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.
