31st October 2017 – overcast SW3/4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) produced 182 Common Scoter, 17 Razorbill, 4 Red-throated Diver, 4 Gannet, 2 Guillemot and a Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 3 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Little evidence of movement with just 4 Redwing, 2 Fieldfare and a solitary Twite noted.
Wildfowl and Waders
A group of four adult Greenland White-fronted Geese were newly arrived and the female Scaup remains. An increase in numbers in the Brent Goose flock was evident with 281 pale-bellied and 43 dark-bellied birds recorded.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail and 3 Merlin were the best of the rest.
Ringing
Despite the adverse conditions for much of the month a respectable total of 775 birds of 27 species were handled with 705 new birds ringed. Finches and sparrows were to the fore along with a reasonable number of Goldcrest and Song Thrush. Individual species totals were as follows (retraps in brackets, which include two Goldfinch controls): Goldfinch 254 (30), Goldcrest 80 (1), Chaffinch 71, Tree Sparrow 64, Greenfinch 39 (1), Song Thrush 32, Wren 25 (1), Lesser Redpoll 21, Long-tailed Tit 20, Redwing 18, Dunnock 14 (5), House Sparrow 14 (4), Robin 13 (8), Blackbird 12 (8), Blue Tit 6, (5), Chiffchaff 6, Sparrowhawk 3 (1), Blackcap 3, Great Tit 2 (1), Magpie 2, Common Redpoll 1, Bullfinch 1, Siskin 1, Brambling 1, Stonechat 1, Coal Tit 1 and Reed Bunting (5).
Long-tailed Duck and Common Redpoll
30th October 2017 – sunny spells/early light frost ESE1/2
Offshore
A check over the sea at dawn revealed a congregation of 22 Shag, along with an adult male Long-tailed Duck and 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 10 Redwing and 3 Song Thrush amongst a sprinkling of Blackbirds. Otherwise sightings were limited to 4 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Again variety rather than quantity with 665 Pink-footed Goose, 350 Jackdaw, 85 Starling, 15 Whooper Swan, 14 Meadow Pipit, 11 Lesser Redpoll, 10 alba Wagtail, 9 Carrion Crow, 6 Tree Sparrow, 6 Chaffinch, 5 Greenfinch, 2 Swallow, 2 Linnet and single Siskin, Brambling and Common Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains and 6 Greenshank were logged.
Miscellaneous
Single Twite, Water Rail and Merlin were the best of the rest.
Images
Common Redpoll.
Offshore
A check over the sea at dawn revealed a congregation of 22 Shag, along with an adult male Long-tailed Duck and 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 10 Redwing and 3 Song Thrush amongst a sprinkling of Blackbirds. Otherwise sightings were limited to 4 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Again variety rather than quantity with 665 Pink-footed Goose, 350 Jackdaw, 85 Starling, 15 Whooper Swan, 14 Meadow Pipit, 11 Lesser Redpoll, 10 alba Wagtail, 9 Carrion Crow, 6 Tree Sparrow, 6 Chaffinch, 5 Greenfinch, 2 Swallow, 2 Linnet and single Siskin, Brambling and Common Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains and 6 Greenshank were logged.
Miscellaneous
Single Twite, Water Rail and Merlin were the best of the rest.
Images
Common Redpoll.
Scaup and Hooded Crow
29th October 2017 – bright and sunny NE1/2
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 65 Redwing, 15 Song Thrush, 12 Blackbird and a Mistle Thrush. Otherwise sightings were limited to 6 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move in clear skies and light winds with 580 Pink-footed Goose, 450 Jackdaw, 104 Whooper Swan, 25 Chaffinch, 17 Tree Sparrow, 14 Skylark, 12 Meadow Pipit, 12 Carrion Crow, 7 Long-tailed Tit, 6 Lesser Redpoll, 6 Greenfinch, 3 Siskin, 2 Stock Dove and single Rook, Mistle Thrush, Coal Tit and Swallow logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A female Scaup was newly arrived amongst 4 Goldeneye and 12 Greenshank were seen.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock has increased to 13 birds and additional sightings included 2 Merlin and a Hooded Crow.
Butterflies
A few Red Admiral are still on the wing.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 65 Redwing, 15 Song Thrush, 12 Blackbird and a Mistle Thrush. Otherwise sightings were limited to 6 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move in clear skies and light winds with 580 Pink-footed Goose, 450 Jackdaw, 104 Whooper Swan, 25 Chaffinch, 17 Tree Sparrow, 14 Skylark, 12 Meadow Pipit, 12 Carrion Crow, 7 Long-tailed Tit, 6 Lesser Redpoll, 6 Greenfinch, 3 Siskin, 2 Stock Dove and single Rook, Mistle Thrush, Coal Tit and Swallow logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A female Scaup was newly arrived amongst 4 Goldeneye and 12 Greenshank were seen.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock has increased to 13 birds and additional sightings included 2 Merlin and a Hooded Crow.
Butterflies
A few Red Admiral are still on the wing.
Shag influx
28th October 2017 – overcast/drizzle at times WSW4/5
Offshore
Conditions meant that the sea again received the most attention with observations (0830-0930) producing 24 Shag, 17 Common Scoter, 9 Kittiwake, 6 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver and single Goosander and Gannet. In addition 2 Shag sheltered along the eastern shore.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 2 Fieldfare, 2 Redwing and a Goldcrest.
Mammals
A Harbour Porpoise was offshore.
Offshore
Conditions meant that the sea again received the most attention with observations (0830-0930) producing 24 Shag, 17 Common Scoter, 9 Kittiwake, 6 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver and single Goosander and Gannet. In addition 2 Shag sheltered along the eastern shore.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 2 Fieldfare, 2 Redwing and a Goldcrest.
Mammals
A Harbour Porpoise was offshore.
Black Redstart arrive
27th October 2017 – bright and sunny/calm WNW 2/3 later
Offshore
Sightings involved 20 Common Scoter and 2 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Two Black Redstarts were the pick of the few grounded birds which also included 8 Song Thrush and 2 Redwing along with a Blackcap amongst 4 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
The clear skies again provided variety with 720 Jackdaw, 140 Starling, 100 Meadow Pipit, 60 Tree Sparrow, 30 Skylark, 25 Pink-footed Goose, 20 Whooper Swan, 20 Linnet, 20 Chaffinch, 19 Carrion Crow, 14 Long-tailed Tit, 13 Lesser Redpoll, 12 Redwing, 11 Mistle Thrush, 10 alba Wagtail,10 Brambling, 4 Rock Pipit, 4 Greenfinch, 3 Swallow, 2 Fieldfare, 2 Woodpigeon and single Twite, Bullfinch and Siskin logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 12 Greenshank while 11 Shoveler were amongst 240 Teal and 2 pale-bellied Brent Geese were also logged.
Miscellaneous
Four Raven were the best of the rest.
Offshore
Sightings involved 20 Common Scoter and 2 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Two Black Redstarts were the pick of the few grounded birds which also included 8 Song Thrush and 2 Redwing along with a Blackcap amongst 4 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
The clear skies again provided variety with 720 Jackdaw, 140 Starling, 100 Meadow Pipit, 60 Tree Sparrow, 30 Skylark, 25 Pink-footed Goose, 20 Whooper Swan, 20 Linnet, 20 Chaffinch, 19 Carrion Crow, 14 Long-tailed Tit, 13 Lesser Redpoll, 12 Redwing, 11 Mistle Thrush, 10 alba Wagtail,10 Brambling, 4 Rock Pipit, 4 Greenfinch, 3 Swallow, 2 Fieldfare, 2 Woodpigeon and single Twite, Bullfinch and Siskin logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 12 Greenshank while 11 Shoveler were amongst 240 Teal and 2 pale-bellied Brent Geese were also logged.
Miscellaneous
Four Raven were the best of the rest.
Migration trickle
26th October 2017 – overcast/light rain W1/2
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 13 Song Thrush and 5 Redwing. Also seen were 14 Goldcrest and 2 Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
A varied selection included 150 Jackdaw, 55 Pink-footed Goose, 30 Chaffinch, 20 Meadow Pipit, 14 Tree Sparrow, 10 Skylark, 7 Long-tailed Tit, 5 Mistle Thrush, 3 Lesser Redpoll, 3 Brambling and single Bullfinch, Twite, Siskin and Swallow.
Miscellaneous
Single Water Rail and Merlin were the best of the rest.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 13 Song Thrush and 5 Redwing. Also seen were 14 Goldcrest and 2 Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
A varied selection included 150 Jackdaw, 55 Pink-footed Goose, 30 Chaffinch, 20 Meadow Pipit, 14 Tree Sparrow, 10 Skylark, 7 Long-tailed Tit, 5 Mistle Thrush, 3 Lesser Redpoll, 3 Brambling and single Bullfinch, Twite, Siskin and Swallow.
Miscellaneous
Single Water Rail and Merlin were the best of the rest.
Water Rail new in
25th October 2017 – sunny spells WSW3/4/5
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) produced 58 Razorbill, 58 Kittiwake, 42 Common Scoter, 8 Red-throated Diver, 3 Guillemot and an Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded thrushes were limited to 9 Redwing and 4 Song Thrush. A Chiffchaff was amongst 7 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Passage consisted of 20 Skylark, 20 Meadow Pipit, 10 Chaffinch and single Brambling and Lesser Redpoll.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail was newly arrived while less frequently visited parts of the island added 12 Long-tailed Tit and single Treecreeper and Jay.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) produced 58 Razorbill, 58 Kittiwake, 42 Common Scoter, 8 Red-throated Diver, 3 Guillemot and an Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded thrushes were limited to 9 Redwing and 4 Song Thrush. A Chiffchaff was amongst 7 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Passage consisted of 20 Skylark, 20 Meadow Pipit, 10 Chaffinch and single Brambling and Lesser Redpoll.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail was newly arrived while less frequently visited parts of the island added 12 Long-tailed Tit and single Treecreeper and Jay.
First Twite arrive
24th October 2017 – overcast/rain SW4/5/6
Offshore
A check of the sea at high tide revealed 6 Common Scoter and a Red-throated Diver. The sheltered eastern shore hosted 2 Shag and a Goosander.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes were limited to 30 Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
A Siskin flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 150 pale-bellied birds and waders included 15 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The first 11 Twite have arrived back on the island and 2 Merlin were seen.
Offshore
A check of the sea at high tide revealed 6 Common Scoter and a Red-throated Diver. The sheltered eastern shore hosted 2 Shag and a Goosander.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes were limited to 30 Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
A Siskin flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 150 pale-bellied birds and waders included 15 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The first 11 Twite have arrived back on the island and 2 Merlin were seen.
Fieldfares drop in
23rd October 2017 – overcast/drizzle at times SE2/3
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 152 Redwing, 24 Fieldfare, 10 Mistle Thrush and 6 Song Thrush while 5 Goldcrest were also logged.
Diurnal Migration
Light passage between the spells of drizzle produced 32 Chaffinch, 25 Meadow Pipit, 17 Skylark, 8 alba Wagtail, 4 Siskin, 3 Brambling, 2 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Rock Pipit.
Miscellaneous
At least 80 Little Egret were along the eastern shore.
Moths
A Vestal was attracted overnight.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 152 Redwing, 24 Fieldfare, 10 Mistle Thrush and 6 Song Thrush while 5 Goldcrest were also logged.
Diurnal Migration
Light passage between the spells of drizzle produced 32 Chaffinch, 25 Meadow Pipit, 17 Skylark, 8 alba Wagtail, 4 Siskin, 3 Brambling, 2 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Rock Pipit.
Miscellaneous
At least 80 Little Egret were along the eastern shore.
Moths
A Vestal was attracted overnight.
Great Northern Diver
22nd October 2017 – overcast/showers clearing W6/7/8
Offshore
With the wind gusting to 55 mph the sea again received the most attention with 64 Kittiwake, 20 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill and a Brent Goose logged. At high tide the sheltered eastern shore harboured a Great Northern Diver.
Offshore
With the wind gusting to 55 mph the sea again received the most attention with 64 Kittiwake, 20 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill and a Brent Goose logged. At high tide the sheltered eastern shore harboured a Great Northern Diver.
Arctic Skua
21st October 2017 – overcast/showers/rain later SE4/5/6
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) produced little other than 13 Common Scoter and single Goldeneye and Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes were limited to a Redwing while a Wheatear was also logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 158 pale-bellied Brent Geese and 8 Shoveler were seen.
Miscellaneous
At least 7 Rock Pipit were flushed from the saltmarsh and a Peregrine was recorded.
Offshore
Morning observations (0800-0900) produced little other than 13 Common Scoter and single Goldeneye and Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes were limited to a Redwing while a Wheatear was also logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 158 pale-bellied Brent Geese and 8 Shoveler were seen.
Miscellaneous
At least 7 Rock Pipit were flushed from the saltmarsh and a Peregrine was recorded.
Ring Ouzel brace
20th October 2017 –rain/drizzle clearing to showers WNW2/3
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 195 Redwing, 10 Song Thrush, 2 Ring Ouzel and a Mistle Thrush. Otherwise grounded birds were limited to Goldcrest with 30 birds logged and several Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A trickle provided 10 Chaffinch, 5 Siskin, 3 Rock Pipit and single Grey Wagtail and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Greenshank were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin targeted the Goldfinch flock.
Moths
A flurry of immigrants were attracted overnight involving 3 Silver Y, 3 Dark Swordgrass and single Rush Veneer, Rusty Dot Pearl, Vestal and Pearly Underwing.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 195 Redwing, 10 Song Thrush, 2 Ring Ouzel and a Mistle Thrush. Otherwise grounded birds were limited to Goldcrest with 30 birds logged and several Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A trickle provided 10 Chaffinch, 5 Siskin, 3 Rock Pipit and single Grey Wagtail and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
A few Greenshank were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin targeted the Goldfinch flock.
Moths
A flurry of immigrants were attracted overnight involving 3 Silver Y, 3 Dark Swordgrass and single Rush Veneer, Rusty Dot Pearl, Vestal and Pearly Underwing.
A quieter day
19th October 2017 – overcast/rain later ESE3/4
Offshore
A check of the sheltered eastern shore on the high tide revealed 27 Red-breasted Merganser, 11 Great Crested Grebe, 7 Guillemot and a Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 77 Redwing 7 Song Thrush and a Blackbird. Otherwise limited to 10 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Much quieter than yesterday with 122 Meadow Pipit, 120 Linnet, 110 Skylark, 25 Pink-footed Goose, 16 alba Wagtail, 16 Jackdaw and 10 Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 20 Greenshank and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 63 Little Egret remain.
Offshore
A check of the sheltered eastern shore on the high tide revealed 27 Red-breasted Merganser, 11 Great Crested Grebe, 7 Guillemot and a Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 77 Redwing 7 Song Thrush and a Blackbird. Otherwise limited to 10 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Much quieter than yesterday with 122 Meadow Pipit, 120 Linnet, 110 Skylark, 25 Pink-footed Goose, 16 alba Wagtail, 16 Jackdaw and 10 Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 20 Greenshank and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
At least 63 Little Egret remain.
Visible migration kicks in at last!
18th October 2017 – bright start/overcast later, E1 then ESE2 later
Offshore
A short scan over the sea revealed a solitary Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 12 Redwing 5 Song Thrush and a Mistle Thrush while a single Chiffchaff was amongst 15 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Although reduced on recent autumns today provided the best movement of the year so far with: 1400 Jackdaw, 1320 Pink-footed Goose, 560 Skylark, 380 Meadow Pipit, 280 Linnet, 165 Starling, 58 Tree Sparrow, 50 Chaffinch, 44 alba Wagtail, 43 Whooper Swan, 40 Greenfinch, 30 Reed Bunting, 16 Carrion Crow, 11 Lesser Redpoll, 7 Swallow, 7 Grey Wagtail, 4 Brambling, 3 Rook, 3 Siskin and 2 Rock Pipit logged.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn Owl and Little Owl were out hunting at dawn while 10 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Raven and a Jay were the best of the rest.
Moths
Immigrants involved Silver Y and Vestal while Satellite was new for the year.
Offshore
A short scan over the sea revealed a solitary Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 12 Redwing 5 Song Thrush and a Mistle Thrush while a single Chiffchaff was amongst 15 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Although reduced on recent autumns today provided the best movement of the year so far with: 1400 Jackdaw, 1320 Pink-footed Goose, 560 Skylark, 380 Meadow Pipit, 280 Linnet, 165 Starling, 58 Tree Sparrow, 50 Chaffinch, 44 alba Wagtail, 43 Whooper Swan, 40 Greenfinch, 30 Reed Bunting, 16 Carrion Crow, 11 Lesser Redpoll, 7 Swallow, 7 Grey Wagtail, 4 Brambling, 3 Rook, 3 Siskin and 2 Rock Pipit logged.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn Owl and Little Owl were out hunting at dawn while 10 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Raven and a Jay were the best of the rest.
Moths
Immigrants involved Silver Y and Vestal while Satellite was new for the year.
Leach’s Petrels
17th October 2017 – overcast/early showers clearing SW6/7 then WSW5/6 later
Offshore
With Ophelia producing winds of up to 67 mph on the island overnight all eyes turned to the stormy sea early morning (0830-1030hrs). However, despite much effort 3 Gannet, 3 Common Scoter, 2 Razorbill and single Manx Shearwater and Kittiwake were all that could be mustered. A second watch as the wind subsided and the sea abated (1430-1730hrs) was more successful with 5 Leach’s Petrel logged (1505-1615hrs), however additional sightings remained sparse with just 6 Kittiwake, 6 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill, 4 Guillemot, 2 Gannet and a Red-throated Diver logged.
Grounded Migrants
Two Goldcrest appeared to be newly arrived.
Wildfowl and Waders
The ECHA Light-bellied Brent Goose census located 161 pale-bellied amongst 800 Wigeon and 82 Shelduck.
Offshore
With Ophelia producing winds of up to 67 mph on the island overnight all eyes turned to the stormy sea early morning (0830-1030hrs). However, despite much effort 3 Gannet, 3 Common Scoter, 2 Razorbill and single Manx Shearwater and Kittiwake were all that could be mustered. A second watch as the wind subsided and the sea abated (1430-1730hrs) was more successful with 5 Leach’s Petrel logged (1505-1615hrs), however additional sightings remained sparse with just 6 Kittiwake, 6 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill, 4 Guillemot, 2 Gannet and a Red-throated Diver logged.
Grounded Migrants
Two Goldcrest appeared to be newly arrived.
Wildfowl and Waders
The ECHA Light-bellied Brent Goose census located 161 pale-bellied amongst 800 Wigeon and 82 Shelduck.
Ophelia gloom arrives
16th October 2017 – overcast/rain soon/clearing later ENE4 becoming S5/6/7 later
Offshore
A check of the sea once the crepuscular gloom created by the Saharan sand and Iberian smoke gathered up by Ophelia had cleared (1015-1115) produced 50 Common Scoter, 17 Razorbill, 6 Shag, 5 Gannet, 3 Guillemot and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 2 Redwing while single Blackcap and Goldcrest were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 215 Pink-footed Geese moved through ahead of the gloom and a Rock Pipit was amongst small numbers of Meadow Pipit and alba Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain and 11 Shoveler are now present.
Moths
A Dark Chestnut was new for the year.
Offshore
A check of the sea once the crepuscular gloom created by the Saharan sand and Iberian smoke gathered up by Ophelia had cleared (1015-1115) produced 50 Common Scoter, 17 Razorbill, 6 Shag, 5 Gannet, 3 Guillemot and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 2 Redwing while single Blackcap and Goldcrest were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 215 Pink-footed Geese moved through ahead of the gloom and a Rock Pipit was amongst small numbers of Meadow Pipit and alba Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain and 11 Shoveler are now present.
Moths
A Dark Chestnut was new for the year.
First Brambling of the autumn
15th October 2017 – overcast SSE2 then SSW3
Offshore
A quick check of the sea revealed 5 Shag and small numbers of Common Scoter and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 4 Redwing while 3 Goldcrest, 2 Blackcap and a Chiffchaff were also newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
There was evidence of small-scale movement with 65 Meadow Pipit, 50 Skylark, 50 Chaffinch, 35 Jackdaw, 22 alba Wagtail, 10 Greenfinch, 3 Swallow, 3 Reed Bunting, 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Grey Wagtail recorded, along with the first Brambling of the autumn.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall and 10 Shoveler remain and waders included 23 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Three Merlin were seen.
Moths
A Pearly Underwing was new for the year.
Offshore
A quick check of the sea revealed 5 Shag and small numbers of Common Scoter and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 4 Redwing while 3 Goldcrest, 2 Blackcap and a Chiffchaff were also newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
There was evidence of small-scale movement with 65 Meadow Pipit, 50 Skylark, 50 Chaffinch, 35 Jackdaw, 22 alba Wagtail, 10 Greenfinch, 3 Swallow, 3 Reed Bunting, 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Grey Wagtail recorded, along with the first Brambling of the autumn.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall and 10 Shoveler remain and waders included 23 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Three Merlin were seen.
Moths
A Pearly Underwing was new for the year.
A few more seabirds
14th October 2017 – drizzle/mist/fog SW4/5
Offshore
Dawn broke to a reveal another windswept and rain soaked day on the island, however, observations as the mist and murk began to clear (1100-1200) produced 63 Razorbill, 52 Kittiwake, 26 Common Scoter, 11 Gannet, 3 Manx Shearwater and a Red-throated Diver
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain.
Miscellaneous
A flock of 11 Long-tailed Tit were the best of the rest.
Offshore
Dawn broke to a reveal another windswept and rain soaked day on the island, however, observations as the mist and murk began to clear (1100-1200) produced 63 Razorbill, 52 Kittiwake, 26 Common Scoter, 11 Gannet, 3 Manx Shearwater and a Red-throated Diver
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain.
Miscellaneous
A flock of 11 Long-tailed Tit were the best of the rest.
A few seabirds
13th October 2017 – overcast/rain at times SSW4/5/6
Offshore
Early morning observations prior to the rain (0830-0900) produced 42 Common Scoter, 9 Gannet, 3 Red-throated Diver and 2 Kittiwake.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin were logged.
Offshore
Early morning observations prior to the rain (0830-0900) produced 42 Common Scoter, 9 Gannet, 3 Red-throated Diver and 2 Kittiwake.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin were logged.
Passerines remain scarce
12th October 2017 – overcast WSW6/5/4/3
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0900) produced 135 Razorbill, 80 Gannet, 52 Common Scoter, 7 Kittiwake and 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Once again limited to a few Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Few birds were on the move with just 20 Jackdaw and 5 alba Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain amongst 10 Shoveler and waders included 21 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A total of 63 Little Egret were seen.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker and 2 Common Darter are still on the wing.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0900) produced 135 Razorbill, 80 Gannet, 52 Common Scoter, 7 Kittiwake and 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Once again limited to a few Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Few birds were on the move with just 20 Jackdaw and 5 alba Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The pair of Gadwall remain amongst 10 Shoveler and waders included 21 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A total of 63 Little Egret were seen.
Dragonflies
A Migrant Hawker and 2 Common Darter are still on the wing.
Great and Arctic Skuas
10th October 2017 – overcast/brighter later WSW3/4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0900) produced a varied selection including: 136 Common Scoter, 110 Razorbill, 54 Gannet, 8 Kittiwake, 7 Red-throated Diver and single Shag, Great Skua and Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by a few Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Four Pink-footed Geese were amongst a trickle of Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
The redhead Goosander remained and a pair of Gadwall were newly arrived amongst 10 Shoveler. Waders included 3000 Oystercatcher, 400 Turnstone and 12 Greenshank .
Miscellaneous
Raptors involved Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Peregrine and Merlin and 80 Little Egret are now present along the eastern shore.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0900) produced a varied selection including: 136 Common Scoter, 110 Razorbill, 54 Gannet, 8 Kittiwake, 7 Red-throated Diver and single Shag, Great Skua and Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by a few Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Four Pink-footed Geese were amongst a trickle of Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
The redhead Goosander remained and a pair of Gadwall were newly arrived amongst 10 Shoveler. Waders included 3000 Oystercatcher, 400 Turnstone and 12 Greenshank .
Miscellaneous
Raptors involved Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Peregrine and Merlin and 80 Little Egret are now present along the eastern shore.
Little Stint and Curlew Sandpiper
9th October 2017 – overcast/drizzle at times W1/SW2 later
Offshore
A short evening watch (1700-1730) produced low numbers of Common Scoter, Gannet, Kittiwake, Razorbill and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
The first 4 Redwing of the autumn were grounded early morning. Also seen were 17 Goldcrest, 5 Chiffchaff and 4 Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Again just small-scale movement was evident with 100 Meadow Pipit, 26 Chaffinch, 20 alba Wagtail, 10 Tree Sparrow, 10 Skylark, 5 Swallow, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Great Spotted Woodpecker logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A redhead Goosander was recorded while waders included 1400 Redshank, 440 Turnstone, 23 Greenshank and single Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin was again the best of the rest.
Butterflies and Dragonflies
Several Red Admiral and Migrant Hawker are still on the wing.
Offshore
A short evening watch (1700-1730) produced low numbers of Common Scoter, Gannet, Kittiwake, Razorbill and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
The first 4 Redwing of the autumn were grounded early morning. Also seen were 17 Goldcrest, 5 Chiffchaff and 4 Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Again just small-scale movement was evident with 100 Meadow Pipit, 26 Chaffinch, 20 alba Wagtail, 10 Tree Sparrow, 10 Skylark, 5 Swallow, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Great Spotted Woodpecker logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A redhead Goosander was recorded while waders included 1400 Redshank, 440 Turnstone, 23 Greenshank and single Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper and Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin was again the best of the rest.
Butterflies and Dragonflies
Several Red Admiral and Migrant Hawker are still on the wing.
Robins predominate
8th October 2017 – overcast NW1/2
Offshore
A quick check of the sea produced just 4 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Robins were prominent with 34 birds logged. Also seen were 9 Goldcrest, 4 Stonechat and 4 Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Disappointingly quiet despite the benign conditions with just 200 Meadow Pipit, 55 Pink-footed Goose, 32 Chaffinch, 20 Skylark, 10 Reed Bunting, 10 alba Wagtail, 4 Greenfinch, 3 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Siskin and single Rock Pipit and Tree Sparrow recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 34 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was again the best of the rest.
Offshore
A quick check of the sea produced just 4 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Robins were prominent with 34 birds logged. Also seen were 9 Goldcrest, 4 Stonechat and 4 Song Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Disappointingly quiet despite the benign conditions with just 200 Meadow Pipit, 55 Pink-footed Goose, 32 Chaffinch, 20 Skylark, 10 Reed Bunting, 10 alba Wagtail, 4 Greenfinch, 3 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Siskin and single Rock Pipit and Tree Sparrow recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 34 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was again the best of the rest.
Arctic Skua and Whooper Swans
7th October 2017 – overcast/showers W3/4/5
Offshore
A check of the sea (0730-0900) produced 100 Razorbill, 72 Common Scoter, 10 Red-throated Diver, 7 Gannet, 6 Kittiwake, 3 Shag and an Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a few Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 4 Whooper Swan headed south between the showers.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 95 pale-bellied birds and one dark bellied bird. Additional sightings included 10 Shoveler, 2450 Redshank, 815 Curlew, 570 Turnstone, 250 Golden Plover, 190 Grey Plover, 21 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was again the best of the rest.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0730-0900) produced 100 Razorbill, 72 Common Scoter, 10 Red-throated Diver, 7 Gannet, 6 Kittiwake, 3 Shag and an Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a few Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 4 Whooper Swan headed south between the showers.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 95 pale-bellied birds and one dark bellied bird. Additional sightings included 10 Shoveler, 2450 Redshank, 815 Curlew, 570 Turnstone, 250 Golden Plover, 190 Grey Plover, 21 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was again the best of the rest.
Finches and Sparrows
6th October 2017 – bright start/cloudy later NW1 then WSW2
Grounded Migrants
Again just a smattering of newly arrived birds with 15 Robin, 15 Dunnock, 10 Song Thrush, 10 Goldcrest, 5 Stonechat and 2 Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were certainly busier in the benign conditions at the start of the day with 240 Meadow Pipit, 125 Jackdaw, 120 Skylark, 100 Chaffinch, 100 Tree Sparrow, 80 Linnet, 50 Pink-footed Goose, 20 alba Wagtail, 20 Greenfinch, 10 Siskin, 6 Swallow, 5 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Coal Tit, 2 Grey Wagtail, 2 Whooper Swan and a Rock Pipit moving through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Black-tailed Godwit continues to linger.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin and 2 Raven were the best of the rest.
Moths
Immigrants involved 2 Silver Y.
Grounded Migrants
Again just a smattering of newly arrived birds with 15 Robin, 15 Dunnock, 10 Song Thrush, 10 Goldcrest, 5 Stonechat and 2 Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were certainly busier in the benign conditions at the start of the day with 240 Meadow Pipit, 125 Jackdaw, 120 Skylark, 100 Chaffinch, 100 Tree Sparrow, 80 Linnet, 50 Pink-footed Goose, 20 alba Wagtail, 20 Greenfinch, 10 Siskin, 6 Swallow, 5 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Coal Tit, 2 Grey Wagtail, 2 Whooper Swan and a Rock Pipit moving through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Black-tailed Godwit continues to linger.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin and 2 Raven were the best of the rest.
Moths
Immigrants involved 2 Silver Y.
First Whooper Swans of the autumn
5th October 2017 – sun and showers WNW6/7
Offshore
Three Shag were logged amongst small numbers of Gannet, Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter, Kittiwake and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A few more birds were in evidence with 15 Goldcrest and single Chiffchaff and Wheatear recorded.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move despite the strength of the wind with 30 Meadow Pipit, 22 Skylark, 10 Pink-footed Geese and a Swallow logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The autumn’s first 7 Whooper Swan and dark-bellied Brent Goose appeared. Waders included a Black-tailed Godwit amongst 22 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was the best of the rest.
Butterflies
A Comma was on the wing amongst a handful of Red Admiral.
Offshore
Three Shag were logged amongst small numbers of Gannet, Red-throated Diver, Common Scoter, Kittiwake and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A few more birds were in evidence with 15 Goldcrest and single Chiffchaff and Wheatear recorded.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move despite the strength of the wind with 30 Meadow Pipit, 22 Skylark, 10 Pink-footed Geese and a Swallow logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The autumn’s first 7 Whooper Swan and dark-bellied Brent Goose appeared. Waders included a Black-tailed Godwit amongst 22 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was the best of the rest.
Butterflies
A Comma was on the wing amongst a handful of Red Admiral.
Little Gull
4th October 2017 – overcast/showers/rain soon, heavy later W5/6/7/8 becoming WSW6/7/8 later
Offshore
The weather conditions dictated that most activity was concentrated on the sea with an extended seawatch through the morning (0800-1200) over the tide producing a first-winter Little Gull. Additional sightings included 100 Razorbill, 93 Common Scoter, 22 Gannet, 20 Kittiwake, 12 Guillemot, 7 Red-throated Diver and single Arctic Skua, Sandwich Tern and Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 4 Goldcrest and a Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock again held 94 pale-bellied birds but only 2 first-year birds were noted suggesting a poor breeding season.
Miscellaneous
A pair of Raven were the best of the rest.
Offshore
The weather conditions dictated that most activity was concentrated on the sea with an extended seawatch through the morning (0800-1200) over the tide producing a first-winter Little Gull. Additional sightings included 100 Razorbill, 93 Common Scoter, 22 Gannet, 20 Kittiwake, 12 Guillemot, 7 Red-throated Diver and single Arctic Skua, Sandwich Tern and Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 4 Goldcrest and a Wheatear.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock again held 94 pale-bellied birds but only 2 first-year birds were noted suggesting a poor breeding season.
Miscellaneous
A pair of Raven were the best of the rest.
Brent Goose influx
3rd October 2017 – early rain/showers WNW5/6/7
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0930) were hampered by rain and a WNW wind. Sightings were limited to 37 Common Scoter, 35 Razorbill, 25 Gannet, 9 Red-throated Diver and 6 Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 8 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 210 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
An influx in Brent Geese was apparent withb 94 pale-bellied birds recorded. A Black-tailed Godwit was amongst 5 Greenshank and 800 Redshank.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0930) were hampered by rain and a WNW wind. Sightings were limited to 37 Common Scoter, 35 Razorbill, 25 Gannet, 9 Red-throated Diver and 6 Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 8 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 210 Pink-footed Geese headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
An influx in Brent Geese was apparent withb 94 pale-bellied birds recorded. A Black-tailed Godwit was amongst 5 Greenshank and 800 Redshank.
Goosander and Arctic Skua
2nd October 2017 – early rain/brighter later WSW 6/7/8
Offshore
A wild and stormy day saw most of the attention focused on the sea. Early morning observations on the rising tide (0800-1000) produced 155 Gannet, 73 Common Scoter, 44 Razorbill, 17 Kittiwake, 2 Sandwich Tern and single Goosander and Arctic Skua. Further observations on the falling tide (1100-1200) added 27 Razorbill, 12 Common Scoter, 10 Gannet, 6 Kittiwake, 3 Shag, 2 Manx Shearwater and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 4 Goldcrest were perhaps leftovers from yesterday’s influx.
Wildfowl and Waders
Another or the same Goosander was off the more sheltered eastern shore and waders included 4 Greenshank.
Offshore
A wild and stormy day saw most of the attention focused on the sea. Early morning observations on the rising tide (0800-1000) produced 155 Gannet, 73 Common Scoter, 44 Razorbill, 17 Kittiwake, 2 Sandwich Tern and single Goosander and Arctic Skua. Further observations on the falling tide (1100-1200) added 27 Razorbill, 12 Common Scoter, 10 Gannet, 6 Kittiwake, 3 Shag, 2 Manx Shearwater and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 4 Goldcrest were perhaps leftovers from yesterday’s influx.
Wildfowl and Waders
Another or the same Goosander was off the more sheltered eastern shore and waders included 4 Greenshank.
Ring Ouzel and Goldcrests
1st October 2017 – rain/drizzle SSE2/3 then SW4/5 later
Offshore
A quick check of the sea (0900-0930) between the showers produced 35 Gannet, 26 Common Scoter and a Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A female Ring Ouzel and 2 Mistle Thrush were grounded early morning. Also logged were 50 Goldcrest, 50 Robin, 7 Chiffchaff and 3 Stonechat.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers were on the move despite the conditions with 205 Meadow Pipit, 75 Skylark, 15 House Martin, 14 alba Wagtail, 3 Grey Wagtail, 3 Siskin and a Lesser Redpoll moving through between the pulses of rain.
Miscellaneous
Raptors were prominent with Merlin, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel all hunting flocks of 440 Goldfinch and 150 Linnet.
Offshore
A quick check of the sea (0900-0930) between the showers produced 35 Gannet, 26 Common Scoter and a Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A female Ring Ouzel and 2 Mistle Thrush were grounded early morning. Also logged were 50 Goldcrest, 50 Robin, 7 Chiffchaff and 3 Stonechat.
Diurnal Migration
Small numbers were on the move despite the conditions with 205 Meadow Pipit, 75 Skylark, 15 House Martin, 14 alba Wagtail, 3 Grey Wagtail, 3 Siskin and a Lesser Redpoll moving through between the pulses of rain.
Miscellaneous
Raptors were prominent with Merlin, Sparrowhawk and Kestrel all hunting flocks of 440 Goldfinch and 150 Linnet.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)