 Jackdaw, 151 Pink-footed Geese, 40 Starling, 14 Skylark, 12 Meadow Pipit, 22 Whooper Swan, 7 Carrion Crow, 4 Siskin, 4 alba Wagtail, 2 Brambling, 2 Rock Pipit and single Snow Bunting, Redpoll and Rook.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck and flock of 24 Barnacle Geese remain. Waders included 16 Greenshank, 6 Purple Sandpiper and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A flocks of 70 and 22 Twite put in a brief appearances and 2 Raven were seen. Raptors included Barn Owl, Little Owl and Merlin.
Butterflies
A Red Admiral was still on the wing.
Offshore
A single Great Skua harassing 20,000 Herring Gulls feeding on a large wreck of starfish and a Shag and Gannet were the pick of the sightings over the sea.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved: 21 Redwing, 15 Blackbird, 4 Fieldfare and 4 Song Thrush. The lingering Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff both remain in residence. A Snow Bunting was found at the northern tipof the island.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of birds were again on the move early morning with 142 Jackdaw, 151 Pink-footed Geese, 40 Starling, 14 Skylark, 12 Meadow Pipit, 22 Whooper Swan, 7 Carrion Crow, 4 Siskin, 4 alba Wagtail, 2 Brambling, 2 Rock Pipit and single Snow Bunting, Redpoll and Rook.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck and flock of 24 Barnacle Geese remain. Waders included 16 Greenshank, 6 Purple Sandpiper and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A flocks of 70 and 22 Twite put in a brief appearances and 2 Raven were seen. Raptors included Barn Owl, Little Owl and Merlin.
Butterflies
A Red Admiral was still on the wing.
Images
Snow Bunting
Willow Warbler continues to linger!
6th November 2010 – sunny spells N1
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 4 Blackbird, 4 Redwing, 2 Fieldfare and a Song Thrush. The lingering Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff remain.
Diurnal Migration
The calm conditions saw small numbers of birds on the move including: 80 Pink-footed Geese, 30 Greenfinch, 23 Tree Sparrow, 20 Meadow Pipit, 15 Skylark, 10 Jackdaw, 8 Whooper Swan, 2 Raven and single Brambling and Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The flock of 65 Twite were seen and raptors included Little Owl, Peregrine and Merlin.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 4 Blackbird, 4 Redwing, 2 Fieldfare and a Song Thrush. The lingering Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff remain.
Diurnal Migration
The calm conditions saw small numbers of birds on the move including: 80 Pink-footed Geese, 30 Greenfinch, 23 Tree Sparrow, 20 Meadow Pipit, 15 Skylark, 10 Jackdaw, 8 Whooper Swan, 2 Raven and single Brambling and Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The flock of 65 Twite were seen and raptors included Little Owl, Peregrine and Merlin.
Water Pipit remains
5th November 2010 – overcast/rain soon SW4
Rarities
The Water Pipit was still present over the high tide period in the favoured flooded roadside fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Just small numbers of Razorbill and Kittiwake were seen.
Grounded Migrants
Three Fieldfare were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pale-bellied Brent Goose flock held just 10 birds.
Miscellaneous
At least 55 Little Egrets continue to stalk the eastern shore of the island, a total of 65 Twite were logged, including the colour-ringed individual from Machrihanish, at least 12 Rock Pipit are now present.
Rarities
The Water Pipit was still present over the high tide period in the favoured flooded roadside fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Just small numbers of Razorbill and Kittiwake were seen.
Grounded Migrants
Three Fieldfare were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pale-bellied Brent Goose flock held just 10 birds.
Miscellaneous
At least 55 Little Egrets continue to stalk the eastern shore of the island, a total of 65 Twite were logged, including the colour-ringed individual from Machrihanish, at least 12 Rock Pipit are now present.
First Water Pipit returns
4th November 2010 – overcast/rain later SW5/6
Rarities
A Water Pipit was present over the high tide period in the favoured flooded roadside fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Observations on the falling tide (1100-1200) saw a Leach’s Petrel and 2 adult Little Gull battling their way out of Morecambe Bay amongst 42 Kittiwake. Also seen were 2 Shag and small numbers of Razorbill and Common Scoter. A Slavonian Grebe fed along the eastern shore in the sheltered waters off Rape Haw.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 11 Fieldfare were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pale-bellied Brent Goose flock has increased to 59 birds.
Miscellaneous
The 60 Little Egrets continue to stalk the eastern shore of the island and 6 Twite and a Merlin were logged.
Image
Water Pipit record shot
Rarities
A Water Pipit was present over the high tide period in the favoured flooded roadside fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Observations on the falling tide (1100-1200) saw a Leach’s Petrel and 2 adult Little Gull battling their way out of Morecambe Bay amongst 42 Kittiwake. Also seen were 2 Shag and small numbers of Razorbill and Common Scoter. A Slavonian Grebe fed along the eastern shore in the sheltered waters off Rape Haw.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 11 Fieldfare were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pale-bellied Brent Goose flock has increased to 59 birds.
Miscellaneous
The 60 Little Egrets continue to stalk the eastern shore of the island and 6 Twite and a Merlin were logged.
Image
Water Pipit record shot
Record numbers of Little Egret
3rd November 2010 – overcast/showers W4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 27 Razorbill, 17 Common Scoter, 3 Red-throated Diver and a Kittiwake.
Miscellaneous
There are now 60 Little Egret among the mudflats and salt marsh along the island’s eastern shore.
Image
Colour-ringed Little Egret – one of eight identified so far amongst the large numbers of Little Egret on the island this autumn.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 27 Razorbill, 17 Common Scoter, 3 Red-throated Diver and a Kittiwake.
Miscellaneous
There are now 60 Little Egret among the mudflats and salt marsh along the island’s eastern shore.
Image
Colour-ringed Little Egret – one of eight identified so far amongst the large numbers of Little Egret on the island this autumn.
Arctic Skua
2nd November 2010 – overcast/rain soon SW4/5/6
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced a pale phase Arctic Skua and a late Gannet amongst small numbers of Common Scoter, Red-throated Diver, Razorbill and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to single Mistle Thrush and Brambling
Miscellaneous
At least 51 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore of the island
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced a pale phase Arctic Skua and a late Gannet amongst small numbers of Common Scoter, Red-throated Diver, Razorbill and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to single Mistle Thrush and Brambling
Miscellaneous
At least 51 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore of the island
November Willow Warbler!
1st November 2010 – sunny spells/calm then S3/4 rain later
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 18 Blackbird, 4 Song Thrush, 2 Fieldfare and single Redwing and Mistle Thrush. Additional sightings included a Chiffchaff and a late Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Calm conditions early morning saw a few birds on the move with 180 Pink-footed Geese, 100 Jackdaw, 55 Starling, 25 Greenfinch, 22 Tree Sparrow, 16 Meadow Pipit, 10 Carrion Crow, 4 Reed Bunting, 3 Redpoll and single Brambling, Siskin, Little Egret and Collared Dove.
Wildfowl and Waders
The flock of 26 Barnacle Geese remain.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 70 birds, 2 Raven were seen and a Water Rail squealed.
Moths
Angle Shades, Large Wainscot and Dark Swordgrass were the only species attracted to the moth trap overnight.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 18 Blackbird, 4 Song Thrush, 2 Fieldfare and single Redwing and Mistle Thrush. Additional sightings included a Chiffchaff and a late Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Calm conditions early morning saw a few birds on the move with 180 Pink-footed Geese, 100 Jackdaw, 55 Starling, 25 Greenfinch, 22 Tree Sparrow, 16 Meadow Pipit, 10 Carrion Crow, 4 Reed Bunting, 3 Redpoll and single Brambling, Siskin, Little Egret and Collared Dove.
Wildfowl and Waders
The flock of 26 Barnacle Geese remain.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 70 birds, 2 Raven were seen and a Water Rail squealed.
Moths
Angle Shades, Large Wainscot and Dark Swordgrass were the only species attracted to the moth trap overnight.
Mealy Redpoll provides surprise
31st October 2010 – overcast with early rain
Rarities
A Mealy Redpoll was trapped and ringed.
Grounded Migrants
An increase in grounded birds overnight saw 20 Greenfinch, 10 Blackbird, 10 Chaffinch and single Great Spotted Woodpecker, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler and Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included 750 Jackdaw, 560 Starling, 335 Pink-footed Geese, 58 Whooper Swan, 35 Tree Sparrow, 16 Meadow Pipit, 12 Siskin, 10 Chaffinch, 9 Fieldfare, 6 Brambling, 3 Redwing, 3 Redpoll, 2 Rock Pipit and a Mistle Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck reappeared.
Ringing
The small but hard-working ringing team were rewarded with a record monthly ringing total for the island. The figure of 702 birds of 32 species eclipsed the previous October best of 602 birds of 23 species trapped in 2005 and the previous best ever monthly total of 655 birds of 25 species achieved in September 1996. Individual species totals involved Goldfinch (202), Greenfinch (115), Chaffinch (87), Blackbird (49), Goldcrest (40), Wren (30), Blue Tit (26), Dunnock (26), Song Thrush (18), Robin (16), Chiffchaff (11), House Sparrow (11), Tree Sparrow (8), Meadow Pipit (7), Reed Bunting (6), Stonechat (6), Long-tailed Tit (5), Great Tit (5), Linnet (5), Blackcap (5), Redwing (4), Lesser Redpoll (3), Fieldfare (3), Yellow-browed Warbler (2), Brambling (2), Willow Warbler (2), Great Spotted Woodpecker (2), Siskin (2), Merlin (1), Starling (1), Bullfinch (1), Mealy Redpoll (1).
Images
Some of the species less frequently caught on the island this month – Brambling, Mealy Redpoll, Great Spotted Woodpecker and Bullfinch.
Rarities
A Mealy Redpoll was trapped and ringed.
Grounded Migrants
An increase in grounded birds overnight saw 20 Greenfinch, 10 Blackbird, 10 Chaffinch and single Great Spotted Woodpecker, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler and Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included 750 Jackdaw, 560 Starling, 335 Pink-footed Geese, 58 Whooper Swan, 35 Tree Sparrow, 16 Meadow Pipit, 12 Siskin, 10 Chaffinch, 9 Fieldfare, 6 Brambling, 3 Redwing, 3 Redpoll, 2 Rock Pipit and a Mistle Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck reappeared.
Ringing
The small but hard-working ringing team were rewarded with a record monthly ringing total for the island. The figure of 702 birds of 32 species eclipsed the previous October best of 602 birds of 23 species trapped in 2005 and the previous best ever monthly total of 655 birds of 25 species achieved in September 1996. Individual species totals involved Goldfinch (202), Greenfinch (115), Chaffinch (87), Blackbird (49), Goldcrest (40), Wren (30), Blue Tit (26), Dunnock (26), Song Thrush (18), Robin (16), Chiffchaff (11), House Sparrow (11), Tree Sparrow (8), Meadow Pipit (7), Reed Bunting (6), Stonechat (6), Long-tailed Tit (5), Great Tit (5), Linnet (5), Blackcap (5), Redwing (4), Lesser Redpoll (3), Fieldfare (3), Yellow-browed Warbler (2), Brambling (2), Willow Warbler (2), Great Spotted Woodpecker (2), Siskin (2), Merlin (1), Starling (1), Bullfinch (1), Mealy Redpoll (1).
Images
Some of the species less frequently caught on the island this month – Brambling, Mealy Redpoll, Great Spotted Woodpecker and Bullfinch.
Twite origins revealed!
30th October 2010 – sunny spells and heavy showers SSW3/4
Offshore
Early morning observations provided just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Gannet, Shag, Common Scoter, Kittiwake, Guillemot and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were limited to 6 Blackbird and single Rock Pipit, Song Thrush and Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings involved 160 Jackdaw, 10 Meadow Pipit, 8 Skylark, 6 Tree Sparrow, 2 Siskin and a Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 14 Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A ringtail Hen Harrier quartered the dunes and a Merlin hunted the small flock of 12 Twite. At least one Water Rail continues to linger.
Ringing
A colour-ringed Twite that has been present for a couple of days had been ringed at Machrihanish on the Mull of Kintyre earlier in the year.
Offshore
Early morning observations provided just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Gannet, Shag, Common Scoter, Kittiwake, Guillemot and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were limited to 6 Blackbird and single Rock Pipit, Song Thrush and Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings involved 160 Jackdaw, 10 Meadow Pipit, 8 Skylark, 6 Tree Sparrow, 2 Siskin and a Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 14 Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A ringtail Hen Harrier quartered the dunes and a Merlin hunted the small flock of 12 Twite. At least one Water Rail continues to linger.
Ringing
A colour-ringed Twite that has been present for a couple of days had been ringed at Machrihanish on the Mull of Kintyre earlier in the year.
Hen Harrier reappears!
29th October 2010 – overcast rain at times SSE4/5/6
Offshore
Early morning observations provided just 5 Common Scoter and a solitary Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Just 3 Redwing and single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff were seen with little to suggest that they were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
A late Swallow was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 48 pale-bellied and 5 dark-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
The ringtail Hen Harrier put in another appearance.
Offshore
Early morning observations provided just 5 Common Scoter and a solitary Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Just 3 Redwing and single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff were seen with little to suggest that they were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
A late Swallow was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 48 pale-bellied and 5 dark-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
The ringtail Hen Harrier put in another appearance.
Slavonian Grebes
28th October 2010 – overcast then rain SW4
Offshore
Early morning observations provided just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter, Kittiwake and Razorbill. Two Slavonian Grebes appeared over the high tide.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were limited to 2 Fieldfare and single Redwing, Song Thrush and Blackbird.
Diurnal Migration
Flocks of 220 Starling, 160 Jackdaw, 10 Greenfinch, 5 Carrion Crow and single Siskin and Redpoll were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 16 pale-bellied Brent Geese.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin hunted a small flock of 12 Twite.
Offshore
Early morning observations provided just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter, Kittiwake and Razorbill. Two Slavonian Grebes appeared over the high tide.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were limited to 2 Fieldfare and single Redwing, Song Thrush and Blackbird.
Diurnal Migration
Flocks of 220 Starling, 160 Jackdaw, 10 Greenfinch, 5 Carrion Crow and single Siskin and Redpoll were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 16 pale-bellied Brent Geese.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin hunted a small flock of 12 Twite.
Image
Slavonian Grebes
Hard work for little reward!
27th October 2010 – sunny spells SW4/5/6
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) provided just small numbers of Common Scoter, Kittiwake, Razorbill and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were limited to single Fieldfare, Redwing and Rock Pipit.
Diurnal Migration
Just 2 Redpoll and a Rock Pipit were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 33 pale-bellied Brent Geese, 24 Barnacle Geese and a Pink-footed Goose while waders were represented by 1600 Golden Plover, 150 Sanderling and 10 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A pre roost gathering of Little Egret held 33 birds and a Merlin hunted a small flock of Twite.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) provided just small numbers of Common Scoter, Kittiwake, Razorbill and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were limited to single Fieldfare, Redwing and Rock Pipit.
Diurnal Migration
Just 2 Redpoll and a Rock Pipit were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 33 pale-bellied Brent Geese, 24 Barnacle Geese and a Pink-footed Goose while waders were represented by 1600 Golden Plover, 150 Sanderling and 10 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A pre roost gathering of Little Egret held 33 birds and a Merlin hunted a small flock of Twite.
Rain stops play!
26th October 2010 – rain, heavy at times S3
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were limited to single Goldcrest and Fieldfare.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl numbers continue to build with Wigeon leading the way, the Brent Goose flock held 33 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
Seven Twite were logged and at least 14 Little Egret remain.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were limited to single Goldcrest and Fieldfare.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl numbers continue to build with Wigeon leading the way, the Brent Goose flock held 33 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
Seven Twite were logged and at least 14 Little Egret remain.
Long-tailed Duck and Hen Harrier
25th October 2010 – bright and sunny ESE1
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 12 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Redwing and a Fieldfare. Otherwise grounded birds were limited to a lingering Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings included 600 Jackdaw, 60 Skylark, 12 Meadow Pipit 10 Greenfinch, 6 Chaffinch, 3 alba Wagtail, 3 Brambling and 3 Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Long-tailed Duck was belated news from yesterday and today produced 45 pale-bellied Brent Geese, 26 Barnacle Geese, 3 Whooper Swan, a single Pink-footed Goose and 19 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A ringtail Hen Harrier was seen and least one Merlin and 11 Little Egret remain. Two Twite were logged.
Image
Long-tailed Duck.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 12 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Redwing and a Fieldfare. Otherwise grounded birds were limited to a lingering Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings included 600 Jackdaw, 60 Skylark, 12 Meadow Pipit 10 Greenfinch, 6 Chaffinch, 3 alba Wagtail, 3 Brambling and 3 Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Long-tailed Duck was belated news from yesterday and today produced 45 pale-bellied Brent Geese, 26 Barnacle Geese, 3 Whooper Swan, a single Pink-footed Goose and 19 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A ringtail Hen Harrier was seen and least one Merlin and 11 Little Egret remain. Two Twite were logged.
Image
Long-tailed Duck.
Usual late autumn suspects
24th October 2010 – bright and sunny N1
Grounded Migrants
A few more grounded birds than of late with thrushes represented by 15 Blackbird, 7 Redwing, 6 Song Thrush and 6 Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings included 650 Jackdaw, 100 Pink-footed Geese, 32 Tree Sparrow, 20 Greenfinch, 17 Magpie, 10 Carrion Crow, 10 Brambling, 7 Siskin, 6 Chaffinch, 5 Long-tailed Tit and single Rock Pipit.
Ringing
Singles of Great Spotted Woodpecker, Bullfinch and Siskin were all seldom caught species on the island
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Water Rail and a Little Owl remain.
Image
Stonechats - aberrant male and female.
Grounded Migrants
A few more grounded birds than of late with thrushes represented by 15 Blackbird, 7 Redwing, 6 Song Thrush and 6 Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings included 650 Jackdaw, 100 Pink-footed Geese, 32 Tree Sparrow, 20 Greenfinch, 17 Magpie, 10 Carrion Crow, 10 Brambling, 7 Siskin, 6 Chaffinch, 5 Long-tailed Tit and single Rock Pipit.
Ringing
Singles of Great Spotted Woodpecker, Bullfinch and Siskin were all seldom caught species on the island
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Water Rail and a Little Owl remain.
Image
Stonechats - aberrant male and female.
The lows and highs of birding
23rd October 2010 – early rain NNE2/3
Rarities
Early morning produced no sign of the Grey Phalarope with would be observers treated to views of an irresponsible photographer tramping around and flushing everything from the flooded field that it had resided in for the last two days. However, spirits were restored when a Yellow-browed Warbler was trapped and ringed in the observatory garden at 0930hrs before gradually making its way to Snab Point by late afternoon – fortunately there was no sign of the photographer!!
Grounded Migrants
Otherwise a generally quiet day with additional grounded birds limited to 3 Fieldfare and single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Little was on the move early morning with just 5 Tree Sparrow, 2 Brambling and single Raven and Redpoll logged.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Water Rail remain.
Image
Today’s Yellow-browed Warbler
Rarities
Early morning produced no sign of the Grey Phalarope with would be observers treated to views of an irresponsible photographer tramping around and flushing everything from the flooded field that it had resided in for the last two days. However, spirits were restored when a Yellow-browed Warbler was trapped and ringed in the observatory garden at 0930hrs before gradually making its way to Snab Point by late afternoon – fortunately there was no sign of the photographer!!
Grounded Migrants
Otherwise a generally quiet day with additional grounded birds limited to 3 Fieldfare and single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Little was on the move early morning with just 5 Tree Sparrow, 2 Brambling and single Raven and Redpoll logged.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Water Rail remain.
Image
Today’s Yellow-browed Warbler
Grey Phalarope attracts the crowds
22nd October 2010 –sunny spells and showers WSW4/5
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope remained on floodwater at Snab Point throughout the day and a Lapland Bunting was at Hare Hill early afternoon.
Offshore
Morning observations on the rising tide (1000-1100) produced 52 Razorbill, 26 Kittiwake, 15 Common Scoter, 4 Guillemot and single Shag and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings were limited to single Fieldfare, Blackcap and Chiffchaff
Diurnal Migration
Little was on the move early morning with 2 Tree Sparrow the only record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 7 Pintail are now in residence, a Whooper Swan was seen and the flock of pale-bellied Brent Geese increased to 45 birds, including 6 juveniles.
Miscellaneous
At least 12 Little Egret remain on the island, raptors included Merlin and Sparrowhawk and the Water Rail remains in residence
Rarities
The Grey Phalarope remained on floodwater at Snab Point throughout the day and a Lapland Bunting was at Hare Hill early afternoon.
Offshore
Morning observations on the rising tide (1000-1100) produced 52 Razorbill, 26 Kittiwake, 15 Common Scoter, 4 Guillemot and single Shag and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings were limited to single Fieldfare, Blackcap and Chiffchaff
Diurnal Migration
Little was on the move early morning with 2 Tree Sparrow the only record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 7 Pintail are now in residence, a Whooper Swan was seen and the flock of pale-bellied Brent Geese increased to 45 birds, including 6 juveniles.
Miscellaneous
At least 12 Little Egret remain on the island, raptors included Merlin and Sparrowhawk and the Water Rail remains in residence
Grey Phalarope takes star billing
21st October 2010 –sunny spells W3/4/5
Rarities
A Grey Phalarope was briefly on the gate pool at South Walney Nature Reserve at first light before being relocated early afternoon on floodwater at Snab Point.
Offshore
Just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter, Razorbill and Kittiwake were over the sea on the falling tide.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings were limited to single Wheatear and Chiffchaff
Diurnal Migration
Little was on the move early morning with 20 Fieldfare, 4 Jackdaw and a Lesser Redpoll the pick of the records.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 18 pale-bellied Brent Geese were logged.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included Merlin and Little Owl.
Images
A couple of record shots of the Grey Phalarope.
Rarities
A Grey Phalarope was briefly on the gate pool at South Walney Nature Reserve at first light before being relocated early afternoon on floodwater at Snab Point.
Offshore
Just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter, Razorbill and Kittiwake were over the sea on the falling tide.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings were limited to single Wheatear and Chiffchaff
Diurnal Migration
Little was on the move early morning with 20 Fieldfare, 4 Jackdaw and a Lesser Redpoll the pick of the records.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 18 pale-bellied Brent Geese were logged.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included Merlin and Little Owl.
Images
A couple of record shots of the Grey Phalarope.
Whooper Swans on the move and Barnacle Geese drop in
20th October 2010 – bright and sunny E1 then W3
Grounded Migrants
Sightings included 12 Blackbird, 6 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and a Fieldfare
Diurnal Migration
Overhead migration appears to be thinning out with calm and clear conditions early morning producing just 480 Jackdaw, 14 Whooper Swan, 5 Tree Sparrow, 3 Fieldfare, 2 Siskin and a Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
A herd of 15 Whooper Swan were seen and a flock of 12 Barnacle Geese dropped in. Waders included 14 Greenshank – including the long-staying colour ringed bird.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail was heard and raptors included Merlin and Peregrine.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings included 12 Blackbird, 6 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and a Fieldfare
Diurnal Migration
Overhead migration appears to be thinning out with calm and clear conditions early morning producing just 480 Jackdaw, 14 Whooper Swan, 5 Tree Sparrow, 3 Fieldfare, 2 Siskin and a Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
A herd of 15 Whooper Swan were seen and a flock of 12 Barnacle Geese dropped in. Waders included 14 Greenshank – including the long-staying colour ringed bird.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail was heard and raptors included Merlin and Peregrine.
First Goldeneye returns
19th October 2010 – sunny spells and heavy showers NW4/5/6
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) provided 46 Common Scoter, 7 Razorbill, 4 Gannet, 4 Red-throated Diver and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings were limited to single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Flocks of 30 Pink-footed Geese, 20 Tree Sparrow, 14 Skylark and 5 Whooper Swan dodged the showers
Wildfowl and Waders
The first returning Goldeneye was logged.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) provided 46 Common Scoter, 7 Razorbill, 4 Gannet, 4 Red-throated Diver and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Sightings were limited to single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Flocks of 30 Pink-footed Geese, 20 Tree Sparrow, 14 Skylark and 5 Whooper Swan dodged the showers
Wildfowl and Waders
The first returning Goldeneye was logged.
Pochard flock provides surprise
18th October 2010 – sunny spells W4/5/6
Offshore
A flock of 6 Pochard were the surprise highlight of early morning observations which also produced 39 Common Scoter, 28 Razorbill, 10 Kittiwake, 3 Guillemot, 3 Gannet, 2 Shag and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds included 5 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff.
Offshore
A flock of 6 Pochard were the surprise highlight of early morning observations which also produced 39 Common Scoter, 28 Razorbill, 10 Kittiwake, 3 Guillemot, 3 Gannet, 2 Shag and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds included 5 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff.
Jackdaws on the move
17th October 2010 – overcast E1 then WSW3
Offshore
Morning observations produced 2 Shag and small numbers of Common Scoter and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were reduced on yesterday with 9 Blackbird, 5 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Redwing and Fieldfare likely candidates for new arrivals.
Diurnal Migration
Morning passage was dominated by a massive movement of 2800 Jackdaw, also seen were 85 Skylark, 30 Greenfinch, 12 alba Wagtail, 10 Chaffinch, 4 Redpoll, 4 Pink-footed Geese, 3 Brambling, 2 Siskin and a Mistle Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 18 Greenshank continue to linger.
Miscellaneous
Peregrine and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Images
Lesser Redpoll and migrating Pink-footed Goose showing heavy wing moult!
Offshore
Morning observations produced 2 Shag and small numbers of Common Scoter and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were reduced on yesterday with 9 Blackbird, 5 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Redwing and Fieldfare likely candidates for new arrivals.
Diurnal Migration
Morning passage was dominated by a massive movement of 2800 Jackdaw, also seen were 85 Skylark, 30 Greenfinch, 12 alba Wagtail, 10 Chaffinch, 4 Redpoll, 4 Pink-footed Geese, 3 Brambling, 2 Siskin and a Mistle Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 18 Greenshank continue to linger.
Miscellaneous
Peregrine and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Images
Lesser Redpoll and migrating Pink-footed Goose showing heavy wing moult!
Early morning thrushes
16th October 2010 – sunny spells/calm then NE1/2
Grounded Migrants
An increase in newly grounded birds was apparent with 25 Greenfinch, 17 Blackbird, 11 Redwing, 8 Goldcrest, 7 Chiffchaff, 6 Chaffinch, 5 Song Thrush and single Grey Wagtail and Fieldfare amongst the species logged.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included: 620 Pink-footed Geese, 550 Jackdaw, 50 Skylark, 25 Meadow Pipit, 6 Siskin, 5 Brambling, 5 Tree Sparrow, 4 Whooper Swan and 2 Raven.
Ringing
Another good day with 85 birds of 15 species trapped and ringed on the island. Totals involved 34 Goldfinch, 15 Greenfinch, 6 Blackbird, 4 Wren, 4 Chaffinch, 4 Blue Tit, 3 Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrest, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Redwing, 2 Tree Sparrow, 2 House Sparrow and single Brambling, Reed Bunting and Fieldfare.
Miscellaneous
The 2 Water Rail remain and raptors included Merlin, Peregrine, Kestrel, Little Owl and Sparrowhawk.
Images
Early morning thrushes included Fieldfare and Redwing.
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