28th July 2021 – sun and heavy showers W2
Offshore
The early morning check of the sea (0600-0800) produced 545 Manx Shearwater, 260 Common Scoter, 57 Gannet, 31 Sandwich Tern and a first-summer Mediterranean Gull.
Grounded Migrants
Willow Warbler continue to drift south with 3 birds seen.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 418 moths of 67 species overnight including 220 White-lined Dart, still the dominant species. Lesser Broad-bordered Yellow Underwing, Double Lobed, Twin-spot Carpet and Flounced Rustic were all new for the year.
Scaup headlines
27th July 2021 – overcast NW2
Offshore
The early morning check of the sea (0600-0800) was highlighted by a drake Scaup amongst 760 Common Scoter and 5 Mediterranean Gulls (adult + 3 first-summer + juvenile). Also seen were 101 Gannet, 51 Sandwich Tern and 7 Manx Shearwater.
Offshore
The early morning check of the sea (0600-0800) was highlighted by a drake Scaup amongst 760 Common Scoter and 5 Mediterranean Gulls (adult + 3 first-summer + juvenile). Also seen were 101 Gannet, 51 Sandwich Tern and 7 Manx Shearwater.
Tree Sparrow begin to move
26th July 2021 – sunny spells/calm then W2
Offshore
The early morning check of the sea (0530-0630) revealed 490 Common Scoter, 80 Sandwich Tern, 29 Gannet, 16 Manx Searwater, 9 Little Tern, 7 Arctic Tern, 7 Shag and a Common Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Willow Warbler continue to drift south with 2 birds seen while the first Wheatear of the autumn was logged. At least one juvenile Cuckoo remains.
Diurnal Migration
The first 4 Tree Sparrow were on the move along with a further trickle of Swallow and Sand Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2400 Curlew, 1265 Oystercatcher, 835 Redshank, 340 Dunlin, 240 Sanderling, 137 Turnstone, 80 Golden Plover, 16 Whimbrel, 16 Greenshank and 4 Common Sandpiper.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 339 moths of 55 species overnight with White-lined Dart still the dominant species. Willow Beauty, V Pug, Small Rufous and Feathered Slender new for the year with the latter the first for the island.
Offshore
The early morning check of the sea (0530-0630) revealed 490 Common Scoter, 80 Sandwich Tern, 29 Gannet, 16 Manx Searwater, 9 Little Tern, 7 Arctic Tern, 7 Shag and a Common Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Willow Warbler continue to drift south with 2 birds seen while the first Wheatear of the autumn was logged. At least one juvenile Cuckoo remains.
Diurnal Migration
The first 4 Tree Sparrow were on the move along with a further trickle of Swallow and Sand Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2400 Curlew, 1265 Oystercatcher, 835 Redshank, 340 Dunlin, 240 Sanderling, 137 Turnstone, 80 Golden Plover, 16 Whimbrel, 16 Greenshank and 4 Common Sandpiper.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 339 moths of 55 species overnight with White-lined Dart still the dominant species. Willow Beauty, V Pug, Small Rufous and Feathered Slender new for the year with the latter the first for the island.
Yellow Wagtail influx
25th July 2021 – warm and sunny NE1/2
Offshore
The early morning check of the sea (0600-0700) revealed 222 Manx Shearwater, 106 Common Scoter, 31 Gannet, 30 Sandwich Tern, 3 Arctic Tern, 2 Little Tern and a Common Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Willow Warbler continue to drift south with 3 birds seen and 4 Yellow Wagtail were amongst 45 Pied Wagtail. At least one juvenile Cuckoo remains.
Diurnal Migration
A handful of Swift were amongst 30 Sand Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 12 Greenshank, 4 Common Sandpiper and a Whimbrel.
Mammals
Two Otter were logged.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 427 moths of 54 species overnight with White-lined Dart still the dominant species and accounting for 50% of the catch. The Crescent was new for the year.
Offshore
The early morning check of the sea (0600-0700) revealed 222 Manx Shearwater, 106 Common Scoter, 31 Gannet, 30 Sandwich Tern, 3 Arctic Tern, 2 Little Tern and a Common Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Willow Warbler continue to drift south with 3 birds seen and 4 Yellow Wagtail were amongst 45 Pied Wagtail. At least one juvenile Cuckoo remains.
Diurnal Migration
A handful of Swift were amongst 30 Sand Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 12 Greenshank, 4 Common Sandpiper and a Whimbrel.
Mammals
Two Otter were logged.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 427 moths of 54 species overnight with White-lined Dart still the dominant species and accounting for 50% of the catch. The Crescent was new for the year.
Marsh Harrier heads south
24th July 2021 – sunny spells E2/3
Offshore
Generally quiet over the sea, early morning observations (0600-0800) involved 175 Common Scoter, 100 Manx Shearwater, 52 Gannet, 37 Sandwich Tern and 5 Guillemot.
Diurnal Migration
A Marsh Harrier headed south at 0815hrs.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 155 Sanderling.
Butterflies and Moths
There was a slight increase in the number of Red Admiral present.
Offshore
Generally quiet over the sea, early morning observations (0600-0800) involved 175 Common Scoter, 100 Manx Shearwater, 52 Gannet, 37 Sandwich Tern and 5 Guillemot.
Diurnal Migration
A Marsh Harrier headed south at 0815hrs.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 155 Sanderling.
Butterflies and Moths
There was a slight increase in the number of Red Admiral present.
Mediterranean Gull influx
23rd July 2021 – hot and sunny/murky E2/3
Offshore
A record 5 Mediterranean Gull (adult + 3 first-summer + juvenile) were the pick of the morning sightings (0600-0800). Also seen were 153 Common Scoter, 91 Manx Shearwater, 62 Gannet, 62 Sandwich Tern, 60 Black-headed Gull, 15 Little Tern, 4 Arctic Tern and a Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
Two juvenile Cuckoos were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
An increase in hirundine passage produced 40 Swallow and 35 Sand Martin. Also logged were 4 Swift and a Yellow Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Ruff was the pick of the waders.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 402 moths of 69 species overnight with White-lined Dart still the dominant species and Swallow-tailed Moth, Ghost Moth, Yellow-tail and Rosy Rustic all new for the year.
Offshore
A record 5 Mediterranean Gull (adult + 3 first-summer + juvenile) were the pick of the morning sightings (0600-0800). Also seen were 153 Common Scoter, 91 Manx Shearwater, 62 Gannet, 62 Sandwich Tern, 60 Black-headed Gull, 15 Little Tern, 4 Arctic Tern and a Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
Two juvenile Cuckoos were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
An increase in hirundine passage produced 40 Swallow and 35 Sand Martin. Also logged were 4 Swift and a Yellow Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Ruff was the pick of the waders.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 402 moths of 69 species overnight with White-lined Dart still the dominant species and Swallow-tailed Moth, Ghost Moth, Yellow-tail and Rosy Rustic all new for the year.
Mediterranean Gull
22nd July 2021 – hot and sunny/murky V1
Offshore
A second-summer Mediterranean Gull was the pick of the observations over the sea (0600-0800), which also produced 130 Common Scoter, 63 Sandwich Tern, 47 Manx Shearwater, 11 Gannet, 2 Common Tern and 2 Little Egret.
Diurnal Migration
Sand Martin and Swallow continue to trickle through.
Butterflies and Moths
A total of 36 Grayling were recorded.
Offshore
A second-summer Mediterranean Gull was the pick of the observations over the sea (0600-0800), which also produced 130 Common Scoter, 63 Sandwich Tern, 47 Manx Shearwater, 11 Gannet, 2 Common Tern and 2 Little Egret.
Diurnal Migration
Sand Martin and Swallow continue to trickle through.
Butterflies and Moths
A total of 36 Grayling were recorded.
Barn Owl finally added to year list
21st July 2021 – hot and sunny/V1
Offshore
A quieter morning over the sea (0600-0730) with just 240 Common Scoter, 46 Sandwich Tern, 24 Gannet, 13 Manx Shearwater and an Arctic Skua logged.
Grounded Migrants
Three Willow Warbler were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
A Swift was amongst a trickle of Sand Martin and Swallow.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl was seen - the first sighting this year.
Butterflies and Moths
Migrant butterflies were limited to 3 Red Admiral and a Painted Lady.
Offshore
A quieter morning over the sea (0600-0730) with just 240 Common Scoter, 46 Sandwich Tern, 24 Gannet, 13 Manx Shearwater and an Arctic Skua logged.
Grounded Migrants
Three Willow Warbler were newly arrived.
Diurnal Migration
A Swift was amongst a trickle of Sand Martin and Swallow.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Greenshank and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl was seen - the first sighting this year.
Butterflies and Moths
Migrant butterflies were limited to 3 Red Admiral and a Painted Lady.
Arctic Skua
20th July 2021 – warm and sunny/NW1
Offshore
The sea provided some variety on the rising tide (0530-0730) with 530 Common Scoter, 152 Manx Shearwater, 65 Gannet, 65 Sandwich Tern, 6 Guillemot, 5 Puffin, 5 Arctic Tern and single Little Tern, Common Tern, Arctic Skua and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A single Coal Tit was logged.
Diurnal Migration
The first Lesser Redpoll of the autumn moved through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 72 Sanderling, 68 Turnstone, 4 Greenshank, 3 Grey Plover and a Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
Post-breeding finch flocks are now beginning to develop with 125 Linnet logged.
Offshore
The sea provided some variety on the rising tide (0530-0730) with 530 Common Scoter, 152 Manx Shearwater, 65 Gannet, 65 Sandwich Tern, 6 Guillemot, 5 Puffin, 5 Arctic Tern and single Little Tern, Common Tern, Arctic Skua and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A single Coal Tit was logged.
Diurnal Migration
The first Lesser Redpoll of the autumn moved through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 72 Sanderling, 68 Turnstone, 4 Greenshank, 3 Grey Plover and a Whimbrel.
Miscellaneous
Post-breeding finch flocks are now beginning to develop with 125 Linnet logged.
First Snipe return
19th July 2021 – warm and sunny/calm
Offshore
The early morning seawatch (0530-0630) produced 385 Common Scoter, 62 Manx Shearwater, 46 Sandwich Tern, 24 Gannet, 4 Arctic Tern and a Little Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Single Blackcap and Willow Warbler were moving through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 3 Snipe have returned.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 217 moths of 52 species overnight with White-lined Dart still the dominant species. Least Yellow Underwing was new for the year.
Offshore
The early morning seawatch (0530-0630) produced 385 Common Scoter, 62 Manx Shearwater, 46 Sandwich Tern, 24 Gannet, 4 Arctic Tern and a Little Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Single Blackcap and Willow Warbler were moving through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 3 Snipe have returned.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 217 moths of 52 species overnight with White-lined Dart still the dominant species. Least Yellow Underwing was new for the year.
Little Gull and Yellow Wagtail
18th July 2021 – warm and sunny/calm
Offshore
An adult Little Gull in full summer plumage was the highlight of the early morning seawatch (0530-0730) which also produced just 635 Common Scoter, 410 Manx Shearwater, 80 Sandwich Tern, 50 Gannet, 17 Guillemot, 2 Kittiwake and a Puffin.
Grounded Migrants
A Yellow Wagtail was amongst 30 Pied Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Black-tailed Godwit was the pick of the waders.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 336 moths of 68 species overnight with White-lined Dart remaining the dominant species. Timothy Tortrix, The Magpie, Small Fan-footed Wave and Small dotted Buff were new for the year. Gatekeepers have now emerged in good numbers.
Offshore
An adult Little Gull in full summer plumage was the highlight of the early morning seawatch (0530-0730) which also produced just 635 Common Scoter, 410 Manx Shearwater, 80 Sandwich Tern, 50 Gannet, 17 Guillemot, 2 Kittiwake and a Puffin.
Grounded Migrants
A Yellow Wagtail was amongst 30 Pied Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Black-tailed Godwit was the pick of the waders.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 336 moths of 68 species overnight with White-lined Dart remaining the dominant species. Timothy Tortrix, The Magpie, Small Fan-footed Wave and Small dotted Buff were new for the year. Gatekeepers have now emerged in good numbers.
Osprey flies through
17th July 2021 – warm and sunny/calm
Offshore
A generally quiet early morning seawatch (0530-0730) produced just 515 Common Scoter, 57 Sandwich Tern, 23 Gannet, 13 Manx Shearwater, 6 Kittiwake and a Little Tern.
Diurnal Migration
An Osprey flew through mid-afternoon.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Greenshank, 3 Black-tailed Godwit and a Whimbrel.
Butterflies and Moths
A previously unrecorded colony of Dark Green Fritillary has been discovered with 37 individuals located, good numbers of Grayling are also on the wing.
Offshore
A generally quiet early morning seawatch (0530-0730) produced just 515 Common Scoter, 57 Sandwich Tern, 23 Gannet, 13 Manx Shearwater, 6 Kittiwake and a Little Tern.
Diurnal Migration
An Osprey flew through mid-afternoon.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 5 Greenshank, 3 Black-tailed Godwit and a Whimbrel.
Butterflies and Moths
A previously unrecorded colony of Dark Green Fritillary has been discovered with 37 individuals located, good numbers of Grayling are also on the wing.
Mediterranean Gull
16th July 2021 – bright and /calm then WNW2/3
Offshore
Early morning observations (0530-0730) were highlighted by a second-summer Mediterranean Gull, also seen were 620 Common Scoter, 51 Sandwich Tern, 40 Manx Shearwater, 32 Gannet, 7 Guillemot, 2 Kittiwake, 2 Little Egret and a Fulmar.
Grounded Migrants
Single Blackcap and Willow Warbler were heading south.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 20 Sand Martin flew through.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 253 moths of 55 species, White-lined Dart continue to dominate while Herald, Double Square-spot, Scalloped Oak and Marbled Mompha were new for the year with the latter also appearing to be the first island record.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0530-0730) were highlighted by a second-summer Mediterranean Gull, also seen were 620 Common Scoter, 51 Sandwich Tern, 40 Manx Shearwater, 32 Gannet, 7 Guillemot, 2 Kittiwake, 2 Little Egret and a Fulmar.
Grounded Migrants
Single Blackcap and Willow Warbler were heading south.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 20 Sand Martin flew through.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 253 moths of 55 species, White-lined Dart continue to dominate while Herald, Double Square-spot, Scalloped Oak and Marbled Mompha were new for the year with the latter also appearing to be the first island record.
Common Scoter remain on the move
15th July 2021 – bright and sunny NW3/4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0530-0730) were again dominated by Common Scoter with 675 birds logged. Also seen were 75 Gannet, 67 Manx Shearwater, 31 Sandwich Tern, 19 Guillemot and 3 Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 6 Whimbrel and 5 Greenshank.
Dragonflies
Black-tailed Skimmer are showing well and the first Common Darter are now on the wing.
Butterflies and Moths
Although windy overnight the moth trap attracted 241 moths of 54 species, White-lined Dart continue to dominate while Grey Dagger and Light Arches were new for the year.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0530-0730) were again dominated by Common Scoter with 675 birds logged. Also seen were 75 Gannet, 67 Manx Shearwater, 31 Sandwich Tern, 19 Guillemot and 3 Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 6 Whimbrel and 5 Greenshank.
Dragonflies
Black-tailed Skimmer are showing well and the first Common Darter are now on the wing.
Butterflies and Moths
Although windy overnight the moth trap attracted 241 moths of 54 species, White-lined Dart continue to dominate while Grey Dagger and Light Arches were new for the year.
Black Guillemot
14th July 2021 – bright and sunny NW3/4
Offshore
Early morning observations (0530-0730) were led by a juvenile Black Guillemot; however, sightings were dominated by Common Scoter with 1015 birds logged. Also seen were 43 Sandwich Tern, 42 Gannet, 17 Guillemot, 5 Manx Shearwater, 4 Razorbill and 2 Little Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 35 Sanderling were logged.
Mammals
A pod of 8 Bottle-nosed Dolphin were offshore.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0530-0730) were led by a juvenile Black Guillemot; however, sightings were dominated by Common Scoter with 1015 birds logged. Also seen were 43 Sandwich Tern, 42 Gannet, 17 Guillemot, 5 Manx Shearwater, 4 Razorbill and 2 Little Tern.
Wildfowl and Waders
A total of 35 Sanderling were logged.
Mammals
A pod of 8 Bottle-nosed Dolphin were offshore.
More seabirds
13th July 2021 – sunny spells/calm then WNW3
Offshore
Early morning observations (0530-0630) produced 645 Common Scoter, 105 Manx Shearwater, 57 Sandwich Tern, 51 Gannet, 5 Guillemot and a Little Tern.
Diurnal Migration
A few Sand Martin again moved through.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 245 moths of 64 species with White-lined Dart dominant, while Diamond-backed Moth and Straw Underwing were new for the year.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0530-0630) produced 645 Common Scoter, 105 Manx Shearwater, 57 Sandwich Tern, 51 Gannet, 5 Guillemot and a Little Tern.
Diurnal Migration
A few Sand Martin again moved through.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 245 moths of 64 species with White-lined Dart dominant, while Diamond-backed Moth and Straw Underwing were new for the year.
First Golden Plover return
12th July 2021 – overcast/murk/rain/calm
Offshore
The first rule of seawatching on Walney Island is that little happens in persistent rain and this morning’s observations (0800-0900) did little to change that view with just 131 Common Scoter, 53 Sandwich Tern and 10 Gannet seen.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 24 Sand Martin moved through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Golden Plover have returned.
Offshore
The first rule of seawatching on Walney Island is that little happens in persistent rain and this morning’s observations (0800-0900) did little to change that view with just 131 Common Scoter, 53 Sandwich Tern and 10 Gannet seen.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 24 Sand Martin moved through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Golden Plover have returned.
Seabirds again dominate
11th July 2021 – overcast/murk/drizzle SE1/2 then sunny spells
Offshore
The sea remained on form early morning (0630-0800) with 305 Manx Shearwater, 270 Common Scoter, 105 Sandwich Tern, 90 Gannet, 7 Little Tern, 7 Guillemot and a Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
The small-scale southbound movement of Swallow continued.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Greenshank, 3 Common Sandpiper, 3 Black-tailed Godwit and a Whimbrel.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 211 moths of 62 species with Riband Wave dominant, while Bordered Beauty, Dingy Footman, Straw-barred Pearl and Scotch Smudge were new for the year – if confirmed the latter is new for the island.
Offshore
The sea remained on form early morning (0630-0800) with 305 Manx Shearwater, 270 Common Scoter, 105 Sandwich Tern, 90 Gannet, 7 Little Tern, 7 Guillemot and a Kittiwake.
Diurnal Migration
The small-scale southbound movement of Swallow continued.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Greenshank, 3 Common Sandpiper, 3 Black-tailed Godwit and a Whimbrel.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 211 moths of 62 species with Riband Wave dominant, while Bordered Beauty, Dingy Footman, Straw-barred Pearl and Scotch Smudge were new for the year – if confirmed the latter is new for the island.
Seabirds continue to dominate
10th July 2021 – overcast/murky NE1
Offshore
The sea was back on form early morning (0700-0900) with 865 Manx Shearwater, 655 Common Scoter, 280 Sandwich Tern, 80 Gannet, 4 Arctic Tern, 4 Puffin and a Red-breasted Merganser logged.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 8 Swift and 4 Swallow flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Another 16 Black-tailed Godwit flew through.
Breeding Birds
A family party of 7 Jay were seen.
Butterflies and Moths
Migrant butterflies involved Painted Lady and Red Admiral while a Tansy Plume was new for the island.
Offshore
The sea was back on form early morning (0700-0900) with 865 Manx Shearwater, 655 Common Scoter, 280 Sandwich Tern, 80 Gannet, 4 Arctic Tern, 4 Puffin and a Red-breasted Merganser logged.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 8 Swift and 4 Swallow flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Another 16 Black-tailed Godwit flew through.
Breeding Birds
A family party of 7 Jay were seen.
Butterflies and Moths
Migrant butterflies involved Painted Lady and Red Admiral while a Tansy Plume was new for the island.
Waders continue to return
9th July 2021 – sunny spells W1/2
Offshore
Another quiet morning over the sea (0600-0700) allowed a low-tide census of the summering Shag population to reveal that 9 birds are present. Also seen were 200 Sandwich Tern, 160 Common Scoter, 16 Gannet and 12 Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Five Stock Dove and a Willow Warbler provided evidence of further early movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 23 Black-tailed Godwit, 4 Greenshank and a Common Sandpiper.
Breeding Birds
A second brood of Tufted Duck have emerged.
Mammals
An Otter was seen.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 230 moths of 64 species with White-lined Dart the dominant species, also seen were Mother of Pearl, Cloaked Minor, Drinker and Green Pug – all new for the year.
Offshore
Another quiet morning over the sea (0600-0700) allowed a low-tide census of the summering Shag population to reveal that 9 birds are present. Also seen were 200 Sandwich Tern, 160 Common Scoter, 16 Gannet and 12 Manx Shearwater.
Grounded Migrants
Five Stock Dove and a Willow Warbler provided evidence of further early movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 23 Black-tailed Godwit, 4 Greenshank and a Common Sandpiper.
Breeding Birds
A second brood of Tufted Duck have emerged.
Mammals
An Otter was seen.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 230 moths of 64 species with White-lined Dart the dominant species, also seen were Mother of Pearl, Cloaked Minor, Drinker and Green Pug – all new for the year.
Further early movement
8th July 2021 – sunny spells W1/2
Offshore
A quieter morning over the sea with sightings (0600-0800) including 355 Common Scoter, 230 Sandwich Tern, 102 Manx Shearwater, 56 Gannet, 8 Guillemot, 4 Puffin, 2 Little Tern and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Two Stock Dove provided evidence of further early movement.
Diurnal Migration
An early Grey Wagtail also moved through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Greenshank.
Dragonflies
The first Brown Hawker are now on the wing.
Butterflies and Moths
Both Gatekeeper and Grayling (see below) are now on the wing.
Offshore
A quieter morning over the sea with sightings (0600-0800) including 355 Common Scoter, 230 Sandwich Tern, 102 Manx Shearwater, 56 Gannet, 8 Guillemot, 4 Puffin, 2 Little Tern and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Two Stock Dove provided evidence of further early movement.
Diurnal Migration
An early Grey Wagtail also moved through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 3 Greenshank.
Dragonflies
The first Brown Hawker are now on the wing.
Butterflies and Moths
Both Gatekeeper and Grayling (see below) are now on the wing.
Merlin and Whinchat
7th July 2021 – sunny spells/calm then WNW3
Offshore
Another day when Manx Shearwater dominated early morning sightings (0615-0815) with 1270 birds logged. Also seen were 165 Common Scoter, 110 Gannet, 107 Sandwich Tern, 6 Puffin, 5 Arctic Tern, 2 Common Tern and single Red-breasted Merganser, Little Tern and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Two juvenile Whinchat provided evidence of early movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Greenshank and 2 Common Sandpiper amongst 105 Redshank.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was newly returned from the fells.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 206 moths of 58 species, White Satin was the dominant species while Short-cloaked Moth, Triple-spotted Clay, Common Emerald and Marbled Beauty were new for the year.
Offshore
Another day when Manx Shearwater dominated early morning sightings (0615-0815) with 1270 birds logged. Also seen were 165 Common Scoter, 110 Gannet, 107 Sandwich Tern, 6 Puffin, 5 Arctic Tern, 2 Common Tern and single Red-breasted Merganser, Little Tern and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Two juvenile Whinchat provided evidence of early movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Greenshank and 2 Common Sandpiper amongst 105 Redshank.
Miscellaneous
A Merlin was newly returned from the fells.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 206 moths of 58 species, White Satin was the dominant species while Short-cloaked Moth, Triple-spotted Clay, Common Emerald and Marbled Beauty were new for the year.
Scaup highlights seawatch
6th July 2021 – overcast/rain clearing later N1 then W3
Offshore
Yet again Manx Shearwater dominated morning sightings (0700-0900) with 1060 birds logged. Additional sightings involved 90 Sandwich Tern, 71 Gannet, 12 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Guillemot and a drake Scaup.
Offshore
Yet again Manx Shearwater dominated morning sightings (0700-0900) with 1060 birds logged. Additional sightings involved 90 Sandwich Tern, 71 Gannet, 12 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Guillemot and a drake Scaup.
First juvenile Sandwich Terns appear offshore
5th July 2021 – overcast/showers, clearing later WSW3
Offshore
Manx Shearwater again dominate morning sightings (0630-1030) with 560 birds logged. However, the change in wind direction provided little new in the way of variety with additional sightings limited to 470 Sandwich Tern – including the first juveniles of the season, 200 Common Scoter, 115 Gannet, 23 Guillemot, 10 Kittiwake, 5 Arctic Tern and 3 Puffin.
Grounded Migrants
A juvenile Robin was the product of post-breeding dispersal rather than migration.
Wildfowl and Waders
A further 30 Black-tailed Godwit flew through.
Butterflies and Moths
An unsuitable wet night saw the moth trap attract just 89 moths of 39 species with Peach Blossom, Buff Arches, Apple Leaf Miner and Large Mottled Shade the highlights with the latter two appearing to be the first island records.
Offshore
Manx Shearwater again dominate morning sightings (0630-1030) with 560 birds logged. However, the change in wind direction provided little new in the way of variety with additional sightings limited to 470 Sandwich Tern – including the first juveniles of the season, 200 Common Scoter, 115 Gannet, 23 Guillemot, 10 Kittiwake, 5 Arctic Tern and 3 Puffin.
Grounded Migrants
A juvenile Robin was the product of post-breeding dispersal rather than migration.
Wildfowl and Waders
A further 30 Black-tailed Godwit flew through.
Butterflies and Moths
An unsuitable wet night saw the moth trap attract just 89 moths of 39 species with Peach Blossom, Buff Arches, Apple Leaf Miner and Large Mottled Shade the highlights with the latter two appearing to be the first island records.
Wildfowl and Waders begin to increase
4th July 2021 – overcast/murk/showers SE2
Offshore
Manx Shearwater continued to dominate early morning sightings (0700-0900) with 360 birds logged. However, again there was little in the way of variety with additional sightings limited to 150 Sandwich Tern, 55 Common Scoter, 6 Guillemot, 3 Puffin and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Single Willow Warbler and Whitethroat were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows are already on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Wigeon and Teal have now returned. Single Greenshank and Common Sandpiper were amongst 70 Redshank and a total of 34 Black-tailed Godwit flew through.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 236 moths of 62 species with Bramble Shoot Moth dominant while Rosy Minor, Southern Wainscot and Peach Blossom were new for the year.
Offshore
Manx Shearwater continued to dominate early morning sightings (0700-0900) with 360 birds logged. However, again there was little in the way of variety with additional sightings limited to 150 Sandwich Tern, 55 Common Scoter, 6 Guillemot, 3 Puffin and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
Single Willow Warbler and Whitethroat were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A few Swallows are already on the move.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first Wigeon and Teal have now returned. Single Greenshank and Common Sandpiper were amongst 70 Redshank and a total of 34 Black-tailed Godwit flew through.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 236 moths of 62 species with Bramble Shoot Moth dominant while Rosy Minor, Southern Wainscot and Peach Blossom were new for the year.
Manx Shearwaters still on the move
3rd July 2021 – overcast/murk/calm/rain soon
Offshore
Manx Shearwater continued to dominate early morning sightings (0600-0800) with 1335 birds logged. However, again there was little in the way of variety with additional sightings limited to 295 Common Scoter, 65 Gannet, 50 Sandwich Tern, 5 Puffin, 4 Guillemot and a Fulmar.
Miscellaneous
Sea Kale can now be found in bloom in suitable habitat on the island while Greater Spearwort would appear to have gone unrecorded previously on the island.
Offshore
Manx Shearwater continued to dominate early morning sightings (0600-0800) with 1335 birds logged. However, again there was little in the way of variety with additional sightings limited to 295 Common Scoter, 65 Gannet, 50 Sandwich Tern, 5 Puffin, 4 Guillemot and a Fulmar.
Miscellaneous
Sea Kale can now be found in bloom in suitable habitat on the island while Greater Spearwort would appear to have gone unrecorded previously on the island.
Manx Shearwaters again on the move
2nd July 2021 – hazy/sunny spells/calm
Offshore
Manx Shearwater dominated early morning sightings (0630-0830) with 765 birds logged. However, there was little in the way of variety with additional sightings limited to 220 Common Scoter, 100 Sandwich Tern, 67 Gannet, 12 Puffin and 11 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A female Blackcap was perhaps already heading south.
Miscellaneous
A Great Spotted Woodpecker was the first since the spring.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 319 moths of 52 species with Cinnabar and Buff Ermine dominant while Smoky Wainscot was new for the year. After the first sightings, of singles, over the last few years a small colony of Ringlet now appears established on the island. Single Comma and Red Admiral were also seen.
Offshore
Manx Shearwater dominated early morning sightings (0630-0830) with 765 birds logged. However, there was little in the way of variety with additional sightings limited to 220 Common Scoter, 100 Sandwich Tern, 67 Gannet, 12 Puffin and 11 Guillemot.
Grounded Migrants
A female Blackcap was perhaps already heading south.
Miscellaneous
A Great Spotted Woodpecker was the first since the spring.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap attracted 319 moths of 52 species with Cinnabar and Buff Ermine dominant while Smoky Wainscot was new for the year. After the first sightings, of singles, over the last few years a small colony of Ringlet now appears established on the island. Single Comma and Red Admiral were also seen.
Generally quiet
1st July 2021 – hazy/sunny spells/calm
Offshore
Remaining generally quiet over the sea (0630-0730) with 230 Common Scoter, 63 Manx Shearwater, 18 Sandwich Tern, 15 Gannet, 8 Shelduck and 2 Puffin logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Greenshank was again the pick of the waders.
Butterflies and Moths
The first Dark Green Fritillary was on the wing and day flying moths included Mother Shipton.
Dragonflies
The first Common Darter are now on the wing.
Offshore
Remaining generally quiet over the sea (0630-0730) with 230 Common Scoter, 63 Manx Shearwater, 18 Sandwich Tern, 15 Gannet, 8 Shelduck and 2 Puffin logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Greenshank was again the pick of the waders.
Butterflies and Moths
The first Dark Green Fritillary was on the wing and day flying moths included Mother Shipton.
Dragonflies
The first Common Darter are now on the wing.
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