30th September 2011 –hazy sun ESE3/2/1
Offshore
A few Common Scoter were again the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Still little evidence of newly grounded birds with 3 Goldcrest, 3 Chiffchaff and a Blackcap the best that could be mustered.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were much quieter than of late, however, 710 Meadow Pipit, 470 Pink-footed Goose, 150 Linnet, 90 alba Wagtail, 90 Skylark, 33 Chaffinch, 8 Jackdaw, 6 Grey Wagtail, 3 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting, 2 Swallow and a Snipe were still logged.
Miscellaneous
Two Water Rail squealed.
Ringing
Despite the nagging and persistent wind, with very few calm days, the ringing team were again busy through the month. The rewards were an all time monthly record total involving 783 birds of 27 species which eclipsed the 705 birds ringed in October 2010. Individual species totals were as follows: Meadow Pipit (362), Chaffinch (79), Goldfinch (73), Greenfinch (71), Chiffchaff (39), Blue Tit (31), Robin (27), Goldcrest (21), House Sparrow (15), Great Tit (13), Dunnock (10), Blackcap (9), Whitethroat (6), Reed Bunting (4), Wren (4), Linnet (4), Tree Sparrow (3), Sparrowhawk (2), Swallow (2), Moorhen (1), Song Thrush (1), Garden Warbler (1), Tree Pipit (1), Willow Warbler (1), Coal Tit (1), Skylark (1) and Stonechat (1).
Diurnal passage remains impressive
29th September 2011 – murky start then hazy sun SE3/2/1
Offshore
A few Common Scoter was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Another Coal Tit was amongst a further wave of Great Tit and Blue Tit and 2 Stonechat were a welcome sight; otherwise newly grounded birds were limited to 3 Chiffchaff and a Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Diurnal migration was again the main focus of attention and another strong passage through the morning included: 3000 Meadow Pipit, 420 Linnet, 120 Starling, 100 Skylark, 78 alba Wagtail, 40 Pink-footed Goose, 36 Swallow, 30 Chaffinch, 21 Siskin, 12 Lesser Redpoll, 10 Grey Wagtail, 10 Goldfinch, 8 Jackdaw, 4 Reed Bunting and 4 Tree Sparrow.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl bathed in the midday sun and a Water Rail squealed.
Butterflies
A selection of butterflies included newly emerged Small Copper and a rather worn Painted Lady.
Dragonflies
Around five Migrant Hawker were on the wing.
Offshore
A few Common Scoter was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Another Coal Tit was amongst a further wave of Great Tit and Blue Tit and 2 Stonechat were a welcome sight; otherwise newly grounded birds were limited to 3 Chiffchaff and a Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Diurnal migration was again the main focus of attention and another strong passage through the morning included: 3000 Meadow Pipit, 420 Linnet, 120 Starling, 100 Skylark, 78 alba Wagtail, 40 Pink-footed Goose, 36 Swallow, 30 Chaffinch, 21 Siskin, 12 Lesser Redpoll, 10 Grey Wagtail, 10 Goldfinch, 8 Jackdaw, 4 Reed Bunting and 4 Tree Sparrow.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl bathed in the midday sun and a Water Rail squealed.
Butterflies
A selection of butterflies included newly emerged Small Copper and a rather worn Painted Lady.
Dragonflies
Around five Migrant Hawker were on the wing.
More strong diurnal passage
28th September 2011 – murky start then hazy sun
Offshore
A Common Scoter was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
A Coal Tit was amongst a further wave of Blue Tit; otherwise newly grounded birds were limited to 3 Goldcrest and 2 Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
A strong passage through the morning produced 2020 Meadow Pipit, 420 Linnet, 300 Starling, 160 Pink-footed Goose, 130 Skylark, 85 alba Wagtail, 60 Swallow, 55 Greenfinch, 50 Chaffinch, 18 Redpoll, 11 Grey Wagtail, 10 Siskin, 9 House Martin, 5 Jackdaw, 5 Carrion Crow and a Tree Sparrow.
Ringing
The recent influx of Blue Tit include a controlled bird, past recoveries suggest that this will be found to be from a relatively local nest box ringing scheme from the woodlands of Lakeland.
Dragonflies
Two Migrant Hawker were seen.
Offshore
A Common Scoter was the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
A Coal Tit was amongst a further wave of Blue Tit; otherwise newly grounded birds were limited to 3 Goldcrest and 2 Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
A strong passage through the morning produced 2020 Meadow Pipit, 420 Linnet, 300 Starling, 160 Pink-footed Goose, 130 Skylark, 85 alba Wagtail, 60 Swallow, 55 Greenfinch, 50 Chaffinch, 18 Redpoll, 11 Grey Wagtail, 10 Siskin, 9 House Martin, 5 Jackdaw, 5 Carrion Crow and a Tree Sparrow.
Ringing
The recent influx of Blue Tit include a controlled bird, past recoveries suggest that this will be found to be from a relatively local nest box ringing scheme from the woodlands of Lakeland.
Dragonflies
Two Migrant Hawker were seen.
First Song Thrush of the autumn
27th September 2011 – overcast S3/4
Offshore
A quick check over the sea (0700-0730) produced just small numbers of Razorbill, Gannet, Common Scoter, Guillemot, Red-throated Diver and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Newly grounded birds included 12 Blue Tit, 6 Great Tit, 4 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Blackcap and Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings included: 180 Meadow Pipit, 140 Starling, 100 Chaffinch, 55 Greenfinch, 30 Swallow, 22 alba Wagtail, 20 Skylark, 12 House Martin, 3 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Siskin.
Miscellaneous
It appears to be a poor autumn for several species with Robin and Goldcrest currently well below expectant levels and an almost compete dearth of Stonechat reflects the effect of the series of harsh winters.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was seen.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea (0700-0730) produced just small numbers of Razorbill, Gannet, Common Scoter, Guillemot, Red-throated Diver and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Newly grounded birds included 12 Blue Tit, 6 Great Tit, 4 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Blackcap and Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings included: 180 Meadow Pipit, 140 Starling, 100 Chaffinch, 55 Greenfinch, 30 Swallow, 22 alba Wagtail, 20 Skylark, 12 House Martin, 3 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Siskin.
Miscellaneous
It appears to be a poor autumn for several species with Robin and Goldcrest currently well below expectant levels and an almost compete dearth of Stonechat reflects the effect of the series of harsh winters.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was seen.
Late Willow Warbler
26th September 2011 – bright and sunny W4/3/2
Offshore
A solitary Gannet and Red-throated Diver were the only sightings.
Grounded Migrants
A late Willow Warbler was amongst 3 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
What a difference a day makes, 20 Chaffinch, 3 House Martin and single Siskin and Grey Wagtail were the pick amongst small numbers of Swallow, Meadow Pipit and Skylark.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets and Little Owl continue to show.
Moths
A Green Brindled Crescent was new for the year.
Offshore
A solitary Gannet and Red-throated Diver were the only sightings.
Grounded Migrants
A late Willow Warbler was amongst 3 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
What a difference a day makes, 20 Chaffinch, 3 House Martin and single Siskin and Grey Wagtail were the pick amongst small numbers of Swallow, Meadow Pipit and Skylark.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets and Little Owl continue to show.
Moths
A Green Brindled Crescent was new for the year.
Heavy diurnal movement
25th September 2011 – overcast S3/4
Offshore
A quick check over the sae produced just 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of any newly grounded birds with just 2 Chiffchaff and 2 Goldcrest logged.
Diurnal Migration
There was a heavy diurnal movement through the course of the morning with 2400 Meadow Pipit, 795 Linnet, 255 Swallow, 125 Skylark, 120 alba Wagtail, 120 House Martin, 50 Chaffinch, 15 Sand Martin, 6 Grey Wagtail, 6 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting and a Jackdaw.
Miscellaneous
At least 20 Little Egret remain along the eastern shoreline.
Moths
Red-line Quaker and Feathered Rannunculus were new for the year.
Images
Skylark.
Offshore
A quick check over the sae produced just 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of any newly grounded birds with just 2 Chiffchaff and 2 Goldcrest logged.
Diurnal Migration
There was a heavy diurnal movement through the course of the morning with 2400 Meadow Pipit, 795 Linnet, 255 Swallow, 125 Skylark, 120 alba Wagtail, 120 House Martin, 50 Chaffinch, 15 Sand Martin, 6 Grey Wagtail, 6 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting and a Jackdaw.
Miscellaneous
At least 20 Little Egret remain along the eastern shoreline.
Moths
Red-line Quaker and Feathered Rannunculus were new for the year.
Images
Skylark.
Offshore diversity
23rd September 2011 – overcast then sunny spells SW4/3
Offshore
Morning observations (0845-0945) produced small numbers of a wide selection of species with 27 Common Scoter, 9 Kittiwake, 5 Red-throated Diver, 3 Razorbill and single Gannet, Fulmar, Shag, Arctic Skua, Black Guillemot, Manx Shearwater and Leach’s Petrel – the latter heading into Morecambe Bay at 0915hrs.
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of any grounded birds with just 2 Chiffchaff and a single Blackcap logged.
Diurnal Migration
A Grey Wagtail was amongst a trickle of Swallow, Skylark and Meadow Pipit.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was recorded.
Moths
Attractions to the moth trap overnight included 18 Lunar Underwing, 2 Square-spot Rustic and single Rush Veneer, Frosted Orange, Angle Shades and White-line Dart.
Offshore
Morning observations (0845-0945) produced small numbers of a wide selection of species with 27 Common Scoter, 9 Kittiwake, 5 Red-throated Diver, 3 Razorbill and single Gannet, Fulmar, Shag, Arctic Skua, Black Guillemot, Manx Shearwater and Leach’s Petrel – the latter heading into Morecambe Bay at 0915hrs.
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of any grounded birds with just 2 Chiffchaff and a single Blackcap logged.
Diurnal Migration
A Grey Wagtail was amongst a trickle of Swallow, Skylark and Meadow Pipit.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was recorded.
Moths
Attractions to the moth trap overnight included 18 Lunar Underwing, 2 Square-spot Rustic and single Rush Veneer, Frosted Orange, Angle Shades and White-line Dart.
The quiet spell continues
22nd September 2011 – sunny spells W5/4
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0845) produced 51 Common Scoter, 9 Razorbill, 3 Kittiwake and single Manx Shearwater and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of any grounded birds with just 3 Wheatear, 2 Chiffchaff and a Goldcrest logged.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swallow were observed flying out over the sea.
Wildfowl and Waders
An elusive Pink-footed Goose was in residence and waders included 17 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Owl and a Peregrine were logged.
Images
Juvenile Pink-footed Goose.
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0845) produced 51 Common Scoter, 9 Razorbill, 3 Kittiwake and single Manx Shearwater and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Again little evidence of any grounded birds with just 3 Wheatear, 2 Chiffchaff and a Goldcrest logged.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swallow were observed flying out over the sea.
Wildfowl and Waders
An elusive Pink-footed Goose was in residence and waders included 17 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Owl and a Peregrine were logged.
Images
Juvenile Pink-footed Goose.
Seawatching again
21st September 2011 – overcast/rain soon SW5/6
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0945) produced 77 Kittiwake, 58 Razorbill, 28 Common Scoter, 6 Guillemot, 4 Gannet, 3 Fulmar, 2 Arctic Skua, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Little evidence of any grounded birds with 3 White Wagtail and a Chiffchaff the only sightings logged.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swallow were observed flying out over the sea.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 11 Little Egret remain.
Moths
A Black Rustic was new for the year and immigrants involved Rusty Dot Pearl and Silver Y.
Offshore
Morning observations (0745-0945) produced 77 Kittiwake, 58 Razorbill, 28 Common Scoter, 6 Guillemot, 4 Gannet, 3 Fulmar, 2 Arctic Skua, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Little evidence of any grounded birds with 3 White Wagtail and a Chiffchaff the only sightings logged.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Swallow were observed flying out over the sea.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 11 Little Egret remain.
Moths
A Black Rustic was new for the year and immigrants involved Rusty Dot Pearl and Silver Y.
Late Whitethroat and Sedge Warbler
19th September 2011 – overcast/rain soon SW3
Offshore
A solitary Gannet was the only sighting.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded migrants included 300 Meadow Pipit, 40 Skylark, 7 Robin, 3 Chiffchaff and single Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move early morning before the weather closed in with 30 Swallow, 30 Chaffinch, 20 Jackdaw, 5 alba Wagtail and single Lesser Redpoll and Grey Wagtail logged.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets continue to show along the eastern shore.
Offshore
A solitary Gannet was the only sighting.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded migrants included 300 Meadow Pipit, 40 Skylark, 7 Robin, 3 Chiffchaff and single Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move early morning before the weather closed in with 30 Swallow, 30 Chaffinch, 20 Jackdaw, 5 alba Wagtail and single Lesser Redpoll and Grey Wagtail logged.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets continue to show along the eastern shore.
Pipits Galore
18th September 2011 – bright and sunny/calm
Offshore
A few Sandwich Tern were the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Few grounded birds were noted with 17 Robin, 7 Goldcrest and 3 Chiffchaff the best that could be mustered.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included a conservative estimate of 1000 Meadow Pipit plus 120 Skylark, 115 Pink-footed Goose, 110 Swallow, 14 House Martin, 10 alba Wagtail, 7 Redpoll, 4 Chaffinch, 4 Siskin and 3 Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A noticeable influx of Little Egret saw a pre roost gathering of 22 birds.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was logged.
Offshore
A few Sandwich Tern were the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Few grounded birds were noted with 17 Robin, 7 Goldcrest and 3 Chiffchaff the best that could be mustered.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included a conservative estimate of 1000 Meadow Pipit plus 120 Skylark, 115 Pink-footed Goose, 110 Swallow, 14 House Martin, 10 alba Wagtail, 7 Redpoll, 4 Chaffinch, 4 Siskin and 3 Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A noticeable influx of Little Egret saw a pre roost gathering of 22 birds.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was logged.
Pink-footed Geese and Meadow Pipit on the move
15th September 2011 – bright and sunny/calm
Offshore
Afew Sandwich Tern were the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds included 12 Robin, 6 Whitethroat, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest and a Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included 2000 Meadow Pipit, 750 Pink-footed Goose, 110 Swallow, 45 Skylark, 40 Starling, 30 Chaffinch, 17 Siskin, 10 alba Wagtail, 2 Sand Martin and 2 Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Good numbers of Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl basked in the early morning sunshine.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was logged.
Offshore
Afew Sandwich Tern were the only record of note.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds included 12 Robin, 6 Whitethroat, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap, 2 Goldcrest and a Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included 2000 Meadow Pipit, 750 Pink-footed Goose, 110 Swallow, 45 Skylark, 40 Starling, 30 Chaffinch, 17 Siskin, 10 alba Wagtail, 2 Sand Martin and 2 Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Good numbers of Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl basked in the early morning sunshine.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was logged.
Early morning Sabine’s Gull and Leach’s Petrels
14th September 2011 – sunshine and showers WNW3/2
Offshore
The gales of the last few days had blown themselves out overnight and early morning saw the pick of the sightings with an adult Sabine’s Gull, 5 Leach’s Petrel and a Great Skua heading out of Morecambe Bay, also seen were 38 Common Scoter, 10 Red-throated Diver, 8 Gannet, 5 Razorbill, 3 Shag, 2 Sandwich Tern, 2 Kittiwake and single Manx Shearwater and Fulmar. A noticeable southbound passage of Lesser Black-backed Gull was also evident with 205 birds recorded.
Grounded Migrants
A few more grounded birds were in evidence with 11 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap and a Wheatear logged.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included 100 House Martin, 40 Siskin, 20 Meadow Pipit, 10 Swallow and single Grey Wagtail and Tree Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 5 Shoveler were seen and waders included 20 Greenshank, 4 Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail was heard.
Offshore
The gales of the last few days had blown themselves out overnight and early morning saw the pick of the sightings with an adult Sabine’s Gull, 5 Leach’s Petrel and a Great Skua heading out of Morecambe Bay, also seen were 38 Common Scoter, 10 Red-throated Diver, 8 Gannet, 5 Razorbill, 3 Shag, 2 Sandwich Tern, 2 Kittiwake and single Manx Shearwater and Fulmar. A noticeable southbound passage of Lesser Black-backed Gull was also evident with 205 birds recorded.
Grounded Migrants
A few more grounded birds were in evidence with 11 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap and a Wheatear logged.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the course of the morning included 100 House Martin, 40 Siskin, 20 Meadow Pipit, 10 Swallow and single Grey Wagtail and Tree Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 5 Shoveler were seen and waders included 20 Greenshank, 4 Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail was heard.
Sabine’s Gull and Leach’s Petrels
13th September 2011 – sunshine and showers WSW6/7/8
Offshore
Conditions saw most observations concentrated along the western shore over the high tide (0715-1600) with a juvenile Sabine’s Gull (@1035) and 3 Leach’s Petrels (@0905, 1405 & 1520) the highlights amongst 124 Gannet, 57 Common Scoter, 47 Kittiwake, 27 Sandwich Tern, 19 Razorbill, 16 Guillemot, 12 Fulmar, 8 Manx Shearwater, 8 Great Skua, 6 Arctic Skua, 4 Shag, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
A single Chiffchaff and 2 Wheatear were the only migrants logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Ruff and Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret saw out the tide along the eastern shore.
Offshore
Conditions saw most observations concentrated along the western shore over the high tide (0715-1600) with a juvenile Sabine’s Gull (@1035) and 3 Leach’s Petrels (@0905, 1405 & 1520) the highlights amongst 124 Gannet, 57 Common Scoter, 47 Kittiwake, 27 Sandwich Tern, 19 Razorbill, 16 Guillemot, 12 Fulmar, 8 Manx Shearwater, 8 Great Skua, 6 Arctic Skua, 4 Shag, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
A single Chiffchaff and 2 Wheatear were the only migrants logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Ruff and Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret saw out the tide along the eastern shore.
Sabine’s Gull
12th September 2011 – overcast/showers SW6/7/8
Offshore
Observations along the western shore over the tide (0800-1400) were led by a juvenile Sabine’s gull moving out of Morcambe Bay at 1340hrs, also seen were 45 Common Scoter, 27 Kittiwake, 20 Gannet, 7 Sandwich Tern, 5 Great Skua, 3 Arctic Skua, 3 Manx Shearwater, 2 Razorbill and a Fulmar. High tide along the eastern shore saw 12 Sandwich Tern, 6 Gannet and single Little Tern and Black Guillemot sheltering from the teeth of the gale.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail continues to linger.
Wildfowl and Waders
Highlights of the monthly WeBS cout included 4350 Oystercatcher, 1885 Redshank, 840 Knot, 787 Curlew, 490 Turnstone, 260 Cormorant, 126 Ringed Plover, 118 Dunlin, 111 Grey Plover, 85 Sanderling, 50 Teal, 34 Wigeon, 6 Bar-tailed Godwit and 3 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
At least 8 Little Egret were along the eastern shore.
Offshore
Observations along the western shore over the tide (0800-1400) were led by a juvenile Sabine’s gull moving out of Morcambe Bay at 1340hrs, also seen were 45 Common Scoter, 27 Kittiwake, 20 Gannet, 7 Sandwich Tern, 5 Great Skua, 3 Arctic Skua, 3 Manx Shearwater, 2 Razorbill and a Fulmar. High tide along the eastern shore saw 12 Sandwich Tern, 6 Gannet and single Little Tern and Black Guillemot sheltering from the teeth of the gale.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail continues to linger.
Wildfowl and Waders
Highlights of the monthly WeBS cout included 4350 Oystercatcher, 1885 Redshank, 840 Knot, 787 Curlew, 490 Turnstone, 260 Cormorant, 126 Ringed Plover, 118 Dunlin, 111 Grey Plover, 85 Sanderling, 50 Teal, 34 Wigeon, 6 Bar-tailed Godwit and 3 Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
At least 8 Little Egret were along the eastern shore.
Good numbers of Greenshank now present
11th September 2011 – overcast/rain at times S6
Offshore
Observations on the rising tide produced 66 Common Scoter, 12 Sandwich Tern, 9 Kittiwake, 3 Little Tern, 2 Gannet, 2 Arctic Skua and a Great Skua.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail continues to linger and other sightings were limited to 2 Chiffchaff and single Goldcrest and Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 44 Greenshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was logged.
Moths
Lunar Underwing was new for the year.
Offshore
Observations on the rising tide produced 66 Common Scoter, 12 Sandwich Tern, 9 Kittiwake, 3 Little Tern, 2 Gannet, 2 Arctic Skua and a Great Skua.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail continues to linger and other sightings were limited to 2 Chiffchaff and single Goldcrest and Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 44 Greenshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was logged.
Moths
Lunar Underwing was new for the year.
Low key migration
10th September 2011 – overcast/showers, heavy at times S3
Offshore
Just small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Common Scoter were logged.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail continues to linger and other sightings included 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Wheatear and single Blackcap and White Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, Swallow and Sand Martin were amongst 60 Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Peregrine were logged.
Moths
Green Carpet was new for the year.
Offshore
Just small numbers of Gannet, Sandwich Tern and Common Scoter were logged.
Grounded Migrants
The Yellow Wagtail continues to linger and other sightings included 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Wheatear and single Blackcap and White Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers of Grey Wagtail, White Wagtail, Swallow and Sand Martin were amongst 60 Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Peregrine were logged.
Moths
Green Carpet was new for the year.
First Water Rail of the autumn
9th September 2011 – overcast/mizzle SSW1/2/3
Offshore
The wind had decreased overnight and poor visibility hampered observations through the morning with only small numbers of Gannet, Common Scoter, Fulmar, Razorbill, Kittiwake and Arctic Tern logged.
Grounded Migrants
The was evidence of a few grounded birds early morning with 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Wheatear, 2 Whitethroat and a Redstart recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Single Tree Pipit and Grey Wagtail were amongst an early morning trickle of Swallow and Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The first Water Rail of the autumn was logged.
Mammals
Two Harbour Porpoise were close inshore.
Offshore
The wind had decreased overnight and poor visibility hampered observations through the morning with only small numbers of Gannet, Common Scoter, Fulmar, Razorbill, Kittiwake and Arctic Tern logged.
Grounded Migrants
The was evidence of a few grounded birds early morning with 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Wheatear, 2 Whitethroat and a Redstart recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Single Tree Pipit and Grey Wagtail were amongst an early morning trickle of Swallow and Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The first Water Rail of the autumn was logged.
Mammals
Two Harbour Porpoise were close inshore.
Persistence finally pays dividends
8th September 2011 – overcast/showers WSW5/4/3
Offshore
A slight hint of southwest in the wind today and the results were more impressive with observations (0900-1000 & 1145-1315) producing single Leach’s Petrel and Storm Petrel amongst totals of 43 Sandwich Tern, 30 Kittiwake, 23 Common Scoter, 12 Fulmar, 4 Razorbill, 3 Gannet and single Red-throated Diver and Guillemot. The highlights of the day were all moving slowly out of Morecambe Bay and remarkably occurred within a 20 minute spell early afternoon as the wind decreased!
Grounded Migrants
There are now 2 Yellow Wagtail amongst a group of 25 Pied Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 800 Knot and a flock of 24 Greenshank that roosted over the tide.
Miscellaneous
Single Little Owl and Little Egret were the best of the rest.
Offshore
A slight hint of southwest in the wind today and the results were more impressive with observations (0900-1000 & 1145-1315) producing single Leach’s Petrel and Storm Petrel amongst totals of 43 Sandwich Tern, 30 Kittiwake, 23 Common Scoter, 12 Fulmar, 4 Razorbill, 3 Gannet and single Red-throated Diver and Guillemot. The highlights of the day were all moving slowly out of Morecambe Bay and remarkably occurred within a 20 minute spell early afternoon as the wind decreased!
Grounded Migrants
There are now 2 Yellow Wagtail amongst a group of 25 Pied Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 800 Knot and a flock of 24 Greenshank that roosted over the tide.
Miscellaneous
Single Little Owl and Little Egret were the best of the rest.
More autumnal gales
7th September 2011 – heavy showers W5/6/7
Offshore
Despite the continued strong westerly wind or perhaps because of it – south westerlies are the favoured direction, morning observations (0830-1000) were disappointing with just 26 Common Scoter, 11 Sandwich Tern, 10 Fulmar, 6 Gannet, 5 Kittiwake, 4 Razorbill and a Manx Shearwater logged.
Grounded Migrants
Single Chiffchaff and Goldcrest were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper continue to linger.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret sheltered along the eastern shore.
Offshore
Despite the continued strong westerly wind or perhaps because of it – south westerlies are the favoured direction, morning observations (0830-1000) were disappointing with just 26 Common Scoter, 11 Sandwich Tern, 10 Fulmar, 6 Gannet, 5 Kittiwake, 4 Razorbill and a Manx Shearwater logged.
Grounded Migrants
Single Chiffchaff and Goldcrest were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper continue to linger.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Little Egret sheltered along the eastern shore.
Autumnal gales
6th September 2011 – heavy showers W5/6/7
Offshore
The weather conditions saw most efforts placed on the sea where observations (0800-1030 & 1130-1230) provided variety if not quality with 2 Arctic Skua the highlight amongst 90 Common Scoter, 48 Gannet, 15 Fulmar, 12 Razorbill, 11 Kittiwake, 10 Sandwich Tern, 6 Manx Shearwater, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Guillemot and an Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Not a day to look for grounded birds however, a Yellow Wagtail remains amongst 25 Pied Wagtail and 2 Wheatear and single Chiffchaff and Goldcrest were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper were recorded.
Offshore
The weather conditions saw most efforts placed on the sea where observations (0800-1030 & 1130-1230) provided variety if not quality with 2 Arctic Skua the highlight amongst 90 Common Scoter, 48 Gannet, 15 Fulmar, 12 Razorbill, 11 Kittiwake, 10 Sandwich Tern, 6 Manx Shearwater, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Guillemot and an Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Not a day to look for grounded birds however, a Yellow Wagtail remains amongst 25 Pied Wagtail and 2 Wheatear and single Chiffchaff and Goldcrest were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper were recorded.
Osprey heads south
5th September 2011 – heavy showers W2/3/4/5/6
Offshore
A late morning check over the sea as the wind freshened (1100-1200) produced variety if not quantity with 25 Gannet, 16 Common Scoter, 14 Sandwich Tern, 3 Razorbill, 2 Fulmar, 2 Kittiwake, 2 Pintail and single Manx Shearwater and Red-throated Diver logged.
Grounded Migrants
Totals of 10 Chiffchaff, 10 Pied Wagtail, 4 White Wagtail, 5 Goldcrest, 3 Wheatear, 2 Robin and single Tree Pipit and Whitethroat included at least some leftovers from yesterday.
Diurnal Migration
An Osprey flew south east along the maritime shore at 1140hrs to provide the highlight for the day.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 20 Greenshank, 3 Curlew Sandpiper and single Little Stint and Green Sandpiper.
Offshore
A late morning check over the sea as the wind freshened (1100-1200) produced variety if not quantity with 25 Gannet, 16 Common Scoter, 14 Sandwich Tern, 3 Razorbill, 2 Fulmar, 2 Kittiwake, 2 Pintail and single Manx Shearwater and Red-throated Diver logged.
Grounded Migrants
Totals of 10 Chiffchaff, 10 Pied Wagtail, 4 White Wagtail, 5 Goldcrest, 3 Wheatear, 2 Robin and single Tree Pipit and Whitethroat included at least some leftovers from yesterday.
Diurnal Migration
An Osprey flew south east along the maritime shore at 1140hrs to provide the highlight for the day.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 20 Greenshank, 3 Curlew Sandpiper and single Little Stint and Green Sandpiper.
Chiffchaff influx
4th September 2011 – bright and sunny/calm
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced just small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A small fall produced 30 Chiffchaff, 15 Pied Wagtail, 10 Whitethroat, 8 Robin, 6 White Wagtail, 5 Wheatear, 4 Goldcrest, 2 Willow Warbler and single Garden Warbler, Sedge Warbler and Yellow Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
Only a small passage despite the clear skies and light winds with 100 Swallow, 50 Meadow Pipit, 10 alba Wagtail, 4 Grey Wagtail, 3 House Martin, 3 Siskin, 3 Tree Pipit and single Redpoll, Sand Martin and Yellow Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Stint and 3 Curlew Sandpiper remain.
Moths
A Bulrush Wainscot was the first to be trapped on the island since 2000 while Garden Dart was new for the year.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea early morning produced just small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A small fall produced 30 Chiffchaff, 15 Pied Wagtail, 10 Whitethroat, 8 Robin, 6 White Wagtail, 5 Wheatear, 4 Goldcrest, 2 Willow Warbler and single Garden Warbler, Sedge Warbler and Yellow Wagtail.
Diurnal Migration
Only a small passage despite the clear skies and light winds with 100 Swallow, 50 Meadow Pipit, 10 alba Wagtail, 4 Grey Wagtail, 3 House Martin, 3 Siskin, 3 Tree Pipit and single Redpoll, Sand Martin and Yellow Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Stint and 3 Curlew Sandpiper remain.
Moths
A Bulrush Wainscot was the first to be trapped on the island since 2000 while Garden Dart was new for the year.
Curlew Sandpipers still in residence
3rd September 2011 – rain, persistent and heavy at times S3
Offshore
The rising tide produced just a handful of Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
The persistent and heavy rain was not conducive to either birds or birders and consequently sightings of grounded birds were limited to 3 Wheatear and single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon numbers are starting to build and waders included 16 Greenshank and 3 Curlew Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret saw out the tide along the eastern shore.
Offshore
The rising tide produced just a handful of Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
The persistent and heavy rain was not conducive to either birds or birders and consequently sightings of grounded birds were limited to 3 Wheatear and single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon numbers are starting to build and waders included 16 Greenshank and 3 Curlew Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A single Little Egret saw out the tide along the eastern shore.
White Wagtail influx
2nd September 2011 – overcast with light showers S2/3
Offshore
Again small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were noted early morning.
Grounded Migrants
An influx of White Wagtail saw 20 birds logged along with 20 Pied Wagtail, 5 Wheatear, 5 Robin, 2 Whitethroat and 2 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 6 Tree Sparrow was the only record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Stint remains and the first Pintail of the autumn was recorded.
Moths
The moth traps held the first Large Wainscot of the year and a couple of Silver Y were the only immigrants.
Offshore
Again small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were noted early morning.
Grounded Migrants
An influx of White Wagtail saw 20 birds logged along with 20 Pied Wagtail, 5 Wheatear, 5 Robin, 2 Whitethroat and 2 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 6 Tree Sparrow was the only record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Stint remains and the first Pintail of the autumn was recorded.
Moths
The moth traps held the first Large Wainscot of the year and a couple of Silver Y were the only immigrants.
Little Stint remains
1st September 2011 – overcast then hazy sun SE2
Offshore
Only small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were noted early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Although both Yellow Wagtail and White Wagtail were amongst 40 Pied Wagtail otherwise there were very few grounded birds with just a few Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler, Willow Warbler and Robin logged
Diurnal Migration
Again little evidence of migration with 10 House Martin the only record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Stint remains.
Moths
Dark Sword Grass and Silver Y were the only immigrants in the moth traps.
Offshore
Only small numbers of Gannet and Sandwich Tern were noted early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Although both Yellow Wagtail and White Wagtail were amongst 40 Pied Wagtail otherwise there were very few grounded birds with just a few Whitethroat, Sedge Warbler, Willow Warbler and Robin logged
Diurnal Migration
Again little evidence of migration with 10 House Martin the only record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The juvenile Little Stint remains.
Moths
Dark Sword Grass and Silver Y were the only immigrants in the moth traps.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)