30th November 2011 – overcast/showers S4/5
Rarities
The Water Pipit again showed well in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Offshore
A check over the sea on the falling tide produced a party of 7 Shag sheltering in the calmer waters along the eastern shore while small numbers of Kittiwake, Common Scoter and Razorbill braved the rougher conditions off the maritime coast.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and the Brent Goose flock held 153 pale-bellied birds, waders included 6 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A total of 130 Twite were logged and a Raven flew over.
Ringing
The last vestiges of autumn passage produced a further 216 birds of 17 species, an excellent total for November. Individual species totals involved: Greenfinch (82), Blackbird (42), Goldfinch (41), Chaffinch (16), Tree Sparrow (9), Song Thrush (7), House Sparrow (4), Dunnock (3), Goldcrest (2), Blackcap (2), Robin (1), Redwing (1), Woodcock (1), Twite (1), Sparrowhawk (1), Fieldfare (1), Brambling (1), Lesser Redpoll (1).
Great Skua and Long-tailed Duck
28th November 2011 – overcastS3/4
Offshore
A Great Skua was the pick of sightings which otherwise included 25 Common Scoter, 14 Red-throated Diver and a few Kittiwake and Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and the Brent Goose flock held 157 pale-bellied birds, waders included 8 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 100 Twite remain and a Peregrine was seen.
Offshore
A Great Skua was the pick of sightings which otherwise included 25 Common Scoter, 14 Red-throated Diver and a few Kittiwake and Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and the Brent Goose flock held 157 pale-bellied birds, waders included 8 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 100 Twite remain and a Peregrine was seen.
Little Gull and White-fronted Geese
27th November 2011 – bright and sunny WNW6/5
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) were led by an adult Little Gull and juvenile Gannet amongst small numbers of Kittiwake, Razorbill and Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
Two Eurasian White-fronted Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained 161 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
At least 35 Twite remain.
Ringing
The Twite flock contained a colour-ringed individual that had previously been ringed at Machrihanish during 2010. A Greenfinch ringed at South Walney during post-breeding dispersal on 9th August 2011 was controlled at Heysham on 17th November 2011 (19km E)
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) were led by an adult Little Gull and juvenile Gannet amongst small numbers of Kittiwake, Razorbill and Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
Two Eurasian White-fronted Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained 161 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
At least 35 Twite remain.
Ringing
The Twite flock contained a colour-ringed individual that had previously been ringed at Machrihanish during 2010. A Greenfinch ringed at South Walney during post-breeding dispersal on 9th August 2011 was controlled at Heysham on 17th November 2011 (19km E)
Brent Geese continue to increase!
25th November 2011 – overcast/showers WSW5/6/7/8
Rarities
The Water Pipit again showed well in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-1030) produced 245 Razorbill, 180 Kittiwake, 12 Gannet, 5 Guillemot, 4 Common Scoter and 2 Red-breasted Merganser.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock provided another record with 157 pale-bellied birds present; including at least 29 juveniles while 55 Snipe were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin continued to stalk the high tide wader roosts.
Rarities
The Water Pipit again showed well in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-1030) produced 245 Razorbill, 180 Kittiwake, 12 Gannet, 5 Guillemot, 4 Common Scoter and 2 Red-breasted Merganser.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock provided another record with 157 pale-bellied birds present; including at least 29 juveniles while 55 Snipe were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin continued to stalk the high tide wader roosts.
Great Northern Diver finally added to year list!
24th November 2011 – overcast S4/5/6
Rarities
The Water Pipit showed well in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
A Great Northern Diver sought refuge in the sheltered waters along the eastern shore while morning observations over rough seas (0830-0930) off the maritime coast produced 110 Razorbill, 45 Common Scoter, 17 Kittiwake, 11 Guillemot, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and single Gannet and Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held a record 155 pale-bellied birds; including at least 29 juveniles and 48 Pintail were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin stalked the high tide wader roosts and 2 Raven were seen.
Rarities
The Water Pipit showed well in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
A Great Northern Diver sought refuge in the sheltered waters along the eastern shore while morning observations over rough seas (0830-0930) off the maritime coast produced 110 Razorbill, 45 Common Scoter, 17 Kittiwake, 11 Guillemot, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and single Gannet and Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held a record 155 pale-bellied birds; including at least 29 juveniles and 48 Pintail were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin stalked the high tide wader roosts and 2 Raven were seen.
Record numbers of Brent Geese
23rd November 2011 – overcast SW4/5/6
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Morning observations (0915-1015) produced 33 Common Scoter, 23 Razorbill, 16 Kittiwake, 9 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Gannet, 2 Guillemot and a Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock continues to build and held record numbers with 153 pale-bellied birds (at least 29 juveniles) and 50 dark-bellied birds (at least 6 juveniles) present.
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Morning observations (0915-1015) produced 33 Common Scoter, 23 Razorbill, 16 Kittiwake, 9 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Gannet, 2 Guillemot and a Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock continues to build and held record numbers with 153 pale-bellied birds (at least 29 juveniles) and 50 dark-bellied birds (at least 6 juveniles) present.
Some late movement
22nd November 2011 – misty/calm then sunny spells NW3
Offshore
Two Shag were the pick of offshore sightings.
Grounded Migrants
A Fieldfare was amongst a small fall of Blackbird and Song Thrush and 3 Blackcap were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Two Lesser Redpoll were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck continues in residence the Brent Goose flock held 60 pale-bellied birds.
Images
Fieldfare.
Offshore
Two Shag were the pick of offshore sightings.
Grounded Migrants
A Fieldfare was amongst a small fall of Blackbird and Song Thrush and 3 Blackcap were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Two Lesser Redpoll were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck continues in residence the Brent Goose flock held 60 pale-bellied birds.
Images
Fieldfare.
Water Pipit and Long-tailed Duck remain
21st November 2011 – damp and murky
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 10 Razorbill, 6 Kittiwake, 5 Gannet, 3 Common Scoter and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Single Fieldfare and Redwing provided the only interest.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck continues in residence and waders included 6 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A couple of Water Rail were seen, 4 Raven were logged and the Twite flock held 120 birds.
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 10 Razorbill, 6 Kittiwake, 5 Gannet, 3 Common Scoter and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Single Fieldfare and Redwing provided the only interest.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck continues in residence and waders included 6 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A couple of Water Rail were seen, 4 Raven were logged and the Twite flock held 120 birds.
Old favourites
19th November 2011 – overcast SE3
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 105 Razorbill, 12 Kittiwake, 7 Common Scoter, 2 Guillemot and 2 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Again there was very little sign of any newly grounded birds with just a few Blackbirds in evidence.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 13Pink-footed Geese headed south and a late Grey Wagtail was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 23 Barnacle Geese remain and the Long-tailed Duck continues to linger.
Miscellaneous
At least 37 Little Egret continue to patrol the eastern shore and a Short-eared Owl was logged.
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 105 Razorbill, 12 Kittiwake, 7 Common Scoter, 2 Guillemot and 2 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Again there was very little sign of any newly grounded birds with just a few Blackbirds in evidence.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 13Pink-footed Geese headed south and a late Grey Wagtail was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 23 Barnacle Geese remain and the Long-tailed Duck continues to linger.
Miscellaneous
At least 37 Little Egret continue to patrol the eastern shore and a Short-eared Owl was logged.
Water Pipit and Long-tailed Duck
17th November 2011 – bright and sunny SSE3
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0815-0915) produced 152 Razorbill, 85 Kittiwake, 20 Common Scoter, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Guillemot, 2 Red-throated Diver and a late Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and an aberrant plumaged Curlew provided some interest.
Images
Aberrant Curlew.
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0815-0915) produced 152 Razorbill, 85 Kittiwake, 20 Common Scoter, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Guillemot, 2 Red-throated Diver and a late Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and an aberrant plumaged Curlew provided some interest.
Images
Aberrant Curlew.
Autumn over?
16th November 2011 – hazy SE2
Rarities
A Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Grounded Migrants
Two Redwing were amongst a few Blackbirds and Song Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck is still in residence.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 150 birds and a Peregrine was logged.
Rarities
A Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Grounded Migrants
Two Redwing were amongst a few Blackbirds and Song Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck is still in residence.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 150 birds and a Peregrine was logged.
High numbers of Brent Geese
15th November 2011 – hazy sun E3/4
Offshore
Just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter and Razorbill were offshore early morning.
Diurnal Migration
Four rather late Meadow Pipit flew through.
Grounded Migrants
Another or the same Woodcock was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, the Brent Goose flock held 117 pale-bellied and 50 dark-bellied birds, an overnight influx saw 500 Teal present and waders included 10 Greenshank and 2 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail squealed and 2 Raven were seen. A flock of 80 Twite were present.
Images
Twite.
Offshore
Just small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter and Razorbill were offshore early morning.
Diurnal Migration
Four rather late Meadow Pipit flew through.
Grounded Migrants
Another or the same Woodcock was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, the Brent Goose flock held 117 pale-bellied and 50 dark-bellied birds, an overnight influx saw 500 Teal present and waders included 10 Greenshank and 2 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail squealed and 2 Raven were seen. A flock of 80 Twite were present.
Images
Twite.
Little Egret numbers continue to build
14th November 2011 – overcast E3
Offshore
Just small numbers of Common Scoter and Razorbill were offshore early morning.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 75 Pink-footed Geese headed south along with single Great Spotted Woodpecker, Lesser Redpoll, Mistle Thrush and Grey Wagtail.
Grounded Migrants
A Woodcock was the sole evidence of newly grounded birds.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck was amongst 11 Goldeneye and a Pochard while highlights of the monthly WeBS count involved: 5950 Oystercatcher, 2195 Dunlin, 1853 Redshank, 1325 Knot, 996 Curlew, 724 Lapwing, 655 Wigeon, 650 Golden Plover, 393 Teal, 322 Ringed Plover, 211 Turnstone, 92 Mallard, 85 Sanderling, 67 Shelduck and 25 Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A total of 43 Little Egret formed a pre-roost gathering along the eastern shore and 100 Twite were logged.
Images
Long-tailed Duck and Goldeneye.
Offshore
Just small numbers of Common Scoter and Razorbill were offshore early morning.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 75 Pink-footed Geese headed south along with single Great Spotted Woodpecker, Lesser Redpoll, Mistle Thrush and Grey Wagtail.
Grounded Migrants
A Woodcock was the sole evidence of newly grounded birds.
Wildfowl and Waders
The long-staying Long-tailed Duck was amongst 11 Goldeneye and a Pochard while highlights of the monthly WeBS count involved: 5950 Oystercatcher, 2195 Dunlin, 1853 Redshank, 1325 Knot, 996 Curlew, 724 Lapwing, 655 Wigeon, 650 Golden Plover, 393 Teal, 322 Ringed Plover, 211 Turnstone, 92 Mallard, 85 Sanderling, 67 Shelduck and 25 Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A total of 43 Little Egret formed a pre-roost gathering along the eastern shore and 100 Twite were logged.
Images
Long-tailed Duck and Goldeneye.
Brent Goose influx
13th November 2011 – bright and sunny SE3
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 127 Razorbill, 120 Common Scoter, 100 Kittiwake, 6 Red-throated Diver and a late Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Again there was very little sign of any newly grounded birds with just a few Blackbirds in evidence.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 35 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 117 pale-bellied birds and 23 Barnacle Geese and 3 Whooper Swan were logged. Waders included 17 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 130 birds.
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 127 Razorbill, 120 Common Scoter, 100 Kittiwake, 6 Red-throated Diver and a late Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Again there was very little sign of any newly grounded birds with just a few Blackbirds in evidence.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 35 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 117 pale-bellied birds and 23 Barnacle Geese and 3 Whooper Swan were logged. Waders included 17 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 130 birds.
Water Pipit remains
12th November 2011 – bright and sunny after early showers SE3
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit was again in the flooded horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations provided just small numbers of Common Scoter, Razorbill, Guillemot and Kitiwake.
Grounded Migrants
There was very little evidence of any newly grounded birds with 2 Redwing the best on offer.
Diurnal Migration
Single Great Spotted Woodpecker and Grey Wagtail were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and waders included 21 Purple Sandpiper, 11 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Short-eared Owl and the flock of 60 Twite remain.
Ringing
A Goldcrest ringed on the island on 28th March 2011 was controlled on the Teifi Estuary, Wales on 6th November 2011
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit was again in the flooded horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Early morning observations provided just small numbers of Common Scoter, Razorbill, Guillemot and Kitiwake.
Grounded Migrants
There was very little evidence of any newly grounded birds with 2 Redwing the best on offer.
Diurnal Migration
Single Great Spotted Woodpecker and Grey Wagtail were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and waders included 21 Purple Sandpiper, 11 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Short-eared Owl and the flock of 60 Twite remain.
Ringing
A Goldcrest ringed on the island on 28th March 2011 was controlled on the Teifi Estuary, Wales on 6th November 2011
Water Pipits attract
11th November 2011 – sunny spells E4/5/6
Rarities
There are now 2 Water Pipit in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Diurnal Migration
A small southbound skein of 23 Pink-footed Geese and a solitary Lesser Redpoll were the only records of note.
Grounded Migrants
Apart from a single Woodcock grounded birds were again limited to early morning thrushes with 23 Blackbird, 21 Fieldfare and 9 Redwing logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, the Brent Goose flock held 20 pale-bellied birds and 4 Greenshank were seen.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock held 20 birds, Little Egret remain prominent and at least one Short-eared Owl remains.
Rarities
There are now 2 Water Pipit in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Diurnal Migration
A small southbound skein of 23 Pink-footed Geese and a solitary Lesser Redpoll were the only records of note.
Grounded Migrants
Apart from a single Woodcock grounded birds were again limited to early morning thrushes with 23 Blackbird, 21 Fieldfare and 9 Redwing logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, the Brent Goose flock held 20 pale-bellied birds and 4 Greenshank were seen.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock held 20 birds, Little Egret remain prominent and at least one Short-eared Owl remains.
Black Guillemot, Barnacle Geese and a late Swift
10th November 2011 – sunny spells SE2
Rarities
The Water Pipit was amongst 5 Rock Pipit in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Offshore
A check over the sea (0945-1015) produced 4 Shag and a Black Guillemot amongst small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Kittiwake, Razorbill, Guillemot and Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
A very late Swift was seen but the supporting cast was limited to just 24 Jackdaw, 11 Meadow Pipit and a Lesser Redpoll.
Grounded Migrants
Very little evidence of any newly grounded birds though early morning thrushes involved 3 Song Thrush and 2 Redwing amongst a handful of Blackbird.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, a total of 37 pale-bellied Brent Geese and a flock of 24 Barnacle Geese were logged. Waders included 19 Purple Sandpiper, 9 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock has increased to 60 birds, at least one Short-eared Owl remains and 2 Water Rail squealed.
Rarities
The Water Pipit was amongst 5 Rock Pipit in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Offshore
A check over the sea (0945-1015) produced 4 Shag and a Black Guillemot amongst small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Kittiwake, Razorbill, Guillemot and Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
A very late Swift was seen but the supporting cast was limited to just 24 Jackdaw, 11 Meadow Pipit and a Lesser Redpoll.
Grounded Migrants
Very little evidence of any newly grounded birds though early morning thrushes involved 3 Song Thrush and 2 Redwing amongst a handful of Blackbird.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, a total of 37 pale-bellied Brent Geese and a flock of 24 Barnacle Geese were logged. Waders included 19 Purple Sandpiper, 9 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock has increased to 60 birds, at least one Short-eared Owl remains and 2 Water Rail squealed.
Water Pipit and White-fronted Geese
9th November 2011 – overcast/rain later SE3
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Offshore
A check over the sea late morning produced a late Gannet amongst small numbers of Kittiwake, Razorbill and Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
A few wildfowl were again on the move with 16 White-fronted Geese and 9 Whooper Swan logged. A Rock Pipit was the best of the rest.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 10 Blackbird and 3 Song Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, Teal and Pintail have increased to 260 and 34 birds respectively and 3 Shoveler were seen. Waders included Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A group of 34 Twite and 3 Raven were seen.
Rarities
The Water Pipit was again in the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Offshore
A check over the sea late morning produced a late Gannet amongst small numbers of Kittiwake, Razorbill and Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
A few wildfowl were again on the move with 16 White-fronted Geese and 9 Whooper Swan logged. A Rock Pipit was the best of the rest.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 10 Blackbird and 3 Song Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence, Teal and Pintail have increased to 260 and 34 birds respectively and 3 Shoveler were seen. Waders included Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A group of 34 Twite and 3 Raven were seen.
Water Pipit returns
8th November 2011 – overcast/mizzle E2
Rarities
A Water Pipit has returned to the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Diurnal Migration
Again slim pickings but a late Swallow was accompanied by 2 Siskin and single Brambling, Lesser Redpoll and Grey Wagtail.
Grounded Migrants
At least one Black Redstart remains and early morning thrushes involved 12 Blackbird, 7 Song Thrush, 2 Fieldfare and a Redwing. A single Goldcrest was the only other record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and the first 8 Pintail have returned to their winter haunt along the eastern shore. At least 4 Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A group of 32 Twite were seen.
Images
The low light levels were not conducive to digiscoping but a couple of record shots of today’s Water Pipit.
Rarities
A Water Pipit has returned to the flooded fields and horse paddocks near Biggar. View only from the road and keep out of the private fields.
Diurnal Migration
Again slim pickings but a late Swallow was accompanied by 2 Siskin and single Brambling, Lesser Redpoll and Grey Wagtail.
Grounded Migrants
At least one Black Redstart remains and early morning thrushes involved 12 Blackbird, 7 Song Thrush, 2 Fieldfare and a Redwing. A single Goldcrest was the only other record of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck is still in residence and the first 8 Pintail have returned to their winter haunt along the eastern shore. At least 4 Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A group of 32 Twite were seen.
Images
The low light levels were not conducive to digiscoping but a couple of record shots of today’s Water Pipit.
Blackbird invasion
7th November 2011 – early frost then bright and sunny E1
Offshore
A quick check over the sea provided just small numbers of Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
Rather slim pickings with just 60 Starling, 40 Jackdaw, 5 Raven, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Tree Sparrow and single Barnacle Goose and Great Spotted Woodpecker logged.
Grounded Migrants
A Blackbird invasion was evident at first light with 110 birds logged before they melted away as the sun rose. Also seen were 30 Redwing, 8 Song Thrush, 2 Mistle Thrush and single Fieldfare and Goldcrest.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Short-eared Owl remain and a flock of 50 Twite were seen.
Dragonflies
Two late Migrant Hawker were recorded.
Butterflies
Red Admiral are still on the wing.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea provided just small numbers of Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
Rather slim pickings with just 60 Starling, 40 Jackdaw, 5 Raven, 2 Whooper Swan, 2 Tree Sparrow and single Barnacle Goose and Great Spotted Woodpecker logged.
Grounded Migrants
A Blackbird invasion was evident at first light with 110 birds logged before they melted away as the sun rose. Also seen were 30 Redwing, 8 Song Thrush, 2 Mistle Thrush and single Fieldfare and Goldcrest.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Short-eared Owl remain and a flock of 50 Twite were seen.
Dragonflies
Two late Migrant Hawker were recorded.
Butterflies
Red Admiral are still on the wing.
Black Redstart double
6th November 2011 – bright and sunny/calm
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were led by two first-winter Black Redstarts. Also seen were 24 Blackbird, 14 Song Thrush, 3 Rock Pipit, 2 Redwing and single Fieldfare, Mistle Thrush and Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Wildfowl were again on the move with 370 Pink-footed Geese and 5 Whooper Swan logged along with 400 Jackdaw, 110 Starling, 22 Greenfinch, 12 Chaffinch, 5 Tree Sparrow, 3 Pied Wagtail, 3 Raven and single Brambling and Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
Short-eared, Barn and Little Owl were again recorded, the flock of 50 Twite remain and 3 Water Rail squealed.
Ringing
The Twite flock included a bird colour ringed at Machrihanish, Scotland during the autumn of 2010.
Moths
Silver Y and Brick were attracted to the moth trap overnight.
Images
Short-eared Owl.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were led by two first-winter Black Redstarts. Also seen were 24 Blackbird, 14 Song Thrush, 3 Rock Pipit, 2 Redwing and single Fieldfare, Mistle Thrush and Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Wildfowl were again on the move with 370 Pink-footed Geese and 5 Whooper Swan logged along with 400 Jackdaw, 110 Starling, 22 Greenfinch, 12 Chaffinch, 5 Tree Sparrow, 3 Pied Wagtail, 3 Raven and single Brambling and Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
Short-eared, Barn and Little Owl were again recorded, the flock of 50 Twite remain and 3 Water Rail squealed.
Ringing
The Twite flock included a bird colour ringed at Machrihanish, Scotland during the autumn of 2010.
Moths
Silver Y and Brick were attracted to the moth trap overnight.
Images
Short-eared Owl.
Another Black Redstart
5th November 2011 – bright and sunny N1/2
Grounded Migrants
A first-winter Black Redstart was the pick of the newly grounded migrants with 46 Blackbird, 18 Song Thrush, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Mistle Thrush, Fieldfare and Wheatear also logged.
Diurnal Migration
Wildfowl were on the move with 620 Pink-footed Geese and 7 Whooper Swan logged along with 29 Tree Sparrow, 25 Greenfinch, 22 Jackdaw, 12 Chaffinch, 3 Skylark and a Stock Dove also seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence, the Brent Goose flock held 13 pale=bellied and 3 dark-bellied birds and waders included 4 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn and Little Owl were recorded, the flock of 50 Twite remain and 3 Water Rail squealed.
Moths
Immigrants in the moth trap involved Pearly Underwing and Rusty Dot Pearl.
Grounded Migrants
A first-winter Black Redstart was the pick of the newly grounded migrants with 46 Blackbird, 18 Song Thrush, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Mistle Thrush, Fieldfare and Wheatear also logged.
Diurnal Migration
Wildfowl were on the move with 620 Pink-footed Geese and 7 Whooper Swan logged along with 29 Tree Sparrow, 25 Greenfinch, 22 Jackdaw, 12 Chaffinch, 3 Skylark and a Stock Dove also seen.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence, the Brent Goose flock held 13 pale=bellied and 3 dark-bellied birds and waders included 4 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn and Little Owl were recorded, the flock of 50 Twite remain and 3 Water Rail squealed.
Moths
Immigrants in the moth trap involved Pearly Underwing and Rusty Dot Pearl.
Yellow-browed Warbler
4th November 2011 – sunny spells SW1
Rarities
A Yellow-browed Warbler showed well in the scrub near the old pier at South Walney Nature Reserve – present 1300-1330 at least.
Grounded Migrants
Again a few early morning thrushes were seen with 10 Blackbird, 5 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush and a Fieldfare logged along with single Whinchat and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A small passage was noted early morning with 23 Tree Sparrow, 22 Greenfinch, 10 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling and a Lesser Redpoll recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and 2 Shoveler were amongst 220 Teal. Waders included 5 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Short-eared Owl remains, the flock of Twite increased to 50 birds and at least 10 Little Egret were along the eastern shore.
Butterflies
A late Peacock was on the wing.
Moths
Immigrants in the moth trap were limited to a Silver Y.
Rarities
A Yellow-browed Warbler showed well in the scrub near the old pier at South Walney Nature Reserve – present 1300-1330 at least.
Grounded Migrants
Again a few early morning thrushes were seen with 10 Blackbird, 5 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush and a Fieldfare logged along with single Whinchat and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A small passage was noted early morning with 23 Tree Sparrow, 22 Greenfinch, 10 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling and a Lesser Redpoll recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and 2 Shoveler were amongst 220 Teal. Waders included 5 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Short-eared Owl remains, the flock of Twite increased to 50 birds and at least 10 Little Egret were along the eastern shore.
Butterflies
A late Peacock was on the wing.
Moths
Immigrants in the moth trap were limited to a Silver Y.
Long-tailed Duck remains in residence
2nd November 2011 – sunny spells SW2
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 3 Redwing and 3 Fieldfare, otherwise sightings of newly grounded birds were limited to single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Still a few birds on the move with 85 Jackdaw, 10 Greenfinch, 6 Chaffinch and 5 Meadow Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and at least 43 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain. A Greenshank was the best of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A small flock of 12 Twite were seen and include a bird sporting a single red/white colour ring on the right leg.
Butterflies
At least one Red Admiral was still on the wing.
Moths
Attractions were limited to single Silver Y and Brick.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 3 Redwing and 3 Fieldfare, otherwise sightings of newly grounded birds were limited to single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Still a few birds on the move with 85 Jackdaw, 10 Greenfinch, 6 Chaffinch and 5 Meadow Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence and at least 43 pale-bellied Brent Geese remain. A Greenshank was the best of the waders.
Miscellaneous
A small flock of 12 Twite were seen and include a bird sporting a single red/white colour ring on the right leg.
Butterflies
At least one Red Admiral was still on the wing.
Moths
Attractions were limited to single Silver Y and Brick.
Late summer migrants
1st November 2011 – sunny spells SW2
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 10 Blackbird and a few Fieldfare, Redwing, Song Thrush. Also seen were single Whinchat and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds continue to move through with 125 Jackdaw, 60 Greenfinch, 12 Tree Sparrow, 10 Chaffinch, 3 Swallow, 3 Meadow Pipit, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Brambling and a Rock Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
At least one Short-eared Owl and 12 Twite were logged.
Moths
Attractions included Silver Y, Angle Shades and Large Wainscot.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 10 Blackbird and a few Fieldfare, Redwing, Song Thrush. Also seen were single Whinchat and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds continue to move through with 125 Jackdaw, 60 Greenfinch, 12 Tree Sparrow, 10 Chaffinch, 3 Swallow, 3 Meadow Pipit, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Brambling and a Rock Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Long-tailed Duck remains in residence.
Miscellaneous
At least one Short-eared Owl and 12 Twite were logged.
Moths
Attractions included Silver Y, Angle Shades and Large Wainscot.
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