31st August 2011 – overcast/calm
Offshore
Only small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were noted early morning.
Grounded Migrants
The conditions produced a scattering of newly grounded migrants with 10 Pied Wagtail, 9 Wheatear, 8 Whitethroat, 7 Robin, 5 Willow Warbler, 2 White Wagtail and single Goldcrest, Blackcap and Spotted Flycatcher logged
Diurnal Migration
Despite the day dawning to calm conditions for the first time in a while the expectant flood of passage birds failed to materialise with 28 Tree Sparrow and single Tree Pipit and Yellow Wagtail the only birds of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 6 Wigeon of the autumn appeared and waders included a newly arrived juvenile Little Stint, 3 Whimbrel, 2 Curlew Sandpiper and a few Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Three Little Egret were logged and raptors involved Kestrel, Sparrowhawk – targeting the local Goldfinch population, Merlin, Peregrine and Little Owl.
Ringing
A monthly total of 244 birds of 22 species was the best August total for several years and comprised Willow Warbler (55), Greenfinch (31), House Sparrow (29), Robin (28), Whitethroat (27), Meadow Pipit (13), Sedge Warbler (13), Goldfinch (12), Swallow (8), Dunnock (5), Linnet (5), Blackcap (3), Blackbird (3), Garden Warbler (2), Sparrowhawk (2), Reed Bunting (2), Reed Warbler (1), Goldcrest (1), Wren (1), Pied Wagtail (1), Magpie (1) and Chiffchaff (1).
Curlew Sandpipers remain
30th August 2011 – overcast WNW4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0830-0930) produced a steady stream of Sandwich Tern with 315 birds logged, also seen were 35 Gannet, 4 Common Scoter and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail remained amongst 30 Pied Wagtail and a Chiffchaff was new in..
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 17 Greenshank, 3 Curlew Sandpiper and a Green Sandpiper.
Moths
Single Silver Y and Dark Sword Grass were the only immigrants in the moth traps.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0830-0930) produced a steady stream of Sandwich Tern with 315 birds logged, also seen were 35 Gannet, 4 Common Scoter and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail remained amongst 30 Pied Wagtail and a Chiffchaff was new in..
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 17 Greenshank, 3 Curlew Sandpiper and a Green Sandpiper.
Moths
Single Silver Y and Dark Sword Grass were the only immigrants in the moth traps.
First Short-eared Owl of the autumn arrives
29th August 2011 –sunny spells NW4/5/6
Offshore
An early morning check over the sea revealed 40 Sandwich Tern, 20 Gannet and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A Yellow Wagtail was amongst 30 Pied Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 16 Tree Sparrow flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Whimbrel, Green Sandpiper, Greenshank and Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The first Short-eared Owl of the autumn was flushed from the salt marsh by the rising tide.
Moths
A Silver Y was the only immigrant in the moth traps.
Images
Short-eared Owl – moulting adult.
Offshore
An early morning check over the sea revealed 40 Sandwich Tern, 20 Gannet and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A Yellow Wagtail was amongst 30 Pied Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 16 Tree Sparrow flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Whimbrel, Green Sandpiper, Greenshank and Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The first Short-eared Owl of the autumn was flushed from the salt marsh by the rising tide.
Moths
A Silver Y was the only immigrant in the moth traps.
Images
Short-eared Owl – moulting adult.
Green Sandpiper and Yellow Wagtail
28th August 2011 – sunshine and showers NW4/5/6
Offshore
The rising tide produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 25 Gannet, 4 Manx Shearwater, 3 Razorbill and 2 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
A Yellow Wagtail was the pick of sightings.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Green Sandpiper remains.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.
Offshore
The rising tide produced 100 Sandwich Tern, 25 Gannet, 4 Manx Shearwater, 3 Razorbill and 2 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
A Yellow Wagtail was the pick of sightings.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Green Sandpiper remains.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.
First Curlew Sandpiper and Goldcrest of the autumn
27th August 2011 – sunny spells NW2/3
Offshore
The rising tide produced 40 Sandwich Tern, 22 Gannet, 7 Arctic Tern and a Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of newly grounded birds saw 15 Pied Wagtail, 6 Whitethroat, 5 Robin, 4 Wheatear, 3 Willow Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest – the first of the autumn and single White Wagtail, Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler and Spotted Flycatcher logged.
Diurnal Migration
A quieter day with 18 Tree Sparrow, 3 Tree Pipit and a Grey Wagtail the highlights.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Greenshank, 2 Curlew Sandpiper – the first of the autumn and single Green Sandpiper and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
A flock of 300 Linnet were logged and at least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.
Moths
Rusty Dot Pearl was the only record of note.
Offshore
The rising tide produced 40 Sandwich Tern, 22 Gannet, 7 Arctic Tern and a Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of newly grounded birds saw 15 Pied Wagtail, 6 Whitethroat, 5 Robin, 4 Wheatear, 3 Willow Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest – the first of the autumn and single White Wagtail, Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler and Spotted Flycatcher logged.
Diurnal Migration
A quieter day with 18 Tree Sparrow, 3 Tree Pipit and a Grey Wagtail the highlights.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Greenshank, 2 Curlew Sandpiper – the first of the autumn and single Green Sandpiper and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
A flock of 300 Linnet were logged and at least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.
Moths
Rusty Dot Pearl was the only record of note.
The skies have it!
26th August 2011 –bright and sunny NE1
Offshore
A check over the sea on the rising tide revealed a feeding flock of 70 Sandwich Tern and 20 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
After a couple of virtually blank days a few more grounded birds were in evidence with 8 Whitethroat, 7 Willow Warbler, 6 Robin, 3 Sedge Warbler, 3 Wheatear and single Spotted Flycatcher and Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
The first large movement of the autumn produced 1400 Swallow, 80 Sand Martin, 40 Linnet, 28 Tree Sparrow, 23 Grey Wagtail, 12 House Martin, 6 Pied Wagtail, 5 Meadow Pipit, 2 Swift and a Tree Pipit.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Egret were seen and raptors involved 5 Kestrel, 3 Sparrowhawk and single Merlin, Peregrine and Little Owl.
Moths
A micro photographed a couple of days ago has been identified as Pyrausta despicata – the first island record, while Canary-shouldered Thorn was new for the year.
Butterflies
A few Wall Brown are now on the wing and a Painted Lady was seen.
Images
Pyrausta despicata.
Offshore
A check over the sea on the rising tide revealed a feeding flock of 70 Sandwich Tern and 20 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
After a couple of virtually blank days a few more grounded birds were in evidence with 8 Whitethroat, 7 Willow Warbler, 6 Robin, 3 Sedge Warbler, 3 Wheatear and single Spotted Flycatcher and Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
The first large movement of the autumn produced 1400 Swallow, 80 Sand Martin, 40 Linnet, 28 Tree Sparrow, 23 Grey Wagtail, 12 House Martin, 6 Pied Wagtail, 5 Meadow Pipit, 2 Swift and a Tree Pipit.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Egret were seen and raptors involved 5 Kestrel, 3 Sparrowhawk and single Merlin, Peregrine and Little Owl.
Moths
A micro photographed a couple of days ago has been identified as Pyrausta despicata – the first island record, while Canary-shouldered Thorn was new for the year.
Butterflies
A few Wall Brown are now on the wing and a Painted Lady was seen.
Images
Pyrausta despicata.
Very disappointing
23rd August 2011 –overcast E2
Offshore
A check over the sea revealed just a few Sandwich Tern and Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
An early start with the forecast favourable weather conditions in place, however, the morning proved very disappointing with little evidence of grounded birds, just 4 Wheatear and a solitary Willow Warbler were evidence of migration.
Diurnal Migration
Again disappointing with just 3 Yellow Wagtail and a Grey Wagtail logged.
Miscellaneous
At least 8 Little Egret are now along the eastern shore.
Moths
Two migrant Dark Swordgrass and a Mullein Wave was the best that the traps could muster.
Offshore
A check over the sea revealed just a few Sandwich Tern and Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
An early start with the forecast favourable weather conditions in place, however, the morning proved very disappointing with little evidence of grounded birds, just 4 Wheatear and a solitary Willow Warbler were evidence of migration.
Diurnal Migration
Again disappointing with just 3 Yellow Wagtail and a Grey Wagtail logged.
Miscellaneous
At least 8 Little Egret are now along the eastern shore.
Moths
Two migrant Dark Swordgrass and a Mullein Wave was the best that the traps could muster.
Green Sandpiper and Tree Sparrows
22nd August 2011 –bright and sunny W1/2
Offshore
A check over the sea revealed just a few Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Despite the bright and clear conditions a smattering of migrants was evident with 15 Pied Wagtail, 11 Willow Warbler, 9 Whitethroat, 7 Sedge Warbler, 4 Wheatear, 4 Robin and a Whinchat logged.
Diurnal Migration
Although passage was light it provided the greatest variety of the autumn so far with 30 Swallow, 14 Tree Sparrow, 3 Tree Pipit, 2 Sand Martin and single House Martin and Grey Wagtail recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Green Sandpiper was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Owl were again on show.
Moths
A Rusty Dot Pearl was the only immigrant, however Agriphila geniculea and Feathered Gothic were new for the year.
Offshore
A check over the sea revealed just a few Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Despite the bright and clear conditions a smattering of migrants was evident with 15 Pied Wagtail, 11 Willow Warbler, 9 Whitethroat, 7 Sedge Warbler, 4 Wheatear, 4 Robin and a Whinchat logged.
Diurnal Migration
Although passage was light it provided the greatest variety of the autumn so far with 30 Swallow, 14 Tree Sparrow, 3 Tree Pipit, 2 Sand Martin and single House Martin and Grey Wagtail recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Green Sandpiper was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Owl were again on show.
Moths
A Rusty Dot Pearl was the only immigrant, however Agriphila geniculea and Feathered Gothic were new for the year.
Limited Fare
21st August 2011 – sunny spells SW3/2
Offshore
Only small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Two Yellow Wagtail were the highlights amongst limited fare, comprising small numbers of Wheatear, Willow Warbler, Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler and Robin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A couple of Shoveler were amongst increasing numbers of Teal and waders included 100 Sanderling, 20 Greenshank, 10 Knot, 4 Whimbrel, 2 Common Sandpiper and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.
Moths
Rusty Dot Pearl was the only record of note.
Offshore
Only small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Two Yellow Wagtail were the highlights amongst limited fare, comprising small numbers of Wheatear, Willow Warbler, Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler and Robin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A couple of Shoveler were amongst increasing numbers of Teal and waders included 100 Sanderling, 20 Greenshank, 10 Knot, 4 Whimbrel, 2 Common Sandpiper and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.
Moths
Rusty Dot Pearl was the only record of note.
Quiet day
19th August 2011 –overcast W1/2
Offshore
A steady stream of Sandwich Tern were moving past off the western side of the island on the rising tide.
Grounded Migrants
A far quieter day with grounded birds limited to 7 Whitethroat, 5 Robin, 3 Wheatear, 3 Sedge Warbler and 2 Willow Warbler.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included the long-staying Little Ringed Plover.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Owl were again on show.
Offshore
A steady stream of Sandwich Tern were moving past off the western side of the island on the rising tide.
Grounded Migrants
A far quieter day with grounded birds limited to 7 Whitethroat, 5 Robin, 3 Wheatear, 3 Sedge Warbler and 2 Willow Warbler.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included the long-staying Little Ringed Plover.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Owl were again on show.
Fall conditions
18th August 2011 –overcast/calm
Grounded Migrants
A small fall was evident with 26 Whitethroat, 18 Willow Warbler, 15 Pied Wagtail, 11 Sedge Warbler, 10 Wheatear, 9 Robin, 3 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Blackcap and single Spotted Flycatcher and Garden Warbler logged .
Diurnal Migration
Seven Sand Martin and 2 House Martin were amongst 50 Swallow early morning and single Yellow Wagtail and Tree Pipit also flew through..
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included the long-staying Little Ringed Plover and Ruff amongst good numbers of Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret continue to roam the eastern shore.
Grounded Migrants
A small fall was evident with 26 Whitethroat, 18 Willow Warbler, 15 Pied Wagtail, 11 Sedge Warbler, 10 Wheatear, 9 Robin, 3 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Blackcap and single Spotted Flycatcher and Garden Warbler logged .
Diurnal Migration
Seven Sand Martin and 2 House Martin were amongst 50 Swallow early morning and single Yellow Wagtail and Tree Pipit also flew through..
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included the long-staying Little Ringed Plover and Ruff amongst good numbers of Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret continue to roam the eastern shore.
Spotted Redshank newly arrived
17th August 2011 –bright and sunny WNW1/2
Grounded Migrants
The first wave of Robin arrived overnight with 14 birds logged, also seen were 17 Whitethroat, 10 Willow Warbler, 6 Sedge Warbler, 2 Wheatear and single Chiffchaff and Whinchat.
Diurnal Migration
Two Tree Pipit flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a newly arrived Spotted Redshank amongst 16 Greenshank, 7 Common Sandpiper, 2 Ruff, Little Ringed Plover and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
Raptors involved Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Little Owl.
Moths
A Dark Swordgrass was the only immigrant in the moth trap.
Grounded Migrants
The first wave of Robin arrived overnight with 14 birds logged, also seen were 17 Whitethroat, 10 Willow Warbler, 6 Sedge Warbler, 2 Wheatear and single Chiffchaff and Whinchat.
Diurnal Migration
Two Tree Pipit flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a newly arrived Spotted Redshank amongst 16 Greenshank, 7 Common Sandpiper, 2 Ruff, Little Ringed Plover and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
Raptors involved Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Little Owl.
Moths
A Dark Swordgrass was the only immigrant in the moth trap.
Redstart brightens a dreary morning
16th August 2011 –early rain then sunny spells WSW3/4
Offshore
A group of 12 Little Tern fished the ebbing tide, also seen were small numbers of Manx Shearwater, Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
A male Redstart brightened up an otherwise dreary morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included Little Ringed Plover, Common Sandpiper and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Little Egret remain.
Offshore
A group of 12 Little Tern fished the ebbing tide, also seen were small numbers of Manx Shearwater, Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
A male Redstart brightened up an otherwise dreary morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included Little Ringed Plover, Common Sandpiper and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Little Egret remain.
WeBS Counting
15th August 2011 –early rain then sunny spells W3
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0845) produced just 20 Sandwich Tern, 11 Common Scoter, 4 Manx Shearwater and 3 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Two Whinchat were the best of the grounded birds, amongst a handful of Wheatear, Whitethroat, Willow Warbler and Robin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Ruff remains and totals from the monthly WeBS count included 3350 Oystercatcher, 1294 Redshank, 788 Curlew, 330 Turnstone, 257 Cormorant, 146 Sanderling, 100 Ringed Plover, 89 Grey Plover, 89 Dunlin, 55 Lapwing, 14 Golden Plover and 9 Knot.
Moths
Square Spot Rustic was new for the year.
Images
Ruff and Swallow.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0845) produced just 20 Sandwich Tern, 11 Common Scoter, 4 Manx Shearwater and 3 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Two Whinchat were the best of the grounded birds, amongst a handful of Wheatear, Whitethroat, Willow Warbler and Robin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Ruff remains and totals from the monthly WeBS count included 3350 Oystercatcher, 1294 Redshank, 788 Curlew, 330 Turnstone, 257 Cormorant, 146 Sanderling, 100 Ringed Plover, 89 Grey Plover, 89 Dunlin, 55 Lapwing, 14 Golden Plover and 9 Knot.
Moths
Square Spot Rustic was new for the year.
Images
Ruff and Swallow.
More of the same
14th August 2011 – sunny spells NW2/3
Offshore
A group of 39 Sandwich Tern was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
A mirror image of yesterday, a Whinchat was the highlight with small numbers of Wheatear, Willow Warbler and Whitethroat also logged.
Diurnal Migration
A Yellow Wagtail flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A couple of Shoveler were the best of the wildfowl while waders included 35 Greenshank, 3 Whimbrel, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Common Sandpiper and single Ruff and Little Ringed Plover.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.
Moths
Mullein Wave was new for the year.
Offshore
A group of 39 Sandwich Tern was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
A mirror image of yesterday, a Whinchat was the highlight with small numbers of Wheatear, Willow Warbler and Whitethroat also logged.
Diurnal Migration
A Yellow Wagtail flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A couple of Shoveler were the best of the wildfowl while waders included 35 Greenshank, 3 Whimbrel, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Common Sandpiper and single Ruff and Little Ringed Plover.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret were again along the eastern shore.
Moths
Mullein Wave was new for the year.
Waders and Seabirds
13th August 2011 – sunny spells W2/3
Offshore
Morning observations (0830-1000 & 1045-1200) produced 123 Common Scoter, 85 Sandwich Tern, 42 Gannet, 11 Manx Shearwater, 8 Kittiwake, 4 Arctic Tern, 2 Arctic Skua and a Little Tern .
Grounded Migrants
Remaining thin on the ground, a Whinchat was the highlight with small numbers of Wheatear, Willow Warbler and Whitethroat also logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 14 Golden Plover, 6 Whimbrel, 2 Common Sandpiper and single Ruff and Little Ringed Plover.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore.
Moths
Svennson’s Copper Underwing was new for the year .
Offshore
Morning observations (0830-1000 & 1045-1200) produced 123 Common Scoter, 85 Sandwich Tern, 42 Gannet, 11 Manx Shearwater, 8 Kittiwake, 4 Arctic Tern, 2 Arctic Skua and a Little Tern .
Grounded Migrants
Remaining thin on the ground, a Whinchat was the highlight with small numbers of Wheatear, Willow Warbler and Whitethroat also logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 14 Golden Plover, 6 Whimbrel, 2 Common Sandpiper and single Ruff and Little Ringed Plover.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore.
Moths
Svennson’s Copper Underwing was new for the year .
Little Ringed Plover and Ruff
12th August 2011 –rain/drizzle/mist SSE1/2
Offshore
Again the western shore provided nothing of interest while the eastern shore fared slightly better providing 3 Arctic Tern, 2 Common Tern and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A handful of Wheatear, Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler and Willow Warbler remained the best of the grounded birds.
Wildfowl and Waders
The single Ruff and Little Ringed Plover continue to linger and additional waders included 80 Dunlin, 30 Ringed Plover, 7 Knot, 3 Greenshank, 2 Common Sandpiper and 2 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
Usually still a hive activity at this time of the year, a deathly silence around the gull colony bears testament to this years total breeding failure.
Offshore
Again the western shore provided nothing of interest while the eastern shore fared slightly better providing 3 Arctic Tern, 2 Common Tern and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A handful of Wheatear, Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler and Willow Warbler remained the best of the grounded birds.
Wildfowl and Waders
The single Ruff and Little Ringed Plover continue to linger and additional waders included 80 Dunlin, 30 Ringed Plover, 7 Knot, 3 Greenshank, 2 Common Sandpiper and 2 Whimbrel.
Breeding Birds
Usually still a hive activity at this time of the year, a deathly silence around the gull colony bears testament to this years total breeding failure.
Skuas move out of Morecambe Bay as the weather clears
11th August 2011 –rain/drizzle/mist WSW3/2
Offshore
Intermittent observations off the western shore throughout the morning (0700-0900, 0950-1025 & 1130-1215) proved unrewarding with just 43 Common Scoter, 26 Sandwich Tern, 4 Kittiwake and 3 Arctic Tern logged. However, a check off the eastern shore proved more fruitful, a Black Guillemot drifted in with the tide and two small groups of skuas were observed coming out of Morecambe Bay and cutting across the island before disappearing out into the Irish Sea. Two Arctic Skuas (juveniles) at 1015 were followed by three Pomarine Skua (two adults and a juvenile) at 1040.
Grounded Migrants
A few Wheatear and a single Willow Warbler were the best grounded birds on offer.
Wildfowl and Waders
The single Ruff and Little Ringed Plover continue to linger and additional waders included 20 Grey Plover, 15 Black-tailed Godwit and 4 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The first Merlin of the autumn appeared on the island.
Offshore
Intermittent observations off the western shore throughout the morning (0700-0900, 0950-1025 & 1130-1215) proved unrewarding with just 43 Common Scoter, 26 Sandwich Tern, 4 Kittiwake and 3 Arctic Tern logged. However, a check off the eastern shore proved more fruitful, a Black Guillemot drifted in with the tide and two small groups of skuas were observed coming out of Morecambe Bay and cutting across the island before disappearing out into the Irish Sea. Two Arctic Skuas (juveniles) at 1015 were followed by three Pomarine Skua (two adults and a juvenile) at 1040.
Grounded Migrants
A few Wheatear and a single Willow Warbler were the best grounded birds on offer.
Wildfowl and Waders
The single Ruff and Little Ringed Plover continue to linger and additional waders included 20 Grey Plover, 15 Black-tailed Godwit and 4 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The first Merlin of the autumn appeared on the island.
Wet and Windy!
10th August 2011 –rain SW6/7/8
Offshore
Morning observations (0930-1100) were again led by a single Great Skua pursuing the local Cormorant population, also seen were 31 Gannet, 24 Sandwich Tern, 8 Kittiwake, 8 Manx Shearwater and single Razorbill and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Three Wheatear remained from yesterdays influx.
Wildfowl and Waders
The single Ruff was again the pick of the waders.
Moths
The Old Lady was found indoors trying to escape the elements – the first island record, while Scrobipalpa costella was new for the year.
Images
Old Lady.
Offshore
Morning observations (0930-1100) were again led by a single Great Skua pursuing the local Cormorant population, also seen were 31 Gannet, 24 Sandwich Tern, 8 Kittiwake, 8 Manx Shearwater and single Razorbill and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Three Wheatear remained from yesterdays influx.
Wildfowl and Waders
The single Ruff was again the pick of the waders.
Moths
The Old Lady was found indoors trying to escape the elements – the first island record, while Scrobipalpa costella was new for the year.
Images
Old Lady.
Wheatear on the move
9th August 2011 –sunny spells NW3
Offshore
Early morning observations (0630-0730) were led by a single Great Skua ruthlessly pursuing a Cormorant along with 43 Gannet and small numbers of Sandwich Tern and Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Wheatear were on the move with 14 birds logged, also seen were the first Robin of the autumn and small numbers of Whitethroat, Willow Warbler and Sedge Warbler.
Wildfowl and Waders
The single Ruff was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A pair of Little Owl sheltered from the wind.
Moths
Another much reduced catch although Tawny Speckled Pug was new for the year.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0630-0730) were led by a single Great Skua ruthlessly pursuing a Cormorant along with 43 Gannet and small numbers of Sandwich Tern and Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Wheatear were on the move with 14 birds logged, also seen were the first Robin of the autumn and small numbers of Whitethroat, Willow Warbler and Sedge Warbler.
Wildfowl and Waders
The single Ruff was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A pair of Little Owl sheltered from the wind.
Moths
Another much reduced catch although Tawny Speckled Pug was new for the year.
Ruff and Little Ringed Plover remain
8th August 2011 –sunny spells WNW4/5/6
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) were disappointing with just 24 Common Scoter, 16 Gannet, 12 Sandwich Tern, 3 Manx Shearwater and a Little Tern recorded.
Grounded Migrants
Little evidence of any newly grounded birds with a few Willow Warbler and Sedge Warbler considered leftovers from previous days.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders continued to provide the main interest with 14 Knot, 10 Greenshank, 2 Common Sandpiper, 2 Whimbrel and single Ruff and Little Ringed Plover logged.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl sheltered from the wind.
Moths
A much reduced catch and Hedge Rustic was the only new addition to the year list.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) were disappointing with just 24 Common Scoter, 16 Gannet, 12 Sandwich Tern, 3 Manx Shearwater and a Little Tern recorded.
Grounded Migrants
Little evidence of any newly grounded birds with a few Willow Warbler and Sedge Warbler considered leftovers from previous days.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders continued to provide the main interest with 14 Knot, 10 Greenshank, 2 Common Sandpiper, 2 Whimbrel and single Ruff and Little Ringed Plover logged.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl sheltered from the wind.
Moths
A much reduced catch and Hedge Rustic was the only new addition to the year list.
Ruff newly arrived
7th August 2011 – sunny spells W3/4
Offshore
A check over the sea early morning produced just small numbers of Manx Shearwater and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Only a few grounded birds were evident with a single Whinchat the highlight amongst small numbers of Wheatear, Whitethroat and Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Several Sand Martin flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Little Ringed Plover remains and was joined today by a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 6 Little Egret are now along the eastern shore.
Moths
Platyptilia gonodactyla was the highlight of the moth traps.
Offshore
A check over the sea early morning produced just small numbers of Manx Shearwater and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Only a few grounded birds were evident with a single Whinchat the highlight amongst small numbers of Wheatear, Whitethroat and Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Several Sand Martin flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Little Ringed Plover remains and was joined today by a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 6 Little Egret are now along the eastern shore.
Moths
Platyptilia gonodactyla was the highlight of the moth traps.
Waders lead sightings
6th August 2011 – overcast/showers V1
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced just small numbers of Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of grounded birds involved 32 Willow Warbler, 26 Pied Wagtail, 12 Sedge Warbler, 6 Whitethroat, 2 Wheatear and a Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
A couple of Yellow Wagtail and 5 Sand Martin flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A good selection of waders included 6 Greenshank, 5 Black-tailed Godwit and single Wood Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper and Little Ringed Plover.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine was also logged.
Butterflies and Moths
A Painted Lady and Coast Dart were the first of the year.
Images
Juvenile Sedge Warbler and female Blackcap in heavy wing moult.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced just small numbers of Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of grounded birds involved 32 Willow Warbler, 26 Pied Wagtail, 12 Sedge Warbler, 6 Whitethroat, 2 Wheatear and a Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
A couple of Yellow Wagtail and 5 Sand Martin flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A good selection of waders included 6 Greenshank, 5 Black-tailed Godwit and single Wood Sandpiper, Green Sandpiper, Common Sandpiper and Little Ringed Plover.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine was also logged.
Butterflies and Moths
A Painted Lady and Coast Dart were the first of the year.
Images
Juvenile Sedge Warbler and female Blackcap in heavy wing moult.
Little Stint continues in residence
4th August 2011 – overcast/rain at first V1/2
Offshore
Another quick check over the sea mid-morning revealed 30 Sandwich Tern and smaller numbers of Little Tern, Common Tern, Arctic Tern, Common Scoter and Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Quieter than recent days with just 25 Pied Wagtail, 14 Sedge Warbler, 7 Whitethroat, 5 Willow Warbler, 2 Wheatear, 2 Yellow Wagtail and single Lesser Whitethroat and Cuckoo logged.
Diurnal Migration
Six Sand Martin and a Swift were recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Little Stint continues in residence, also seen were 60 Sanderling, 3 Common Sandpiper and several Greenshank and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The 4 Little Egret again roosted along the eastern shore on the rising tide.
Moths
The moth traps produced another reduced catch, 351 moths of 60 species were identified with Dark Arches (66) and White-line Dart (43) the top species. Highlights included Small Rufous (7), Fen Wainscot (2), Archers Dart (2), Dark Spectacle (1), Southern Wainscot (1), The Fan-foot (1) and Chilo Phragmitella (1).
Offshore
Another quick check over the sea mid-morning revealed 30 Sandwich Tern and smaller numbers of Little Tern, Common Tern, Arctic Tern, Common Scoter and Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Quieter than recent days with just 25 Pied Wagtail, 14 Sedge Warbler, 7 Whitethroat, 5 Willow Warbler, 2 Wheatear, 2 Yellow Wagtail and single Lesser Whitethroat and Cuckoo logged.
Diurnal Migration
Six Sand Martin and a Swift were recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Little Stint continues in residence, also seen were 60 Sanderling, 3 Common Sandpiper and several Greenshank and Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
The 4 Little Egret again roosted along the eastern shore on the rising tide.
Moths
The moth traps produced another reduced catch, 351 moths of 60 species were identified with Dark Arches (66) and White-line Dart (43) the top species. Highlights included Small Rufous (7), Fen Wainscot (2), Archers Dart (2), Dark Spectacle (1), Southern Wainscot (1), The Fan-foot (1) and Chilo Phragmitella (1).
Little Egrets begin to build
3rd August 2011 – overcast then sunny spells W1/2
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning revealed just 30 Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of grounded birds included 19 Willow Warbler, 13 Whitethroat, 11 Sedge Warbler, 2 Garden Warbler and single Lesser Whitethroat and Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Little Stint remains, also seen were 2 Common Sandpiper and several Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Hirundines still continue to congregate on the wires early morning with 100 Swallow and a Sand Martin logged. At least 4 Little Egret roosted along the eastern shore on the rising tide.
Moths
The moth traps produced a much reduced catch with just 53 species identified, the highlights were the first Small Wainscot and Rhomboid Tortrix of the year.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning revealed just 30 Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of grounded birds included 19 Willow Warbler, 13 Whitethroat, 11 Sedge Warbler, 2 Garden Warbler and single Lesser Whitethroat and Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Little Stint remains, also seen were 2 Common Sandpiper and several Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Hirundines still continue to congregate on the wires early morning with 100 Swallow and a Sand Martin logged. At least 4 Little Egret roosted along the eastern shore on the rising tide.
Moths
The moth traps produced a much reduced catch with just 53 species identified, the highlights were the first Small Wainscot and Rhomboid Tortrix of the year.
Little Stint remains
2nd August 2011 – early rain then sunny spells SW1
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning revealed a feeding flock of 150 Sandwich Tern, 10 Arctic Tern and 3 Gannet while a group of 20 Common Scoter headed south.
Grounded Migrants
A smattering of grounded birds included a Yellow Wagtail amongst 10 Pied Wagtail and a Whinchat amongst 4 Wheatear along with 20 Willow Warbler, 10 Sedge Warbler and 5 Whitethroat.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Little Stint remains, also seen were 160 Dunlin, 100 Sanderling, 4 Whimbrel, 3 Common Sandpiper and several Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn Owl and Peregrine were logged.
Moths
The moth traps produced another varied selection with 69 species identified, the highlight of which was a Flame Carpet, a less than annual visitant.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning revealed a feeding flock of 150 Sandwich Tern, 10 Arctic Tern and 3 Gannet while a group of 20 Common Scoter headed south.
Grounded Migrants
A smattering of grounded birds included a Yellow Wagtail amongst 10 Pied Wagtail and a Whinchat amongst 4 Wheatear along with 20 Willow Warbler, 10 Sedge Warbler and 5 Whitethroat.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Little Stint remains, also seen were 160 Dunlin, 100 Sanderling, 4 Whimbrel, 3 Common Sandpiper and several Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn Owl and Peregrine were logged.
Moths
The moth traps produced another varied selection with 69 species identified, the highlight of which was a Flame Carpet, a less than annual visitant.
Spotted Crake headlines
1st August 2011 – bright start/light rain soon WNW2
Rarities
Early morning drizzle delayed ringing activities and prompted a fortuitous check of the waders in the central marsh at South Walney Nature Reserve. The result a splendid Spotted Crake feeding along the edge of one of the small pools for around five minutes before it disappeared back into the vegetation.
Grounded Migrants
Noticeably quieter than yesterday with just 20 Pied Wagtail, 8 Willow Warbler, 4 Whitethroat and 3 Sedge Warbler logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Little Stint remains, also seen were Whimbrel, Greenshank and Common Sandpiper.
Moths
The moth traps produced another varied selection with 70 species identified. Highlights were Sand Dart, Six-striped Rustic, True Lovers Knot and Small Angle Shades.
Rarities
Early morning drizzle delayed ringing activities and prompted a fortuitous check of the waders in the central marsh at South Walney Nature Reserve. The result a splendid Spotted Crake feeding along the edge of one of the small pools for around five minutes before it disappeared back into the vegetation.
Grounded Migrants
Noticeably quieter than yesterday with just 20 Pied Wagtail, 8 Willow Warbler, 4 Whitethroat and 3 Sedge Warbler logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Little Stint remains, also seen were Whimbrel, Greenshank and Common Sandpiper.
Moths
The moth traps produced another varied selection with 70 species identified. Highlights were Sand Dart, Six-striped Rustic, True Lovers Knot and Small Angle Shades.
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