29th September 2023 – sunny spells WSW4/6
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) produced 165 Common Scoter, 31 Gannet, 20 Shag, 6 Red-throated Diver, 4 Sandwich Tern and single Kittiwake and Great Skua.
Grounded Migrants
Again the conditions meant that very few grounded birds were in evidence with just 3 Goldcrest and single Chiffchaff and Blackcap logged.
Diurnal Migration
Two Grey Wagtail flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock increased to 160 light-bellied birds and additional sightings included 368 Wigeon, 39 Pintail and 2 Shoveler while waders included 27 Greenshank amongst 1512 Redshank.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted at dawn and the Marsh Harrier also continues to hunt the island. A total of 100 Little Egret were also seen.
Buzzard headlines!
28th September 2023 – overcast/ showers SW4/6
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0930) produced 1035 Common Scoter, 32 Gannet, 11 Red-throated Diver, 2 Sandwich Tern, 2 Arctic Tern and single Manx Shearwater, Kittiwake and Arctic Skua.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and a Buzzard was also seen.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0930) produced 1035 Common Scoter, 32 Gannet, 11 Red-throated Diver, 2 Sandwich Tern, 2 Arctic Tern and single Manx Shearwater, Kittiwake and Arctic Skua.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and a Buzzard was also seen.
Long-tailed Duck and Black Guillemot
26th September 2023 – overcast then showers SE4/6
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) produced 161 Common Scoter, 25 Gannet, 3 Shoveler, 3 Guillemot, 2 Sandwich Tern, 2 Red-throated Diver and single Kittiwake and Guillemot. In addition, single Long-tailed Duck and Black Guillemot sheltered along the eastern shore at hightide.
Grounded Migrants
Again very few grounded birds were in evidence with just 3 Chiffchaff and single Goldcrest and Wheatear logged.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 9 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 60 Pintail were logged while waders included 20 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and three Hooded x Carrion Crow were also seen.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) produced 161 Common Scoter, 25 Gannet, 3 Shoveler, 3 Guillemot, 2 Sandwich Tern, 2 Red-throated Diver and single Kittiwake and Guillemot. In addition, single Long-tailed Duck and Black Guillemot sheltered along the eastern shore at hightide.
Grounded Migrants
Again very few grounded birds were in evidence with just 3 Chiffchaff and single Goldcrest and Wheatear logged.
Diurnal Migration
A group of 9 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
A flock of 60 Pintail were logged while waders included 20 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and three Hooded x Carrion Crow were also seen.
Little Gull
25th September 2023 – sunny spells SW4/6
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) were led by a first-winter Little Gull amongst 128 Common Scoter, 62 Gannet, 10 Red-throated Diver, 4 Shag, 4 Razorbill and 3 Kittiwake.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) were led by a first-winter Little Gull amongst 128 Common Scoter, 62 Gannet, 10 Red-throated Diver, 4 Shag, 4 Razorbill and 3 Kittiwake.
Mediterranean Gull and Arctic Skua
24th September 2023 – overcast/showers/rain SE3/5
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) produced 215 Common Scoter, 124 Gannet, 28 Red-throated Diver, 21 Kittiwake, 4 Sandwich Tern, 3 Razorbill, 3 Shag and single Arctic Skua and Mediterranean Gull.
Grounded Migrants
Few grounded birds were in evidence with just 3 Goldcrest and single Chiffchaff, White Wagtail and Wheatear logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock continues to increase with 130 light-bellied birds logged while waders included 9 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and a Peregrine was the best of the rest.
Offshore
Early morning observations (0730-0830) produced 215 Common Scoter, 124 Gannet, 28 Red-throated Diver, 21 Kittiwake, 4 Sandwich Tern, 3 Razorbill, 3 Shag and single Arctic Skua and Mediterranean Gull.
Grounded Migrants
Few grounded birds were in evidence with just 3 Goldcrest and single Chiffchaff, White Wagtail and Wheatear logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock continues to increase with 130 light-bellied birds logged while waders included 9 Greenshank.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and a Peregrine was the best of the rest.
Calm at last!
23rd September 2023 – overcast/calm
Offshore
A scan of the sea revealed 18 Shag, 7 Common Scoter and single Gannet and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A few birds were in evidence with 23 Robin, 11 Goldcrest, 3 Wheatear and 2 Stonechat logged.
Diurnal Migration
There were also a few birds on the move with 225 Meadow Pipit, 200 Pink-footed Goose, 70 Skylark, 22 Pied Wagtail, 20 Chaffinch, 17 Siskin, 7 Grey Wagtail and 3 Lesser Redpoll recorded.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and a Merlin was the best of the rest.
Offshore
A scan of the sea revealed 18 Shag, 7 Common Scoter and single Gannet and Red-throated Diver.
Grounded Migrants
A few birds were in evidence with 23 Robin, 11 Goldcrest, 3 Wheatear and 2 Stonechat logged.
Diurnal Migration
There were also a few birds on the move with 225 Meadow Pipit, 200 Pink-footed Goose, 70 Skylark, 22 Pied Wagtail, 20 Chaffinch, 17 Siskin, 7 Grey Wagtail and 3 Lesser Redpoll recorded.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and a Merlin was the best of the rest.
Hooded Crow still in residence
22nd September 2023 – frequent showers WNW3/5
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0700-0900) produced 308 Common Scoter, 31 Red-throated Diver, 16 Gannet, 15 Shag, 5 Guillemot, 5 Razorbill and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 11 Goldcrest and single Spotted Flycatcher and Blackcap were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 34 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0700-0900) produced 308 Common Scoter, 31 Red-throated Diver, 16 Gannet, 15 Shag, 5 Guillemot, 5 Razorbill and a Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 11 Goldcrest and single Spotted Flycatcher and Blackcap were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 34 Pink-footed Geese flew through.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Finally!
21st September 2023 – sun and showers SW3/4
Offshore
Observations over a much calmer sea (0700-0900) revealed a single Leach’s Petrel along with 310 Common Scoter, 125 Sandwich Tern, 26 Gannet, 17 Shag, 14 Red-throated Diver, 5 Guillemot, 4 Razorbill and single Red-breasted Merganser, Great Crested Grebe and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 16 Goldcrest and 4 Chiffchaff had arrived overnight.
Diurnal Migration
Groups of 7 Siskin and 3 House Martin provided some movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock had increased to 36 light-bellied birds and 26 Pintail were seen.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier remains.
Offshore
Observations over a much calmer sea (0700-0900) revealed a single Leach’s Petrel along with 310 Common Scoter, 125 Sandwich Tern, 26 Gannet, 17 Shag, 14 Red-throated Diver, 5 Guillemot, 4 Razorbill and single Red-breasted Merganser, Great Crested Grebe and Kittiwake.
Grounded Migrants
A total of 16 Goldcrest and 4 Chiffchaff had arrived overnight.
Diurnal Migration
Groups of 7 Siskin and 3 House Martin provided some movement.
Wildfowl and Waders
The Brent Goose flock had increased to 36 light-bellied birds and 26 Pintail were seen.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier remains.
Third seawatch of the week!
20th September 2023 – overcast/rain then heavy showers SSW6/8
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0830-1030) again revealed little movement with just 61 Sandwich Tern, 45 Gannet, 33 Common Scoter and single Common Tern, Kittiwake and Shag logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 8 light-bellied Brent Geese were sheltering along the eastern shore.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0830-1030) again revealed little movement with just 61 Sandwich Tern, 45 Gannet, 33 Common Scoter and single Common Tern, Kittiwake and Shag logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
The first 8 light-bellied Brent Geese were sheltering along the eastern shore.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Second seawatch of the week!
19th September 2023 – overcast/rain/at times SW6/8
Offshore
Several checks over the sea through the day revealed little movement with just 90 Common Scoter 30 Sandwich Tern, 9 Gannet, 4 Red-throated Diver, 4 Guillemot, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Manx Shearwater and an Arctic Skua logged.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 140 Pink-footed Goose flew through.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier remains.
Offshore
Several checks over the sea through the day revealed little movement with just 90 Common Scoter 30 Sandwich Tern, 9 Gannet, 4 Red-throated Diver, 4 Guillemot, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Manx Shearwater and an Arctic Skua logged.
Diurnal Migration
A total of 140 Pink-footed Goose flew through.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier remains.
First seawatch of the week!
18th September 2023 – overcast/rain/showers clearing W5/6
Offshore
Observations over the sea (1100-1200) revealed 192 Common Scoter, 50 Gannet, 25 Sandwich Tern, 11 Red-throated Diver, 2 Guillemot and single Shag, Manx Shearwater and Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier remains.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (1100-1200) revealed 192 Common Scoter, 50 Gannet, 25 Sandwich Tern, 11 Red-throated Diver, 2 Guillemot and single Shag, Manx Shearwater and Razorbill.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Purple Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier remains.
Sandpipers and Skuas
17th September 2023 – overcast/rain clearing NE3/4
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) revealed 256 Common Scoter, 6 Red-throated Diver, 5 Sandwich Tern, 3 Arctic Skua and 2 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Only 7 Wheatear, 2 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A further 45 Pink-footed Goose flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 400 Golden Plover, 15 Bar-tailed Godwit and 3 Curlew Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow and Marsh Harrier remain.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) revealed 256 Common Scoter, 6 Red-throated Diver, 5 Sandwich Tern, 3 Arctic Skua and 2 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Only 7 Wheatear, 2 Goldcrest and a Chiffchaff were logged.
Diurnal Migration
A further 45 Pink-footed Goose flew through.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 400 Golden Plover, 15 Bar-tailed Godwit and 3 Curlew Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow and Marsh Harrier remain.
Six species of raptor
16th September 2023 – sunny spells NE3/4/5
Offshore
Observations over the sea revealed 23 Common Scoter, 16 Gannet, 15 Sandwich Tern and 10 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Only 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest and 2 Wheatear were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Although an Osprey flew through additional sightings were limited to 250 Pink-footed Goose and 200 Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Curlew Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier remains and additional sightings included Merlin, Peregrine, Kestrel and Sparrowhawk.
Mammals
A Badger again revealed its presence.
Offshore
Observations over the sea revealed 23 Common Scoter, 16 Gannet, 15 Sandwich Tern and 10 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Only 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest and 2 Wheatear were logged.
Diurnal Migration
Although an Osprey flew through additional sightings were limited to 250 Pink-footed Goose and 200 Meadow Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Curlew Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier remains and additional sightings included Merlin, Peregrine, Kestrel and Sparrowhawk.
Mammals
A Badger again revealed its presence.
Marsh Harrier, Hooded Crow and Curlew Sandpiper
15th September 2023 – overcast/early rain E2
Offshore
Observations over the sea in the rain (0730-0830) produced just 85 Common Scoter, 7 Gannet, 5 Red-throated Diver and 5 Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Only a few birds were seen including 3 Wheatear, 2 Chiffchaff and a Goldcrest.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Curlew Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier and Hooded Crow both remain.
Mammals
A Badger again revealed its presence.
Offshore
Observations over the sea in the rain (0730-0830) produced just 85 Common Scoter, 7 Gannet, 5 Red-throated Diver and 5 Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
Only a few birds were seen including 3 Wheatear, 2 Chiffchaff and a Goldcrest.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Curlew Sandpiper.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier and Hooded Crow both remain.
Mammals
A Badger again revealed its presence.
Diurnal migration takes day off
14th September 2023 – sunny spells W3
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) produced 230 Common Scoter, 58 Sandwich Tern, 12 Razorbill, 9 Gannet, 5 Red-throated Diver, 4 Shag, 2 Guillemot, 2 Arctic Skua and 2 Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A few birds were again on offer including 8 Wheatear, 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest and a Sedge Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Just 12 Swallow were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Curlew Sandpiper and “Luke” the leucistic Curlew.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier remains.
Mammals
A Badger revealed its continued presence.
Offshore
Observations over the sea (0730-0830) produced 230 Common Scoter, 58 Sandwich Tern, 12 Razorbill, 9 Gannet, 5 Red-throated Diver, 4 Shag, 2 Guillemot, 2 Arctic Skua and 2 Arctic Tern.
Grounded Migrants
A few birds were again on offer including 8 Wheatear, 4 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest and a Sedge Warbler.
Diurnal Migration
Just 12 Swallow were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Curlew Sandpiper and “Luke” the leucistic Curlew.
Miscellaneous
The Marsh Harrier remains.
Mammals
A Badger revealed its continued presence.
Another mass arrival of Pink-footed Goose
13th September 2023 – bright and sunny NE1/2
Offshore
A scan of the sea produced a Mediterranean Gull.
Grounded Migrants
A few birds were on offer with 9 Wheatear, 4 Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest, 2 White Wagtail and single Whitethroat and Willow Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies continue to dominate sightings with another massive passage of 6330 Pink-footed Geese recorded through the morning. Additional sightings included 1580 Meadow Pipit, 230 Swallow, 136 Skylark, 10 Grey Wagtail, 7 Siskin, 5 House Martin, 3 Tree Pipit, 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Sand Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 5 Shoveler and 4 Wigeon amongst 180 Teal.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Mammals
A Badger revealed its continued presence.
Offshore
A scan of the sea produced a Mediterranean Gull.
Grounded Migrants
A few birds were on offer with 9 Wheatear, 4 Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest, 2 White Wagtail and single Whitethroat and Willow Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies continue to dominate sightings with another massive passage of 6330 Pink-footed Geese recorded through the morning. Additional sightings included 1580 Meadow Pipit, 230 Swallow, 136 Skylark, 10 Grey Wagtail, 7 Siskin, 5 House Martin, 3 Tree Pipit, 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Sand Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 5 Shoveler and 4 Wigeon amongst 180 Teal.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Mammals
A Badger revealed its continued presence.
Mass arrival of Pink-footed Goose
12th September 2023 – overcast/early rain clearing NE1/3
Offshore
A scan of the sea produced an Arctic Skua and 30 Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
More variety than of late with 72 Wheatear, 43 Robin, 10 Willow Warbler, 9 Goldcrest, 4 Whitethroat, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Chiffchaff and a Garden Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies continued to dominate sightings with a massive passage of 7420 Pink-footed Geese recorded through the morning. Also seen were 1410 Meadow Pipit, 84 Swallow, 64 Skylark, 42 Siskin, 40 Linnet, 32 Grey Wagtail, 20 Carrion Crow, 9 Jackdaw, 3 Tree Sparrow and 2 Tree Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 5 Shoveler remain and waders included 10 Greenshank and a single Ruff.
Miscellaneous
A Marsh Harrier put in another appearance and additional raptors involved Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Peregrine.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap held 85 moths of 26 species. Immigrants involved 6 Rusty Dot Pearl and 2 Silver Y while Large Wainscot and Lunar Underwing were new for the year.
Offshore
A scan of the sea produced an Arctic Skua and 30 Sandwich Tern.
Grounded Migrants
More variety than of late with 72 Wheatear, 43 Robin, 10 Willow Warbler, 9 Goldcrest, 4 Whitethroat, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Chiffchaff and a Garden Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies continued to dominate sightings with a massive passage of 7420 Pink-footed Geese recorded through the morning. Also seen were 1410 Meadow Pipit, 84 Swallow, 64 Skylark, 42 Siskin, 40 Linnet, 32 Grey Wagtail, 20 Carrion Crow, 9 Jackdaw, 3 Tree Sparrow and 2 Tree Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
The 5 Shoveler remain and waders included 10 Greenshank and a single Ruff.
Miscellaneous
A Marsh Harrier put in another appearance and additional raptors involved Sparrowhawk, Kestrel and Peregrine.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap held 85 moths of 26 species. Immigrants involved 6 Rusty Dot Pearl and 2 Silver Y while Large Wainscot and Lunar Underwing were new for the year.
Record breaking post-roost Shag flock
11th September 2023 – overcast rain at times W3/4
Offshore
A check of the sea at dawn revealed a post-roost count of 57 Shag moving out of the bay, also seen were 45 Common Scoter, 38 Shelduck, 3 Gannet, 3 Sandwich Tern and 3 Little Egret.
Grounded Migrants
Again only a few grounded species were seen with 30 Robin, 10 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Wheatear recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Again the skies dominated with totals to mid-morning involving 280 Swallow, 230 Meadow Pipit, 45 Siskin, 30 Tree Sparrow, 20 House Martin, 20 Skylark, 18 Grey Wagtail, 17 Sand Martin, 8 Pink-footed Goose, 5 Tree Pipit and a Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a single Ruff.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and raptors involved Sparrowhawk and Kestrel.
Offshore
A check of the sea at dawn revealed a post-roost count of 57 Shag moving out of the bay, also seen were 45 Common Scoter, 38 Shelduck, 3 Gannet, 3 Sandwich Tern and 3 Little Egret.
Grounded Migrants
Again only a few grounded species were seen with 30 Robin, 10 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Wheatear recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Again the skies dominated with totals to mid-morning involving 280 Swallow, 230 Meadow Pipit, 45 Siskin, 30 Tree Sparrow, 20 House Martin, 20 Skylark, 18 Grey Wagtail, 17 Sand Martin, 8 Pink-footed Goose, 5 Tree Pipit and a Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a single Ruff.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains and raptors involved Sparrowhawk and Kestrel.
Record breaking post-roost Shag flock
10th September 2023 – overcast then thundery showers V1/2
Offshore
A check of the sea at dawn revealed a post-roost count of 57 Shag moving out of the bay, also seen were 45 Common Scoter, 38 Shelduck, 3 Gannet, 3 Sandwich Tern and 3 Little Egret.
Grounded Migrants
Again only a few grounded birds were seen with 30 Robin, 10 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Wheatear recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Again the skies dominated with totals to mid-morning involving 280 Swallow, 230 Meadow Pipit, 45 Siskin, 30 Tree Sparrow, 20 House Martin, 20 Skylark, 18 Grey Wagtail, 17 Sand Martin, 8 Pink-footed Goose, 5 Tree Pipit and a Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a single Ruff.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Offshore
A check of the sea at dawn revealed a post-roost count of 57 Shag moving out of the bay, also seen were 45 Common Scoter, 38 Shelduck, 3 Gannet, 3 Sandwich Tern and 3 Little Egret.
Grounded Migrants
Again only a few grounded birds were seen with 30 Robin, 10 Goldcrest, 4 Chiffchaff and a Wheatear recorded.
Diurnal Migration
Again the skies dominated with totals to mid-morning involving 280 Swallow, 230 Meadow Pipit, 45 Siskin, 30 Tree Sparrow, 20 House Martin, 20 Skylark, 18 Grey Wagtail, 17 Sand Martin, 8 Pink-footed Goose, 5 Tree Pipit and a Lesser Redpoll.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included a single Ruff.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Fogbound!
9th September 2023 – dense fog then sunny spells V1/2
Grounded Migrants
Again and only a few grounded birds were seen with 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest and a Sedge Warbler recorded.
Diurnal Migration
With visibility down to less than 100m at times through the morning only 30 Pink-footed Goose, 4 Tree Sparrow and a single Grey Wagtail were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Teal numbers continue to build with 180 birds seen while waders included 12 Greenshank amongst 500 Redshank.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap held 78 moths of 26 species. Immigrants involved 5 Rusty Dot Pearl while Black Rustic was new for the year.
Grounded Migrants
Again and only a few grounded birds were seen with 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest and a Sedge Warbler recorded.
Diurnal Migration
With visibility down to less than 100m at times through the morning only 30 Pink-footed Goose, 4 Tree Sparrow and a single Grey Wagtail were logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Teal numbers continue to build with 180 birds seen while waders included 12 Greenshank amongst 500 Redshank.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Butterflies and Moths
The moth trap held 78 moths of 26 species. Immigrants involved 5 Rusty Dot Pearl while Black Rustic was new for the year.
Blue-headed Wagtail
8th September 2023 – misty start then hazy sun V1/2
Offshore
A scan of the sea revealed 29 Common Scoter and 12 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Again and only a few grounded birds were seen with a Blue-headed Wagtail the highlight along with 3 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
The skies yet again dominated sightings with 160 Meadow Pipit, 100 Swallow, 51 Grey Wagtail, 36 Skylark, 30 Pink-footed Goose, 28 Tree Sparrow, 14 Yellow Wagtail, 12 Tree Pipit, 11 Pied Wagtail, 11 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting and single Sand Martin and Lesser Redpoll logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 3 Shoveler.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow put in another appearance.
Offshore
A scan of the sea revealed 29 Common Scoter and 12 Shag.
Grounded Migrants
Again and only a few grounded birds were seen with a Blue-headed Wagtail the highlight along with 3 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff.
Diurnal Migration
The skies yet again dominated sightings with 160 Meadow Pipit, 100 Swallow, 51 Grey Wagtail, 36 Skylark, 30 Pink-footed Goose, 28 Tree Sparrow, 14 Yellow Wagtail, 12 Tree Pipit, 11 Pied Wagtail, 11 Siskin, 2 Reed Bunting and single Sand Martin and Lesser Redpoll logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Wildfowl included 3 Shoveler.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow put in another appearance.
More Pink-footed Geese head south
7th September 2023 – overcast ENE2/3
Offshore
A scan of the sea revealed 50 Sandwich Tern, 9 Shag and 6 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Again and only a few grounded birds were seen with 18 Robin, 16 Wheatear, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Whitethroat and a single Sedge Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies again dominated sightings with the continued early return passage of Pink-footed Goose totalling 725 birds. Also seen were 520 Meadow Pipit, 120 Swallow, 42 House Martin, 32 Tree Sparrow, 33 Sand Martin, 19 Grey Wagtail, 18 Skylark, 15 Pied Wagtail, 8 Siskin, 5 Yellow Wagtail and 5 Tree Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Ruff and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow put in another appearance.
Dragonflies
Dragonflies included 28 Migrant Hawker, 20 Common Darter, 15 Common Blue Damselfly, 4 Emerald Damselfly, and single Emperor and Brown Hawker.
Offshore
A scan of the sea revealed 50 Sandwich Tern, 9 Shag and 6 Gannet.
Grounded Migrants
Again and only a few grounded birds were seen with 18 Robin, 16 Wheatear, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Whitethroat and a single Sedge Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies again dominated sightings with the continued early return passage of Pink-footed Goose totalling 725 birds. Also seen were 520 Meadow Pipit, 120 Swallow, 42 House Martin, 32 Tree Sparrow, 33 Sand Martin, 19 Grey Wagtail, 18 Skylark, 15 Pied Wagtail, 8 Siskin, 5 Yellow Wagtail and 5 Tree Pipit logged.
Wildfowl and Waders
Waders included 2 Ruff and a Black-tailed Godwit.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow put in another appearance.
Dragonflies
Dragonflies included 28 Migrant Hawker, 20 Common Darter, 15 Common Blue Damselfly, 4 Emerald Damselfly, and single Emperor and Brown Hawker.
Early Pink-footed Geese head south
6th September 2023 – warm and sunny E2/3
Offshore
A scan of the sea revealed 20 Sandwich Tern, 12 Wigeon, 10 Shag, 9 Gannet, 7 Common Scoter, 4 Pintail and a Red-throated Diver
Grounded Migrants
Again the day dawned bright and clear and only a few grounded birds were seen with 3 Wheatear, 3 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Whitethroat, Blackcap, Garden Warbler and Willow Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies again dominated sightings with passage totals through to mid- morning including 350 Meadow Pipit, 205 Pink-footed Goose, 100 Swallow, 25 Tree Sparrow, 16 Siskin, 14 Grey Wagtail, 14 Skylark, 8 Yellow Wagtail, 4 Sand Martin and 2 Tree Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Shoveler remain and waders included 520 Sanderling and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted at dawn and the long-staying Hooded Crow put in another appearance.
Butterflies and Moths
Butterflies included Red Admiral, Green-veined White, Small White, Small Copper and Small Tortoiseshell.
Offshore
A scan of the sea revealed 20 Sandwich Tern, 12 Wigeon, 10 Shag, 9 Gannet, 7 Common Scoter, 4 Pintail and a Red-throated Diver
Grounded Migrants
Again the day dawned bright and clear and only a few grounded birds were seen with 3 Wheatear, 3 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff and single Whitethroat, Blackcap, Garden Warbler and Willow Warbler logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies again dominated sightings with passage totals through to mid- morning including 350 Meadow Pipit, 205 Pink-footed Goose, 100 Swallow, 25 Tree Sparrow, 16 Siskin, 14 Grey Wagtail, 14 Skylark, 8 Yellow Wagtail, 4 Sand Martin and 2 Tree Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Shoveler remain and waders included 520 Sanderling and a Ruff.
Miscellaneous
A Barn Owl hunted at dawn and the long-staying Hooded Crow put in another appearance.
Butterflies and Moths
Butterflies included Red Admiral, Green-veined White, Small White, Small Copper and Small Tortoiseshell.
Diurnal migration dominates
5th September 2023 – hot and sunny ENE2/4
Grounded Migrants
Again the day dawned bright and clear, however, a few grounded birds were seen with 7 Wheatear, 3 Goldcrest, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Willow Warbler, 2 Sedge Warbler and a Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies continue to dominate sightings with passage totals through the morning including 2170 Swallow, 218 House Martin, 78 Tree Sparrow, 58 Sand Martin, 24 Grey Wagtail, 17 Pied Wagtail, 16 Siskin, 14 Skylark, 5 Yellow Wagtail, 4 Tree Pipit, 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Swift.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Shoveler and 5 Wigeon were amongst 110 Teal while 19 Greenshank were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow put in another appearance and 2 Raven and a Peregrine were the best of the rest.
Grounded Migrants
Again the day dawned bright and clear, however, a few grounded birds were seen with 7 Wheatear, 3 Goldcrest, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Willow Warbler, 2 Sedge Warbler and a Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies continue to dominate sightings with passage totals through the morning including 2170 Swallow, 218 House Martin, 78 Tree Sparrow, 58 Sand Martin, 24 Grey Wagtail, 17 Pied Wagtail, 16 Siskin, 14 Skylark, 5 Yellow Wagtail, 4 Tree Pipit, 2 Lesser Redpoll and a Swift.
Wildfowl and Waders
Two Shoveler and 5 Wigeon were amongst 110 Teal while 19 Greenshank were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
The long-staying Hooded Crow put in another appearance and 2 Raven and a Peregrine were the best of the rest.
Still very little happening
4th September 2023 – warm and sunny ENE2
Offshore
A scan of the sea produced 32 Shag, 26 Common Scoter, 15 Sandwich Tern, 5 Gannet, 2 Great Crested Grebe and a Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
The day dawned bright and clear, consequently only 2 Whitethroat and single Goldcrest and Wheatear were logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were slightly busier with 65 Swallow, 30 Meadow Pipit, 24 Tree Sparrow, 22 Sand Martin, 10 Pied Wagtail, 8 Grey Wagtail, 6 House Martin. 5 Yellow Wagtail and 2 Tree Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Ruff was again the pick of the waders.
Butterflies and Moths
Butterflies included 10 Red Admiral.
Offshore
A scan of the sea produced 32 Shag, 26 Common Scoter, 15 Sandwich Tern, 5 Gannet, 2 Great Crested Grebe and a Red-breasted Merganser.
Grounded Migrants
The day dawned bright and clear, consequently only 2 Whitethroat and single Goldcrest and Wheatear were logged.
Diurnal Migration
The skies were slightly busier with 65 Swallow, 30 Meadow Pipit, 24 Tree Sparrow, 22 Sand Martin, 10 Pied Wagtail, 8 Grey Wagtail, 6 House Martin. 5 Yellow Wagtail and 2 Tree Pipit.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Ruff was again the pick of the waders.
Butterflies and Moths
Butterflies included 10 Red Admiral.
Yellow Wagtail influx
3rd September 2023 – early mist/fog then bright and sunny SW1/2
Offshore
A quick scan of the sea before the fog began to roll in produced a post roost gathering of 43 Shag along with 40 Sandwich Tern and a Common Scoter
Grounded Migrants
Little was grounded despite the conditions with just 15 White Wagtail, 6 Wheatear, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Goldcrest and a Stonechat logged.
Diurnal Migration
The murky conditions halted movement just as it began. Although an exceptional 23 Yellow Wagtail were logged, additional sightings were limited to 70 Swallow, 20 Meadow Pipit, 16 Grey Wagtail, 10 Pied Wagtail, 3 Siskin, 3 Tree Pipit and 2 Sand Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Ruff was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least one Marsh Harrier remains.
Butterflies and Moths
Butterflies involved Comma, Red Admiral, Small Copper, Small White and Green-veined White.
Offshore
A quick scan of the sea before the fog began to roll in produced a post roost gathering of 43 Shag along with 40 Sandwich Tern and a Common Scoter
Grounded Migrants
Little was grounded despite the conditions with just 15 White Wagtail, 6 Wheatear, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Goldcrest and a Stonechat logged.
Diurnal Migration
The murky conditions halted movement just as it began. Although an exceptional 23 Yellow Wagtail were logged, additional sightings were limited to 70 Swallow, 20 Meadow Pipit, 16 Grey Wagtail, 10 Pied Wagtail, 3 Siskin, 3 Tree Pipit and 2 Sand Martin.
Wildfowl and Waders
A Ruff was the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least one Marsh Harrier remains.
Butterflies and Moths
Butterflies involved Comma, Red Admiral, Small Copper, Small White and Green-veined White.
Eyes to the skies
2nd September 2023 – bright and sunny ENE1/2
Offshore
A quick scan of the sea at low tide revealed 120 Sandwich Tern, 6 Gannet and 6 Shag
Grounded Migrants
Little was grounded in the clear conditions with just 11 Robin, 4 Wheatear, 2 Willow Warbler, 2 Goldcrest and single Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Stonechat logged.
Diurnal Migration
In contrast the skies were busy up to mid-morning with totals including 800 Swallow, 60 Sand Martin, 41 Pied Wagtail, 40 Meadow Pipit, 29 Grey Wagtail, 19 Siskin, 10 Tree Pipit, 10 House Martin and 3 Yellow Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
A couple of Wigeon were newly arrived.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
Offshore
A quick scan of the sea at low tide revealed 120 Sandwich Tern, 6 Gannet and 6 Shag
Grounded Migrants
Little was grounded in the clear conditions with just 11 Robin, 4 Wheatear, 2 Willow Warbler, 2 Goldcrest and single Whitethroat, Chiffchaff and Stonechat logged.
Diurnal Migration
In contrast the skies were busy up to mid-morning with totals including 800 Swallow, 60 Sand Martin, 41 Pied Wagtail, 40 Meadow Pipit, 29 Grey Wagtail, 19 Siskin, 10 Tree Pipit, 10 House Martin and 3 Yellow Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
A couple of Wigeon were newly arrived.
Miscellaneous
The Hooded Crow remains.
A relatively quiet start to the month
1st September 2023 – overcast/drizzle clearing E2/3
Grounded Migrants
A quiet start to the month saw 16 White Wagtail, 15 Robin, 8 Wheatear, 4 Whitethroat and single Goldcrest, Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
Another light movement produced 200 Swallow, 12 House Martin, 10 Pied Wagtail and single Sand Martin, Yellow Wagtail and Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Groups of 12 Greenshank and 8 Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Marsh Harrier remain.
Grounded Migrants
A quiet start to the month saw 16 White Wagtail, 15 Robin, 8 Wheatear, 4 Whitethroat and single Goldcrest, Willow Warbler and Chiffchaff logged.
Diurnal Migration
Another light movement produced 200 Swallow, 12 House Martin, 10 Pied Wagtail and single Sand Martin, Yellow Wagtail and Grey Wagtail.
Wildfowl and Waders
Groups of 12 Greenshank and 8 Black-tailed Godwit were the pick of the waders.
Miscellaneous
At least 2 Marsh Harrier remain.
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