31st October 2015 – overcast/rain later SE3/2/1
Rarities
The third Yellow-browed Warbler of the autumn was located on the island mid-morning.
Offshore
A glance over the sea as the weather deteriorated revealed Red-throated Diver and Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 17 Blackbird, 15 Redwing, 4 Song Thrush and 3 Fieldfare. Also seen were single Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Thrushes and finches dominated passage with 150 Fieldfare, 130 Chaffinch, 40 Woodpigeon, 32 Jackdaw, 24 Meadow Pipit, 18 Redwing, 11 Twite, 7 Brambling, 7 Greenfinch, 4 Rock Pipit, 4 Mistle Thrush and single Lesser Redpoll, Siskin and Whooper Swan.
Wildfowl and Waders
Three Shoveler and a Black-tailed Godwit were seen.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin and a Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Ringing
The poor autumn ringing totals continue with just 262 birds of 20 species captured during the month. Individual species totals were as follows (retraps in brackets). Goldcrest 55 (2), Chaffinch 40 (1), Goldfinch 26 (14), Song Thrush 17, Robin 16 (3), Wren 11 (1), Blackbird 10 (4), Tree Sparrow 9, Dunnock 7 (3), Redwing 7, Chiffchaff 5, Meadow Pipit 4, Lesser Redpoll 4, House Sparrow 4 (3), Great Tit 4 (1), Sparrowhawk 3, Brambling 2, Reed Bunting 2, Greenfinch 2, Blue Tit 1 (1)
Yellowhammer leads sightings
30th October 2015 – early rain clearing SE3/2
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 65 Redwing, 22 Blackbird, 19 Song Thrush and 3 Fieldfare. Also logged were single Blackcap and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A Yellowhammer proved to be the highlight of the day.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 6 Goldeneye and 2 Shoveler while 6 Greenshank were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Single Short-eared Owl and Water Rail were also recorded.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 65 Redwing, 22 Blackbird, 19 Song Thrush and 3 Fieldfare. Also logged were single Blackcap and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A Yellowhammer proved to be the highlight of the day.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 6 Goldeneye and 2 Shoveler while 6 Greenshank were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Single Short-eared Owl and Water Rail were also recorded.
Brent Geese begin to build
29th October 2015 – early rain clearing SE4/3/2
Offshore
A quick check of the sea revealed 26 Common Scoter and a solitary Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 5 Blackbird and 2 Song Thrush. Additional sightings involved 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Just a single Lesser Redpoll was recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained 125 pale-bellied birds and 42 dark-bellied birds, also seen were 1550 Wigeon and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Little Egret remain prominent and 5 Rock Pipit were logged.
Offshore
A quick check of the sea revealed 26 Common Scoter and a solitary Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 5 Blackbird and 2 Song Thrush. Additional sightings involved 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Just a single Lesser Redpoll was recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained 125 pale-bellied birds and 42 dark-bellied birds, also seen were 1550 Wigeon and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Little Egret remain prominent and 5 Rock Pipit were logged.
Woodcock influx
28th October 2015 – overcast/rain at times/calm
Offshore
A quick check of the sea revealed 3 Shag but little else of note..
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 36 Redwing, 14 Blackbird, 7 Song Thrush and 4 Fieldfare. Additional sightings involved 10 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Movement between the showers included 50 Meadow Pipit, 21 Siskin, 18 Skylark, 12 Whooper Swan, 10 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling and a Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained 60 pale-bellied birds also seen were 3 Woodcock, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and 2 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least one Short-eared Owl remains along with 2 Water Rail and a Little Owl. Little Egret remain prominent across the island.
Offshore
A quick check of the sea revealed 3 Shag but little else of note..
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 36 Redwing, 14 Blackbird, 7 Song Thrush and 4 Fieldfare. Additional sightings involved 10 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Movement between the showers included 50 Meadow Pipit, 21 Siskin, 18 Skylark, 12 Whooper Swan, 10 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling and a Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained 60 pale-bellied birds also seen were 3 Woodcock, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and 2 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least one Short-eared Owl remains along with 2 Water Rail and a Little Owl. Little Egret remain prominent across the island.
First Purple Sandpiper returns
27th October 2015 – sunny spells SE4
Offshore
A check of the sea on the falling tide only provided 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A few more birds than of late with 27 Fieldfare, 8 Redwing, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Song Thrush and single Mistle Thrush and Blackcap logged.
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 670 Jackdaw were overhead along with 38 Meadow Pipit and single Swallow and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Purple Sandpiper has returned to the island and additional sightings included 12 Greenshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and 9 Swallow.
Miscellaneous
Two Short-eared Owls were flushed from the saltmarsh by the rising tide while raptors included Peregrine and Merlin.
Offshore
A check of the sea on the falling tide only provided 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A few more birds than of late with 27 Fieldfare, 8 Redwing, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Song Thrush and single Mistle Thrush and Blackcap logged.
Diurnal Migration
A flock of 670 Jackdaw were overhead along with 38 Meadow Pipit and single Swallow and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Purple Sandpiper has returned to the island and additional sightings included 12 Greenshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and 9 Swallow.
Miscellaneous
Two Short-eared Owls were flushed from the saltmarsh by the rising tide while raptors included Peregrine and Merlin.
Short-eared Owl and Whooper Swans
26th October 2015 – overcast after early sun SE3/4
Offshore
A check of the sea on the falling tide only provided 5 Razorbill and 4 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Just a solitary Goldcrest was seen.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 16 Whooper Swan flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock increased to 125 pale-bellied birds. The female Scaup remains while 10 Greenshank were also seen.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl was flushed from the saltmarsh by the rising tide.
Offshore
A check of the sea on the falling tide only provided 5 Razorbill and 4 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Just a solitary Goldcrest was seen.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 16 Whooper Swan flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock increased to 125 pale-bellied birds. The female Scaup remains while 10 Greenshank were also seen.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl was flushed from the saltmarsh by the rising tide.
Bonxie
25th October 2015 – overcast/showers SW3/4
Offshore
A check of the sea on the falling tide (1200-1300) produced 29 Common Scoter, 9 Razorbill, 4 Scaup, 4 Red-throated Diver and a Great Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Remaining scarce with only 2 Goldcrest, 2 Song Thrush and a Redwing recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Limited to 2 Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 78 pale-bellied birds. The female Scaup remains while 10 Greenshank were also seen.
Miscellaneous
At least 30 Little Egret remain.
Mammals
A Harbour Porpoise was offshore.
Offshore
A check of the sea on the falling tide (1200-1300) produced 29 Common Scoter, 9 Razorbill, 4 Scaup, 4 Red-throated Diver and a Great Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Remaining scarce with only 2 Goldcrest, 2 Song Thrush and a Redwing recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Limited to 2 Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 78 pale-bellied birds. The female Scaup remains while 10 Greenshank were also seen.
Miscellaneous
At least 30 Little Egret remain.
Mammals
A Harbour Porpoise was offshore.
First Goldeneye of autumn
24th October 2015 – overcast/rain SW3/4
Offshore
Another check of the sea on the falling tide produced just 19 Common Scoter, 3 Gannet and a Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains while the first Goldeneye of the autumn reappeared.
Moths
A November Moth was new for the year.
Offshore
Another check of the sea on the falling tide produced just 19 Common Scoter, 3 Gannet and a Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains while the first Goldeneye of the autumn reappeared.
Moths
A November Moth was new for the year.
Black Guillemot
23rd October 2015 – overcast SSW4/5
Offshore
Another check of the sea (0830-0930) was this time highlighted by a Black Guillemot amongst 81 Common Scoter, 38 Gannet, 27 Razorbill and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
New arrivals were limited to 7 Goldcrest.
Wildfowl and Waders
Three Pink-footed Geese were grounded.
Offshore
Another check of the sea (0830-0930) was this time highlighted by a Black Guillemot amongst 81 Common Scoter, 38 Gannet, 27 Razorbill and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
New arrivals were limited to 7 Goldcrest.
Wildfowl and Waders
Three Pink-footed Geese were grounded.
Great Northern Diver
22nd October 2015 – overcast/sunny spells WNW4/5
Offshore
A check of the sea (0800-1000) was highlighted by a Great Northern Diver along with 280 Gannet, 96 Common Scoter, 56 Razorbill, 4 Kittiwake and single Guillemot and Red-throated Diver.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0800-1000) was highlighted by a Great Northern Diver along with 280 Gannet, 96 Common Scoter, 56 Razorbill, 4 Kittiwake and single Guillemot and Red-throated Diver.
Quiet
20th October 2015 – sun and showers NW3
Offshore
A check of the sea provided 23 Gannet, 18 Common Scoter, 10 Razorbill, 5 Kittiwake and 4 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 6 Goldcrest and single Redwing, Song Thrush and Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Again pretty quiet with just 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Siskin logged.
Offshore
A check of the sea provided 23 Gannet, 18 Common Scoter, 10 Razorbill, 5 Kittiwake and 4 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 6 Goldcrest and single Redwing, Song Thrush and Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Again pretty quiet with just 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Siskin logged.
First Brambling of autumn
19th October 2015 – overcast then sunny spells NE3/2/1
Offshore
At least 3 Shag remain.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 11 Blackbird, 9 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush and a Fieldfare. Also seen were 6 Goldcrest and a Blackcap – the latter has been very scarce on the island this autumn.
Diurnal Migration
A Brambling was logged but otherwise records were limited to 50 Jackdaw, 45 Pink-footed Goose, 7 Tree Sparrow and 3 Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains while 5 Shoveler and 18 Greenshank were also seen.
Miscellaneous
Additional sightings included 2 Merlin and single Peregrine, Barn Owl and Water Rail.
Offshore
At least 3 Shag remain.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 11 Blackbird, 9 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush and a Fieldfare. Also seen were 6 Goldcrest and a Blackcap – the latter has been very scarce on the island this autumn.
Diurnal Migration
A Brambling was logged but otherwise records were limited to 50 Jackdaw, 45 Pink-footed Goose, 7 Tree Sparrow and 3 Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains while 5 Shoveler and 18 Greenshank were also seen.
Miscellaneous
Additional sightings included 2 Merlin and single Peregrine, Barn Owl and Water Rail.
Short-eared Owl double
18th October 2015 – overcast NE2/3
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes again dominated with 65 Redwing, 15 Fieldfare, 5 Blackbird and 3 Song Thrush. Also seen were 2 Chiffchaff and 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Visible migration continues to drop off, although 400 Jackdaw and 350 Pink-footed Goose were logged additional sightings were limited to 20 Meadow Pipit and single Lesser Redpoll, Grey Wagtail and Tree Sparrow.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains.
Miscellaneous
Two Short-eared Owl were logged along with single Merlin and Water Rail.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes again dominated with 65 Redwing, 15 Fieldfare, 5 Blackbird and 3 Song Thrush. Also seen were 2 Chiffchaff and 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Visible migration continues to drop off, although 400 Jackdaw and 350 Pink-footed Goose were logged additional sightings were limited to 20 Meadow Pipit and single Lesser Redpoll, Grey Wagtail and Tree Sparrow.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains.
Miscellaneous
Two Short-eared Owl were logged along with single Merlin and Water Rail.
Short-eared Owl
17th October 2015 – clear start then sunny spells NE1/2
Offshore
The group of 8 Shag were still feeding offshore mid-morning.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes again dominated with 63 Redwing, 23 Blackbird, 13 Song Thrush and 7 Fieldfare quickly melting away into clear skies at dawn. Also seen were 4 Goldcrest, 2 Stonechat and a Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
The record autumn passage of Pink-footed Geese over the island continued with a further 685 birds logged, however, otherwise is was disappointingly quiet with just single Lesser Redpoll and Grey Wagtail additional highlights.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup and 17 Greenshank remain while 3 Shoveler were also logged.
Miscellaneous
Dawn also provided a Short-eared Owl while single Merlin and Water Rail also recorded and Little Egret remain prominent.
Moths
The light trap held Brick and Large Wainscot.
Offshore
The group of 8 Shag were still feeding offshore mid-morning.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes again dominated with 63 Redwing, 23 Blackbird, 13 Song Thrush and 7 Fieldfare quickly melting away into clear skies at dawn. Also seen were 4 Goldcrest, 2 Stonechat and a Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
The record autumn passage of Pink-footed Geese over the island continued with a further 685 birds logged, however, otherwise is was disappointingly quiet with just single Lesser Redpoll and Grey Wagtail additional highlights.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup and 17 Greenshank remain while 3 Shoveler were also logged.
Miscellaneous
Dawn also provided a Short-eared Owl while single Merlin and Water Rail also recorded and Little Egret remain prominent.
Moths
The light trap held Brick and Large Wainscot.
Another Yellow-browed Warbler! plus Hen Harrier and Snow Bunting
16th October 2015 – overcast NE1/2/3
Rarities
Typically after the long wait to get the first Yellow-browed Warbler of the autumn a second bird immediately comes along..
Offshore
A group of 8 Shag fed offshore. Also seen were small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Gannet, Common Scoter and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Again the supporting cast was sparse, early morning thrushes involved 17 Redwing and 4 Blackbird while additional warblers were limited to 11 Goldcrest and 4 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
The skies also proved to be generally quiet compared to recent days although highlights involved 145 Pink-footed Goose, 100 Meadow Pipit, 8 Lesser Redpoll and single Snow Bunting and Fieldfare – the latter two the first of the autumn.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 16 pale-bellied birds and the female Scaup and 14 Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A male Hen Harrier hunted the island, at least one Merlin remains while at least 71 Little Egret gathered as the light faded.
Butterflies
Red Admiral remain prominent and a few Speckled Wood are still on the wing.
Rarities
Typically after the long wait to get the first Yellow-browed Warbler of the autumn a second bird immediately comes along..
Offshore
A group of 8 Shag fed offshore. Also seen were small numbers of Red-throated Diver, Gannet, Common Scoter and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Again the supporting cast was sparse, early morning thrushes involved 17 Redwing and 4 Blackbird while additional warblers were limited to 11 Goldcrest and 4 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
The skies also proved to be generally quiet compared to recent days although highlights involved 145 Pink-footed Goose, 100 Meadow Pipit, 8 Lesser Redpoll and single Snow Bunting and Fieldfare – the latter two the first of the autumn.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 16 pale-bellied birds and the female Scaup and 14 Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A male Hen Harrier hunted the island, at least one Merlin remains while at least 71 Little Egret gathered as the light faded.
Butterflies
Red Admiral remain prominent and a few Speckled Wood are still on the wing.
Yellow-browed Warbler at last! plus Black Redstart
15th October 2015 – overcast with sunny spells NE1/2
Rarities
Following the mass influx into Britain and multiple sightings on the other side of Morecambe Bay a Yellow-browed Warbler finally made landfall on the island. First seen at 1220hrs it was still present at 1630hrs.
Offshore
Again only a handful of Gannet and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
A female/first winter Black Redstart was also located while early morning thrushes involved 15 Redwing and 14 Blackbird and 5 Song Thrush. Also seen were 3 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Passage was dominated by a huge flock of 1100 Jackdaw along with 665 Pink-footed Goose – it has been the best ever autumn for this species, 280 Starling, 32 Linnet, 22 Meadow Pipit, 10 Tree Sparrow, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 3 Swallow, 2 Siskin and a Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains and 15 Greenshank roosted.
Miscellaneous
The first 3 Twite of the autumn appeared and a Water Rail was present.
Mammals
A Fox was an unwelcome sight.
Rarities
Following the mass influx into Britain and multiple sightings on the other side of Morecambe Bay a Yellow-browed Warbler finally made landfall on the island. First seen at 1220hrs it was still present at 1630hrs.
Offshore
Again only a handful of Gannet and Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
A female/first winter Black Redstart was also located while early morning thrushes involved 15 Redwing and 14 Blackbird and 5 Song Thrush. Also seen were 3 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Passage was dominated by a huge flock of 1100 Jackdaw along with 665 Pink-footed Goose – it has been the best ever autumn for this species, 280 Starling, 32 Linnet, 22 Meadow Pipit, 10 Tree Sparrow, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 3 Swallow, 2 Siskin and a Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains and 15 Greenshank roosted.
Miscellaneous
The first 3 Twite of the autumn appeared and a Water Rail was present.
Mammals
A Fox was an unwelcome sight.
Redwing influx
14th October 2015 – bright and sunny NE1/2
Offshore
A few Gannet and Razorbill was again all that could be mustered early morning
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 67 Redwing, 13 Blackbird and 5 Song Thrush. Also seen were 7 Goldcrest, 3 Chiffchaff and a Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Passage continues, todays assortment included 440 Jackdaw, 210 Starling, 170 Pink-footed Goose, 125 Skylark, 100 Meadow Pipit, 58 Linnet, 45 Swallow, 27 Pied/White Wagtail, 10 Tree Sparrow, 10 Chaffinch, 7 Reed Bunting, 4 Greenfinch, 2 Rock Pipit, 2 Lesser Redpoll and single House Martin, Siskin and Mistle Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Whooper Swan, Scaup and 7 pale-bellied Brent Goose were amongst 1000 Wigeon.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 3 Merlin and a Peregrine.
Dragonflies
Migrant Hawker and Common Darter are still on the wing.
Offshore
A few Gannet and Razorbill was again all that could be mustered early morning
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 67 Redwing, 13 Blackbird and 5 Song Thrush. Also seen were 7 Goldcrest, 3 Chiffchaff and a Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Passage continues, todays assortment included 440 Jackdaw, 210 Starling, 170 Pink-footed Goose, 125 Skylark, 100 Meadow Pipit, 58 Linnet, 45 Swallow, 27 Pied/White Wagtail, 10 Tree Sparrow, 10 Chaffinch, 7 Reed Bunting, 4 Greenfinch, 2 Rock Pipit, 2 Lesser Redpoll and single House Martin, Siskin and Mistle Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
Single Whooper Swan, Scaup and 7 pale-bellied Brent Goose were amongst 1000 Wigeon.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 3 Merlin and a Peregrine.
Dragonflies
Migrant Hawker and Common Darter are still on the wing.
Still no better!
13th October 2015 – bright and sunny NE2/3
Offshore
A few Gannet and Razorbill was again all that could be mustered early morning
Grounded Migrants
Single Goldcrest, Song Thrush and Redwing was a poor showing, even by recent standards.
Diurnal Migration
A sample count (0900-1000) produced 550 Jackdaw, 210 Pink-footed Goose, 210 Starling, 130 Linnet, 120 Meadow Pipit, 80 Skylark, 21 Pied/White Wagtail, 13 Swallow, 10 Chaffinch, 9 Lesser Redpoll, 5 Tree Sparrow and 3 Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Greenshank and a Shoveler remain.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl was the best of the rest.
Offshore
A few Gannet and Razorbill was again all that could be mustered early morning
Grounded Migrants
Single Goldcrest, Song Thrush and Redwing was a poor showing, even by recent standards.
Diurnal Migration
A sample count (0900-1000) produced 550 Jackdaw, 210 Pink-footed Goose, 210 Starling, 130 Linnet, 120 Meadow Pipit, 80 Skylark, 21 Pied/White Wagtail, 13 Swallow, 10 Chaffinch, 9 Lesser Redpoll, 5 Tree Sparrow and 3 Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Greenshank and a Shoveler remain.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl was the best of the rest.
Still a lot of effort for little reward
12th October 2015 – overcast/sunny later NE1/2/3
Offshore
A few Gannet and Razorbill was that could be mustered early morning
Grounded Migrants
Remaining slow with 9 Goldcrest, 6 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush and 2 Chiffchaff scant reward for a lot of effort.
Diurnal Migration
Even the skies were below par with just 300 Meadow Pipit, 85 Skylark, 82 Pied/White Wagtail, 22 Chaffinch, 7 Swallow, 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Siskin logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl was the best of the rest.
Offshore
A few Gannet and Razorbill was that could be mustered early morning
Grounded Migrants
Remaining slow with 9 Goldcrest, 6 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush and 2 Chiffchaff scant reward for a lot of effort.
Diurnal Migration
Even the skies were below par with just 300 Meadow Pipit, 85 Skylark, 82 Pied/White Wagtail, 22 Chaffinch, 7 Swallow, 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Siskin logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl was the best of the rest.
Scaup
11th October 2015 – overcast NE2/1
Offshore
A drake Scaup was the highlight of early morning observations. Also seen were 65 Razorbill, 62 Common Scoter, 54 Gannet and 3 Red-throated Diver
Grounded Migrants
Again little scope for enthusiasm with just 6 Goldcrest located.
Diurnal Migration
Passage through the morning produced 665 Pink-footed Goose, 100 Meadow Pipit, 80 Linnet, 60 Skylark, 50 Jackdaw, 42 Pied/White Wagtail, 33 Swallow and 4 House Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
The resident pair of Raven and a Merlin were the best of the rest.
Offshore
A drake Scaup was the highlight of early morning observations. Also seen were 65 Razorbill, 62 Common Scoter, 54 Gannet and 3 Red-throated Diver
Grounded Migrants
Again little scope for enthusiasm with just 6 Goldcrest located.
Diurnal Migration
Passage through the morning produced 665 Pink-footed Goose, 100 Meadow Pipit, 80 Linnet, 60 Skylark, 50 Jackdaw, 42 Pied/White Wagtail, 33 Swallow and 4 House Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
The resident pair of Raven and a Merlin were the best of the rest.
International pale-bellied Brent Goose census
10th October 2015 – overcast E2/1
Offshore
Small groups of Gannet and Common Scoter were again offshore early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Still poor with just 9 Goldcrest, 5 Song Thrush and 2 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Passage through the morning produced 400 Meadow Pipit, 110 Pink-footed Goose, 110 Jackdaw, 75 Linnet, 70 Pied/White Wagtail, 12 Chaffinch, 12 Reed Bunting, 7 Greenfinch, 6 Tree Sparrow, 4 Grey Wagtail, 4 Lesser Redpoll and 3 Raven.
Wildfowl and Waders
Walney contributed 23 birds to the international pale-bellied Brent Goose census and 7 dark-bellied birds were also seen.
Miscellaneous
At least 50 Little Egret remain and 12 Long-tailed Tit were logged.
Offshore
Small groups of Gannet and Common Scoter were again offshore early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Still poor with just 9 Goldcrest, 5 Song Thrush and 2 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Passage through the morning produced 400 Meadow Pipit, 110 Pink-footed Goose, 110 Jackdaw, 75 Linnet, 70 Pied/White Wagtail, 12 Chaffinch, 12 Reed Bunting, 7 Greenfinch, 6 Tree Sparrow, 4 Grey Wagtail, 4 Lesser Redpoll and 3 Raven.
Wildfowl and Waders
Walney contributed 23 birds to the international pale-bellied Brent Goose census and 7 dark-bellied birds were also seen.
Miscellaneous
At least 50 Little Egret remain and 12 Long-tailed Tit were logged.
Still looking to the skies
9th October 2015 – early rain/drizzle then sunny spells SE2
Offshore
Groups of 175 Gannet and 13 Common Scoter were offshore early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Despite the early drizzle raising hopes the bushes remained barren with just 5 Goldcrest and 3 Song Thrush candidates for new arrivals.
Diurnal Migration
Passage continued once the drizzle cleared with 700 Meadow Pipit, 220 Jackdaw, 150 Pink-footed Geese, 140 Linnet, 85 Chaffinch, 60 Pied/White Wagtail, 23 Skylark, 14 Tree Sparrow, 6 Siskin, 5 Greenfinch, 5 Reed Bunting, 3 Coal Tit and single Lesser Redpoll and Siskin recorded.
Miscellaneous
Great Spotted Woodpecker and a Jay were the best of the rest.
Offshore
Groups of 175 Gannet and 13 Common Scoter were offshore early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Despite the early drizzle raising hopes the bushes remained barren with just 5 Goldcrest and 3 Song Thrush candidates for new arrivals.
Diurnal Migration
Passage continued once the drizzle cleared with 700 Meadow Pipit, 220 Jackdaw, 150 Pink-footed Geese, 140 Linnet, 85 Chaffinch, 60 Pied/White Wagtail, 23 Skylark, 14 Tree Sparrow, 6 Siskin, 5 Greenfinch, 5 Reed Bunting, 3 Coal Tit and single Lesser Redpoll and Siskin recorded.
Miscellaneous
Great Spotted Woodpecker and a Jay were the best of the rest.
Poor rewards for a lot of effort
8th October 2015 – bright and sunny SE1
Offshore
A group of 20 Gannet were offshore early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Although there were a few birds around the results were poor reward for a lot of effort with just 43 Robin, 22 Wren, 17 Dunnock, 14 Goldcrest, 6 Song Thrush, 4 Chiffchaff and a Redwing located.
Diurnal Migration
The clear skies induced a better movement compared to recent days with 1275 Meadow Pipit, 755 Linnet, 620 Skylark, 490 Starling, 190 Pied/White Wagtail, 120 Swallow, 70 Pink-footed Goose, 68 Chaffinch, 40 Jackdaw, 31 Reed Bunting, 7 Siskin, 7 Tree Sparrow, 3 Grey Wagtail, 2 Greenfinch and 2 Lesser Redpoll logged.
Miscellaneous
Little Egret continue to show well.
Moths
Large Wainscot was new for the year.
Offshore
A group of 20 Gannet were offshore early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Although there were a few birds around the results were poor reward for a lot of effort with just 43 Robin, 22 Wren, 17 Dunnock, 14 Goldcrest, 6 Song Thrush, 4 Chiffchaff and a Redwing located.
Diurnal Migration
The clear skies induced a better movement compared to recent days with 1275 Meadow Pipit, 755 Linnet, 620 Skylark, 490 Starling, 190 Pied/White Wagtail, 120 Swallow, 70 Pink-footed Goose, 68 Chaffinch, 40 Jackdaw, 31 Reed Bunting, 7 Siskin, 7 Tree Sparrow, 3 Grey Wagtail, 2 Greenfinch and 2 Lesser Redpoll logged.
Miscellaneous
Little Egret continue to show well.
Moths
Large Wainscot was new for the year.
Barnacle Geese and Whooper Swan
7th October 2015 – overcast with showers NW4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730—0900) produced 100 Gannet, 90 Common Scoter, 90 Razorbill, 11 Red-throated Diver and 2 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Again quiet with just 7 Goldcrest, 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Redwing and a Blackcap logged.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 32 Barnacle Geese and a single Whooper Swan headed north. Also seen were 50 Meadow Pipit, 8 Swallow and single Grey Wagtail, Rock Pipit and Lesser Redpoll .
Miscellaneous
The resident pair of Raven were the best of the rest.
Moths
Black Rustic and Pink-barred Sallow were new for the year.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730—0900) produced 100 Gannet, 90 Common Scoter, 90 Razorbill, 11 Red-throated Diver and 2 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Again quiet with just 7 Goldcrest, 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Redwing and a Blackcap logged.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 32 Barnacle Geese and a single Whooper Swan headed north. Also seen were 50 Meadow Pipit, 8 Swallow and single Grey Wagtail, Rock Pipit and Lesser Redpoll .
Miscellaneous
The resident pair of Raven were the best of the rest.
Moths
Black Rustic and Pink-barred Sallow were new for the year.
First Redwing of the autumn
6th October 2015 – early rain/murk clearing later S4/3/2/1
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730—0900) produced 200 Gannet, 77 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill and 4 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Although the first Redwing of the autumn arrived it remained quiet despite the promising conditions with just 11 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and single Coal Tit logged.
Diurnal Migration
Pink-footed Geese continue to head south with a further 125 birds recorded. Also seen were 100 Meadow Pipit, 21 Jackdaw, 15 Swallow, 3 Grey Wagtail and 2 Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 10 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 46 Little Egret were strewn across the island, a Water Rail squealed and birds of prey included Barn Owl, Little Owl, Peregrine and Merlin.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730—0900) produced 200 Gannet, 77 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill and 4 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Although the first Redwing of the autumn arrived it remained quiet despite the promising conditions with just 11 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and single Coal Tit logged.
Diurnal Migration
Pink-footed Geese continue to head south with a further 125 birds recorded. Also seen were 100 Meadow Pipit, 21 Jackdaw, 15 Swallow, 3 Grey Wagtail and 2 Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 10 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 46 Little Egret were strewn across the island, a Water Rail squealed and birds of prey included Barn Owl, Little Owl, Peregrine and Merlin.
Pink-footed Geese continue to lead the way
4th October 2015 – early mist/fog E2/3
Grounded Migrants
Again just a sprinkling with 11 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Song Thrush logged.
Diurnal Migration
The murk continued to limit diurnal passage with just 425 Pink-footed Goose, 200 Meadow Pipit, 60 Linnet, 22 Pied/White Wagtail, 10 House Martin, 6 Swallow, 6 Chaffinch, 2 Grey Wagtail, 2 Tree Sparrow and a Lesser Redpoll recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
Shovler and Pintail remain the pick of the wildfowl while waders included 3 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Several Merlin continue to hunt the island.
Grounded Migrants
Again just a sprinkling with 11 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Song Thrush logged.
Diurnal Migration
The murk continued to limit diurnal passage with just 425 Pink-footed Goose, 200 Meadow Pipit, 60 Linnet, 22 Pied/White Wagtail, 10 House Martin, 6 Swallow, 6 Chaffinch, 2 Grey Wagtail, 2 Tree Sparrow and a Lesser Redpoll recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
Shovler and Pintail remain the pick of the wildfowl while waders included 3 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Several Merlin continue to hunt the island.
Pink-footed Geese continue to move through
3rd October 2015 – early mist/fog V2/1
Grounded Migrants
Back to normal with just 9 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff candidates for overnight arrivals.
Diurnal Migration
The murk continued to limit diurnal passage with just 420 Pink-footed Goose, 200 Meadow Pipit, 40 Linnet, 24 Skylark, 20 Pied/White Wagtail, 12 Swallow, 12 Chaffinch, 6 Siskin and 4 Grey Wagtail moving through.
Miscellaneous
Several Merlin and a Little Owl were the best of the rest.
Grounded Migrants
Back to normal with just 9 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff candidates for overnight arrivals.
Diurnal Migration
The murk continued to limit diurnal passage with just 420 Pink-footed Goose, 200 Meadow Pipit, 40 Linnet, 24 Skylark, 20 Pied/White Wagtail, 12 Swallow, 12 Chaffinch, 6 Siskin and 4 Grey Wagtail moving through.
Miscellaneous
Several Merlin and a Little Owl were the best of the rest.
Late Sedge Warbler
2nd October 2015 – early mist/fog SE2/1
Grounded Migrants
A fall at last (well at least by recent standards) produced 22 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Song Thrush and single Sedge Warbler and Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
The murk provided for a subdued diurnal passage with just 200 Meadow Pipit, 40 Pink-footed Goose, 30 Linnet, 30 Pied/White Wagtail, 22 Skylark, 10 Swallow, 8 Siskin, 3 Lesser Redpoll and 3 Grey Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Shoveler was amongst 500 Wigeon and 110 Teal.
Miscellaneous
Little Egret remain prominent.
Grounded Migrants
A fall at last (well at least by recent standards) produced 22 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Song Thrush and single Sedge Warbler and Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
The murk provided for a subdued diurnal passage with just 200 Meadow Pipit, 40 Pink-footed Goose, 30 Linnet, 30 Pied/White Wagtail, 22 Skylark, 10 Swallow, 8 Siskin, 3 Lesser Redpoll and 3 Grey Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Shoveler was amongst 500 Wigeon and 110 Teal.
Miscellaneous
Little Egret remain prominent.
Diurnal migration remains strong
1st October 2015 – bright and sunny ENE2/1
Offshore
A small passage of 31 Gannet was logged.
Grounded Migrants
Again grounded migrants were at a premium with just 3 Goldcrest and a Blackcap potential new arrivals.
Diurnal Migration
The skies continue to provide the main rewards with passage remaining strong, totals through the morning included 1720 Meadow Pipit, 1000 Pink-footed Goose, 740 Linnet, 450 Swallow, 330 Pied/White Wagtail, 240 Skylark, 46 Siskin, 16 Goldfinch, 13 Tree Sparrow, 12 Jackdaw, 10 Chaffinch, 8 House Sparrow, 8 Greenfinch, 6 Reed Bunting, 6 Lesser Redpoll, 4 House Martin, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Rock Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 10 pale-bellied Brent Geese amongst 800 Wigeon while waders included 22 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 3 Kestrel, 3 Merlin and 2 Sparrowhawk.
Offshore
A small passage of 31 Gannet was logged.
Grounded Migrants
Again grounded migrants were at a premium with just 3 Goldcrest and a Blackcap potential new arrivals.
Diurnal Migration
The skies continue to provide the main rewards with passage remaining strong, totals through the morning included 1720 Meadow Pipit, 1000 Pink-footed Goose, 740 Linnet, 450 Swallow, 330 Pied/White Wagtail, 240 Skylark, 46 Siskin, 16 Goldfinch, 13 Tree Sparrow, 12 Jackdaw, 10 Chaffinch, 8 House Sparrow, 8 Greenfinch, 6 Reed Bunting, 6 Lesser Redpoll, 4 House Martin, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Rock Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 10 pale-bellied Brent Geese amongst 800 Wigeon while waders included 22 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 3 Kestrel, 3 Merlin and 2 Sparrowhawk.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)