Cetti's Warbler and Otter

30th December 2020 – frosty start/sunny spells/showers V1
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
The Cetti's Warbler is still in residence, calling occasionally early morning amongst the reeds and scrub in the corner of Creephaw Marsh.
Grounded Migrants
A Woodcock provided a further hint of cold weather movement.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 22 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 380 pale-bellied birds and waders included 6 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine was the best of the rest.
Mammals
An Otter was seen mid-morning.

Cetti's Warbler still in residence

28th December 2020 – cold start/sunny spells NNE2
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
The Cetti's Warbler is still in residence, calling and showing occasionally amongst the reeds and scrub in the corner of Creephaw Marsh.
Grounded Migrants
A Mistle Thrush provided a hint of cold weather movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
The three redhead Goosander put in another appearance and waders included 3 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A Peregrine and 25 Twite were the best of the rest.

Storm Bella closes in

26th December 2020 – overcast/rain later SW5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Early morning observations as Storm Bella approached (0900-1000) produced 77 Common Scoter, 17 Red-throated Diver, 12 Razorbill, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Guillemot and 2 Red-breasted Merganser.

Great Northern Diver still

24th December 2020 – bright and frosty N2
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0830-0930) produced a Great Northern Diver along with 33 Razorbill, 14 Red-throated Diver, 11 Common Scoter and 5 Red-breasted Merganser.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 11 Pink-footed Geese flew through .
Miscellaneous
Two Raven were the best of the rest.

Great Northern Diver and Snow Bunting

22nd December 2020 – sunny spells/calm
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea produced a Great Northern Diver.
Diurnal Migration
A single Snow Bunting flew through late morning.
Wildfowl and Waders
Six Shoveler and 3 Greenshank were logged.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin, 2 Water Rail and single Barn Owl and Peregrine were the best of the rest.

Late Gannets

19th December 2020 – sunshine and showers SSE4/5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0900-1000) produced 13 Common Scoter, 8 Razorbill, 7 Kittiwake, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 4 Red-throated Diver, and 3 Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2000 Knot.
Miscellaneous
Three colour-ringed birds were identified amongst the Knot flock.

Great Northern Diver

18th December 2020 – overcast/rain at times SSE3/4
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea produced a Great Northern Diver along with 2 Common Scoter and a Red-breasted Merganser.
Wildfowl and Waders
Three Shoveler were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was the best of the rest.

Another Little Gull double

17th December 2020 – sun and showers SSW2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
Two Water Pipits were again in the flooded horse paddocks at Biggar.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0815-0915) were again highlighted by two Little Gulls (adult + first-winter) amongst 78 Common Scoter, 8 Red-throated Diver, 6 Kittiwake, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and a Gannet.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2000 Knot.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin and 2 Raven were the best of the rest.
Mammals
A fox forgot to check his tide tables.

Little Gull double

15th December 2020 – sun and showers SSE3/4
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
Two Water Pipits were again in the flooded horse paddocks at Biggar.
Offshore
Early morning observations over the sea (0815-0915) were highlighted by two first-winter Little Gulls amongst 40 Common Scoter, 12 Kittiwake, 6 Razorbill, 3 Red-breasted Merganser and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 398 pale-bellied birds while additional sightings included 4 Purple Sandpiper and 3 Goosander.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin and 5 Twite were the best of the rest.

Water Pipits reappear on cue

14th December 2020 – showers S3/4
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
The latest round of high tides again pushed 2 Water Pipit and 25 Rock Pipit into the flooded horse paddocks in the vicinity of Biggar.
Offshore
The sea provided a minimum of 11 Shag with a further 2 birds to be found sheltering on the island's pools.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 6000 Knot and 9 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A flock of 30 Twite, 3 Peregrine and a Merlin were the best of the rest.
Ringing
The colour-ringed Knot from two days ago had been ringed at Straumfjördur, Iceland on 22nd May 2017.

Goosander and Twite

12th December 2020 – early rain clearing WNW4/5
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea as the rain cleared (1000-1100) produced 10 Common Scoter, 8 Red-throated Diver, 7 Kittiwake, 4 Razorbill and a Guillemot.
Wildfowl and Waders
Three redhead Goosander were logged.
Miscellaneous
A group of 30 Twite and 2 Merlin were the best of the rest.
Ringing
A colour-ringed Knot amongst 500 birds appears to be of Icelandic origin.

Winter fare

7th December 2020 – sunny spells NE1
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) produced 5750 Eider, 32 Shag, 14 Razorbill, 11 Red-throated Diver and 6 Common Scoter.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 110 Pink-footed Geese flew over.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 11 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
A total of 11 Stonechat 5 Raven and 2 Merlin were the best of the rest.

A quiet day

5th December 2020 – early rain clearing NE3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0830-0930) revealed 28 Common Scoter, 21 Razorbill, 15 Red-throated Diver, 4 Pintail and a Shoveler.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 16 Pink-footed Geese were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5000 Knot.
Miscellaneous
Two Water Rail and single Merlin and Peregrine were the best of the rest.

Long-tailed Duck

2nd December 2020 – early rain clearing WNW3/4
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea as soon as the rain cleared (0900-1000) produced 115 Razorbill, 101 Common Scoter, 12 Red-throated Diver, 8 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Guillemot and a Kittiwake. In addition a Long-tailed Duck was on the sheltered eastern shore as the tide flooded.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 410 pale-bellied and 77 dark-bellied Brent Geese and 155 Pintail.
Miscellaneous
A couple of Raven and a Peregrine were the best of the rest.

Short-eared Owl newly arrived

1st December 2020 – sunny spells/light showers N1
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
The Cetti's Warbler was again calling and showing occasionally from the scrub in the corner of Creephaw Marsh.
Offshore
A scan of the sea provided 15 Red-throated Diver, 12 Common Scoter, 10 Razorbill and a Guillemot. A Shag continues to take refuge on the island's pools.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 2 Redwing . A Goldcrest was the only other passerine of note.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 270 pale-bellied birds while 150 Pintail and 9 Greenshank were also logged.
Miscellaneous
A Short-eared Owl hunted at dawn and additional sightings included 30 Twite, 3 Merlin and single Peregrine and Water Rail.
Mammals
Three Harbour Porpoise were offshore.

Twite flock puts in an appearance

30th November 2020 – overcast/rain then showers W5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea as the rain cleared to showers (1130-1230) produced 52 Kittiwake, 22 Red-throated Diver, 8 Common Scoter, 4 Razorbill and single Gannet and Shag.
Miscellaneous
A group of 30 Twite were the best of the rest.

Cetti's Warbler still in residence

29th November 2020 – overcast/mist/drizzle/calm
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
The Cetti's Warbler was again calling from the corner of Creephaw Marsh.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 11 Redwing and a Fieldfare. A Goldcrest was the only other bird of note.

Another Snow Bunting

28th November 2020 – overcast ENE2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0800-0900) produced 45 Common Scoter, 33 Razorbill, 16 Red-breasted Merganser, 14 Red-throated Diver, 13 Teal and 2 Gadwall – the latter the first of the year!
Diurnal Migration
Two Whooper Swan and a Snow Bunting were overhead.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 400 pale-bellied Brent Geese and 130 Pintail and a Purple Sandpiper was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Three Jay and single Tree Sparrow and Great Spotted Woodpecker were the best of the rest.

Water Pipit still in residence

27th November 2020 – overcast E2
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
A Water Pipit was again in the flooded horse paddocks at Biggar.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0800-0900) revealed 45 Common Scoter, 21 Red-throated Diver, 19 Razorbill, 12 Red-breasted Merganser, 4 Shag and 4 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by 5 Fieldfare.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 10 Whooper Swan headed south.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 400 birds and 10 Greenshank were logged.
Miscellaneous
Merlin and Water Rail were the best of the rest.

Cetti's Warbler still in residence

26th November 2020 – sunny spells N1
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
The Cetti's Warbler was still present, calling occasionally from the scrub and reeds at the corner of Creephaw Marsh.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0800-0900) revealed 130 Razorbill, 47 Common Scoter, 17 Red-breasted Merganser, 13 Red-throated Diver, 7 Shag and 6 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Only evidenced by a solitary Redwing.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 19 Pink-footed Geese headed north.
Miscellaneous
Three Sparrowhawk and single Merlin and Peregrine were the best of the rest.

Great Northern Diver remains

24th November 2020 – overcast/rain at times S3/4
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0815-0915) produced 42 Common Scoter, 5 Red-throated Diver and a Great Northern Diver. In addition, a Shag continued to shelter along the eastern shore.
Diurnal Migration
A skein of 140 Pink-footed Geese flew north.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 4 Shoveler while 8 Greenshank and a Purple Sandpiper were the pick of the waders
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin were the best of the rest.
Mammals
A Harbour Porpoise was offshore.

Great Northern Diver

23rd November 2020 – overcast S4/5
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0800-1000) revealed 201 Common Scoter, 24 Razorbill, 20 Red-throated Diver, 12 Brent Goose, 6 Kittiwake, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Gannet and single Great Northern Diver, Mediterranean Gull (Adult winter) and Whooper Swan. In addition, a Shag continued to shelter along the eastern shore.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow was the best of the rest.

Cetti's Warbler remains

22nd November 2020 – sunny spells W3/4
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
The Cetti's Warbler was still present, calling occasionally from the scrub and reeds at the corner of Creephaw Marsh.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0800-0900) revealed just 39 Common Scoter, 8 Razorbill, 7 Red-throated Diver, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and an adult Mediterranean Gull. In addition, a Shag was along the sheltered eastern shore.
Miscellaneous
Single Hooded Crow and Merlin were the best of the rest.

Cetti's Warbler, Black Redstart and Snow Bunting

19th November 2020 – sunny spells NNW2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
A Cetti's Warbler was calling and showing well at times in the scrub at the corner of Creephaw Marsh.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0800-0900) revealed just 72 Common Scoter, 2 Red-throated Diver and 2 Razorbill. Late news concerned a Black Guillemot off the eastern shore (17th)
Grounded Migrants
A Black Redstart was the main bird of note amongst 2 Redwing, a Fieldfare and a handful of Song Thrushes.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 8 Whooper Swan headed south along with single Snow Bunting and Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 6000 Knot, 11 Greenshank and 4 Purple Sandpiper. The Brent Goose flock contained 271 pale-bellied and 80 dark-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
A total of 50 Twite and a Merlin were the best of the rest.

Water Pipit hat-trick

16th November 2020 – overcast/rain at times W4/5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
At least three Water Pipit was amongst 30 Rock Pipits feeding in the flooded fields and horse paddocks between Biggar Bank and Biggar over the high tide period.
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed 38 Common Scoter, 6 Kittiwake and a Shag.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2000 Knot and 44 Bar-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Single Hooded Crow and Peregrine were the best of the rest.

Water Pipit remains

15th November 2020 – overcast/rain at times SSW6/7/8
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
At least one Water Pipit was amongst Rock Pipits in the flooded roadside horse paddocks at Biggar.
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed 18 Razorbill, 9 Common Scoter, 4 Kittiwake and a Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Despite the conditions a single Goldcrest was logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Goosander remain and 7 Greenshank were seen.
Miscellaneous
A Shag sheltered from the gale and single Hooded Crow, Merlin and Peregrine were the best of the rest.

More Water Pipits

14th November 2020 – overcast/rain at times SE4
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
Two Water Pipits were amongst Rock Pipits in the flooded roadside horse paddocks at Biggar.
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed 18 Shag and 16 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved single Fieldfare and Mistle Thrush.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock contained 398 pale-bellied birds and additional wildfowl included 5 Shoveler and 3 Goosander. Waders included 9250 Oystercatcher, 3000 Knot, 10 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Two Merlin and 12 Twite were the best of the rest.

Grey Phalarope and Water Pipit

13th November 2020 – sun and showers SW4/5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
The flooded fields and horse paddocks along Biggar Bank held a single Grey Phalarope and a Water Pipit amongst 10 Rock Pipit.
Offshore
A check of the sea (0745-0945) revealed 235 Razorbill, 112 Common Scoter, 102 Kittiwake, 6 Guillemot, 4 Red-throated Diver, 2 Gannet and 2 Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved a solitary Fieldfare.
Miscellaneous
Single Hooded Crow and Merlin were the best of the rest.

More Little Gulls

12th November 2020 – overcast/showers WSW3/4
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
An early morning check of the sea (0800-1000) was highlighted by 2 first-winter Little Gulls amongst 81 Kittiwake. Also seen were 270 Razorbill, 122 Common Scoter, 12 Guillemot, 8 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Shag.

Little Gulls

11th November 2020 – overcast/rain at times SE4/5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea on the falling tide (0900-1000) was highlighted by 2 first-winter Little Gulls and 2 male Goosander. Also seen were 39 Common Scoter, 20 Razorbill, 5 Guillemot and single Red-throated Diver and Kittiwake.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow is still in residence.

Autumn drawing to a close

10th November 2020 – damp and dreary SE2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed 17 Razorbill, 8 Common Scoter, 7 Shag, 4 Red-throated Diver and a Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved just 4 Redwing, 2 Mistle Thrush and a Fieldfare. Additional sightings were limited to a single Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Again few species were on the move with just 400 Starling, 70 Pink-footed Goose and a single Siskin logged.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow put in another appearance.

Hooded Crow still in residence

9th November 2020 – overcast/misty/showers ESE2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
There were no reports of Cumbria's first Pied-billed Grebe on the pools at South Walney Nature Reserve.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 46 Redwing, 15 Fieldfare and 10 Song Thrush. Additional sightings of newly grounded birds were limited to a single Goldcrest although 15 Stonechat were logged
Diurnal Migration
Again few species were on the move with just 360 Starling, 225 Pink-footed Goose, 20 Chaffinch and single Brambling and Lesser Redpoll logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 3 Goosander, 2 Shoveler and 2 Goldeneye.
Miscellaneous
Two Water Rail and 2 Merlin were the best of the rest and the long-staying Hooded Crow is still in residence.

Pied-billed Grebe remains, though elusive

8th November 2020 – overcast/rain at times E2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
Cumbria's first Pied-billed Grebe remained on the pools at South Walney Nature Reserve though it was proving elusive.
Offshore
A check of the sea revealed 26 Shag, 8 Razorbill, 7 Common Scoter and 2 Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 5 Redwing and single Mistle Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
Few species were on the move with just 450 Starling, 3 Tree Sparrow and 2 Lesser Redpoll logged.
Miscellaneous
Single Barn Owl and Water Rail were the best of the rest although a check of the more wooded areas centre of the island produced 6 Long-tailed Tit and single Treecreeper and Great Spotted Woodpecker.

Pied-billed Grebe remains

7th November 2020 – bright and sunny ENE2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
Cumbria's first Pied-billed Grebe remained on the pools at South Walney Nature Reserve throughout the day.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 12 Redwing and single Fieldfare and Mistle Thrush. Also grounded were 5 Woodcock.
Diurnal Migration
A few species were again on the move including 2025 Starling, 220 Pink-footed Goose, 190 Jackdaw, 36 Meadow Pipit, 27 Chaffinch, 8 Whooper Swan, 3 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Snow Bunting.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included Peregrine and Merlin.

Cumbria's first Pied-billed Grebe

6th November 2020 – early mist then sunny spells ESE2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600hrs) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
Cumbria's first Pied-billed Grebe was identified mid-morning and it remained on the pools at South Walney Nature Reserve throughout the day.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 121 Redwing, 71 Fieldfare, 33 Blackbird and 3 Mistle Thrush. Also grounded were 2 Woodcock and single Blackcap and Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move as the mist cleared including 310 Pink-footed Goose, 16 Whooper Swan, 14 Meadow Pipit, 3 Siskin and 2 Brambling.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 10000 Knot, 10 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Raptors included 2 Peregrine and 2 Merlin and 40 Twite were seen.

Late autumn fare

5th November 2020 – overcast NW1
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve remains open (1000-1600) though the hides and visitor centre are closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea at dawn revealed a post roost gathering of 21 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 14 Song Thrush and 7 Fieldfare. Additional sightings were again limited to a single Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
The calmer conditions encouraged a few birds to move through with 100 Jackdaw, 40 Chaffinch, 21 Meadow Pipit, 9 Greenfinch, 4 Reed Bunting, 2 Siskin, 2 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Tree Sparrow logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 12 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Additional sightings included 17 Twite, 4 Raven, 2 Merlin, 2 Water Rail and the long-staying Hooded Crow.

Snow Bunting

4th November 2020 – sun and showers NW2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
An early morning check of the sea (0730-0830) revealed 116 Common Scoter, 29 Kittiwake, 8 Razorbill and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 7 Fieldfare, 4 Redwing and 2 Mistle Thrush. Additional sightings were limited to a single Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
A few birds were on the move between the showers with 440 Starling, 50 Meadow Pipit, 50 Jackdaw, 29 Chaffinch, 10 Tree Sparrow and single Snow Bunting, Lesser Redpoll and Grey Wagtail logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 3 Goosander remain and waders included 11 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
Around 40 Twite are now present while 15 Stonechat and 3 Merlin were the best of the rest.

Latish Swallows!

3rd November 2020 – overcast/rain at times V3/4/5
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A lull in the weather (1000-1100) revealed 11 Kittiwake, 7 Common Scoter, 4 Razorbill and 2 Red-throated Diver and a Shag sheltered off the eastern shore at high tide.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 3 Swallow flew through.

Goosanders remain

2nd November 2020 – overcast/rain at times SW5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) were limited to 76 Common Scoter and 5 Kittiwake. Additionally the 3 Goosander remained off the sheltered eastern shore.
Miscellaneous
Two Raven were the best of the rest.

Great Northern Diver

1st November 2020 – overcast/rain at times SW6/7/8
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea between the showers (0830-0930) provided 75 Common Scoter, 26 Razorbill, 3 Kittiwake, 2 Red-throated Diver and a Great Northern Diver. Three Goosander sheltered off the eastern shore.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 260 pale-bellied birds and waders included 18000 Knot, 4000 Oystercatcher and 20 Bar-tailed Godwit.
Mammals
A Harbour Porpoise was seen.

Long-tailed Duck

31st October 2020 – overcast/rain at times SE6/7/8 then SW7/8
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea before the showers set in (0730-0830) revealed 50 Common Scoter, 14 Razorbill, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Kittiwake and a Red-throated Diver. A Long-tailed Duck sheltered along the eastern shore at high tide.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 5 Fieldfare and 3 Redwing.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 4000 Knot, 4000 Oystercatcher and 41 Bar-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
Merlin and Hooded Crow were the best of the rest.

Short-eared Owl

30th October 2020 – overcast/light rain clearing later W3/2
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Grounded Migrants
There was little evidence of any newly grounded birds apart from a single Mistle Thrush.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 390 Pink-footed Geese in two skeins headed south while 16 Chaffinch and single Tree Sparrow and Swallow were also logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 17 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow put in an appearance along with 2 Merlin and a Short-eared Owl.

Hooded Crow remains

28th October 2020 – overcast/showers SW4/5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) provided just 15 Common Scoter and a male Goosander. The Great Northern Diver remains along the sheltered eastern shore.
Diurnal Migration
Two Swallow flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 8000 Knot were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow and a group of 10 Twite were the best of the rest.

Great White Egret headlines

27th October 2020 – overcast/rain at times SE4/5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
A Great White Egret, just the fourth island record was located on Wylock Marsh early afternoon.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) provided 138 Common Scoter, 23 Razorbill, 3 Red-throated Diver and 3 Shag. The Great Northern Diver remained along the sheltered eastern shore.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 5 Fieldfare
Diurnal Migration
A family party of 4 Whooper Swan flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included the first Goldeneye of the autumn and 5000 Knot were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
Single Merlin and Peregrine were the best of the rest.

Long-tailed Ducks and Puffins

26th October 2020 – sun and showers W4/5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0700-0900) were highlighted by two Long-tailed Duck and 2 Puffin amongst 254 Common Scoter, 127 Razorbill, 38 Kittiwake, 5 Guillemot, 4 Red-throated Diver and 2 Shag. Additionally a Great Northern Diver was off the sheltered eastern shore.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow put in an appearance.

A Great day!!

25th October 2020 – sun and showers SSW4/5/6
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0700-1000) were highlighted by single Great Northern Diver and Great Skua amongst 152 Common Scoter, 133 Kittiwake, 63 Razorbill, 11 Gannet, 3 Pink-footed Goose, 2 Shag, 2 Red-breasted Merganser and a Fulmar.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 8 Redwing flew through.

Groundhog day!

24th October 2020 – overcast/rain/clearing later SSE5/6 then SW3/4
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A repeat of yesterday's weather pattern saw another check of the sea as the rain cleared (1300-1400) but even fewer birds were on offer with just 25 Common Scoter, 6 Razorbill, 2 Gannet, 2 Kittiwake, 2 Great Crested Grebe and a Shag logged.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 18 Whooper Swan flew through.

A few more seabirds

23rd October 2020 – overcast/rain/clearing later SSE3 then W3/4
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea as the rain cleared (1300-1400) produced 86 Common Scoter, 47 Razorbill, 5 Red-throated Diver, 3 Gannet and single Great Crested Grebe and Red-breasted Merganser.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 6 Whooper Swan flew through.

A few seabirds

22nd October 2020 – overcast/rain at times W4/5
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0800-0900) before the rain set in produced 203 Common Scoter, 46 Kittiwake, 36 Razorbill, 4 Red-throated Diver, 3 Guillemot, 2 pale-bellied Brent Geese and single Red-breasted Merganser and Great Crested Grebe.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 14 Whooper Swan flew through.

Water Pipit remains

21st October 2020 – overcast/rain/mist/murk SSE2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
The high tide pushed a total of 21 Rock Pipit from the island's salt-marshes, amongst which was a single Water Pipit.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to 2 Blackcap and single Redwing and Fieldfare
Diurnal Migration
Another paltry showing involving 3 Siskin and 2 Swallow.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 53 Pintail and 15 Greenshank were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow continues to linger and a single Water Rail was the best of the rest.

Hooded Crow continues in residence

20th October 2020 – sunny spells SE3/4/5
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0800-0900) revealed 110 Common Scoter, 39 Razorbill, 14 Gannet, 4 Kittiwake and a Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to single Chiffchaff, Redwing and Fieldfare.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock held 300 pale-bellied and 24 dark-bellied birds.
Miscellaneous
Single Hooded Crow was the best of the rest.
Ringing
The Brent Goose flock contained at least five colour-ringed individuals including a bird previously ringed as an adult at Strangford Lough on 9th January 2006 meaning it has now travelled a total of around 190,000 kilometres as it commutes annually between the Canadian High Arctic breeding grounds and Walney Island.

Brent Goose numbers continue to build

19th October 2020 – overcast SSE3/4/5
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0800-0900) revealed 163 Common Scoter, 80 Gannet, 13 Razorbill, 4 Red-throated Diver and 4 Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
Limited to a solitary Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
Only evidenced by 7 Whooper Swan
Wildfowl and Waders
Brent Goose numbers continue to build with 47 dark-bellied and 347 pale-bellied birds logged. Sample counts suggested around 12.5% of the pale-bellied birds are juveniles.
Miscellaneous
Single Hooded Crow and Merlin were the best of the rest.
Ringing
The Brent Goose flock contained at least six colour-ringed individuals including three birds previously ringed on the breeding grounds in the Canadian High Arctic.

First Water Pipit reappears

18th October 2020 – overcast ENE1
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
The high tides pushed a total of 24 Rock Pipit from the island's salt-marshes, amongst which was the first Water Pipit of the autumn.
Offshore
A dawn check of the sea revealed that the Shag population has increased to 36 birds.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved just 9 Redwing, 4 Fieldfare and 4 Song Thrush. Additional sightings were limited to 3 Chiffchaff and 3 Goldcrest
Diurnal Migration
Another paltry showing involving 130 Pink-footed Geese, 6 Siskin and a Barnacle Goose.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 67 Pintail and a Jack Snipe was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow continues to linger and single Water Rail, Peregrine and Merlin were the best of the rest.

A quiet day

17th October 2020 – overcast NE1
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Offshore
A check of the sea at dawn revealed 23 Shag and 21 Common Scoter.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes were limited to 23 Blackbird, 7 Fieldfare, 7 Mistle Thrush and 4 Redwing. Additional sightings involved 7 Goldcrest, 5 Chiffchaff and a Blackcap.
Diurnal Migration
Although 50 Barnacle Geese were seen passage continues to decline with just 18 Tree Sparrow, 3 Siskin and single Brambling, Lesser Redpoll and Whooper Swan logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 2250 Wigeon and 7750 Oystercatcher and 13 Greenshank were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 3 Merlin hunted the island and 3 Twite and the Hooded Crow were the best of the rest.

Still they come!

16th October 2020 – cloudy start then sunny spells NE2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
Today's Yellow-browed Warbler - the seventh of the month - was at Vickerstown Park in the scrub near the pumping station.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes were limited to 14 Redwing, 4 Fieldfare and a Mistle Thrush. Additional sightings were few with just 3 Chiffchaff and 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Again passage never really got going with just 250 Jackdaw, 90 Pink-footed Goose, 12 Tree Sparrow, 10 Swallow, 3 Brambling, 3 Siskin, 2 Grey Wagtail and a Rock Pipit the highlights.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 1620 Wigeon, 300 pale-bellied Brent Goose, 180 Shelduck and 74 Pintail while 7500 Oystercatcher and 1200 Golden Plover were logged.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted at dawn and 4 Raven, 2 Merlin and the seemingly resident Hooded Crow were the best of the rest.

Another Yellow-browed Warbler

15th October 2020 – bright/calm then sunny spells NE2/3
Notice
Please note that South Walney Nature Reserve is now open though the hides, visitor centre and toilets remain closed to comply with social distancing measures.
Rarities
A Yellow-browed Warbler was in the Sycamores and Willows at Biggar - perhaps the sixth of the autumn.
Grounded Migrants
Early morning thrushes involved 78 Redwing, 47 Blackbird and 21 Fieldfare. Additional sightings were limited to 6 Chiffchaff and 2 Goldcrest.
Diurnal Migration
Although passage never really got going variety was again the order of the day and morning totals included 720 Jackdaw, 295 Pink-footed Goose, 205 Skylark, 90 Linnet, 40 Goldfinch, 35 Meadow Pipit, 30 Chaffinch, 27 Swallow, 17 Greenfinch, 10 Brambling, 10 Pied Wagtail, 9 Lesser Redpoll, 8 Tree Sparrow, 3 Grey Wagtail, 2 Rock Pipit, 2 Mistle Thrush and 2 Siskin.
Miscellaneous
Seven species of “corvid” were logged including the long-staying Hooded Crow along with Raven and Jay. Two Merlin were the best of the rest.