Tuesday 17 March 2009

16th March 2009

The fine weather brought a large increase in species as the spring migration got under way in earnest. Even the sea-watching was eventful with 2,500 Common Scoter towards the west hoyle windfarm, a possible record count of Great -crested Grebes at 232 off to the north west, and 36 Mergansers in total.


The 'usual' crop of March unexpected species included 7 Mute Swans going north, 2 pairs of Ravens, 3 House Sparrows, a Sparrowhawk and a Lapwing; while more regular but nevertheless welcome migrants were some finches (5 Redpoll, 2 Goldfinch), also 5 Skylark, 4 Grey & 2 Pied Wagtails, 2 Sand Martins and several Goldcrests.

Pride of place however goes to the first Wheatear of Spring, a fine male found on Middle early morning (see below).


(DB, CJW & SRW) Photos SRW

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