18th December 2012 – sunny spells/calm
Offshore
A check over the calm seas early morning provided 16 Red-throated Diver, 16 Red-breasted Merganser, 13 Shag and 4 Razorbill.
Diurnal Migration
Two small skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 130 birds headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Scaup and Greenshank were the best on offer.
Miscellaneous
Finch flocks involved 50 Goldfinch and 40 Twite and at least 2 Water Rail remain.
Moths
A Winter Moth finally made it on to the year list.
WeBS counting
17th December 2012 – rain at times W1/2
Grounded Migrants
A group of 6 Redwing were newly arrived.
Wildfowl and Waders
The monthy WeBS count produced good numbers of wildfowl and waders, individual totals included: 6700 Oystercatcher, 5023 Eider, 2303 Dunlin, 1010 Redshank, 940 Wigeon, 920 Golden Plover, 820 Curlew, 620 Teal, 590 Knot, 345 Lapwing, 245 Grey Plover, 220 Turnstone, 219 Shelduck, 176 Sanderling, 157 Mallard, 149 Snipe, 50 Bar-tailed Godwit, 50 Ringed Plover, 42 Pintail, 30 Goldeneye, 23 Red-breasted Merganser, 15 Purple Sandpiper, 12 Greenshank, 11 Scaup and 2 Shoveler.
Ringing
The flock of Knot held at least two colour-ringed birds – hopefully details will be forthcoming in due course.
Grounded Migrants
A group of 6 Redwing were newly arrived.
Wildfowl and Waders
The monthy WeBS count produced good numbers of wildfowl and waders, individual totals included: 6700 Oystercatcher, 5023 Eider, 2303 Dunlin, 1010 Redshank, 940 Wigeon, 920 Golden Plover, 820 Curlew, 620 Teal, 590 Knot, 345 Lapwing, 245 Grey Plover, 220 Turnstone, 219 Shelduck, 176 Sanderling, 157 Mallard, 149 Snipe, 50 Bar-tailed Godwit, 50 Ringed Plover, 42 Pintail, 30 Goldeneye, 23 Red-breasted Merganser, 15 Purple Sandpiper, 12 Greenshank, 11 Scaup and 2 Shoveler.
Ringing
The flock of Knot held at least two colour-ringed birds – hopefully details will be forthcoming in due course.
Late Gannet
16th December 2012 – sunny spells/showers SW3
Offshore
Early morning observations (0930-1030) provided 65 Common Scoter, 6 Red-throated Diver and single Razorbill, Kittiwake and Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 176 pale-bellied birds and waders included 15 Purple Sandpiper and 4 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was logged along with 6 Little Egret.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0930-1030) provided 65 Common Scoter, 6 Red-throated Diver and single Razorbill, Kittiwake and Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 176 pale-bellied birds and waders included 15 Purple Sandpiper and 4 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was logged along with 6 Little Egret.
Slavonian Grebe
15th December 2012 – overcast/showers SW3
Offshore
A quick check over the sea produced 10 Scaup, 7 Red-throated Diver and single Shag and Slavonian Grebe.
Wildfowl and Waders
Brent Geese involved 168 pale-bellied and 58 dark-bellied birds while waders included 8 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
At least 9 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore and single Peregrine and Barn Owl were logged. A Grey Wagtail was unusual at this time of year.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea produced 10 Scaup, 7 Red-throated Diver and single Shag and Slavonian Grebe.
Wildfowl and Waders
Brent Geese involved 168 pale-bellied and 58 dark-bellied birds while waders included 8 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
At least 9 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore and single Peregrine and Barn Owl were logged. A Grey Wagtail was unusual at this time of year.
The sea dominates sightings
8th December 2012 – early frost/sunny spells/calm
Offshore
The sea (0830-0930) provided 575 Common Scoter, 43 Red-throated Diver, 28 Red-breasted Merganser, 10 Razorbill, 9 Scaup (7 drakes) and single Gannet and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Several small groups of Song Thrush totalling 14 birds were suggestive of some cold weather movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 80 pale-bellied Brent Geese, 20 Barnacle Geese and 4 dark-bellied Brent Geese. A Black-tailed Godwit and 2 Greenshank were the best of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues to tour the island and raptors included a Merlin chasing Goldfinches and a Peregrine chasing a large flock of Knot.
Offshore
The sea (0830-0930) provided 575 Common Scoter, 43 Red-throated Diver, 28 Red-breasted Merganser, 10 Razorbill, 9 Scaup (7 drakes) and single Gannet and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Several small groups of Song Thrush totalling 14 birds were suggestive of some cold weather movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 80 pale-bellied Brent Geese, 20 Barnacle Geese and 4 dark-bellied Brent Geese. A Black-tailed Godwit and 2 Greenshank were the best of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues to tour the island and raptors included a Merlin chasing Goldfinches and a Peregrine chasing a large flock of Knot.
Whooper Swans on the move
30th November 2012 – sunny spells/early frost ESE1
Offshore
A check over the sea produced 10 Common Scoter, 7 Red-throated Diver and 4 Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
Four Song Thrush suggested some cold weather movement .
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 20 Whooper Swan flew south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Goosander and Greenshank were the pick.
Miscellaneous
At least 9 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore and single Merlin and Barn Owl were logged.
Ringing
The final throes of autumn produced 93 birds of 15 species. Individual totals were as follows Blackbird (23), Greenfinch (18), Goldfinch (17), Song Thrush (9), Chaffinch (7), Dunnock (6), Robin (2), Goldcrest (2), Redwing (2), House Sparrow (2), Tree Sparrow (1), Reed Bunting (1), Blackcap (1), Garden Warbler (1) and Water Rail (1).
Offshore
A check over the sea produced 10 Common Scoter, 7 Red-throated Diver and 4 Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
Four Song Thrush suggested some cold weather movement .
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 20 Whooper Swan flew south.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Goosander and Greenshank were the pick.
Miscellaneous
At least 9 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore and single Merlin and Barn Owl were logged.
Ringing
The final throes of autumn produced 93 birds of 15 species. Individual totals were as follows Blackbird (23), Greenfinch (18), Goldfinch (17), Song Thrush (9), Chaffinch (7), Dunnock (6), Robin (2), Goldcrest (2), Redwing (2), House Sparrow (2), Tree Sparrow (1), Reed Bunting (1), Blackcap (1), Garden Warbler (1) and Water Rail (1).
Red-throated Divers on the move
29th November 2012 – bright and frosty/calm
Offshore
Morning observations (0930-1030) were led by a total of 47 Red-throated Diver moving south, also seen were 23 Red-breasted Merganser, 11 Common Scoter and 4 Goosander.
Grounded Migrants
A few more Song Thrush and Blackbird were in evidence.
Diurnal Migration
Two skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 145 birds headed north.
Wildfowl and Waders
The small flock of Pintail increased to 47 birds.
Miscellaneous
At least 9 Little Egret were along the eastern shore and 4 Rock Pipit were logged.
Offshore
Morning observations (0930-1030) were led by a total of 47 Red-throated Diver moving south, also seen were 23 Red-breasted Merganser, 11 Common Scoter and 4 Goosander.
Grounded Migrants
A few more Song Thrush and Blackbird were in evidence.
Diurnal Migration
Two skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 145 birds headed north.
Wildfowl and Waders
The small flock of Pintail increased to 47 birds.
Miscellaneous
At least 9 Little Egret were along the eastern shore and 4 Rock Pipit were logged.
The sea continues to provide the main interest
28th November 2012 – Bright and sunny N2, early frost
Offshore
A check of the sea early morning (0840-0940) provided 215 Common Scoter, 23 Kittiwake, 12 Red-throated Diver, 11 Red-breasted Merganser, 8 Eider and 6 Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
Shelduck numbers are finally beginning to build while a recent influx of Snipe is evident with one flock flushed from the saltmarsh holding 120 birds.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues to linger and Little Egrets continue to show well.
Offshore
A check of the sea early morning (0840-0940) provided 215 Common Scoter, 23 Kittiwake, 12 Red-throated Diver, 11 Red-breasted Merganser, 8 Eider and 6 Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
Shelduck numbers are finally beginning to build while a recent influx of Snipe is evident with one flock flushed from the saltmarsh holding 120 birds.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues to linger and Little Egrets continue to show well.
Goldfinch to Nottingham
26th November 2012 – overcast/rain at times NNW3/4
Offshore
A check of the sea early morning (0915-1015) provided 25 Common Scoter, 16 Razorbill, 9 Kittiwake and 8 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A solitary Fieldfare provided the only evidence.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2000 Knot and Shoveler increased to 11 birds.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues in residence and 8 Little Egret were logged. Two Barn Owls hunted the island at dawn.
Ringing
During the course of 2012 over 330 Goldfinch have been colour-ringed on the island with just a number of local sightings reported until a bird was photographed on in garden feeder at Arnold, Nottingham on 17th November 2012. This bird had initially been marked during autumn passage on the island on 19th October 2012.
The sea provides most interest
25th November 2012 – overcast/rain at times W3/4
Offshore
A check of the sea early morning (0915-1015) provided 40 Razorbill, 31 Common Scoter, 28 Kittiwake, 20 Red-throated Diver, 2 Guillemot and single Gannet and Fulmar.
Ringing
A Sanderling along the maritime shore had previously been ringed at Gardskagi, ICELAND on 15th May 2011 .
Little on offer away from the sea
23rd November 2012 – overcast/early showers SW4
Offshore
A check of the sea early morning (0815-0915) provided 125 Razorbill, 18 Common Scoter, 14 Kittiwake, 10 Guillemot, 6 Red-throated Diver and 3 Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
A solitary Fieldfare provided the only evidence.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 9 Shoveler were the best of the wildfowl.
Miscellaneous
Several Little Egrets continue to roam amongst the salt marshes along the eastern shore.
A quiet late autumn day
21st November 2012 – overcast/early showers SE1/2
Offshore
A check of the sea early morning (0815-0915) provided 10 Red-throated Diver, 9 Common Scoter, 7 Razorbill, 3 Kittiwake and single Gannet and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Despite the weather conditions sightings were limited to thrushes with 10 Blackbird and single Song Thrush and Mistle Thrush logged suggesting passage is at an end.
Wildfowl and Waders
A pair of Gadwall were the pick of the wildfowl.
Miscellaneous
Little Egrets continue to roam amongst the salt marshes along the eastern shore.
Another Waxwing
18th November 2012 – sunny spells and showers NW3/4
Offshore
A group of 8 Shag were the pick of the offshore sightings.
Grounded Migrants
A check of the berry laden hawthorns on the island revealed 205 Blackbird, 33 Fieldfare, 12 Redwing and 3 Song Thrush but no grounded Waxwings.
Diurnal Migration
A single Waxwing circled the island before heading off north east while 40 Woodpigeon and 15 Whooper Swan were also logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Totals for the monthly WeBS count included 6074 Oystercatcher, 1400 Knot, 1060 Dunlin, 1060 Redshank, 830 Lapwing, 730 Golden Plover, 890 Wigeon, 830 Curlew, 380 Teal, 344 Turnstone, 212 Grey Plover, 200 Snipe, 166 pale-bellied Brent Geese, 140 Mallard, 138 Cormorant, 100 Shelduck, 80 Ringed Plover, 57 Pintail, 30 Red-breasted Merganser, 30 Bar-tailed Godwit, 27 Goldeneye, 16 Purple Sandpiper, 15 Greenshank, 11 Grey Heron, 10 Little Egret, 4 Water Rail, 2 Shoveler and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Woodland species are not that common on the island but a tour of the less frequently visited areas in pursuit of Waxwings provided 23 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Jay and 3 Great Spotted Woodpecker. In addition, 6 Sparrowhawk were logged.
Black-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe and Black Guillemot!
17th November 2012 – early rain then sunny spells NW1/2/3/4
Offshore
The sea provided the highlights of the day with single Black-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe and Black Guillemot logged. Also seen were 24 Common Scoter and small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Kittiwake and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Thrushes again dominated early morning with 36 Blackbird, 12 Redwing, 5 Song Thrush, 3 Fieldfare and a Mistle Thrush logged along with a single Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A late Swallow was seen with 3 Brambling, 2 Lesser Redpoll and single Siskin and Rock Pipit also recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 139 pale-bellied birds and 20 Pintail and 2 Shoveler also logged. Waders included 15 Greenshank and a Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted the island at dawn, the Twite flock increased to 180 birds while 5 Little Egret, 8 Long-tailed Tit and 2 Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Offshore
The sea provided the highlights of the day with single Black-throated Diver, Slavonian Grebe and Black Guillemot logged. Also seen were 24 Common Scoter and small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Kittiwake and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Thrushes again dominated early morning with 36 Blackbird, 12 Redwing, 5 Song Thrush, 3 Fieldfare and a Mistle Thrush logged along with a single Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A late Swallow was seen with 3 Brambling, 2 Lesser Redpoll and single Siskin and Rock Pipit also recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 139 pale-bellied birds and 20 Pintail and 2 Shoveler also logged. Waders included 15 Greenshank and a Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted the island at dawn, the Twite flock increased to 180 birds while 5 Little Egret, 8 Long-tailed Tit and 2 Water Rail were the best of the rest.
More Waxwings move through
16th November 2012 – overcast S2
Grounded Migrants
Another trickle of thrushes early morning involved 15 Blackbird, 6 Fieldfare , 4 Song Thrush and 3 Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 10 Waxwing moved through along with 4 Brambling and 2 Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock increased to a record 170 pale-bellied birds while waders included a Jack Snipe amongst 55 Snipe and single Greenshank and Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues to linger and 8 Rock Pipit were logged.
Grounded Migrants
Another trickle of thrushes early morning involved 15 Blackbird, 6 Fieldfare , 4 Song Thrush and 3 Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 10 Waxwing moved through along with 4 Brambling and 2 Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock increased to a record 170 pale-bellied birds while waders included a Jack Snipe amongst 55 Snipe and single Greenshank and Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues to linger and 8 Rock Pipit were logged.
Waxwings lead late autumn flurry
15th November 2012 – misty/murky then sunny spells SSE2
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of thrushes early morning involved 27 Blackbird, 20 Redwing and 11 Song Thrush. Also logged were a late Garden Warbler and a solitary Goldcrest
Diurnal Migration
Sightings were headlined by 2 Waxwing amongst 280 Starling, 10 Meadow Pipit and a flock of 7 Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
The flock of Brent Geese again held 166 pale-bellied birds while waders included a Woodcock amongst 115 Snipe.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues to linger, 50 Twite were logged and at least 15 Rock Pipit were flushed from the salt marsh at high tide.
Ringing
Several of the Blackbirds were trapped and ringed and biometric data (wing length up to 140mm) suggested that at least some were of continental origin.
Images
Garden Warbler.
Grounded Migrants
Another smattering of thrushes early morning involved 27 Blackbird, 20 Redwing and 11 Song Thrush. Also logged were a late Garden Warbler and a solitary Goldcrest
Diurnal Migration
Sightings were headlined by 2 Waxwing amongst 280 Starling, 10 Meadow Pipit and a flock of 7 Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
The flock of Brent Geese again held 166 pale-bellied birds while waders included a Woodcock amongst 115 Snipe.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues to linger, 50 Twite were logged and at least 15 Rock Pipit were flushed from the salt marsh at high tide.
Ringing
Several of the Blackbirds were trapped and ringed and biometric data (wing length up to 140mm) suggested that at least some were of continental origin.
Images
Garden Warbler.
Brent Geese continue to increase
14th November 2012 – overcast S3/4
Grounded Migrants
A scattering of thrushes early morning included 23 Blackbird and 12 Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Some late movement with 10 Greenfinch and 10 Chaffinch logged..
Wildfowl and Waders
The flock of Brent Geese continues to increase slowly with 166 birds present today including the first family parties.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and at least 11 Rock Pipit were flushed from the salt marsh by the high tides.
Grounded Migrants
A scattering of thrushes early morning included 23 Blackbird and 12 Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Some late movement with 10 Greenfinch and 10 Chaffinch logged..
Wildfowl and Waders
The flock of Brent Geese continues to increase slowly with 166 birds present today including the first family parties.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and at least 11 Rock Pipit were flushed from the salt marsh by the high tides.
Waxwings disappear
13th November 2012 – overcast S4
Offshore
Small numbers of Guillemot, Razorbill and Common Scoter were logged.
Grounded Migrants
The Waxwings promptly disappeared and other grounded birds were limited to 7 Redwing and single Blackcap, Chiffchaff and Goldcrest.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 156 pale-bellied birds and 37 Pintail were seen. Waders included 1100 Knot while the first Purple Sandpiper have now returned
Miscellaneous
At least 52 Twite and 9 Little Egret remain and 2 Raven were logged.
Offshore
Small numbers of Guillemot, Razorbill and Common Scoter were logged.
Grounded Migrants
The Waxwings promptly disappeared and other grounded birds were limited to 7 Redwing and single Blackcap, Chiffchaff and Goldcrest.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 156 pale-bellied birds and 37 Pintail were seen. Waders included 1100 Knot while the first Purple Sandpiper have now returned
Miscellaneous
At least 52 Twite and 9 Little Egret remain and 2 Raven were logged.
Waxwings arrive
12th November 2012 – rain SE4
Rarities
A flock of 20 Waxwings along Mill Lane on the centre of the island is the largest group ever recorded on the island.
Grounded Migrants
A flock of thrushes comprised of 31 Fieldfare, 15 Blackbird, 5 Redwing and 2 Song Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 146 pale-bellied birds and 31 Pintail were seen.
Miscellaneous
At least 55 Twite and 8 Little Egret remain.
Rarities
A flock of 20 Waxwings along Mill Lane on the centre of the island is the largest group ever recorded on the island.
Grounded Migrants
A flock of thrushes comprised of 31 Fieldfare, 15 Blackbird, 5 Redwing and 2 Song Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 146 pale-bellied birds and 31 Pintail were seen.
Miscellaneous
At least 55 Twite and 8 Little Egret remain.
Blackcap
10th November 2012 – sunny spells and showers SW3
Grounded Migrants
A smattering of thrushes included single Fieldfare and Redwing while a male Blackcap was also logged.
Diurnal Migrants
A late movement of 27 Meadow Pipit was recorded along with 2 Raven and a Siskin.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and the Twite flock increased to 55 birds.
Grounded Migrants
A smattering of thrushes included single Fieldfare and Redwing while a male Blackcap was also logged.
Diurnal Migrants
A late movement of 27 Meadow Pipit was recorded along with 2 Raven and a Siskin.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and the Twite flock increased to 55 birds.
Seawatching weather!
7th November 2012 – overcast/rain at times WSW4/5
Offshore
Early morning observations (0830-1030) on the falling tide produced 370 Razorbill, 50 Kittiwake, 40 Guillemot, 25 Common Scoter, 10 Shag, 3 Red-throated Diver and 3 Gannet as they moved back out of Morecambe Bay.
Grounded Migrants
A Goldcrest was the best that could be mustered.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 35 birds.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0830-1030) on the falling tide produced 370 Razorbill, 50 Kittiwake, 40 Guillemot, 25 Common Scoter, 10 Shag, 3 Red-throated Diver and 3 Gannet as they moved back out of Morecambe Bay.
Grounded Migrants
A Goldcrest was the best that could be mustered.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 35 birds.
Thrush day
5th November 2012 – bright and sunny/early frost/calm
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 34 Blackbird, 11 Song Thrush, 10 Redwing and 4 Fieldfare. Also seen were 3 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Some late movement was evident with 270 Pink-footed Geese, 80 Jackdaw, 50 Woodpigeon, 25 Meadow Pipit, 14 Greenfinch, 10 Chaffinch, 6 Long-tailed Tit, 6 Brambling, 2 Raven, 2 Tree Sparrow, 2 Lesser Redpoll and single Siskin and Rock Pipit logged.
Miscellaneous
At least one Water Rail remains.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 34 Blackbird, 11 Song Thrush, 10 Redwing and 4 Fieldfare. Also seen were 3 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Some late movement was evident with 270 Pink-footed Geese, 80 Jackdaw, 50 Woodpigeon, 25 Meadow Pipit, 14 Greenfinch, 10 Chaffinch, 6 Long-tailed Tit, 6 Brambling, 2 Raven, 2 Tree Sparrow, 2 Lesser Redpoll and single Siskin and Rock Pipit logged.
Miscellaneous
At least one Water Rail remains.
Late Swallow
4th November 2012 – bright and sunny NE3
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 16 Blackbird and 13 Song Thrush, additional sightings were limited to 3 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A late Swallow was the highlight along with 150 Woodpigeon, 135 Starling, 130 Jackdaw, 90 Pink-footed Geese, 90 Meadow Pipit, 14 Carrion Crow, 11 Linnet, 6 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling and single Siskin, Lesser Redpoll, Mistle Thrush and Great Spotted Woodpecker.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 4 Gadwall and a Shoveler.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine, 5 Water Rail and 16 Long-tailed Tit were the best of the rest.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 16 Blackbird and 13 Song Thrush, additional sightings were limited to 3 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A late Swallow was the highlight along with 150 Woodpigeon, 135 Starling, 130 Jackdaw, 90 Pink-footed Geese, 90 Meadow Pipit, 14 Carrion Crow, 11 Linnet, 6 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling and single Siskin, Lesser Redpoll, Mistle Thrush and Great Spotted Woodpecker.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 4 Gadwall and a Shoveler.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine, 5 Water Rail and 16 Long-tailed Tit were the best of the rest.
Great Northern Diver, Hooded Crow and Snow Bunting
3rd November 2012 – rain,sleet,snow,hail,thunder SW3/4
Offshore
Highlights from observations over the sea were a Great Northern Diver, 22 Kittiwake, 3 Shag and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A sprinkling involved 13 Blackbird, 7 Song Thrush, 5 Goldcrest and a Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
Between the downpours 6 Brambling, 3 Lesser Redpoll and single Snow Bunting and Rock Pipit were the highlights.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 151 pale bellied birds and other sightings included 3 Gadwall, 2 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains in residence and 3 Water Rail were logged.
Offshore
Highlights from observations over the sea were a Great Northern Diver, 22 Kittiwake, 3 Shag and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A sprinkling involved 13 Blackbird, 7 Song Thrush, 5 Goldcrest and a Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
Between the downpours 6 Brambling, 3 Lesser Redpoll and single Snow Bunting and Rock Pipit were the highlights.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 151 pale bellied birds and other sightings included 3 Gadwall, 2 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains in residence and 3 Water Rail were logged.
Machrihanish Twite
1st November 2012 – sunshine and showers N1/2/3
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) provided 79 Common Scoter, 16 Kittiwake, 2 Razorbill and a Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by 11 Blackbird, 8 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Song Thrush and a Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Limited to 2 Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included: 7 Goldeneye, 4 Shoveler and 3 Gadwall while 14 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 32 birds and 2 Water Rail were logged.
Ringing
The small flock of Twite included birds originally ringed at Machrihanish, Scotland in 2010 and from Heysham across the bay, details of which have yet to be received.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) provided 79 Common Scoter, 16 Kittiwake, 2 Razorbill and a Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by 11 Blackbird, 8 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Song Thrush and a Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Limited to 2 Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included: 7 Goldeneye, 4 Shoveler and 3 Gadwall while 14 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock increased to 32 birds and 2 Water Rail were logged.
Ringing
The small flock of Twite included birds originally ringed at Machrihanish, Scotland in 2010 and from Heysham across the bay, details of which have yet to be received.
End of autumn passage?
31st October 2012 – overcast, rain/heavy at times S5
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) provided small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Gannet, Common Scoter, Razorbill and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by 3 Blackbird.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included: 900 Wigeon, 103 pale-bellied Brent Goose, 104 Shelduck, 5 Pintail and 4 Shoveler.
Ringing
A total of 538 birds of 23 species were ringed during the month, with a lack of finches providing a below par total. Individual species totals were Goldfinch (126), Meadow Pipit (81), Greenfinch (59), Goldcrest (55), Chaffinch (51), Blackbird (34), Dunnock (22), Blue Tit (20), Robin (19), Song Thrush (16), Wren (16), Lesser Redpoll (8), Great Tit (6), House Sparrow (6), Coal Tit (5), Chiffchaff (3), Tree Sparrow (3), Redwing (2), Reed Bunting (2), Pied Wagtail (1), Great Spotted Woodpecker (1), Sparrowhawk (1), Merlin (1).
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) provided small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Gannet, Common Scoter, Razorbill and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by 3 Blackbird.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included: 900 Wigeon, 103 pale-bellied Brent Goose, 104 Shelduck, 5 Pintail and 4 Shoveler.
Ringing
A total of 538 birds of 23 species were ringed during the month, with a lack of finches providing a below par total. Individual species totals were Goldfinch (126), Meadow Pipit (81), Greenfinch (59), Goldcrest (55), Chaffinch (51), Blackbird (34), Dunnock (22), Blue Tit (20), Robin (19), Song Thrush (16), Wren (16), Lesser Redpoll (8), Great Tit (6), House Sparrow (6), Coal Tit (5), Chiffchaff (3), Tree Sparrow (3), Redwing (2), Reed Bunting (2), Pied Wagtail (1), Great Spotted Woodpecker (1), Sparrowhawk (1), Merlin (1).
Standard Fare
30th October 2012 – rain at times W4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) provided 66 Common Scoter, 35 Razorbill, 27 Kittiwake and 3 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 10 Blackbird.
Diurnal Migration
Three Whooper Swan flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pale-bellied Brent Goose flock held 87 birds. Waders included 10000 Oystercatcher, 1000 Golden Plover, 700 Knot, 220 Lapwing and 20 Bar-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 3 Merlin and a Peregrine.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) provided 66 Common Scoter, 35 Razorbill, 27 Kittiwake and 3 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 10 Blackbird.
Diurnal Migration
Three Whooper Swan flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pale-bellied Brent Goose flock held 87 birds. Waders included 10000 Oystercatcher, 1000 Golden Plover, 700 Knot, 220 Lapwing and 20 Bar-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 3 Merlin and a Peregrine.
Back to the mundane
29th October 2012 – sunny spells/calm
Offshore
A check over the sea yielded just 13 Common Scoter and 2 Red-throated Diver
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 29 Blackbird, 5 Song Thrush, 4 Redwing and a Fieldfare. Single Chiffchaff and 10 Goldcrest were also logged.
Diurnal Migration
Little activity in the skies apart from 40 Pink-footed Geese, 8 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Siskin and a Brambling.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Water Rail and 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker are present and 3 Rock Pipit were recorded.
Butterflies
A Red Admiral was still on the wing.
Offshore
A check over the sea yielded just 13 Common Scoter and 2 Red-throated Diver
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 29 Blackbird, 5 Song Thrush, 4 Redwing and a Fieldfare. Single Chiffchaff and 10 Goldcrest were also logged.
Diurnal Migration
Little activity in the skies apart from 40 Pink-footed Geese, 8 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Siskin and a Brambling.
Miscellaneous
At least 4 Water Rail and 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker are present and 3 Rock Pipit were recorded.
Butterflies
A Red Admiral was still on the wing.
Cetti’s Warbler brightens a dreary day
28th October 2012 – rain/heavy at times W4/5
Rarities
A dreary day was brightened late afternoon when a Cetti’s Warbler was found in the scrub around the pond near the kennels at North Scale.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) before the rain set in produced 105 Razorbill, 38 Common Scoter, 15 Kittiwake and single Black Guillemot and Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 35 Pintail gathered over the tide.
Miscellaneous
A gathering of 48 Little Egret included at least two colour ringed birds. A Great Spotted Woodpecker and 17 Twite were the best of the rest.
Rarities
A dreary day was brightened late afternoon when a Cetti’s Warbler was found in the scrub around the pond near the kennels at North Scale.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) before the rain set in produced 105 Razorbill, 38 Common Scoter, 15 Kittiwake and single Black Guillemot and Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 35 Pintail gathered over the tide.
Miscellaneous
A gathering of 48 Little Egret included at least two colour ringed birds. A Great Spotted Woodpecker and 17 Twite were the best of the rest.
Ring Ouzel stars
27th October 2012 – early frost the bright and sunny N3/4
Grounded Migrants
Thrushes were led by a male Ring Ouzel, 3 Song Thrush, 3 Fieldfare and 3 Redwing amongst a total of 75 Blackbird. Additional sightings included 2 Chiffchaff and 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Quieter than of late although sightings included 420 Starling, 120 Pink-footed Geese, 24 Whooper Swan, 6 Siskin, 4 Brambling and single Rock Pipit and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 20 Whooper Swan rested on the ebbing tide, a pair of Gadwall were newly arrived and waders included Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl was logged and other odds and ends involved 16 Long-tailed Tit, 9 Little Egret and a Great Spotted Woodpecker.
Butterflies
A late Red Admiral was on the wing.
Dragonflies
A Common Darter was logged.
Grounded Migrants
Thrushes were led by a male Ring Ouzel, 3 Song Thrush, 3 Fieldfare and 3 Redwing amongst a total of 75 Blackbird. Additional sightings included 2 Chiffchaff and 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Quieter than of late although sightings included 420 Starling, 120 Pink-footed Geese, 24 Whooper Swan, 6 Siskin, 4 Brambling and single Rock Pipit and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 20 Whooper Swan rested on the ebbing tide, a pair of Gadwall were newly arrived and waders included Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl was logged and other odds and ends involved 16 Long-tailed Tit, 9 Little Egret and a Great Spotted Woodpecker.
Butterflies
A late Red Admiral was on the wing.
Dragonflies
A Common Darter was logged.
Snow Bunting heads sightings
26th October 2012 – bright start then overcast NE2/3/4
Offshore
A check over the sea (0930-1000) revealed 45 Pintail, 14 Common Scoter, 3 Goldeneye and single Shag and Scaup.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 14 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush and single Redwing and Fieldfare. Two Goldcrest were the best of the rest.
Diurnal Migration
Pink-footed Geese were again on the move with 740 birds logged, associated with this movement were 11 Whooper Swan, 4 Barnacle Geese and a Greylag Goose. Additional sightings were led by a male Snow Bunting along with 430 Jackdaw, 255 Starling, 10 Chaffinch, 4 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 4 Whooper Swan rested on the island’s flooded fields.
Miscellaneous
The Barn Owl was still hunting at dawn and additional sightings included 12 Little Egret, 2 Raven and 2 Water Rail.
Ringing
The second colour-ringed Sanderling of the autumn had been ringed at Gardskagi, ICELAND on 15th May 2011.
Offshore
A check over the sea (0930-1000) revealed 45 Pintail, 14 Common Scoter, 3 Goldeneye and single Shag and Scaup.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 14 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush and single Redwing and Fieldfare. Two Goldcrest were the best of the rest.
Diurnal Migration
Pink-footed Geese were again on the move with 740 birds logged, associated with this movement were 11 Whooper Swan, 4 Barnacle Geese and a Greylag Goose. Additional sightings were led by a male Snow Bunting along with 430 Jackdaw, 255 Starling, 10 Chaffinch, 4 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 4 Whooper Swan rested on the island’s flooded fields.
Miscellaneous
The Barn Owl was still hunting at dawn and additional sightings included 12 Little Egret, 2 Raven and 2 Water Rail.
Ringing
The second colour-ringed Sanderling of the autumn had been ringed at Gardskagi, ICELAND on 15th May 2011.
Pink-footed Geese and Whooper Swans on the move
25th October 2012 –overcast NE2/3/4
Offshore
A quick check over the sea provided 6 Shag and a solitary Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 21 Redwing, 8 Song Thrush and 8 Blackbird. Five Goldcrest were the best of the rest.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings were dominated by 980 Pink-footed Geese and 24 Whooper Swan. Also seen were 14 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Brambling and a Siskin.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted the island at dusk.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea provided 6 Shag and a solitary Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 21 Redwing, 8 Song Thrush and 8 Blackbird. Five Goldcrest were the best of the rest.
Diurnal Migration
Sightings were dominated by 980 Pink-footed Geese and 24 Whooper Swan. Also seen were 14 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Brambling and a Siskin.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted the island at dusk.
Long-tailed Skua headlines
23rd October 2012 – overcast NE1
Offshore
Early morning observations (0840-0940) were led by a pale phase juvenile Long-tailed Skua that sauntered out of the bay between 0855-0905 along with 295 Common Scoter, 26 Razorbill, 14 Scaup, 5 Shag and single Red-throated Diver and Guillemot
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved the first 6 Fieldfare of the autumn along with 10 Redwing, 10 Blackbird, 4 Mistle Thrush and 2 Song Thrush. Also ssen were 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Little activity in the skies apart from 4 Rock Pipit and single Swallow and Fieldfare.
Miscellaneous
The flock of 17 Twite and 2 Water Rail remain and 2 Raven and a Merlin were also logged.
Mammals
The calm seas revealed 3 Harbour Porpoise.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0840-0940) were led by a pale phase juvenile Long-tailed Skua that sauntered out of the bay between 0855-0905 along with 295 Common Scoter, 26 Razorbill, 14 Scaup, 5 Shag and single Red-throated Diver and Guillemot
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved the first 6 Fieldfare of the autumn along with 10 Redwing, 10 Blackbird, 4 Mistle Thrush and 2 Song Thrush. Also ssen were 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Little activity in the skies apart from 4 Rock Pipit and single Swallow and Fieldfare.
Miscellaneous
The flock of 17 Twite and 2 Water Rail remain and 2 Raven and a Merlin were also logged.
Mammals
The calm seas revealed 3 Harbour Porpoise.
A quiet day
22nd October 2012 – overcast/early drizzle NE2/3
Grounded Migrants
A Great Spotted Woodpecker was the pick of the grounded birds which were otherwise limited to 9 Redwing, 5 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Brambling and 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Few birds were on the move with 10 Chaffinch, 10 Meadow Pipit, 6 Lesser Redpoll, 4 Brambling and 2 Raven the best on offer.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Water Rail remain.
Grounded Migrants
A Great Spotted Woodpecker was the pick of the grounded birds which were otherwise limited to 9 Redwing, 5 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Brambling and 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Few birds were on the move with 10 Chaffinch, 10 Meadow Pipit, 6 Lesser Redpoll, 4 Brambling and 2 Raven the best on offer.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Water Rail remain.
Late Willow Warbler
21st October 2012 – bright and sunny/calm
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 24 Blackbird, 12 Redwing, 7 Song Thrush and 2 Mistle Thrush. Other sightings included 19 Goldcrest, 3 Chiffchaff and a late Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
The skies provided 1145 Jackdaw, 70 Chaffinch, 70 Starling, 60 Meadow Pipit, 22 Linnet, 16 Lesser Redpoll, 10 Carrion Crow, 7 Tree Sparrow, 6 alba Wagtail, 3 Brambling, 4 Rock Pipit and 2 Siskin.
Miscellaneous
Additional sighting included 17 Twite, 2 Water Rail and single Merlin and Peregrine.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 24 Blackbird, 12 Redwing, 7 Song Thrush and 2 Mistle Thrush. Other sightings included 19 Goldcrest, 3 Chiffchaff and a late Willow Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
The skies provided 1145 Jackdaw, 70 Chaffinch, 70 Starling, 60 Meadow Pipit, 22 Linnet, 16 Lesser Redpoll, 10 Carrion Crow, 7 Tree Sparrow, 6 alba Wagtail, 3 Brambling, 4 Rock Pipit and 2 Siskin.
Miscellaneous
Additional sighting included 17 Twite, 2 Water Rail and single Merlin and Peregrine.
Hooded Crow continues to linger
19th October 2012 – early rain then sunny spells/calm
Offshore
Early morning observations yielded 15 Common Scoter and single Sandwich Tern and Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 4 Song Thrush and a Redwing amongst a sprinkling of Blackbird. Also seen were 10 Goldcrest and single Wheatear and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Some movement was evident with 200 Jackdaw, 60 Meadow Pipit, 60 Chaffinch, 20 Skylark, 20 Lesser Redpoll, 16 Tree Sparrow, 10 Linnet, 10 alba Wagtail, 3 Brambling, 3 Redwing, 2 Rock Pipit and a Grey Wagtail.
Miscellaneous
A Hooded Crow continues to linger and additional sightings included 12 Long-tailed Tit and single Water Rail and Merlin.
Offshore
Early morning observations yielded 15 Common Scoter and single Sandwich Tern and Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes included 4 Song Thrush and a Redwing amongst a sprinkling of Blackbird. Also seen were 10 Goldcrest and single Wheatear and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Some movement was evident with 200 Jackdaw, 60 Meadow Pipit, 60 Chaffinch, 20 Skylark, 20 Lesser Redpoll, 16 Tree Sparrow, 10 Linnet, 10 alba Wagtail, 3 Brambling, 3 Redwing, 2 Rock Pipit and a Grey Wagtail.
Miscellaneous
A Hooded Crow continues to linger and additional sightings included 12 Long-tailed Tit and single Water Rail and Merlin.
Great Northern Diver
17th October 2012 – early rain then sunny spells SSE4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced just 9 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill and a Red-throated Diver. However, a summer plumaged Great Northern Diver appeared over the tide.
Grounded Migrants
Little on offer with just 3 Goldcrest and single Chiffchaff and Song Thrush logged.
Diurnal Migration
A few Meadow Pipit and Skylark moved through as the weather cleared mid-morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pale-bellied Brent Goose flock has increased to 116 birds and waders included 127 Sanderling and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Ringing
A small flock of 27 Sanderling included a bird previously ringed at Sandgeroi, ICELAND (1240km NW) on 19th May 2011 remarkably this bird was also identified on the island during spring passage on 14th April 2012.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced just 9 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill and a Red-throated Diver. However, a summer plumaged Great Northern Diver appeared over the tide.
Grounded Migrants
Little on offer with just 3 Goldcrest and single Chiffchaff and Song Thrush logged.
Diurnal Migration
A few Meadow Pipit and Skylark moved through as the weather cleared mid-morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pale-bellied Brent Goose flock has increased to 116 birds and waders included 127 Sanderling and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Ringing
A small flock of 27 Sanderling included a bird previously ringed at Sandgeroi, ICELAND (1240km NW) on 19th May 2011 remarkably this bird was also identified on the island during spring passage on 14th April 2012.
Hooded Crow and Short-eared Owl
16th October 2012 – rain then sunny spells W5/6/7
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0930) provided 150 Common Scoter, 13 Gannet, 5 Razorbill and single Red-throated Diver and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 3 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff.
Miscellaneous
Short-eared Owl, Barn Owl and Little Owl all hunted the island at dusk and the Hooded Crow remains. The high tide pushed 11 Rock Pipit from the salt marshes.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0930) provided 150 Common Scoter, 13 Gannet, 5 Razorbill and single Red-throated Diver and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 3 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff.
Miscellaneous
Short-eared Owl, Barn Owl and Little Owl all hunted the island at dusk and the Hooded Crow remains. The high tide pushed 11 Rock Pipit from the salt marshes.
Twite bears Heysham ring
15th October 2012 – early showers then sunny spells/calm
Offshore
A quick check over the sea revealed just 7 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 20 Blackbird, 5 Song Thrush and 2 Redwing, also seen were 11 Goldcrest, 3 Chiffchaff and a Coal Tit.
Diurnal Migration
Again variety rather than quantity with 300 Jackdaw, 30 Meadow Pipit, 25 alba Wagtail, 20 Pink-footed Geese, 10 Whooper Swan, 6 Woodpigeon, 4 Siskin, 3 Tree Sparrow, 2 Rock Pipit and 2 Lesser Redpoll amongst the species logged.
Miscellaneous
At least 9 Little Egret remain and 3 Water Rail and 2 Raven were seen.
Ringing
A flock of 13 Twite held a bird previously ringed across the other side of Morecambe Bay at Heysham.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea revealed just 7 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 20 Blackbird, 5 Song Thrush and 2 Redwing, also seen were 11 Goldcrest, 3 Chiffchaff and a Coal Tit.
Diurnal Migration
Again variety rather than quantity with 300 Jackdaw, 30 Meadow Pipit, 25 alba Wagtail, 20 Pink-footed Geese, 10 Whooper Swan, 6 Woodpigeon, 4 Siskin, 3 Tree Sparrow, 2 Rock Pipit and 2 Lesser Redpoll amongst the species logged.
Miscellaneous
At least 9 Little Egret remain and 3 Water Rail and 2 Raven were seen.
Ringing
A flock of 13 Twite held a bird previously ringed across the other side of Morecambe Bay at Heysham.
Hooded Crow and Short-eared Owl
14th October 2012 –early showers then sunny spells/calm
Grounded Migrants
Little evidence of many grounded birds with sightings limited to 7 Goldcrest, 4 Blackbird, 2 Chiffchaff and single Great Spotted Woodpecker and Mistle Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Variety remained the order of the day with 610 Jackdaw, 110 Pink-footed Geese, 50 Meadow Pipit, 20 alba Wagtail, 6 Rock Pipit, 3 Swallow, 2 Grey Wagtail and single Twite and Lesser Redpoll amongst the sightings logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 660 Wigeon while 800 Golden Plover and 400 Turnstone were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 10 Little Egret remain while other sightings included the long-staying Hooded Crow along with 4 Raven and single Short-eared Owl and Merlin.
Grounded Migrants
Little evidence of many grounded birds with sightings limited to 7 Goldcrest, 4 Blackbird, 2 Chiffchaff and single Great Spotted Woodpecker and Mistle Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Variety remained the order of the day with 610 Jackdaw, 110 Pink-footed Geese, 50 Meadow Pipit, 20 alba Wagtail, 6 Rock Pipit, 3 Swallow, 2 Grey Wagtail and single Twite and Lesser Redpoll amongst the sightings logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 660 Wigeon while 800 Golden Plover and 400 Turnstone were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 10 Little Egret remain while other sightings included the long-staying Hooded Crow along with 4 Raven and single Short-eared Owl and Merlin.
First Woodcock and Twite of the autumn
13th October 2012 –early showers then sunny/calm
Grounded Migrants
Goldcrest were to the fore with 35 birds logged along with 5 Coal Tit, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Redwing and single Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
Variety was again the order of the day with 110 Pink-footed Geese, 110 Meadow Pipit, 35 alba Wagtail, 30 Chaffinch, 20 Linnet, 20 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 3 Siskin, 2 Brambling, 2 Lesser Redpoll and single Tree Sparrow and Rock Pipit recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon numbers are beginning to build and waders included 11 Greenshank and a Woodcock.
Miscellaneous
The first 13 Twite of the autumn were seen along with 320 Goldfinch and 2 Water Rail.
Grounded Migrants
Goldcrest were to the fore with 35 birds logged along with 5 Coal Tit, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Redwing and single Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
Variety was again the order of the day with 110 Pink-footed Geese, 110 Meadow Pipit, 35 alba Wagtail, 30 Chaffinch, 20 Linnet, 20 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 3 Siskin, 2 Brambling, 2 Lesser Redpoll and single Tree Sparrow and Rock Pipit recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon numbers are beginning to build and waders included 11 Greenshank and a Woodcock.
Miscellaneous
The first 13 Twite of the autumn were seen along with 320 Goldfinch and 2 Water Rail.
First Redwing of the autumn
10th October 2012 –overcast SE3
Offshore
Sightings were limited to 3 Shag and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
The first 3 Redwing of the autumn were grounded early morning with 7 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff providing the supporting cast.
Diurnal Migration
Pink-footed Geese continued to pour through throughout the morning with a total of 2660 logged. Also seen were 920 Jackdaw, 100 Meadow Pipit, 55 alba Wagtail, 30 Starling, 15 Whooper Swan, 12 Chaffinch, 9 Lesser Redpoll, 8 Rook, 8 Skylark, 6 Tree Sparrow and a Brambling.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 4 Kestrel, 3 Merlin and single Peregrine, Sparrowhawk and Little Owl. A Water Rail was the best of the rest.
Offshore
Sightings were limited to 3 Shag and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
The first 3 Redwing of the autumn were grounded early morning with 7 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff providing the supporting cast.
Diurnal Migration
Pink-footed Geese continued to pour through throughout the morning with a total of 2660 logged. Also seen were 920 Jackdaw, 100 Meadow Pipit, 55 alba Wagtail, 30 Starling, 15 Whooper Swan, 12 Chaffinch, 9 Lesser Redpoll, 8 Rook, 8 Skylark, 6 Tree Sparrow and a Brambling.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 4 Kestrel, 3 Merlin and single Peregrine, Sparrowhawk and Little Owl. A Water Rail was the best of the rest.
Pink-footed Geese pour through
9th October 2012 –bright and sunny NE1/2
Grounded Migrants
Although 3 Mistle Thrush, 2 Song Thrush and 2 Coal Tit were logged at dawn, they soon melted away to leave just 5 Goldcrest and single Wheatear and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Quantity was provided by 1695 Pink-footed Geese and 800 Jackdaw while 250 Meadow Pipit, 14 Reed Bunting, 10 alba Wagtail, 10 Swallow, 10 Chaffinch, 7 Skylark, 6 Greenfinch, 4 Tree Sparrow and 2 Siskin added variety.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was still on the wing
Moths and Butterflies
Around 12 day-flying Silver Y were feeding on late flowering Ragwort while both Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell are still on the wing.
Grounded Migrants
Although 3 Mistle Thrush, 2 Song Thrush and 2 Coal Tit were logged at dawn, they soon melted away to leave just 5 Goldcrest and single Wheatear and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Quantity was provided by 1695 Pink-footed Geese and 800 Jackdaw while 250 Meadow Pipit, 14 Reed Bunting, 10 alba Wagtail, 10 Swallow, 10 Chaffinch, 7 Skylark, 6 Greenfinch, 4 Tree Sparrow and 2 Siskin added variety.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker was still on the wing
Moths and Butterflies
Around 12 day-flying Silver Y were feeding on late flowering Ragwort while both Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell are still on the wing.
Diurnal migration continues to lead the way
8th October 2012 – overcast then sunny spells NE2/3
Offshore
A quick check over the sea revealed nothing of note.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 15 Goldcrest and single Song Thrush and Coal Tit.
Diurnal Migration
Variety rather than quantity was again the order of the day with 500 Meadow Pipit, 200 Jackdaw, 190 Pink-footed Geese, 30 alba Wagtail, 22 Tree Sparrow, 10 Chaffinch, 5 Rook, 4 Swallow, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Raven and single Siskin, Rock Pipit and Brambling logged.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin were the best of the rest.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea revealed nothing of note.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 15 Goldcrest and single Song Thrush and Coal Tit.
Diurnal Migration
Variety rather than quantity was again the order of the day with 500 Meadow Pipit, 200 Jackdaw, 190 Pink-footed Geese, 30 alba Wagtail, 22 Tree Sparrow, 10 Chaffinch, 5 Rook, 4 Swallow, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Raven and single Siskin, Rock Pipit and Brambling logged.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin were the best of the rest.
Icelandic Merlin?
7th October 2012 –bright and sunny/calm
Offshore
A quick check over the sea at dawn provided small numbers of Gannet, Common Scoter and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Still thin on the ground with 7 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Blackcap the best on offer. However, a minor invasion mid-morning produced 20 Blue Tit, 9 Coal Tit and 7 Great Tit.
Diurnal Migration
Calm at last and variety was the order of the day with sightings including 945 Pink-footed Geese, 300 Meadow Pipit, 80 Swallow, 30 alba Wagtail, 24 Tree Sparrow, 20 Skylark, 14 Jackdaw, 10 Chaffinch, 10 Greenfinch, 3 Brambling, 2 Lesser Redpoll and 2 House Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 5 Whooper Swan flew south early morning.
Ringing
The best day of the autumn so far with 103 birds trapped including a female Merlin with biometric data suggesting it was of Icelandic origin (Wing length 231mm, Weight 222g).
Miscellaneous
At least 7 Little Egret remain and raptors included 2 Merlin and a Peregrine. Two Jay were unusual and the Hooded Crow remains in residence.
Offshore
A quick check over the sea at dawn provided small numbers of Gannet, Common Scoter and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Still thin on the ground with 7 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Blackcap the best on offer. However, a minor invasion mid-morning produced 20 Blue Tit, 9 Coal Tit and 7 Great Tit.
Diurnal Migration
Calm at last and variety was the order of the day with sightings including 945 Pink-footed Geese, 300 Meadow Pipit, 80 Swallow, 30 alba Wagtail, 24 Tree Sparrow, 20 Skylark, 14 Jackdaw, 10 Chaffinch, 10 Greenfinch, 3 Brambling, 2 Lesser Redpoll and 2 House Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 5 Whooper Swan flew south early morning.
Ringing
The best day of the autumn so far with 103 birds trapped including a female Merlin with biometric data suggesting it was of Icelandic origin (Wing length 231mm, Weight 222g).
Miscellaneous
At least 7 Little Egret remain and raptors included 2 Merlin and a Peregrine. Two Jay were unusual and the Hooded Crow remains in residence.
Late Whinchat
5th October 2012 –sunshine and heavy showers SW 4
Offshore
Morning observations (0815-0915) provided 130 Common Scoter, 40 Gannet, 33 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver, 2 Kittiwake and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A late Whinchat was the only bird of note.
Diurnal Migration
Little was on the move due to the conditions with just 120 Meadow Pipit, 20 Skylark and 3 Jackdaw noted.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 6 Whooper Swan drifted on the tide.
Miscellaneous
At least 14 Little Egret remain and a Peregrine was logged.
Offshore
Morning observations (0815-0915) provided 130 Common Scoter, 40 Gannet, 33 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver, 2 Kittiwake and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A late Whinchat was the only bird of note.
Diurnal Migration
Little was on the move due to the conditions with just 120 Meadow Pipit, 20 Skylark and 3 Jackdaw noted.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of 6 Whooper Swan drifted on the tide.
Miscellaneous
At least 14 Little Egret remain and a Peregrine was logged.
First Brambling of the autumn
4th October 2012 –sunshine and showers NE1 then W2
Offshore
Little was on the move over the sea with just a Shag and small numbers of Common Scoter and Razorbill logged.
Grounded Migrants
Remaining sparse with just 12 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Wheatear and Great Spotted Woodpecker logged.
Diurnal Migration
The first decent morning of the month failed to live up to expectations with variety rather than quantity the order of the day. Sightings involved: 300 Meadow Pipit, 115 Pink-footed Goose, 60 Skylark, 43 Swallow, 41 Chaffinch, 30 alba Wagtail, 5 Lesser Redpoll, 4 Siskin, 3 Reed Bunting, 2 House Martin and single Whooper Swan, Grey Wagtail and Brambling recorded
Wildfowl and Waders
The wintering flock of pale-bellied Brent Geese has increased to 78 birds.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues in residence and raptors included Merlin, Peregrine and Little Owl.
Offshore
Little was on the move over the sea with just a Shag and small numbers of Common Scoter and Razorbill logged.
Grounded Migrants
Remaining sparse with just 12 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Wheatear and Great Spotted Woodpecker logged.
Diurnal Migration
The first decent morning of the month failed to live up to expectations with variety rather than quantity the order of the day. Sightings involved: 300 Meadow Pipit, 115 Pink-footed Goose, 60 Skylark, 43 Swallow, 41 Chaffinch, 30 alba Wagtail, 5 Lesser Redpoll, 4 Siskin, 3 Reed Bunting, 2 House Martin and single Whooper Swan, Grey Wagtail and Brambling recorded
Wildfowl and Waders
The wintering flock of pale-bellied Brent Geese has increased to 78 birds.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow continues in residence and raptors included Merlin, Peregrine and Little Owl.
Late Sandwich Tern
1st October 2012 – sunshine and showers SW3/4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0815-0915) provided 180 Common Scoter, 18 Razorbill, 12 Gannet, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A few more Robin were in evidence but otherwise sightings were limited to 3 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move despite the wind with 100 Meadow Pipit, 80 Skylark, 30 alba Wagtail, 10 Chaffinch, 6 Siskin and single Lesser Redpoll and Swallow logged.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl was the best of the rest.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0815-0915) provided 180 Common Scoter, 18 Razorbill, 12 Gannet, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A few more Robin were in evidence but otherwise sightings were limited to 3 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move despite the wind with 100 Meadow Pipit, 80 Skylark, 30 alba Wagtail, 10 Chaffinch, 6 Siskin and single Lesser Redpoll and Swallow logged.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl was the best of the rest.
Hooded Crow still here
30th September 2012 –rain SSW6/7/8
Offshore
Morning observations on the rising tide (0800-1200) produced nothing other than 6 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Remaining sparse with just a few Goldcrest and Chiffchaff logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Shelduck have now returned from their moult grounds and the wintering flock of pale-bellied Brent Geese held 30 birds.
Ringing
Ringing totals for the month were well below average with very few suitable days available - it was either wet or windy or both! A total of 141 birds of 14 species were ringed involving Meadow Pipit (39), Robin (27), Goldcrest (25), Goldfinch (15), Greenfinch (8), Great Tit (6), House Sparrow (5), Wren (5), Whitethroat (3), Lesser Redpoll (3), Chiffchaff (2), Dunock (1), Chaffinch (1) and Sparrowhawk (1).
Miscellaneous
At least 14 Little Egret remain and other sightings included the long-staying Hooded Crow.
Offshore
Morning observations on the rising tide (0800-1200) produced nothing other than 6 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Remaining sparse with just a few Goldcrest and Chiffchaff logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Shelduck have now returned from their moult grounds and the wintering flock of pale-bellied Brent Geese held 30 birds.
Ringing
Ringing totals for the month were well below average with very few suitable days available - it was either wet or windy or both! A total of 141 birds of 14 species were ringed involving Meadow Pipit (39), Robin (27), Goldcrest (25), Goldfinch (15), Greenfinch (8), Great Tit (6), House Sparrow (5), Wren (5), Whitethroat (3), Lesser Redpoll (3), Chiffchaff (2), Dunock (1), Chaffinch (1) and Sparrowhawk (1).
Miscellaneous
At least 14 Little Egret remain and other sightings included the long-staying Hooded Crow.
Barnacle Geese head north
28th September 2012 –sunny spells WSW 4/5
Offshore
Morning observations on the rising tide (0800-0900) produced 180 Common Scoter, 134 Razorbill, 20 Gannet, 4 Red-throated Diver, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Sandwich Tern and 2 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Remaining sparse with just 5 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
A small flock of 11 Barnacle Geese headed north – presumably en route to their wintering grounds on the Solway.
Wildfowl and Waders
The wintering flock of pale-bellied Brent Geese begins to build with 40 birds recorded.
Miscellaneous
At least 11 Little Egret remain and other sightings included Great Spotted Woodpecker, Merlin, Peregrine and Little Owl.
Offshore
Morning observations on the rising tide (0800-0900) produced 180 Common Scoter, 134 Razorbill, 20 Gannet, 4 Red-throated Diver, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Sandwich Tern and 2 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Remaining sparse with just 5 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
A small flock of 11 Barnacle Geese headed north – presumably en route to their wintering grounds on the Solway.
Wildfowl and Waders
The wintering flock of pale-bellied Brent Geese begins to build with 40 birds recorded.
Miscellaneous
At least 11 Little Egret remain and other sightings included Great Spotted Woodpecker, Merlin, Peregrine and Little Owl.
Hooded Crow still in residence
27th September 2012 – rain then sunny spells NW1/2/3/4
Offshore
Observations (0845-0945) produced 41 Common Scoter, 35 Gannet, 4 Red-throated Diver and an Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Again very little with 15 Goldcrest and 2 Wheatear the best that could be mustered .
Diurnal Migration
A flurry of activity as the rain relented and before the wind sprung up (0830-0930) provided 310 Swallow, 160 Meadow Pipit, 16 alba Wagtail, 14 Skylark, 12 Lesser Redpoll, 11 Snipe, 6 Chaffinch, 5 Jackdaw, 4 Reed Bunting, 3 Siskin, 3 Rook and single Grey Wagtail and Grey Heron.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow put in another appearance.
Offshore
Observations (0845-0945) produced 41 Common Scoter, 35 Gannet, 4 Red-throated Diver and an Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Again very little with 15 Goldcrest and 2 Wheatear the best that could be mustered .
Diurnal Migration
A flurry of activity as the rain relented and before the wind sprung up (0830-0930) provided 310 Swallow, 160 Meadow Pipit, 16 alba Wagtail, 14 Skylark, 12 Lesser Redpoll, 11 Snipe, 6 Chaffinch, 5 Jackdaw, 4 Reed Bunting, 3 Siskin, 3 Rook and single Grey Wagtail and Grey Heron.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow put in another appearance.
Long-tailed Duck
26th September 2012 – overcast then sunny spells NE4/3
Offshore
Observations (0730-0830) produced 365 Common Scoter, 66 Gannet, 24 Razorbill, 24 Wigeon, 11 Red-throated Diver, 2 Goosander and a Long-tailed Duck.
Grounded Migrants
Very little to show for a lot of effort with sightings limited to 6 Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest, 2 Blackcap, 2 Coal Tit and a Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
After two days of rain birds were again on the move (0830-1000) with 2650 Meadow Pipit, 310 Pink-footed Goose, 50 Linnet, 44 Swallow, 42 Siskin, 33 alba Wagtail, 20 Skylark, 6 Grey Heron, 6 Sand Martin, 4 House Martin, 2 Grey Wagtail and single Raven and Lesser Redpoll logged.
Miscellaneous
A Jay was unusual and additional sightings included 2 Merlin and a Water Rail.
Offshore
Observations (0730-0830) produced 365 Common Scoter, 66 Gannet, 24 Razorbill, 24 Wigeon, 11 Red-throated Diver, 2 Goosander and a Long-tailed Duck.
Grounded Migrants
Very little to show for a lot of effort with sightings limited to 6 Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest, 2 Blackcap, 2 Coal Tit and a Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
After two days of rain birds were again on the move (0830-1000) with 2650 Meadow Pipit, 310 Pink-footed Goose, 50 Linnet, 44 Swallow, 42 Siskin, 33 alba Wagtail, 20 Skylark, 6 Grey Heron, 6 Sand Martin, 4 House Martin, 2 Grey Wagtail and single Raven and Lesser Redpoll logged.
Miscellaneous
A Jay was unusual and additional sightings included 2 Merlin and a Water Rail.
Marsh Harrier, Short-eared Owl and Hooded Crow
23rd September 2012 – overcast SE3/4/5
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0700-0800) produced 80 Common Scoter, 30 Wigeon, 10 Gannet, 7 Red-throated Diver, 4 Tufted Duck and 2 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Birds were again thin on the ground with just 6 Goldcrest, 5 Wheatear, 3 Chiffchaff and a Whitethroat logged.
Diurnal Migration
A much quieter day, although a Marsh Harrier moved through and 750 Pink-footed Geese headed south the supporting cast was limited to just 170 Meadow Pipit, 80 Swallow, 14 alba Wagtail, 6 Skylark, 4 Grey Wagtail, 2 Siskin, 2 House Martin and 2 Reed Bunting.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl and Merlin were recorded and the Hooded Crow continues to linger.
Offshore
Early morning sightings (0700-0800) produced 80 Common Scoter, 30 Wigeon, 10 Gannet, 7 Red-throated Diver, 4 Tufted Duck and 2 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Birds were again thin on the ground with just 6 Goldcrest, 5 Wheatear, 3 Chiffchaff and a Whitethroat logged.
Diurnal Migration
A much quieter day, although a Marsh Harrier moved through and 750 Pink-footed Geese headed south the supporting cast was limited to just 170 Meadow Pipit, 80 Swallow, 14 alba Wagtail, 6 Skylark, 4 Grey Wagtail, 2 Siskin, 2 House Martin and 2 Reed Bunting.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl and Merlin were recorded and the Hooded Crow continues to linger.
Heavy diurnal passage
22nd September 2012 – bright and sunny/calm
Offshore
The sea provided little movement other than 11 Gannet, 6 Common Scoter, 3 Shag and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Slightly more activity than of late with 25 Robin, 17 Goldcrest, 4 Stonechat, 2 Wheatear and a Whinchat logged.
Diurnal Migration
Light winds and clear skies produced a heavy diurnal movement through the morning with observations (0700-1100) producing 5550 Meadow Pipit, 1130 Swallow, 630 Pink-footed Goose, 65 Linnet, 60 alba Wagtail, 55 Skylark, 33 Starling, 20 House Martin, 20 Sand Martin, 17 Siskin, 15 Chaffinch, 12 Grey Wagtail, 9 Carrion Crow, 8 Jackdaw, 4 Reed Bunting and a Lesser Redpoll.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow put in another appearance and additional sightings included Merlin, Little Owl and Little Egret.
Offshore
The sea provided little movement other than 11 Gannet, 6 Common Scoter, 3 Shag and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Slightly more activity than of late with 25 Robin, 17 Goldcrest, 4 Stonechat, 2 Wheatear and a Whinchat logged.
Diurnal Migration
Light winds and clear skies produced a heavy diurnal movement through the morning with observations (0700-1100) producing 5550 Meadow Pipit, 1130 Swallow, 630 Pink-footed Goose, 65 Linnet, 60 alba Wagtail, 55 Skylark, 33 Starling, 20 House Martin, 20 Sand Martin, 17 Siskin, 15 Chaffinch, 12 Grey Wagtail, 9 Carrion Crow, 8 Jackdaw, 4 Reed Bunting and a Lesser Redpoll.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow put in another appearance and additional sightings included Merlin, Little Owl and Little Egret.
Buff-breasted Sandpiper reappears
21st September 2012 – sunny spells NE4/3
Rarities
The juvenile Buff-breasted Sandpiper put in another appearance mid-morning this time in the flooded fields at Snab Point. Please view only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Grounded Migrants
Still rather spartan fare with just 2 Wheatear and single Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Goldcrest logged.
Diurnal Migration
The best movement of the autumn so far with observations (0800-1000) producing 1500 Meadow Pipit, 865 Pink-footed Geese, 205 Swallow, 60 Starling, 22 alba Wagtail, 21 Skylark, 7 House Martin, 2 Lesser Redpoll and the first Whooper Swan of the autumn.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon numbers are now beginning to build and waders included 3 Black-tailed Godwit and a Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 8 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore.
Images
A record shot of the Buff-breasted Sandpiper, unfortuately it it a heavily cropped image of a distant bird. However, you can just about make out the pale eye ring, spotted sides to the breast and long primary projection!.
Rarities
The juvenile Buff-breasted Sandpiper put in another appearance mid-morning this time in the flooded fields at Snab Point. Please view only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Grounded Migrants
Still rather spartan fare with just 2 Wheatear and single Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Goldcrest logged.
Diurnal Migration
The best movement of the autumn so far with observations (0800-1000) producing 1500 Meadow Pipit, 865 Pink-footed Geese, 205 Swallow, 60 Starling, 22 alba Wagtail, 21 Skylark, 7 House Martin, 2 Lesser Redpoll and the first Whooper Swan of the autumn.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wigeon numbers are now beginning to build and waders included 3 Black-tailed Godwit and a Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 8 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore.
Images
A record shot of the Buff-breasted Sandpiper, unfortuately it it a heavily cropped image of a distant bird. However, you can just about make out the pale eye ring, spotted sides to the breast and long primary projection!.
Velvet Scoter makes it onto the year list
20th September 2012 – overcast WSW3/4
Offshore
Observations (1115-1215) were led by a drake Velvet Scoter, also seen were 16 Common Scoter, 12 Red-throated Diver, 10 Guillemot, 3 Sandwich Tern and 2 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidence by 2 Goldcrest and 2 Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallow and Meadow Pipit were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 550 Golden Plover and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
At least 12 Little Egret were along the eastern shore, including a colour-ringed individual. A Peregrine was the best of the rest.
Offshore
Observations (1115-1215) were led by a drake Velvet Scoter, also seen were 16 Common Scoter, 12 Red-throated Diver, 10 Guillemot, 3 Sandwich Tern and 2 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidence by 2 Goldcrest and 2 Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallow and Meadow Pipit were on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 550 Golden Plover and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
At least 12 Little Egret were along the eastern shore, including a colour-ringed individual. A Peregrine was the best of the rest.
Buff-breasted Sandpiper draws a crowd!
19th September 2012 – sunshine and heavy showers NW3/4
Rarities
A juvenile Buff-breasted Sandpiper was found in flooded horse paddocks along Biggar Bank late afternoon. Please view only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Observations (0915-1015) produced 12 Sandwich Tern, 10 Red-throated Diver, 5 Razorbill, 4 Common Scoter and a Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
For the first day in a while there was evidence of movement with 700 Meadow Pipit to the fore along with 34 alba Wagtail, 6 Goldcrest, 4 Tree Sparrow, 4 Wheatear and single Siskin and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 55 Pink-footed Geese headed south and 100 Meadow Pipit headed out over the sea.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Pintail of the autumn was seen along with 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 11 Little Egret remain and 3 Raven were logged.
Rarities
A juvenile Buff-breasted Sandpiper was found in flooded horse paddocks along Biggar Bank late afternoon. Please view only from the road and do not enter the private fields.
Offshore
Observations (0915-1015) produced 12 Sandwich Tern, 10 Red-throated Diver, 5 Razorbill, 4 Common Scoter and a Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
For the first day in a while there was evidence of movement with 700 Meadow Pipit to the fore along with 34 alba Wagtail, 6 Goldcrest, 4 Tree Sparrow, 4 Wheatear and single Siskin and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 55 Pink-footed Geese headed south and 100 Meadow Pipit headed out over the sea.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Pintail of the autumn was seen along with 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 11 Little Egret remain and 3 Raven were logged.
Ruff provides highlight in almost total washout
16th September 2012 – rain SW4/5
Offshore
Little to report over the sea through the morning with just small numbers of Gannet and Common Scoter before the rain set in.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Greenshank and 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miascellaneous
At least 17 Little Egret are now in residence along the eastern shore. The Hooded Crow remains.
Offshore
Little to report over the sea through the morning with just small numbers of Gannet and Common Scoter before the rain set in.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Greenshank and 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Ruff.
Miascellaneous
At least 17 Little Egret are now in residence along the eastern shore. The Hooded Crow remains.
Ambushed
15th September 2012 – overcast WNW4
Offshore
Sightings on the rising tide included 53 Common Scoter, 6 Red-throated Diver, 6 Gannet, 6 Sandwich Tern and a Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Again few birds were in evidence with just 6 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Willow Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
Four Grey Wagtail were amongst small numbers of Meadow Pipit and Swallow.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 250 Sanderling and 24 Greenshank.
Mammals
A Harbour Porpoise escorted HMS Ambush, the Royal Navy’s latest hunter killer submarine as it disappeared into the vastness of the Irish Sea.
Offshore
Sightings on the rising tide included 53 Common Scoter, 6 Red-throated Diver, 6 Gannet, 6 Sandwich Tern and a Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Again few birds were in evidence with just 6 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Willow Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
Four Grey Wagtail were amongst small numbers of Meadow Pipit and Swallow.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 250 Sanderling and 24 Greenshank.
Mammals
A Harbour Porpoise escorted HMS Ambush, the Royal Navy’s latest hunter killer submarine as it disappeared into the vastness of the Irish Sea.
Leach's Petrel
14th September 2012 – sunny spells W5/6
Offshore
Observations on the rising tide (0900-1100) were highlighted by a Leach’s Petrel, otherwise it was very slow going with just small numbers of Gannet, Red-throated Diver, Fulmar, Common Scoter, Sandwich Tern, Guillemot and Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 17 pale-bellied Brent Geese have now returned to the island from their Canadian breeding grounds and waders included 2 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Little Egret, Pergrine and Merlin were the best of the rest.
Offshore
Observations on the rising tide (0900-1100) were highlighted by a Leach’s Petrel, otherwise it was very slow going with just small numbers of Gannet, Red-throated Diver, Fulmar, Common Scoter, Sandwich Tern, Guillemot and Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 17 pale-bellied Brent Geese have now returned to the island from their Canadian breeding grounds and waders included 2 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Little Egret, Pergrine and Merlin were the best of the rest.
Hooded Crow
13th September 2012 – overcast/rain later WSW4/5/6
Offshore
Observations over the tide produced small numbers of Gannet, Red-throated Diver, Fulmar, Manx Shearwater, Common Scoter, Kittiwake, Sandwich Tern, Guillemot and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds included 160 Meadow Pipit, 4 Wheatear, 3 Grey Wagtail, 2 Chiffchaff and a Goldcrest .
Diurnal Migration
Three skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 215 birds flew south .
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Single Peregrine and Hooded Crow and 2 Raven.
Offshore
Observations over the tide produced small numbers of Gannet, Red-throated Diver, Fulmar, Manx Shearwater, Common Scoter, Kittiwake, Sandwich Tern, Guillemot and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds included 160 Meadow Pipit, 4 Wheatear, 3 Grey Wagtail, 2 Chiffchaff and a Goldcrest .
Diurnal Migration
Three skeins of Pink-footed Geese totalling 215 birds flew south .
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Single Peregrine and Hooded Crow and 2 Raven.
Pomarine Skua
12th September 2012 – rain W4/5
Offshore
A Pomarine Skua provided the highlight amongst 45 Kittiwake, 30 Gannet, 16 Sandwich Tern, 7 Common Scoter, 5 Red-throated Diver and 3 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
A Wheatear was all that could be mustered in the conditions .
Miscellaneous
Several Little Egret provided the only other interesting sighting of the day.
Offshore
A Pomarine Skua provided the highlight amongst 45 Kittiwake, 30 Gannet, 16 Sandwich Tern, 7 Common Scoter, 5 Red-throated Diver and 3 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
A Wheatear was all that could be mustered in the conditions .
Miscellaneous
Several Little Egret provided the only other interesting sighting of the day.
Run of the mill sightings
11th September 2012 – sunny spells WNW4/5
Offshore
Observations over the falling tide (0900-1000) produced 50 Gannet and small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Fulmar, Common Scoter, Kittiwake, Sandwich Tern, Guillemot and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Again few migrants were in evidence with just 4 Wheatear and single Chiffchaff and Goldcrest logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl numbers continue to remain low and waders included 100 Golden Plover.
Moths
A Canary-shouldered Thorn was the highlight in a poor moth catch.
Offshore
Observations over the falling tide (0900-1000) produced 50 Gannet and small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Fulmar, Common Scoter, Kittiwake, Sandwich Tern, Guillemot and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Again few migrants were in evidence with just 4 Wheatear and single Chiffchaff and Goldcrest logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl numbers continue to remain low and waders included 100 Golden Plover.
Moths
A Canary-shouldered Thorn was the highlight in a poor moth catch.
Mediterranean double
10th September 2012 – heavy showers SW3
Offshore
Two Mediterranean Gull (juvenile & second-year) along with single Pomarine Skua and Arctic Skua were hopefully a sign of what is to come in the stormy weather predicted this week.
Grounded Migrants
Again little movement with 4 Wheatear, 2 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff all that was on offer.
Miscellaneous
Additional sightings included 6 Little Egret and a Raven.
Images
Although not visible from land, a large raft of 1000s of Manx Shearwater were present off the island at the weekend. This was the view from the North Morecambe Bay Gas Platform where birds were all round the platform as far as the eye could see!
Offshore
Two Mediterranean Gull (juvenile & second-year) along with single Pomarine Skua and Arctic Skua were hopefully a sign of what is to come in the stormy weather predicted this week.
Grounded Migrants
Again little movement with 4 Wheatear, 2 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff all that was on offer.
Miscellaneous
Additional sightings included 6 Little Egret and a Raven.
Images
Although not visible from land, a large raft of 1000s of Manx Shearwater were present off the island at the weekend. This was the view from the North Morecambe Bay Gas Platform where birds were all round the platform as far as the eye could see!
Diurnal migration kicks in
9th September 2012 – sunny spells SSE3
Offshore
Sightings were limited to small numbers of Gannet and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
A lot of effort provided variety if not quantity with 3 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Whinchat, Wheatear, Blackcap, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat logged.
Diurnal Migration
The first significant passage of the autumn was highlighted by 2 Crossbill amongst 210 Meadow Pipit, 205 Pink-footed Goose, 65 alba Wagtail, 65 Swallow, 22 Snipe, 14 House Martin, 8 Grey Wagtail and 6 Sand Martin between 0900 and 1100hrs
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 6 Little Egret, 2 Raven and a Peregrine were the best of the rest.
Offshore
Sightings were limited to small numbers of Gannet and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
A lot of effort provided variety if not quantity with 3 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Whinchat, Wheatear, Blackcap, Whitethroat and Lesser Whitethroat logged.
Diurnal Migration
The first significant passage of the autumn was highlighted by 2 Crossbill amongst 210 Meadow Pipit, 205 Pink-footed Goose, 65 alba Wagtail, 65 Swallow, 22 Snipe, 14 House Martin, 8 Grey Wagtail and 6 Sand Martin between 0900 and 1100hrs
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 6 Little Egret, 2 Raven and a Peregrine were the best of the rest.
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