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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)