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).
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.
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