Black Brant and Scaup look set to see in New Year

30th December 2018 – overcast WSW2
Rarities
The adult Black Brant was again in Walney Channel off Long Rein Point at low tide amongst 93 pale-bellied and 2 dark-bellied Brent Geese.
Grounded Migrants
A solitary Fieldfare hinted at movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup and 4 Greenshank remain.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was the best of the rest.
Ringing
The usual quiet end to the year saw just 30 birds of eight species handled during the month. Individual species totals were as follows (retraps in brackets): Goldfinch 8 (10), Woodpigeon 1, Starling 1, House Sparrow 1 (4), Brambling 1, Greenfinch (2), Blue Tit (1), Great Tit (1). 1830/35, 231/17, 12/6.

Black Brant still

29th December 2018 – overcast/early showers SW4
Rarities
The adult Black Brant was again in Walney Channel off Long Rein Point on the flooding tide.
Offshore
An early morning check of the sea revealed 15 Kittiwake and 7 Common Scoter.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Goosander put in another appearance.
Miscellaneous
Water Rail, Merlin and Buzzard were the best of the rest.
Ringing
A colour-ringed Herring Gull had been ringed on the Calf of Man in 2017.

Black Brant still in residence

28th December 2018 – overcast/drizzle WSW2/3
Rarities
The adult Black Brant was amongst 91 pale-bellied and 2 dark-bellied Brent Geese feeding in Walney Channel off Long Rein Point on the flooding tide.
Offshore
A total of 37 Shag were located offshore at low tide.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup continue in residence while the Brent Goose flocks totalled 337 pale-bellied and 92 dark-bellied birds. Waders included 3 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin and 2 Little Owl were the best of the rest.
Moths
The moth trap attracted 3 Winter Moths.

Black Brant remains

27th December 2018 – overcast/mist/murk/calm
Rarities
The adult Black Brant was again feeding with pale-bellied Brent Geese in Walney Channel off Long Rein Point on the flooding tide.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup continue in residence while the Brent Goose flock held 293 pale-bellied and 34 dark-bellied birds. Waders included 5,000 Knot, 6 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A group of 34 Twite were the best of the rest.
Moths
The moth trap attracted Winter Moth and Red Sword-grass overnight.

Scaup see in the festive season

26th December 2018 – overcast/mist/murk V1
Offshore
Just small numbers of Shag and Red-throated Diver were noted.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup continue in residence while waders included 6 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A group of 9 Twite and single Merlin and Buzzard were the best of the rest.

Black Brant & Water Pipit

24th December 2018 – bright and frosty E1
Rarities
The adult Black Brant put in an appearance amongst the pale-bellied Brent Geese feeding in Walney Channel off Long Rein Point on the morning tide. A Water Pipit was in the flooded horse paddocks along Biggar Bank at high tide.
Offshore
Morning observations (0830-0930) produced 19 Common Scoter, 19 Red-throated Diver, 3 Red-breasted Merganser and a Kittiwake.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 272 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
The high tide flushed 31 Rock Pipit and 59 Twite from the salt marshes. Raptors included 2 Merlin and a Peregrine.

Hooded Crow

19th December 2018 – bright start/rain later SSE3
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0830-0930) produced 100 Common Scoter, 20 Red-breasted Merganser, 10 Red-throated Diver, 6 Razorbill and 5 Kittiwake. Four Shag were logged later.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup remain amongst 20 Goldeneye and a redhead Goosander and 12 Shoveler were also logged. The Brent Goose flock held 77 pale-bellied and 32 dark-bellied birds. Waders included 2 Greenshank and a Jack Snipe.
Miscellaneous
A Hooded Crow was logged and birds of prey included single Buzzard and Peregrine.
Ringing
The Brent Goose flock held colour-ringed birds from Northern Ireland, Iceland and Canada.

Shag begin to congregate

17th December 2018 – bright start/calm, overcast SSE2/3 later
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0815-0915) produced a congregation of 24 Shag along with 8 Red-throated Diver and 2 Common Scoter. A Black Guillemot was off the east shore at low tide.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup were amongst 12 Goldeneye and 10 Shoveler were logged. The Brent Goose flock held 200 pale-bellied birds. Waders included 3000 Knot and 3 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Birds of prey included single Barn Owl and Merlin. The Twite flock held 16 birds.
Ringing
Recently seen colour ringed Barnacle Geese were from Caerlaverock and Kincraig, Scotland.

Goosander and Scaup

16th December 2018 – bright start then cloudy with showers SW2
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0815-0915) produced 24 Common Scoter, 3 Razorbill and a Red-throated Diver
Grounded Migrants
A Mistle Thrush was indicative of some late movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup were amongst 14 Goldeneye and a female Goosander was seen. Waders included 6 Greenshank.

Scaup still here

12th December 2018 – overcast ESE5/6
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup remain amongst 17 Goldeneye and the Brent Goose flock held 121 pale-bellied and 68 dark-bellied birds. Waders included the wintering group of 8 Greenshank and 58 Bar-tailed Godwit.

Svalbard Barnacle Geese

10th December 2018 – sun and showers/calm
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0815-0915) produced 35 Common Scoter, 9 Red-breasted Merganser, 4 Red-throated Diver and a Goldeneye. Four Shag were located at high tide.
Grounded Migrants
A Brambling was newly arrived.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 19 Barnacle Geese remained and the 3 Scaup were amongst 16 Goldeneye. Waders included 7 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Birds of prey included 2 Little Owl and single Barn Owl, Peregrine and Merlin. The Twite flock held 45 birds.
Ringing
The Barnacle Goose flock recently held 3 birds previously ringed at Ny-Alesund, SVALBARD.

Another Little Gull

9th December 2018 – bright and sunny NW3/4/5
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0815-0915) produced an adult Little Gull along with 58 Common Scoter, 9 Red-throated Diver, 6 Red-breasted Merganser, 4 Kittiwake and 3 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 4 Redwing.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 19 Barnacle Geese were grounded, the 3 Scaup and female Goosander remain. Waders included 4500 Oystercatcher, 2 Greenshank and 2 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Birds of prey included 2 Little Owl, 2 Peregrine, 2 Sparrowhawk and single Merlin. Groups of 18 Twite and 20 Linnet were logged.
Butterflies and Moths
The Winter Moth was likely to be the final species to be added to the year list.

Scaup continue in residence

8th December 2018 – early showers/rain later W6/5/4
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0815-0915) produced just 4 Common Scoter.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 90 pale-bellied Brent Geese, 3 Scaup and a female Goosander. Waders included 10 Black-tailed Godwit, 9 Greenshank and 3 Purple Sandpiper
Miscellaneous
At least 6 Rock Pipit and 65 Skylark were flushed from the saltmarsh.

Great Northern Diver and Scaup

7th December 2018 – sunny spells W4/5/6 gusting to 50mph
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0800-0900) produced 12 Kittiwake, 4 Common Scoter and a Red-throated Diver. A Great Northern Diver was off the sheltered eastern shore over the tide.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a single Fieldfare.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup continue in residence while the Brent Goose flock only held 45 pale and a single dark-bellied Brent Goose. Waders included 4500 Oystercatcher, 700 Knot, 28 Black-tailed Godwit and 8 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Two Little Owl were logged while a Merlin and 21 Twite were the best of the rest.

Great Northern Diver and Little Gulls

3rd December 2018 – overcast then sunny spells NW1/2
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) were led by 4 adult Little Gulls along with 41 Common Scoter, 14 Red-throated Diver, 10 Razorbill and a Kittiwake. Later at low tide the eastern shore revealed a Great Northern Diver amongst 8 Red-throated Diver and a single Black Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a single Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 100 Pink-footed Geese headed south and 12 Jackdaw were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup remain amongst 12 Goldeneye and waders included 6 Greenshank and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Birds of prey included single Buzzard and Peregrine and a Water Rail was the best of the rest.

Black Brant shows again

1st December 2018 – rain/mist/murk SE3/2
Rarities
The adult Black Brant was again at Snab Sands early morning associating with 240 pale and 90 dark-bellied Brent Geese before disappearing over the mudflats into the gloom.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup remain and a Goosander was newly arrived. Waders included 4 Greenshank and 4 Black-tailed Godwit.

Black Guillemot & Great Skua

30th November 2018 – sun and showers S5/6
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced a Great Skua amongst 34 Kittiwake, 20 Common Scoter, 5 Red-throated Diver and 5 Razorbill. In addition, a Black Guillemot fed along the sheltered eastern shore at low tide.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup continue to linger. Waders included 5 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine was the best of the rest.
Ringing
The month saw 121 birds of 14 species handled. Individual species totals were as follows (retraps in brackets): Goldfinch 37, (3), Chaffinch 23, (1), Blackbird 15, House Sparrow 14, (3), Tree Sparrow 5, Greenfinch 4, Dunnock 3, (2), Goldcrest 3, Robin 2, Blackcap 2, Long-tailed Tit 1, Starling 1, Lesser Redpoll 1 and Song Thrush (1). (1818/34, 213/17, 12/6)

Slavonian Grebe & Black Guillemot

26th November 2018 – sunny spells NE3/2/1
Offshore
Observations over the mouth of Morecambe Bay on the flooding tide (0800-1000) were led by single Slavonian Grebe and Black Guillemot. Also seen were 5020 Eider, 15 Common Scoter, 12 Shag, 7 Red-breasted Merganser and 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 5 Song Thrush and a Redwing
Diurnal Migration
A further 60 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 118 pale-bellied birds, 9 Shoveler were seen and the 3 Scaup continue to linger. Waders included 3 Black-tailed Godwit and 2 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Birds of prey included 2 Merlin and 2 Peregrine. A group of 20 Twite were the best of the rest.

Scaup remain in residence

25th November 2018 – sunny spells ENE4
Offshore
A Shag was the only bird of note.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes were limited to 3 Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 195 Pink-footed Geese flew through and 2 Brambling were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 172 pale-bellied and a single dark-bellied birds and the 3 Scaup remain in residence amongst 15 Goldeneye. Waders included 6 Greenshank and 6 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Both Barn Owl and Little Owl were logged and 2 Peregrine were seen. The Twite flock held 20 birds.

Black Guillemot

24th November 2018 – overcast ENE3
Offshore
Observations over the sea on the rising tide (0800-0900) were led by 2 Black Guillemot amongst 370 Razorbill. Also seen were 34 Common Scoter, 8 Red-throated Diver and 3 Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes were limited to single Redwing and Fieldfare. Single Chiffchaff and Blackcap were also logged.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 90 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 185 pale-bellied birds and the 3 Scaup remain in residence.
Miscellaneous
A day flying Barn Owl was logged and Merlin and Peregrine were seen. The Twite flock has increased to 70 birds.

Black Brant again

23rd November 2018 – overcast SE2/3
Rarities
The Black Brant put in another appearance at Scar End Point amongst 215 pale-bellied and 6 dark-bellied Brent Geese.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a single Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
A single Rock Pipit was the only bird logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup remain and waders included 6 Black-tailed Godwit, 5 Greenshank and a Woodcock.
Miscellaneous
Birds of prey included Buzzard and Peregrine.

Short-eared Owl

22nd November 2018 – overcast/light rain at times SE4
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup remain.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl was seen.

Velvet Scoter

20th November 2018 – sunny spells NE2/3/4/5
Offshore
Another early evening check of the sea revealed 10 Razorbill, 6 Red-throated Diver, 6 Common Scoter and a Velvet Scoter.

Water Pipit

19th November 2018 – overcast/showers ENE4
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed 104 Common Scoter,103 Razorbill, 13 Red-throated Diver, 4 Guillemot, 3 Kittiwake and 2 Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup remain.
Miscellaneous
The first Water Pipit of the autumn/winter was logged. A Merlin was the best of the rest.

Red-crested Pochard!

18th November 2018 – bright and sunny ENE3/4
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed 2 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved: 12 Redwing and 7 Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Again some late movement was evident with 425 Starling, 410 Pink-footed Goose, 30 Meadow Pipit, 14 Skylark, 12 Chaffinch, 7 Greenfinch, 5 Whooper Swan, 3 Siskin and 3 Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
A female Red-crested Pochard was newly arrived and the 3 Scaup remain amongst 13 Goldeneye. Waders included 4 Greenshank and 4 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Birds of prey were again prominent with a Buzzard, 4 Sparrowhawk and single Barn Owl, Merlin and Kestrel logged.

Hen Harrier and Scaup

17th November 2018 – sunny spells E3/4
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed just 6 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved: 61 Redwing, 6 Fieldfare and 4 Song Thrush. Also seen were 2 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Surprisingly prominent with 1030 Pink-footed Goose, 620 Starling, 100 Meadow Pipit, 33 Linnet, 12 Skylark, 4 Stock Dove, 3 Siskin, 3 Reed Bunting, 2 Rock Pipit and 2 Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup remain and waders included 4 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Birds of prey were also prominent with a ringtail Hen Harrier, 2 Peregrine, 2 Merlin, 2 Sparrowhawk and a Kestrel logged. A group of 30 Twite were also logged.
Ringing
Several colour-ringed Cormorant were seen.

Black Brant reappears

16th November 2018 – overcast/misty/murky SE3
Rarities
The Black Brant was again amongst 50 pale-bellied and 8 dark-bellied Brent Geese at Snab Sands – feeding on the rising tide.
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed just 4 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved: 15 Redwing, 6 Song Thrush and 3 Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds remain on the move with 14 Chaffinch, 8 Meadow Pipit and 5 Woodpigeon logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 58 Barnacle Geese were newly arrived, the 3 Scaup remain and waders included 4 Greenshank and 4 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl was hunting at dawn and the 38 Twite remain.
Ringing
The Barnacle Goose flock held 3 colour-ringed birds – hopefully details will follow. The Brent Goose flock held 2 colour-ringed birds ringed in the Canadian Arctic.

End of season feel continues

12th November 2018 – sun and showers SSE4
Offshore
The sea provided 19 Common Scoter, 16 Razorbill and 11 Shag.
Diurnal Migration
Two Whooper Swan flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 144 pale-bellied Brent Goose, 5 Shoveler and 3 Scaup.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail was the best of the rest.

Very limited autumn fare

11th November 2018 – overcast/rain SSE4
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed 21 Razorbill, 19 Common Scoter, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 4 Redwing and 4 Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
Two Brambling were amongst a few Chaffinch and 19 Pink-footed Geese were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 75 pale-bellied and a single dark-bellied bird. The 3 Scaup remain and waders included 4 Greenshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwit and a Woodcock.

Black Brant returns

10th November 2018 – early rain S1 then SSE3
Rarities
The returning Black Brant was amongst 119 pale-bellied and 52 dark-bellied Brent Geese feeding at Snab Sands on the rising tide.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0815-0915) produced 35 Kittiwake, 29 Common Scoter, 5 Razorbill, 2 Gannet and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Diurnal Migration
Corvids remain on the move early morning with 110 Jackdaw, 12 Carrion Crow and a Hooded Crow logged. Three Whooper Swan headed south
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Scaup remain and waders included 8 Greenshank, 6 Black-tailed Godwit and single Woodcock and Jack Snipe.
Miscellaneous
Three Merlin and a Barn Owl were the best of the rest.

Purple Sandpiper

9th November 2018 – overcast SE5/6
Offshore
Early morning observations (0815-0915) produced just 14 Razorbill, 12 Common Scoter and a Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 10 Fieldfare.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 5 Shoveler and 3 Scaup while 7 Greenshank, 4 Black-tailed Godwit and a Purple Sandpiper were the pick of the waders logged.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock held 38 birds and single Merlin and Barn Owl were the best of the rest.
Mammals
A Otter continued the recent run of annual sightings.

Lightweight migration

5th October 2018 – overcast E2/3
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 7 Fieldfare and a Redwing. Also seen were single Blackcap and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A hint of passage produced 60 Pink-footed Goose, 40 Chaffinch, 12 Meadow Pipit, 12 Skylark, 3 Tree Sparrow, 2 Brambling and a Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Woodcock was recorded.
Miscellaneous
A total of 15 Mute Swan contained five colour-ringed birds.

Quiet day

4th November 2018 – overcast/drizzle SSE3
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 110 Common Scoter, 14 Razorbill, 11 Kittiwake, 5 Red-breasted Merganser and a Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 6 Redwing and a Fieldfare. A Goldcrest was the only other evidence of grounded birds.
Diurnal Migration
Limited to 30 Jackdaw and 2 Rock Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 100 pale-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
It has been a good autumn for Treecreeper with another bird logged. Peregrine and Merlin were the best of the rest.

Scaup remains

3rd November 2018 – early drizzle then rain SSE4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0815-0915) produced 75 Common Scoter and 4 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 20 Redwing.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains.
Miscellaneous
The flock of 30 Twite remain.

Ring Ouzel and a late Swallow

2nd November 2018 – early showers then sunny spells NW1 then W2
Grounded Migrants
Single Ring Ouzel and Redwing were amongst 35 Blackbird. Additional grounded birds were limited to 2 Long-tailed Tit.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds remain on the move with 440 Starling, 38 Meadow Pipit, 24 Brambling, 12 Chaffinch, 6 Tree Sparrow, 5 Reed Bunting, 3 Skylark, 3 Greenfinch a Siskin and a late Swallow recorded.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains and waders included 8 Greenshank, 7 Black-tailed Godwit and a Woodcock.
Miscellaneous
A Little Owl was the best of the rest.
Butterflies
Single Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell were logged in the afternoon sunshine.

Tail end passage

1st November 2018 – sunny spells NW1/2/3
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 22 Redwing and 15 Blackbird. Additional sightings included 9 Long-tailed Tit and 4 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
The tail end of passage produced 110 Jackdaw, 19 Skylark, 11 Chaffinch, 6 Meadow Pipit, 6 Tree Sparrow, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Whooper Swan and 2 Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The female Scaup remains and waders included 9 Greenshank and 7 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock remained steady at 30 birds and a Water Rail was the best of the rest.

Ringing results

31st October 2018 – overcast/light rain SE3/4
Offshore
A check of the sea (0800-0900) revealed 162 Razorbill, 39 Common Scoter, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Guillemot and a Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes were limited to a few Blackbird.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Greenshank and 5 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock remained steady at 30 birds and a Merlin was the best of the rest.
Ringing
The best month of the year with finches and sparrows, as usual at this time of the year, dominating the totals which involved 920 birds of 22 species. Individual species totals were as follows (recaptures in brackets): Tree Sparrow 248, (1), Goldfinch 224, (24), Chaffinch 104, Blackbird 66, (1), House Sparrow 57, (8), Dunnock 25, (2), Goldcrest 23, Greenfinch 21, (1), Coal Tit 21, Blue Tit 16, Song Thrush 15, (1), Wren 14, Lesser Redpoll 11, Robin 6, (2), Redwing 6, Great Tit 6, Chiffchaff 5, Long-tailed Tit 4, Blackcap 4, Reed Bunting 2, Sparrowhawk 1 and Treecreeper 1.
Ringing Totals
1707/34, 203/17, 9/5, 3/2.

American Wigeon remains

30th October 2018 – early rain then sunny spells N1
Rarities
The drake American Wigeon was amongst 600 Wigeon on the pools at South Walney throughout the morning before flighting out onto the estuary on the flooding tide early afternoon.
Offshore
A group of 10 Shag were offshore early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 23 Blackbird, 5 Song Thrush and 3 Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
A Snow Bunting was the highlight of a much reduced passage which included 16 Tree Sparrow, 10 Chaffinch, 2 Siskin, 2 Brambling and a Rock Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
The male and female Scaup remain and additional wildfowl included 187 pale-bellied Brent Goose, 39 Pintail and 4 Shoveler. Waders included 7 Greenshank and 2 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The Twite flock has increased to 30 birds and 2 Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Butterflies
A few Red Admiral remain on the wing.

American Wigeon & Bearded Tit

29th October 2018 – bright and sunny ENE3
Rarities
A drake American Wigeon was amongst 300 Wigeon at Snab Point over the high tide. The male Bearded Tit was again in a small reed bed at South Walney early morning before appearing to fly off high to the north.
Offshore
A group of 7 Shag were offshore early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 100 Blackbird, 21 Redwing, 7 Song Thrush, 4 Fieldfare and 2 Mistle Thrush. Additional sightings were limited to a single Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Visible migration included 900 Jackdaw, 265 Pink-footed Goose, 220 Starling, 14 Chaffinch, 14 Tree Sparrow, 10 Brambling, 5 Siskin, 4 Whooper Swan, 4 Greenfinch and single Lesser Redpoll and Rock Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included a male and female Scaup, 41 pale-bellied Brent Goose, 23 Pintail and 4 Shoveler. Waders included 6 Black-tailed Godwit and 6 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Single Barn Owl, Merlin and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Images
American Wigeon.

Bearded Tit, Woodcock & Jack Snipe

28th October 2018 – bright and sunny N1 the NNE3/4
Rarities
A male Bearded Tit was again in the small reed bed in the central marsh at South Walney early morning before appearing to fly off high to the east.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 125 Blackbird, 44 Redwing, 5 Song Thrush, 3 Fieldfare and 2 Mistle Thrush. Additional sightings were limited to a single Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Visible migration included 2150 Jackdaw, 350 Starling, 115 Pink-footed Goose, 100 Chaffinch, 20 Tree Sparrow, 14 Long-tailed Tit, 12 Whooper Swan, 9 Brambling and 3 Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included a pair of Scaup amongst 13 Goldeneye and waders included 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Woodcock and a Jack Snipe.
Miscellaneous
Four Twite were the best of the rest.
Butterflies
Several Red Admiral remain on the wing.

Short-eared Owl

27th October 2018 – bright and sunny N3/4
Offshore
The sea provided a solitary Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 120 Redwing, 11 Blackbird, 7 Fieldfare, 5 Song Thrush and a Mistle Thrush. Additional sightings were limited to 3 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Passage included 900 Jackdaw, 175 Pink-footed Goose, 54 Tree Sparrow, 32 Chaffinch, 31 Brambling, 20 Coal Tit, 8 Blue Tit, 6 Siskin, 4 Long-tailed Tit, 2 Whooper Swan and a Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 157 pale-bellied birds and 18 Pintail and 2 Greenshank were also logged.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow put in another appearance and birds of prey involved 4 Sparrowhawk, 3 Kestrel, 2 Merlin and single Buzzard, Barn Owl and Short-eared Owl.

Long-tailed Duck

26th October 2018 – sunny/early showers NNW4
Offshore
Early morning observations on the rising tide (0800-0900) were led by a female/first-winter Long-tailed Duck. Also seen were 34 Common Scoter, 24 Razorbill, 10 Gannet, 5 Kittiwake, 3 Whooper Swan, 2 Guillemot, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Goldeneye.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to the long-staying Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move including 800 Jackdaw and 40 Pink-footed Goose.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 89 pale-bellied birds and 9 Whooper Swan were grounded. Waders included 600 Golden Plover.
Miscellaneous
A total of 14 Twite were logged and a Merlin was the best of the rest.

Goosanders

25th October 2018 – overcast/drizzle at times WNW3/4
Offshore
Early morning observations on the rising tide (0800-0900) were led by two Goosanders. Also seen were 76 Razorbill, 56 Common Scoter, 3 Gannet, 3 Kittiwake and 3 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds involved 3 Goldcrest and the long-staying Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move including 21 Whooper Swan, 5 Siskin, 3 Reed Bunting and a Mistle Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 40 pale-bellied birds and waders included 3000 Oystercatcher and 3 Black-tailed Godwit
Miscellaneous
A small group of 11 Twite and single Merlin and Peregrine were the best of the rest.

Velvet Scoter

24th October 2018 – overcast WNW3/4
Offshore
Early morning observations on the rising tide (0800-0900) were led by a female Velvet Scoter. Also seen were 51 Common Scoter, 23 Razorbill, 8 Kittiwake and 4 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds involved 2 Lesser Redpoll and single Chiffchaff and Tree Sparrow.
Wildfowl and Waders
A drake Scaup was logged and waders included 400 Sanderling.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin and 4 Twite were the best of the rest.

Great Northern Diver reappears

23rd October 2018 – overcast NW5
Offshore
Early morning observations on the rising tide (0800-0900) were led by a Great Northern Diver. Also seen were 150 Razorbill, 85 Common Scoter, 5 Guillemot, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Gannet, 2 Red-throated Diver and 2 Great Crested Grebe.
Grounded Migrants
A Chiffchaff was the only grounded bird logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 114 pale-bellied birds and additional wildfowl included 21 Pintail and 2 Goldeneye – the latter the first of the autumn. Waders included 8 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin were the best of the rest.

Diurnal migration dominates

22nd October 2018 – sunny spells/calm then WNW3/4
Offshore
A group of 10 Shag were offshore early morning.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 3 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush and 2 Mistle Thrush. Additional sightings were limited to single Chiffchaff and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Calm conditions at dawn saw a few birds on the move including 800 Jackdaw, 60 Tree Sparrow, 35 Chaffinch, 20 Reed Bunting, 13 Twite, 10 Skylark, 10 Greenfinch, 6 Whooper Swan, 5 Brambling, 2 Siskin and 2 Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Three Shoveler were seen and waders included 2 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Single Water Rail, Merlin and Peregrine were the best of the rest.
Moths
A White-speck was new for the year.

Quiet day

21st October 2018 – overcast/murk/drizzle SW4
Offshore
Observations on the rising tide (0830-0930) produced 105 Razorbill, 82 Common Scoter, 12 Kittiwake, 6 Red-throated Diver, 6 Gannet and 5 Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a single Chiffchaff.
Wildfowl and Waders
Just 3 pale-bellied Brent Geese were recorded.
Miscellaneous
Two Raven were the best of the rest.
Moths
Immigrants attracted to the moth trap involved a Dark Sword-grass.

Great Northern Diver

20th October 2018 – overcast/murk/drizzle SSE2
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0800-0900) were led by a Great Northern Diver amongst 630 Razorbill, 85 Common Scoter, 4 Red-throated Diver, 3 Guillemot and 2 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 8 Song Thrush, 7 Redwing and a Mistle Thrush. Also seen were 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Blackcap and a Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Five Whooper Swan and 2 Lesser Redpoll were the highlights of a quiet morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Merlin and Water Rail were the best of the rest.
Moths
A Pearly Underwing was new for the year.

Arctic Skua

19th October 2018 – sunny spells S3/4
Offshore
A check of the sea (0745-0845) revealed 44 Common Scoter, 28 Razorbill, 3 Shag, 3 Guillemot, 2 Red-throated Diver and an Arctic Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved single Redwing, Fieldfare and Song Thrush, additional sightings were limited to 2 Coal Tit, 2 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Noticeably quieter than of late with just 54 Jackdaw, 50 Meadow Pipit, 22 Skylark, 12 Tree Sparrow, 5 Whooper Swan, 3 Swallow, 2 Siskin, 2 Lesser Redpoll and single Grey Wagtail and Rock Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4 Greenshank and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin and a Peregrine were the best of the rest while at least 80 Little Egret remain along the eastern shore.

First Twite of the autumn

18th October 2018 – bright and sunny/early light frost NE1
Rarities
The male Bearded Tit was again in the small reedbed by the central marsh hide at South Walney.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 80 Redwing, 10 Song Thrush and 2 Fieldfare, additional sightings were limited to 2 Coal Tit, 2 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Visible migration was dominated by 3000 Jackdaw in four flocks with numerous other sightings through the morning as the flocks fragmented. However, highlights involved a Hooded Crow and a female/juvenile Marsh Harrier which headed south at 1500hrs. Additional sightings included 695 Pink-footed Goose, 180 Meadow Pipit, 78 Tree Sparrow, 45 Skylark, 27 Linnet, 26 Carrion Crow, 20 Reed Bunting, 19 Whooper Swan, 15 Brambling, 14 Swallow, 12 Twite, 7 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Siskin and single Rook, Coal Tit, Rock Pipit and Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
A herd of 13 Whooper Swan were grounded and waders included 4 Greenshank and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Water Rail and Buzzard were the best of the rest. Four Jay and 2 Raven brought the corvid species day total for the island to seven.
Butterflies and Moths
A few Red Admiral are still on the wing in the afternoon sunshine and moths attracted overnight involved Red-line Quaker, Angle Shades and Large Wainscot.

Bearded Tit remains

17th October 2018 – early showers then sunny spells NW2/3
Rarities
The male Bearded Tit is still in the small reedbed by the central marsh hide at South Walney.
Offshore
An early morning check of the sea produced 38 Razorbill, 6 Common Scoter and 3 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 3 Fieldfare and a Mistle Thrush, additional sightings were limited to 4 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Movement included 1430 Jackdaw, 70 Tree Sparrow, 30 Meadow Pipit, 23 Carrion Crow, 20 Chaffinch, 5 Siskin, 3 Brambling and 3 Rock Pipit .
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 11 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Two Water Rail, 2 Merlin and a Peregrine were the best of the rest.
Butterflies and Moths
A few Red Admiral are still on the wing in the afternoon sunshine and moths attracted overnight included Red-green Carpet.

Migration stalls

16th October 2018 – overcast/rain at times SSE4
Offshore
A dawn check of the sea revealed a congregation of 16 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Grounded birds were limited to 3 Tree Sparrow, 2 Redwing and single Fieldfare and Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Only single Swallow and Grey Wagtail were logged.

Bearded Tit

15th October 2018 – bright and sunny NE1
Rarities
A male Bearded Tit was in the small reedbed by the central marsh hide at South Walney.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 38 Redwing, 5 Song Thrush and 4 Blackbird additional sightings included 16 Goldcrest, 8 Chiffchaff, 6 Blackcap, 4 Coal Tit and 2 Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Migration was again prominent with 800 Pink-footed Goose, 300 Jackdaw, 240 Starling, 130 Tree Sparrow, 30 Meadow Pipit, 20 Skylark, 20 Chaffinch, 3 Siskin, 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
The drake Scaup remains and waders included 15 Greenshank and 5 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Two Water Rail and single Merlin and Barn Owl were the best of the rest.

Migration resumes

14th October 2018 – overcast/sunny later/calm
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 4 Redwing, additional sightings included 20 Goldcrest, 2 Blackcap and 3 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move with the first 2 Brambling of the autumn amongst 1175 Starling, 210 Meadow Pipit, 105 Swallow, 60 Skylark, 30 Pied Wagtail, 35v Linnet, 17 Lesser Redpoll, 11 Reed Bunting and single Siskin, Tree Sparrow and Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
The drake Scaup remains and waders included 4 Greenshank and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was the best of the rest.
Butterflies and Moths
Small Copper, Red Admiral and Small Tortoiseshell were all on the wing in the afternoon sunshine and moths attracted overnight included Satellite and Red-line Quaker.

Even Wetter!

13th October 2018 – rain, heavy at times SE2/3/4
Grounded Migrants
Four Redwing were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Despite the torrential rain 4 Whooper Swan flew through.

Wet and windy

12th October 2018 – overcast/rain at times SE4/5/6 gusting to 52mph
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0800-0900) produced 67 Common Scoter, 18 Gannet, 5 Shoveler, 4 Red-throated Diver and 3 Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 2 Redwing and single Blackcap, Goldcrest and Chiffchaff.
Wildfowl and Waders
The drake Scaup remains and the Brent Goose flock held 106 pale-bellied birds. Waders included 15 Greenshank and 2 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin and Peregrine were the best of the rest.

Yellowhammer, Fieldfare and Redwing

11th October 2018 – murky start then sunny spells/rain later SSE4/5
Offshore
A check of the sea in poor visibility revealed just 10 Common Scoter and 7 Razorbill.
Grounded Migrants
Still sparse with just 2 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and a Coal Tit.
Diurnal Migration
Early morning saw the first winter thrushes involving 18 Redwing and a Fieldfare, however, a Yellowhammer was the highlight. Also seen were 4 Siskin, 2 Pink-footed Goose and 2 Tree Sparrow.
Wildfowl and Waders
90 pale-bellied Brent Geese were amongst 600 Wigeon, the drake Scaup remains and waders included 5 Black-tailed Godwit.

More visible migration

10th October 2018 – bright and sunny SSE4
Offshore
A quick glance over the sea revealed a single Shag.
Grounded Migrants
A Treecreeper was amongst 4 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
The skies again provided the bulk of the days records with 1760 Pink-footed Goose, 280 Meadow Pipit, 190 Linnet, 80 Skylark, 30 Pied Wagtail, 16 Tree Sparrow, 15 Reed Bunting, 5 Rock Pipit, 3 Swallow and 2 Siskin.
Wildfowl and Waders
The drake Scaup remains in residence and waders included 8000 Oystercatcher, 6 Greenshank and 5 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Buzzard hunted over the island.
Butterflies and Moths
A few Red Admiral remain on the wing.

Great Skua

9th October 2018 – overcast SSW4/5
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0800-0900) produced 34 Common Scoter, 21 Red-breasted Merganser, 14 Gannet, 5 Razorbill and a Great Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Again a Chiffchaff was the only bird logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Scaup continues to linger and waders included 12 Greenshank and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.

Brent Geese continue to build

8th October 2018 – overcast SW4/5
Offshore
An early morning check of the sea (0745-0845) revealed 100 Razorbill, 60 Common Scoter, 27 Gannet, 9 Kittiwake and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Only a single Chiffchaff was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 106 pale-bellied and 5 dark-bellied birds, the Scaup remains and waders include 14 Greenshank and 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was the best of the rest.

Razorbills on the move

7th October 2018 – overcast ESE1 then SW4/5
Offshore
A check of the sea on the falling tide (1130-1230) revealed that a large movement of Razorbill was underway with 1452 birds logged. Also seen were 27 Common Scoter, 23 Kittiwake, 18 Gannet, 10 Guillemot and 8 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Just 7 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Some movement was evident in the first hour after dawn with 60 Meadow Pipit, 30 Pied Wagtail, 26 Tree Sparrow, 25 Skylark, 24 Pink-footed Goose, 21 Chaffinch, 10 Linnet and 4 Grey Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The drake Scaup was again present and waders included 3 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Hooded Crow was amongst 100 Jackdaw, 8 Rook and 4 Carrion Crow.
Moths
A Dark Sword-grass was attracted overnight.

Diurnal movement continues to dominate

6th October 2018 – overcast/sunny later N1 the NW2/3
Offshore
Casual observations saw 3 Shag and a Red-throated Diver logged.
Grounded Migrants
Still thin on the ground with 10 Goldcrest, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Wheatear and a Blackcap recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Totals through the morning involved 1450 Pink-footed Goose, 575 Skylark, 354 Meadow Pipit, 345 Pied Wagtail, 137 Swallow, 75 Linnet, 12 Jackdaw, 10 Carrion Crow, 7 Lesser Redpoll, 6 Reed Bunting, 4 Grey Wagtail and single Siskin and Great Spotted Woodpecker.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Black-tailed Godwit and 5 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
At least 3 Merlin were seen.
Moths
Pink-barred Sallow and Sallow were both new for the year.

Buzzard headlines

5th October 2018 – early rain clearing N1
Grounded Migrants
Little evidence of many newly grounded birds with just 3 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
A Buzzard circled the centre of the island and 24 Pink-footed Geese and 12 Whooper Swan were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 7 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The number of Little Egret on the island continues to increase with a pre-roost gathering of 80 birds logged.

Hooded Crow

4th October 2018 – overcast/rain at times WSW3/4
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0930-1130) produced 75 Razorbill, 41 Gannet, 40 Common Scoter, 37 Kittiwake and 4 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Only a solitary Goldcrest was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 56 pale-bellied birds. Waders included 15 Greenshank and 2 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Two Raven and a Hooded Crow were the best of the rest.
Moths
The Brick was new for the year.

Latish Manx Shearwater

3rd October 2018 – overcast WNW3/4
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) produced 60 Common Scoter, 42 Razorbill, 9 Kittiwake, 7 Red-throated Diver and single Manx Shearwater and Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 6 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
Just 11 Swallow and single Grey Wagtail and Tree Sparrow were recorded .
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 30 Golden Plover and 2 Greenshank.
Moths
A Large Wainscot was new for the year.

Leach’s Petrel

2nd October 2018 – sunny spells WNW4/5
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0800-1000) were led by a Leach’s Petrel amongst 80 Common Scoter, 13 Red-throated Diver, 8 Gannet, 7 Razorbill and a Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallow and Meadow Pipit battled through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 15 Greenshank.
Butterflies
Red Admiral and Comma were seen.

Visible migration again dominates

1st October 2018 – bright start/cloudy later N1
Grounded Migrants
Clear skies at dawn and consequently grounded birds were limited to a single Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Visible migration continues to be the most productive element with 600 Meadow Pipit, 160 Skylark, 68 Pied Wagtail, 50 Chaffinch, 45 Tree Sparrow, 10 Greenfinch, 3 Siskin, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Mistle Thrush logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The drake Scaup is still in residence and waders included 14 Greenshank and 2 Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin and 3 Raven were the best of the rest.

Scaup remains

30th September 2018 – sun and showers WNW4/5
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0800-0900) produced 104 Common Scoter, 17 Red-throated Diver, 16 Razorbill, 6 Gannet and 2 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to several Goldcrest and a Wheatear.
Diurnal Migration
Just 10 Meadow Pipit, 5 Pied Wagtail and 2 Swallow were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The drake Scaup remains and the Brent Goose flock held 41 light-bellied birds.
Moths
Acleris emargana was new for the year.
Ringing
September proved to be another poor month until totals were somewhat improved by several decent days in the last week which increased the number of birds handled to 199 of 17 species. Individual species totals were as follows (retraps in brackets) Chaffinch 74, Robin 17 (2), Meadow Pipit 16, Goldfinch 15 (5), Tree Sparrow 14, Blue Tit 11 (2), Great Tit 8, Dunnock 8, Goldcrest 8, Wren 7, Chiffchaff 4, House Sparrow 3, Willow Warbler 1, Sparrowhawk 1, Song Thrush 1, Blackcap 1 and Reed Bunting 1. 827/32, 165/15, 10/6.