31st July 2010 – overcast WSW3
Grounded Migrants
The first Robin of the autumn appeared and a handful Willow Warbler were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 6 Greenshank and single Little Ringed Plover and Ruff.
Moths
Hedge Rustic was new for the year.
Little Egrets back in residence
30th July 2010 – overcast/rain soon SW3
Offshore
The falling tide produced 5 Little Tern and small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Small numbers of Willow Warbler continue to move through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 14 Whimbrel amongst 400 Curlew and a Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Egret are now in residence and stalking the salt marshes.
Moths
Six-striped Rustic was new for the year.
Offshore
The falling tide produced 5 Little Tern and small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Small numbers of Willow Warbler continue to move through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 14 Whimbrel amongst 400 Curlew and a Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Egret are now in residence and stalking the salt marshes.
Moths
Six-striped Rustic was new for the year.
A quiet day!
29th July 2010 – overcast WNW3/4
Offshore
The falling tide produced just small numbers of Gannet, Common Scoter and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A few Willow Warbler remain on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 20 Knot, 11 Sanderling, 7 Turnstone and a Greenshank.
Moths
A total of 353 moths of 38 species were trapped overnight, the catch dominated by 190 Large Yellow Underwing. Immigrants included 5 Silver Y and Dark Sword Grass.
Offshore
The falling tide produced just small numbers of Gannet, Common Scoter and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A few Willow Warbler remain on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 20 Knot, 11 Sanderling, 7 Turnstone and a Greenshank.
Moths
A total of 353 moths of 38 species were trapped overnight, the catch dominated by 190 Large Yellow Underwing. Immigrants included 5 Silver Y and Dark Sword Grass.
Little Egret roosts
28th July 2010 – overcast/drizzle at times W2/3
Offshore
A quick check over the sea of the falling tide produced small numbers of Gannet, Manx Shearwater, Sandwich Tern and an Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A few Willow Warbler were again on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 2 Common Sandpiper remain.
Miscellaneous
A Little Egret flew in to roost.
Moths
A total of 300 moths of 53 species were trapped overnight, the highlight was Small Angle Shades while immigrants included Dark Sword Grass and Silver Y and Garden Rose Tortrix, Tawny Speckled Pug and Mouse Moth were all new for the year.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea of the falling tide produced small numbers of Gannet, Manx Shearwater, Sandwich Tern and an Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A few Willow Warbler were again on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least 2 Common Sandpiper remain.
Miscellaneous
A Little Egret flew in to roost.
Moths
A total of 300 moths of 53 species were trapped overnight, the highlight was Small Angle Shades while immigrants included Dark Sword Grass and Silver Y and Garden Rose Tortrix, Tawny Speckled Pug and Mouse Moth were all new for the year.
Wood Sandpipers call in
27th July 2010 – overcast/drizzle at times W2/3
Grounded Migrants
The early movement of Willow Warbler continues with 21 birds logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders were highlighted by 2 Wood Sandpiper, also seen were 3 Greenshank, 3 Common Sandpiper and a Whimbrel.
Moths
A total of 291 moths of 48 species were trapped overnight, the highlights were Portland Moth and Herald.
Images
Portland Moth
Grounded Migrants
The early movement of Willow Warbler continues with 21 birds logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders were highlighted by 2 Wood Sandpiper, also seen were 3 Greenshank, 3 Common Sandpiper and a Whimbrel.
Moths
A total of 291 moths of 48 species were trapped overnight, the highlights were Portland Moth and Herald.
Images
Portland Moth
Pied Flycatcher drops in
26th July 2010 – overcast/drizzle at times WNW1
Grounded Migrants
The early smattering of Willow Warbler continues and a Pied Flycatcher dropped in.
Wildfowl and Waders
Several Common Sandpiper and a Greenshank were seen.
Moths
The moth trap held 437 of 45 species with a Shore Wainscot the highlight. Immigrants included Dark Sword Grass and Silver Y while Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing was new for the year.
Grounded Migrants
The early smattering of Willow Warbler continues and a Pied Flycatcher dropped in.
Wildfowl and Waders
Several Common Sandpiper and a Greenshank were seen.
Moths
The moth trap held 437 of 45 species with a Shore Wainscot the highlight. Immigrants included Dark Sword Grass and Silver Y while Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing was new for the year.
Arctic Skua harries terns
25th July 2010 – overcast W3
Offshore
Morning observations (0750-0850) were led by a dark phase Arctic Skua along with 59 Sandwich Tern, 39 Gannet, 8 Common Scoter, 3 Arctic Tern and 2 Little Tern.
Grounded Migrants
The Cuckoo still remains, Willow Warbler continue to trickle through and a Wheatear was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Greenshank and a Common Sandpiper.
Moths
The moth trap held 329 moths of 39 species including the first Portland Moth for 10 years.
Late News
Yesterday evening saw the reappearance of the Spoonbill along with both Little Egret and Merlin.
Offshore
Morning observations (0750-0850) were led by a dark phase Arctic Skua along with 59 Sandwich Tern, 39 Gannet, 8 Common Scoter, 3 Arctic Tern and 2 Little Tern.
Grounded Migrants
The Cuckoo still remains, Willow Warbler continue to trickle through and a Wheatear was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Greenshank and a Common Sandpiper.
Moths
The moth trap held 329 moths of 39 species including the first Portland Moth for 10 years.
Late News
Yesterday evening saw the reappearance of the Spoonbill along with both Little Egret and Merlin.
Black Guillemot
24th July 2010 - bright start rain soon SSW1/2
Offshore
Morning observations (0730-0830) were led by a Black Guillemot with a supporting cast of 61 Sandwich Tern, 34 Common Scoter, 25 Gannet, 22 Manx Shearwater, 6 Razorbill and 4 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
The Cuckoo still remains and the steady trickle of Willow Warbler continues.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Greenshank and 2 Common Sandpiper.
Butterflies and Moths
The first Gatekeepers are now on the wing and July Highflier was new for the year. A Grey Dagger turned up on urban Walney – the first island record away from the south end.
Images
Grey Dagger
Offshore
Morning observations (0730-0830) were led by a Black Guillemot with a supporting cast of 61 Sandwich Tern, 34 Common Scoter, 25 Gannet, 22 Manx Shearwater, 6 Razorbill and 4 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
The Cuckoo still remains and the steady trickle of Willow Warbler continues.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Greenshank and 2 Common Sandpiper.
Butterflies and Moths
The first Gatekeepers are now on the wing and July Highflier was new for the year. A Grey Dagger turned up on urban Walney – the first island record away from the south end.
Images
Grey Dagger
Little Ringed Plover remains
23rd July 2010 – sunny spells E1
Grounded Migrants
The early trickle of Willow Warbler continues and included the first adult. Two Wheatear were logged and both Sedge Warbler and Whitethroat appeared to be more prominent.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Ringed Plover remains and a Whimbrel was the best of the rest.
Moths
A total of 1217 moths of 67species were attracted to the moth traps overnight – the highest one day total of the year so far - with a swarm of 760 Large Yellow Underwing dominating the totals. Local specialities included Fen Wainscot and Crescent Striped while Double Lobed and Bird Cherry Ermine are less than annual.
Grounded Migrants
The early trickle of Willow Warbler continues and included the first adult. Two Wheatear were logged and both Sedge Warbler and Whitethroat appeared to be more prominent.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Ringed Plover remains and a Whimbrel was the best of the rest.
Moths
A total of 1217 moths of 67species were attracted to the moth traps overnight – the highest one day total of the year so far - with a swarm of 760 Large Yellow Underwing dominating the totals. Local specialities included Fen Wainscot and Crescent Striped while Double Lobed and Bird Cherry Ermine are less than annual.
Little Ringed Plover arrives
22nd July 2010 – overcast then sunny spells ENE2
Offshore
An Arctic Skua was offshore early morning along with small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
The Cuckoo remains and the early trickle of Willow Warbler continues.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swift flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders were led by a juvenile Little Ringed Plover. Additional sightings included 320 Redshank, 75 Knot, 3 Greenshank and 2 Common Sandpiper.
Moths
The moth trap held 631 of 71species including 271 Large Yellow Underwing. Highlights were led by Dingy Footman – the first island record while Barred Rivulet, Bird Cherry Ermine and Magpie Moth were less than annual. Immigrants included Diamond Back Moth, Dark Sword Grass and Silver Y while Southern Wainscot was new for the year.
Images
Dingy Footman and Bird Cherry Ermine
Offshore
An Arctic Skua was offshore early morning along with small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
The Cuckoo remains and the early trickle of Willow Warbler continues.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swift flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders were led by a juvenile Little Ringed Plover. Additional sightings included 320 Redshank, 75 Knot, 3 Greenshank and 2 Common Sandpiper.
Moths
The moth trap held 631 of 71species including 271 Large Yellow Underwing. Highlights were led by Dingy Footman – the first island record while Barred Rivulet, Bird Cherry Ermine and Magpie Moth were less than annual. Immigrants included Diamond Back Moth, Dark Sword Grass and Silver Y while Southern Wainscot was new for the year.
Images
Dingy Footman and Bird Cherry Ermine
Migrant Moths despite the weather!
21st July 2010 – overcast then sunny spells
Offshore
The falling tide early morning produced just small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
The Cuckoo remains and the early trickle of Willow Warbler continues with 3 birds logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a Black-tailed Godwit.
Moths
Despite the heavy overnight rain the moth trap held 348 of 51 species. Immigrants included 17 Dark Sword Grass and 13 Silver Y while Straw Underwing, Scalloped Oak and Plain Golden Y were all new for the year.
Offshore
The falling tide early morning produced just small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
The Cuckoo remains and the early trickle of Willow Warbler continues with 3 birds logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a Black-tailed Godwit.
Moths
Despite the heavy overnight rain the moth trap held 348 of 51 species. Immigrants included 17 Dark Sword Grass and 13 Silver Y while Straw Underwing, Scalloped Oak and Plain Golden Y were all new for the year.
Cuckoo and Willow Warbler head south
20th July 2010 – heavy rain at times/calm
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) produced 31 Common Scoter, 24 Gannet and 2 Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A Cuckoo and Willow Warbler – the latter the first juvenile of the autumn - appeared
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 200 Dunlin, 32 Turnstone, 19 Sanderling, 2 Greenshank and single Whimbrel and Common Sandpiper.
Moths
Numbers attracted to the moth trap increased dramatically in the calmer conditions with 406 moths of 66 species. Highlights included Agriphila latistria, Double Lobed, Fen Wainscot and Latticed Heath – all new for the year.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) produced 31 Common Scoter, 24 Gannet and 2 Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A Cuckoo and Willow Warbler – the latter the first juvenile of the autumn - appeared
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 200 Dunlin, 32 Turnstone, 19 Sanderling, 2 Greenshank and single Whimbrel and Common Sandpiper.
Moths
Numbers attracted to the moth trap increased dramatically in the calmer conditions with 406 moths of 66 species. Highlights included Agriphila latistria, Double Lobed, Fen Wainscot and Latticed Heath – all new for the year.
Arctic Skua leads sightings
19th July 2010 – heavy rain S3/4
Offshore
Morning observations during the only dry interlude of the day (0800-0900) produced 110 Common Scoter, 50 Gannet, 7 Sandwich Tern and an Arctic Skua.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 30 Sanderling, 4 Common Sandpiper and 2 Greenshank.
Offshore
Morning observations during the only dry interlude of the day (0800-0900) produced 110 Common Scoter, 50 Gannet, 7 Sandwich Tern and an Arctic Skua.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 30 Sanderling, 4 Common Sandpiper and 2 Greenshank.
Brent Goose origins revealed
18th July 2010 – rain at times SSW3/4/5
Offshore
Observations produced just small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Waders included 7 Black-tailed Godwit, Greenshank and Common Sandpiper.
Ringing
Details have recently been received of several of the colour ringed pale-bellied Brent Geese recorded during the winter 2009/2010. The first bird had been ringed on 5th May 2005 at Álftanes, Iceland and has been seen in subsequent winters at various locations around the British Isles including Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland; Hilbre Island; Langstone Harbour; Anglesey and Bannow Bay, Eire before visting Walney Island and spring sightings have occurred at Alftanes, Iceland while on 22nd July 2007 it was found on Bathurst Island, Canada. A second individual had been ringed at Álftanes, Iceland on 12th May 2009 before visiting Loch Ryan, Dumfries and Galloway and then Walney Island during the winter of 2009/2010
Offshore
Observations produced just small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Waders included 7 Black-tailed Godwit, Greenshank and Common Sandpiper.
Ringing
Details have recently been received of several of the colour ringed pale-bellied Brent Geese recorded during the winter 2009/2010. The first bird had been ringed on 5th May 2005 at Álftanes, Iceland and has been seen in subsequent winters at various locations around the British Isles including Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland; Hilbre Island; Langstone Harbour; Anglesey and Bannow Bay, Eire before visting Walney Island and spring sightings have occurred at Alftanes, Iceland while on 22nd July 2007 it was found on Bathurst Island, Canada. A second individual had been ringed at Álftanes, Iceland on 12th May 2009 before visiting Loch Ryan, Dumfries and Galloway and then Walney Island during the winter of 2009/2010
First Wheatear returns
17th July 2010 – early rain then sunny spells SW3/4
Offshore
Observations produced 100 Little Tern, 17 Gannet, 8 Sandwich Tern, 6 Manx Shearwater, 3 Common Scoter, 2 Arctic Tern and a Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
The first returning Wheatear was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Greenshank, 2 Common Sandpiper and 2 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
The fifth brood of Shelduck appeared.
Moths
Catoptria margaritella was the first island record while Crescent and Broad Bordered Yellow Underwing were new for the year
Images
Catoptria margaritella
Offshore
Observations produced 100 Little Tern, 17 Gannet, 8 Sandwich Tern, 6 Manx Shearwater, 3 Common Scoter, 2 Arctic Tern and a Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
The first returning Wheatear was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Greenshank, 2 Common Sandpiper and 2 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
The fifth brood of Shelduck appeared.
Moths
Catoptria margaritella was the first island record while Crescent and Broad Bordered Yellow Underwing were new for the year
Images
Catoptria margaritella
A few seabirds
16th July 2010 – early rain then sunny spells SSW7/6/5/4
Offshore
Observations (1300-1400) produced 44 Sandwich Tern, 37 Gannet, 25 Manx Shearwater, 5 Shelduck, 4 Common Scoter and a Kittiwake.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Common Sandpiper, 2 Whimbrel and a Greenshank.
Offshore
Observations (1300-1400) produced 44 Sandwich Tern, 37 Gannet, 25 Manx Shearwater, 5 Shelduck, 4 Common Scoter and a Kittiwake.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Common Sandpiper, 2 Whimbrel and a Greenshank.
First Storm Petrel appears
15th July 2010 – sunny spells SW3/4/5/6/7
Offshore
The first Storm Petrel of the year appeared offshore on the falling tide late afternoon, also seen were 3 Little Tern an Arctic Tern and small numbers of Manx Shearwater and Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Common Sandpiper and a Bar-tailed Godwit.
Moths
The moth traps produced 317 of 56 species with Rosy Rustic, Eudonia mercurella and Agonopterix nervosa new for the year.
Offshore
The first Storm Petrel of the year appeared offshore on the falling tide late afternoon, also seen were 3 Little Tern an Arctic Tern and small numbers of Manx Shearwater and Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Common Sandpiper and a Bar-tailed Godwit.
Moths
The moth traps produced 317 of 56 species with Rosy Rustic, Eudonia mercurella and Agonopterix nervosa new for the year.
Spoonbill reappears
14th July 2010 – sunny spells and thundery showers SE2
Rarities
The first-summer Spoonbill flew in to roost at South Walney in the evening.
Overhead
Small numbers of Swift were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Common Sandpiper and a Greenshank.
Moths
A quiet night around the moth traps with just 219 of 27 species trapped. Immigrants included 10 Silver Y and a Dark Sword Grass while Small Wainscot was new for the year.
Rarities
The first-summer Spoonbill flew in to roost at South Walney in the evening.
Overhead
Small numbers of Swift were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Common Sandpiper and a Greenshank.
Moths
A quiet night around the moth traps with just 219 of 27 species trapped. Immigrants included 10 Silver Y and a Dark Sword Grass while Small Wainscot was new for the year.
Hirundines begin to move
13th July 2010 – bright start/rain later SE2/3
Offshore
Just small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Guillemot were logged early morning.
Diurnal Migration
Swallows are beginning to gather and 30 Sand Martin and a Swift moved through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Common Sandpiper was logged.
Moths
The overnight catch produced 603 moths of 71 species highlights included Peach Blossom – a less than annual visitor while Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing and Least Yellow Underwing were new for the year. Additional identification work from images taken during yesterday’s large moth catch revealed Orchard Ermine and Calamotropha paludella both are first island records.
Images
Orchard Ermine and Calamotropha paludella
Offshore
Just small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Guillemot were logged early morning.
Diurnal Migration
Swallows are beginning to gather and 30 Sand Martin and a Swift moved through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Common Sandpiper was logged.
Moths
The overnight catch produced 603 moths of 71 species highlights included Peach Blossom – a less than annual visitor while Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing and Least Yellow Underwing were new for the year. Additional identification work from images taken during yesterday’s large moth catch revealed Orchard Ermine and Calamotropha paludella both are first island records.
Images
Orchard Ermine and Calamotropha paludella
Spoonbill drops in
12th July 2010 - overcast ENE1
Rarities
A first-summer Spoonbill dropped in late afternoon and roosted in Lighthouse Bay.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0615-0715) were led by a pale phase Arctic Skua along with 110 Common Scoter, 16 Gannet, 14 Sandwich Tern, 3 Manx Shearwater and a Guillemot.
Moths
The moth traps were back on form with 838 moths of 87 species logged. Highlights were the first island records of Blackneck and Reddish Light Arches while Buff Arches was less than annual and Bryotropha domestica, Dark Spectacle, Ruby Tiger, Lesser Yellow Underwing and Yellow-tail were all new for the year. In addition, a Silver-striped Hawk Moth was found dead offshore on one of the gas rigs off Walney. It would appear that the species last occurred in Cumbria in 1958.
Images
Reddish Light Arches, Blackneck and Silver-striped Hawk Moth
Rarities
A first-summer Spoonbill dropped in late afternoon and roosted in Lighthouse Bay.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0615-0715) were led by a pale phase Arctic Skua along with 110 Common Scoter, 16 Gannet, 14 Sandwich Tern, 3 Manx Shearwater and a Guillemot.
Moths
The moth traps were back on form with 838 moths of 87 species logged. Highlights were the first island records of Blackneck and Reddish Light Arches while Buff Arches was less than annual and Bryotropha domestica, Dark Spectacle, Ruby Tiger, Lesser Yellow Underwing and Yellow-tail were all new for the year. In addition, a Silver-striped Hawk Moth was found dead offshore on one of the gas rigs off Walney. It would appear that the species last occurred in Cumbria in 1958.
Images
Reddish Light Arches, Blackneck and Silver-striped Hawk Moth
Seabirds are the order of the day
11th July 2010 – early rain then sunny spells W5/4
Offshore
Observations (0815-0915, 0930-1130 & 1415-1445) produced totals of 174 Gannet, 75 Manx Shearwater, 72 Little Tern, 13 Sandwich Tern, 27 Common Scoter, 6 Arctic Tern and single Common Tern and Guillemot
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Greenshank amongst 130 Redshank.
Moths
There was little activity around the moth trap overnight, although the impressive Swallow-tailed Moth was new for the year.
Images
Swallow-tailed Moth.
Offshore
Observations (0815-0915, 0930-1130 & 1415-1445) produced totals of 174 Gannet, 75 Manx Shearwater, 72 Little Tern, 13 Sandwich Tern, 27 Common Scoter, 6 Arctic Tern and single Common Tern and Guillemot
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Greenshank amongst 130 Redshank.
Moths
There was little activity around the moth trap overnight, although the impressive Swallow-tailed Moth was new for the year.
Images
Swallow-tailed Moth.
Waders continued to build.
10th July 2010 – overcast rain at times SW 2/3
Offshore
Observations (0800-0900 & 0930-1130) produced totals of 128 Gannet, 41 Common Scoter, 9 Sandwich Tern, 4 Arctic Tern, 2 Little Tern and single Manx Shearwater, Razorbill and Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swift headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Returning waders continue to become more prominent with 575 Curlew, 140 Knot, 60 Grey Plover, 83 Dunlin, 36 Redshank, 18 Turnstone, 4 Sanderling, 2 Bar-tailed Godwit, 2 Greenshank and a Whimbrel logged.
Moths
A quieter night for the moth traps with just 475 of 66 species recorded, highlight was a Light Emerald – only the third island record.
Offshore
Observations (0800-0900 & 0930-1130) produced totals of 128 Gannet, 41 Common Scoter, 9 Sandwich Tern, 4 Arctic Tern, 2 Little Tern and single Manx Shearwater, Razorbill and Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swift headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Returning waders continue to become more prominent with 575 Curlew, 140 Knot, 60 Grey Plover, 83 Dunlin, 36 Redshank, 18 Turnstone, 4 Sanderling, 2 Bar-tailed Godwit, 2 Greenshank and a Whimbrel logged.
Moths
A quieter night for the moth traps with just 475 of 66 species recorded, highlight was a Light Emerald – only the third island record.
Waders steadily increase
9th July 2010 – rain SE2/3
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 2 Shoveler returned and waders included 7 Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Grey Plover, 5 Greenshank and a Bar-tailed Godwit amongst 175 Curlew.
Moths
The overnight catch produced 750 moths of 86 species highlights included plume moths Amblyptilia acanthadactyla - the first to be recorded on the island and Platyptilia pallidactyla – the second island record along with Small Rivulet a less than annual visitor and the first Small Rufous of the year.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 2 Shoveler returned and waders included 7 Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Grey Plover, 5 Greenshank and a Bar-tailed Godwit amongst 175 Curlew.
Moths
The overnight catch produced 750 moths of 86 species highlights included plume moths Amblyptilia acanthadactyla - the first to be recorded on the island and Platyptilia pallidactyla – the second island record along with Small Rivulet a less than annual visitor and the first Small Rufous of the year.
Images
Amblyptilia acanthadactyla
Back to moths!
8th July 2010 – sunny spells SW2/3
Offshore
Quieter today offshore with just small numbers of Gannet, Manx Shearwater and Guillemot logged.
Moths
The overnight catch produced 718 moths of 71 species including 321 White Satin Moth. Highlights were led by Gypsonoma dealbana – yet another island first while V-Pug is less than annual and Large Fruit-tree Tortrix was new for the year.
Images
Gypsonoma dealbana.
Offshore
Quieter today offshore with just small numbers of Gannet, Manx Shearwater and Guillemot logged.
Moths
The overnight catch produced 718 moths of 71 species including 321 White Satin Moth. Highlights were led by Gypsonoma dealbana – yet another island first while V-Pug is less than annual and Large Fruit-tree Tortrix was new for the year.
Images
Gypsonoma dealbana.
Waders continue to reappear
7th July 2010 – sunny spells SW2/3
Offshore
Observations through the morning (0800-0830 & 0930-1100) produced totals of 100 Gannet, 33 Common Scoter, 21 Manx Shearwater, 5 Sandwich Tern and 5 Arctic Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders continue to reappear with 60 Knot, 7 Dunlin, 2 Greenshank and single Common Sandpiper and Turnstone logged.
Moths
A breezy night subdued the moth catch with just 480 of 58 species recorded. Less than annual visitants were Small Angle Shades and Short-cloaked Moth while Cloaked Minor was new for the year.
Images
Small Angle Shades and Short-cloaked Moth.
Offshore
Observations through the morning (0800-0830 & 0930-1100) produced totals of 100 Gannet, 33 Common Scoter, 21 Manx Shearwater, 5 Sandwich Tern and 5 Arctic Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders continue to reappear with 60 Knot, 7 Dunlin, 2 Greenshank and single Common Sandpiper and Turnstone logged.
Moths
A breezy night subdued the moth catch with just 480 of 58 species recorded. Less than annual visitants were Small Angle Shades and Short-cloaked Moth while Cloaked Minor was new for the year.
Images
Small Angle Shades and Short-cloaked Moth.
Moths to the fore again!
6th July 2010 – sunny spells/rain by evening SW1/2
Offshore
A feeding flock of 20 Gannet was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
A Whitethroat was on return passage and the first evidence of Blue Tit post-breeding dispersal was noted.
Diurnal Migration
A Grey Heron attracted the attention of the gull colony.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Greenshank continues to remain.
Moths
The winds fell light overnight and the moth trap held 773 moths of 77 species including 295 White Satin Moth, however, Blastobasis adustella, Agriphila tristella and Rosy Minor were the only new additions for the year.
Offshore
A feeding flock of 20 Gannet was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
A Whitethroat was on return passage and the first evidence of Blue Tit post-breeding dispersal was noted.
Diurnal Migration
A Grey Heron attracted the attention of the gull colony.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Greenshank continues to remain.
Moths
The winds fell light overnight and the moth trap held 773 moths of 77 species including 295 White Satin Moth, however, Blastobasis adustella, Agriphila tristella and Rosy Minor were the only new additions for the year.
Moths again!
5th July 2010 – sunny spells W4
Offshore
Yesterday’s flurry of activity over the sea failed to recur with just small numbers of Gannet and Manx Shearwater logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Four Teal and a Greenshank were the sole rewards.
Moths
The moth traps returned to form with 716 of 63 species. The Codling Moth would appear to be the first island record while a Gothic was the first for over 20 years, also seen were Small Dotted Buff and Small Fan-footed Wave – both new for the year.
Images
The Gothic and Codling Moth
Offshore
Yesterday’s flurry of activity over the sea failed to recur with just small numbers of Gannet and Manx Shearwater logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Four Teal and a Greenshank were the sole rewards.
Moths
The moth traps returned to form with 716 of 63 species. The Codling Moth would appear to be the first island record while a Gothic was the first for over 20 years, also seen were Small Dotted Buff and Small Fan-footed Wave – both new for the year.
Images
The Gothic and Codling Moth
Seabirds appear as the wind blows
4th July 2010 – overcast then rain, sunny later SW 4/5/6/7
Offshore
A few seabirds were at last seen over the sea early morning with observations (0745-0845 & 1045-1115) producing totals of 100 Manx Shearwater, 57 Gannet, 5 Sandwich Tern, 4 Guillemot, 2 Arctic Tern and 2 Common Scoter.
Wildfowl and Waders
Returning waders are becoming more prominent with 20 Dunlin, 12 Redshank, 5 Sanderling, 3 Greenshank, 3 Grey Plover, 2 Turnstone and a Snipe logged.
Breeding Birds
A third brood of Shelduck was seen.
Moths
The strengthening wind certainly subdued the moths overnight with just 239 of 38 species logged. Late news from the beginning of the month was the trapping of Clepsis consimilana – another new species for the island.
Images
Clepsis consimilana
Offshore
A few seabirds were at last seen over the sea early morning with observations (0745-0845 & 1045-1115) producing totals of 100 Manx Shearwater, 57 Gannet, 5 Sandwich Tern, 4 Guillemot, 2 Arctic Tern and 2 Common Scoter.
Wildfowl and Waders
Returning waders are becoming more prominent with 20 Dunlin, 12 Redshank, 5 Sanderling, 3 Greenshank, 3 Grey Plover, 2 Turnstone and a Snipe logged.
Breeding Birds
A third brood of Shelduck was seen.
Moths
The strengthening wind certainly subdued the moths overnight with just 239 of 38 species logged. Late news from the beginning of the month was the trapping of Clepsis consimilana – another new species for the island.
Images
Clepsis consimilana
Common Scoter head south
3rd July 2010 – bright and sunny SW 2/3
Offshore
Early morning observations saw Common Scoter on the move with 100 birds logged. Also seen were small numbers of Gannet, Manx Shearwater, Guillemot and Sandwich Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least one Greenshank remains.
Breeding Birds
Grasshopper Warbler and Reed Warbler continue to hold territory.
Miscellaneous
A day-flying Barn Owl was recorded.
Moths
Relatively quiet around the moth trap although 619 moths of 64 species were recorded Aethes rubigana was the only new record for the year.
Offshore
Early morning observations saw Common Scoter on the move with 100 birds logged. Also seen were small numbers of Gannet, Manx Shearwater, Guillemot and Sandwich Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
At least one Greenshank remains.
Breeding Birds
Grasshopper Warbler and Reed Warbler continue to hold territory.
Miscellaneous
A day-flying Barn Owl was recorded.
Moths
Relatively quiet around the moth trap although 619 moths of 64 species were recorded Aethes rubigana was the only new record for the year.
Moths save the day again!
2nd July 2010 – bright and sunny SW 1/2
Offshore
A handful of Gannet were the only sightings of note.
Moths
Relatively quiet around the moth trap with just 615 moths of 69 species recorded with Udea lutealis new for the year.
Offshore
A handful of Gannet were the only sightings of note.
Moths
Relatively quiet around the moth trap with just 615 moths of 69 species recorded with Udea lutealis new for the year.
Moth numbers continue to increase
1st July 2010 – rain/drizzle at times SSE3/4
Offshore
Still only limited activity over the sea with just small numbers of Gannet, Manx Shearwater, Common Scoter, Arctic Tern, Little Tern and Sandwich Tern logged.
Diurnal Migration
Five Swift flew through.
Moths
The moth trap held 913 moths of 88 species – the best catch of the year so far. Rose Tortrix, Croesia holimana, Epiblema roborana, Udea Prunalis, Single-dotted Wave and Antler Moth were all new for the year. Late news concerns the discovery of small numbers of the day-flying Burnet Companion – yet another new species for the island.
Offshore
Still only limited activity over the sea with just small numbers of Gannet, Manx Shearwater, Common Scoter, Arctic Tern, Little Tern and Sandwich Tern logged.
Diurnal Migration
Five Swift flew through.
Moths
The moth trap held 913 moths of 88 species – the best catch of the year so far. Rose Tortrix, Croesia holimana, Epiblema roborana, Udea Prunalis, Single-dotted Wave and Antler Moth were all new for the year. Late news concerns the discovery of small numbers of the day-flying Burnet Companion – yet another new species for the island.
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