October 29th
With limited time this morning following the early heavy rain we arrived at a showery Reculver to find a film crew had closed the area around the Towers and we couldn't get on to the seawall. We therefore spent half an hour seawatching from the Towers and counted 23 Gannets E, 2 Curlew, 2 Little Egrets, 52 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 2 Red-breasted Mergansers W, 45 Common Scoter E and 1 Woodcock in off the sea and landing beside the Towers.
Monday, 28 October 2019
October 28th
It was a beautiful, sunny, late autumn morning as we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and recorded 7 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 27 Cormorants, 2 Red-breasted Mergansers W, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker flying W over the Towers, 1 Chiffchaff, 17 Skylarks W, 26 Goldfinches, 22 Meadow Pipits, 3 Stonechats, 1 immature Gannet E, 4 Pied Wagtails, 3 Redshank, 76 Corn Buntings, 2 Sparrowhawks, 73 Ringed Plovers, 14 Turnstone, 3 Grey Plovers, 7 Mute Swans, 1 Dunlin, 12 Reed Buntings, 6 Robins, 1 Grey Heron, 80 House Sparrows, 1 Little Grebe and 250 Starlings W.
It was a beautiful, sunny, late autumn morning as we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and recorded 7 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 27 Cormorants, 2 Red-breasted Mergansers W, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker flying W over the Towers, 1 Chiffchaff, 17 Skylarks W, 26 Goldfinches, 22 Meadow Pipits, 3 Stonechats, 1 immature Gannet E, 4 Pied Wagtails, 3 Redshank, 76 Corn Buntings, 2 Sparrowhawks, 73 Ringed Plovers, 14 Turnstone, 3 Grey Plovers, 7 Mute Swans, 1 Dunlin, 12 Reed Buntings, 6 Robins, 1 Grey Heron, 80 House Sparrows, 1 Little Grebe and 250 Starlings W.
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| Goldfinch |
Sunday, 27 October 2019
October 27th
After the rain had cleared through overnight, this morning dawned dry but chilly with a moderate NW wind blowing. We walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and on to the Oyster Farm and we counted 1 Common Buzzard, 32 Chaffinches, 5 Goldcrests, 21 Fieldfares, 5 Redwing, 1 Mistle Thrush, 16 Mute Swans, 12 Blackbirds, 38 Goldfinches, 8 Stonechats, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 33 Skylarks, 4 Coot, 2 Pied Wagtails and 1 Pintail flying W. From Coldharbour onwards we added 11 Cormorants, 8 Swallows, 26 Turnstone, 74 Ringed Plovers, 1 Kestrel, 30 Corn Buntings, 50 House Sparrows, 1 Little Grebe, 14 Meadow Pipits, 2 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 3 Dunlin, 6 Sanderling, 17 Linnets and 1 Chiffchaff.
Marc Heath was out for three hours from 0630 and walked from Reculver to Chamber's Wall and back. He counted 2 Little Owls, 17 Robins, 3 Goldcrests, 6 Oystercatchers, 356 Cormorants, 1 Marsh Harrier, 15 Meadow Pipits, 3 Rock Pipits, 1 Kingfisher, 3 Redshank, 7 Swallows W, 18 Mute Swans, 42 Corn Buntings, 20 Reed Buntings, 7 Goldfinches, 6 Grey Plovers, 87 Ringed Plovers, 1 Merlin W at sea, 33 Turnstone, 11 Sanderling, 1 Pied Wagtail, 10 Linnets, 4 Mallard, 4 Skylarks, 10 Stonechats, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 8 Fieldfares, 2 Common Buzzards, 1 Kestrel, 8 Long-tailed Tits, 8 Chaffinches, 5 Grey Partridges, 1 Tree Sparrow, 80 House Sparrows, 4 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 1 Little Egret and 1 Red-throated Diver.
Derek Smith was also out for four hours this morning and covered the area from Shuart to Plumpudding, Chamber's Wall and the railway embankment. Birds he saw included 12 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 6 Common Buzzards, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Peregrine, 3 Sparrowhawks, 4 Kestrels, 2 Ravens over Shuart Farm, 13 Curlew, 2 Stonechats, 8 Swallows, 1 Grey Wagtail W, 30 Redwings, 6 Fieldfares, 42 Blue Tits, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 26 Chiffchaffs, 34 Goldcrests and 5 Corn Buntings.
After the rain had cleared through overnight, this morning dawned dry but chilly with a moderate NW wind blowing. We walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and on to the Oyster Farm and we counted 1 Common Buzzard, 32 Chaffinches, 5 Goldcrests, 21 Fieldfares, 5 Redwing, 1 Mistle Thrush, 16 Mute Swans, 12 Blackbirds, 38 Goldfinches, 8 Stonechats, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 33 Skylarks, 4 Coot, 2 Pied Wagtails and 1 Pintail flying W. From Coldharbour onwards we added 11 Cormorants, 8 Swallows, 26 Turnstone, 74 Ringed Plovers, 1 Kestrel, 30 Corn Buntings, 50 House Sparrows, 1 Little Grebe, 14 Meadow Pipits, 2 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 3 Dunlin, 6 Sanderling, 17 Linnets and 1 Chiffchaff.
Marc Heath was out for three hours from 0630 and walked from Reculver to Chamber's Wall and back. He counted 2 Little Owls, 17 Robins, 3 Goldcrests, 6 Oystercatchers, 356 Cormorants, 1 Marsh Harrier, 15 Meadow Pipits, 3 Rock Pipits, 1 Kingfisher, 3 Redshank, 7 Swallows W, 18 Mute Swans, 42 Corn Buntings, 20 Reed Buntings, 7 Goldfinches, 6 Grey Plovers, 87 Ringed Plovers, 1 Merlin W at sea, 33 Turnstone, 11 Sanderling, 1 Pied Wagtail, 10 Linnets, 4 Mallard, 4 Skylarks, 10 Stonechats, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 8 Fieldfares, 2 Common Buzzards, 1 Kestrel, 8 Long-tailed Tits, 8 Chaffinches, 5 Grey Partridges, 1 Tree Sparrow, 80 House Sparrows, 4 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 1 Little Egret and 1 Red-throated Diver.
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| Tree Sparrow - Marc Heath |
Derek Smith was also out for four hours this morning and covered the area from Shuart to Plumpudding, Chamber's Wall and the railway embankment. Birds he saw included 12 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 6 Common Buzzards, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Peregrine, 3 Sparrowhawks, 4 Kestrels, 2 Ravens over Shuart Farm, 13 Curlew, 2 Stonechats, 8 Swallows, 1 Grey Wagtail W, 30 Redwings, 6 Fieldfares, 42 Blue Tits, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 26 Chiffchaffs, 34 Goldcrests and 5 Corn Buntings.
Saturday, 26 October 2019
October 26th
On an overcast morning with a very blustery gale force south westerly wind blowing we managed an hour's walk along the seawall at Reculver before getting home to watch the rugby. We recorded 3 Pied Wagtails, 1 Kingfisher, 15 Mute Swans, 27 Ringed Plovers, 4 Redshank, 41 Cormorants, 2 Bearded Tits, 29 Carrion Crows, 8 Linnets, 1 Peregrine, 12 Meadow Pipits, 3 Robins and 3 Siskins W.
On an overcast morning with a very blustery gale force south westerly wind blowing we managed an hour's walk along the seawall at Reculver before getting home to watch the rugby. We recorded 3 Pied Wagtails, 1 Kingfisher, 15 Mute Swans, 27 Ringed Plovers, 4 Redshank, 41 Cormorants, 2 Bearded Tits, 29 Carrion Crows, 8 Linnets, 1 Peregrine, 12 Meadow Pipits, 3 Robins and 3 Siskins W.
Friday, 25 October 2019
October 25th
On a very pleasant morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour, and back with David Barnes. We recorded 2 Goldcrests, 2 Kestrels, 41 Chaffinches, 158 Starlings, 16 Mute Swans, 4 Pied Wagtails, 12 Cormorants, 50 Meadow Pipits, 1 Kingfisher, 3 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 5 Stonechats, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 48 Carrion Crows, 17 Skylarks, 70 Corn Buntings, 1 Sparrowhawk, 100 House Sparrows, 9 Oystercatchers, 78 Ringed Plovers, 48 Reed Buntings, 54 Turnstone, 79 Sanderling, 31 Linnets, 1 Dunlin, 1 Little Grebe, 1 juvenile Gannet E, 3 Tree Sparrows (193rd) in bushes beside the seawall at Coldharbour 7 Grey Plover, 1 Redshank and 7 Swallows E.
Marc Heath was also this morning out half an hour ahead of us and walked from Reculver to Chamber's Wall and saw 1 Little Owl, 1 Green Woodpecker, 2 Jays, 18 Robins, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Rock Pipits, 1 Kestrel, 59 Ringed Plovers, 33 Turnstone, 2 Redshank, 30 Meadow Pipits, 9 Mute Swans, 5 Stonechats, 2 Pheasants, 41 Reed Buntings, 16 Fieldfares, 16 Cormorants, 2 Pied Wagtails, 3 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 7 Swallows, 50 Linnets, 27 Skylarks, 34 Chaffinches, 2 Curlew, 24 Oystercatchers, 12 Golden Plovers, 20 Corn Buntings, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Yellowhammer, 2 Chiffchaffs, 1 Sparrowhawk, 11 Goldcrests, 5 Grey Partridges, 1 Redwing, 1 Guillemot E, 1 Little Egret, 1 Kingfisher and 2 Tree Sparrows with 100 House Sparrows at the junction of the Green Wall and seawall.
On a very pleasant morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour, and back with David Barnes. We recorded 2 Goldcrests, 2 Kestrels, 41 Chaffinches, 158 Starlings, 16 Mute Swans, 4 Pied Wagtails, 12 Cormorants, 50 Meadow Pipits, 1 Kingfisher, 3 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 5 Stonechats, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 48 Carrion Crows, 17 Skylarks, 70 Corn Buntings, 1 Sparrowhawk, 100 House Sparrows, 9 Oystercatchers, 78 Ringed Plovers, 48 Reed Buntings, 54 Turnstone, 79 Sanderling, 31 Linnets, 1 Dunlin, 1 Little Grebe, 1 juvenile Gannet E, 3 Tree Sparrows (193rd) in bushes beside the seawall at Coldharbour 7 Grey Plover, 1 Redshank and 7 Swallows E.
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| Tree Sparrow |
Marc Heath was also this morning out half an hour ahead of us and walked from Reculver to Chamber's Wall and saw 1 Little Owl, 1 Green Woodpecker, 2 Jays, 18 Robins, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Rock Pipits, 1 Kestrel, 59 Ringed Plovers, 33 Turnstone, 2 Redshank, 30 Meadow Pipits, 9 Mute Swans, 5 Stonechats, 2 Pheasants, 41 Reed Buntings, 16 Fieldfares, 16 Cormorants, 2 Pied Wagtails, 3 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 7 Swallows, 50 Linnets, 27 Skylarks, 34 Chaffinches, 2 Curlew, 24 Oystercatchers, 12 Golden Plovers, 20 Corn Buntings, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Yellowhammer, 2 Chiffchaffs, 1 Sparrowhawk, 11 Goldcrests, 5 Grey Partridges, 1 Redwing, 1 Guillemot E, 1 Little Egret, 1 Kingfisher and 2 Tree Sparrows with 100 House Sparrows at the junction of the Green Wall and seawall.
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| Tree Sparrows - Marc Heath |
Thursday, 24 October 2019
October 24th
It was very dull and overcast this morning but with virtually no wind as we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and on to the Oyster Farm. Birds we saw included 122 Chaffinches, 5 Goldcrests, 1 Firecrest, 38 Goldfinches, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Golden Plover, 25 Fieldfares, 2 Long-tailed Tits, 1 Brambling, 22 Reed Buntings, 7 Stonechats, 37 Corn Buntings, 1 Marsh Harrier, 695 Starlings moving W, 2 Mallard, 21 Blackbirds, 40 Linnets, 12 Oystercatchers, 37 Meadow Pipits, 18 Ringed Plovers, 22 Skylarks, 100 House Sparrows, 2 Curlew, 4 Swallows E, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Common Buzzard and 46 Redwings arriving from height at Chamber's Wall.
Marc Heath was also out this morning and walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and back along the railway embankment. He counted 1 Black Redstart at the Towers, 15 Goldcrests, 2 Kingfishers, 21 Oystercatchers, 1 Greenshank calling, 31 Ringed Plovers, 4 Turnstone, 26 Meadow Pipits, 2 Redshank, 1 Teal, 3 Rock Pipits, 42 Reed Buntins, 37 Cormorants, 3 Pied Wagtails, 1 Pheasant, 75 Mallard, 1 Snipe, 5 Lapwings, 5 Grey Partridges, 3 Chiffchaffs, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Pintail, 18 Mute Swans, 5 Cetti's Warblers, 35 Goldfinches, 24 Robins, 4 Stonechats, 19 Skylarks, 6 Gadwall, 1 Little Egret, 1 Curlew, 1 Firecrest, 57 Fieldfares, 65 Corn Buntings, 1 Marsh Harrier, 5 Redwings, 1 Sparrowhawk, 8 Coot, 13 Swallows, 3 Little Grebes and 1 Blackcap.
It was very dull and overcast this morning but with virtually no wind as we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and on to the Oyster Farm. Birds we saw included 122 Chaffinches, 5 Goldcrests, 1 Firecrest, 38 Goldfinches, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Golden Plover, 25 Fieldfares, 2 Long-tailed Tits, 1 Brambling, 22 Reed Buntings, 7 Stonechats, 37 Corn Buntings, 1 Marsh Harrier, 695 Starlings moving W, 2 Mallard, 21 Blackbirds, 40 Linnets, 12 Oystercatchers, 37 Meadow Pipits, 18 Ringed Plovers, 22 Skylarks, 100 House Sparrows, 2 Curlew, 4 Swallows E, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Common Buzzard and 46 Redwings arriving from height at Chamber's Wall.
Marc Heath was also out this morning and walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and back along the railway embankment. He counted 1 Black Redstart at the Towers, 15 Goldcrests, 2 Kingfishers, 21 Oystercatchers, 1 Greenshank calling, 31 Ringed Plovers, 4 Turnstone, 26 Meadow Pipits, 2 Redshank, 1 Teal, 3 Rock Pipits, 42 Reed Buntins, 37 Cormorants, 3 Pied Wagtails, 1 Pheasant, 75 Mallard, 1 Snipe, 5 Lapwings, 5 Grey Partridges, 3 Chiffchaffs, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Pintail, 18 Mute Swans, 5 Cetti's Warblers, 35 Goldfinches, 24 Robins, 4 Stonechats, 19 Skylarks, 6 Gadwall, 1 Little Egret, 1 Curlew, 1 Firecrest, 57 Fieldfares, 65 Corn Buntings, 1 Marsh Harrier, 5 Redwings, 1 Sparrowhawk, 8 Coot, 13 Swallows, 3 Little Grebes and 1 Blackcap.
Wednesday, 23 October 2019
October 23rd
This morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and back. We saw 3 Goldcrests, 2 Swallows E, 3 Little Egrets, 28 Meadow Pipits, 33 Ringed Plovers, 2 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 5 Stonechats, 2 Redshank, 45 Carrion Crows, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Kestrel, 100 House Sparrows, 29 Goldfinches, 112 Oystercatchers, 1 Grey Plover, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 1 Marsh Harrier,1 Rock Pipit, 1 Curlew, 23 Turnstone, 24 Skylarks, 10 Chaffinches, 1 Chiffchaff, 3 Coot, 12 Cormorants, 1 Gannet W, 15 Corn Buntings and 5 Robins.
Whilst we were walking at Reculver, Derek Smith covered Shuart and the embankment and counted 4 Common Buzzards, 36 Lapwings, 1 Water Rail, 1 Swallow E, 8 Siskins W, 2 Lesser Redpoll W (192nd), 3 Brambling, 2 Stonechats, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 16 Chiffchaffs, 40 Goldcrests and 2 Firecrests along Shuart Drove.
A walk around Shuart after lunch produced 12 Goldcrests, 4 Chiffchaffs, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Common Buzzard, 14 Long-tailed Tits, 15 Lapwings, 1 Snipe, 35 Swallows flying E, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Kestrels and 1 Jay.
This morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and back. We saw 3 Goldcrests, 2 Swallows E, 3 Little Egrets, 28 Meadow Pipits, 33 Ringed Plovers, 2 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 5 Stonechats, 2 Redshank, 45 Carrion Crows, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Kestrel, 100 House Sparrows, 29 Goldfinches, 112 Oystercatchers, 1 Grey Plover, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 1 Marsh Harrier,1 Rock Pipit, 1 Curlew, 23 Turnstone, 24 Skylarks, 10 Chaffinches, 1 Chiffchaff, 3 Coot, 12 Cormorants, 1 Gannet W, 15 Corn Buntings and 5 Robins.
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| Cormorant |
Whilst we were walking at Reculver, Derek Smith covered Shuart and the embankment and counted 4 Common Buzzards, 36 Lapwings, 1 Water Rail, 1 Swallow E, 8 Siskins W, 2 Lesser Redpoll W (192nd), 3 Brambling, 2 Stonechats, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 16 Chiffchaffs, 40 Goldcrests and 2 Firecrests along Shuart Drove.
A walk around Shuart after lunch produced 12 Goldcrests, 4 Chiffchaffs, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Common Buzzard, 14 Long-tailed Tits, 15 Lapwings, 1 Snipe, 35 Swallows flying E, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Kestrels and 1 Jay.
Tuesday, 22 October 2019
October 22nd
On a much calmer, overcast morning we completed the Chamber's Wall/Coldharbour/Green Wall loop and recorded 26 Cormorants, 51 Chaffinches, 11 Redwings, 26 Goldcrests, 16 Robins, 15 Fieldfares W, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 1 Marsh Harrier, 6 Chiffchaffs, 3 Coot, 6 Mallard, 6 Stonechats, 9 Song Thrushes, 61 Corn Buntings, 28 Skylarks, 1 Golden Plover, 38 Reed Buntings, 28 Meadow Pipits, 36 Goldfinches, 4 Little Grebes, 7 Oystercatchers, 13 Lapwings, 34 Mute Swans, 1 Redshank, 1 Rock Pipit, 25 Linnets and 1 Brambling.
Just as we were leaving Chamber's Wall I received a call from Derek Smith to say he had found a Great Grey Shrike (191st) near Shuart crossing. By the time we arrived it had been flushed by two dog walkers and was nowhere to be seen however after twenty minutes we refound it sitting on top of a bush about 400 metres away towards Chamber's Wall.
Derek spent from 0800 to 1230 around Shuart and the railway embankment and saw 4 Common Buzzards, 710 Redwings W, 24 Fieldfares W, 8 Blackbirds, 2 Ring Ouzels, 35 Song Thrushes, 58 Skylarks W, 1 Woodlark W, 32 Meadow Pipits W, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker W and 2 Bearded Tits. He also counted 97 Chaffinches W, 8 Greenfinches W, 28 Goldfinches W, 3 Bramblings W, 7 Siskins W, 28 Chiffchaffs, 1 Great Grey Shrike, 60 Goldcrests and 1 Yellowhammer W.
On a much calmer, overcast morning we completed the Chamber's Wall/Coldharbour/Green Wall loop and recorded 26 Cormorants, 51 Chaffinches, 11 Redwings, 26 Goldcrests, 16 Robins, 15 Fieldfares W, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 1 Marsh Harrier, 6 Chiffchaffs, 3 Coot, 6 Mallard, 6 Stonechats, 9 Song Thrushes, 61 Corn Buntings, 28 Skylarks, 1 Golden Plover, 38 Reed Buntings, 28 Meadow Pipits, 36 Goldfinches, 4 Little Grebes, 7 Oystercatchers, 13 Lapwings, 34 Mute Swans, 1 Redshank, 1 Rock Pipit, 25 Linnets and 1 Brambling.
Just as we were leaving Chamber's Wall I received a call from Derek Smith to say he had found a Great Grey Shrike (191st) near Shuart crossing. By the time we arrived it had been flushed by two dog walkers and was nowhere to be seen however after twenty minutes we refound it sitting on top of a bush about 400 metres away towards Chamber's Wall.
Derek spent from 0800 to 1230 around Shuart and the railway embankment and saw 4 Common Buzzards, 710 Redwings W, 24 Fieldfares W, 8 Blackbirds, 2 Ring Ouzels, 35 Song Thrushes, 58 Skylarks W, 1 Woodlark W, 32 Meadow Pipits W, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker W and 2 Bearded Tits. He also counted 97 Chaffinches W, 8 Greenfinches W, 28 Goldfinches W, 3 Bramblings W, 7 Siskins W, 28 Chiffchaffs, 1 Great Grey Shrike, 60 Goldcrests and 1 Yellowhammer W.
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| Great Grey Shrike - Derek Smith |
Monday, 21 October 2019
October 21st
On a very wet morning with a fresh northerly wind we arrived at Minnis Bay at 0755 where we met Marc Heath who was already there and had seen a juvenile Sabine's Gull flying E at 0730. We remained there for two hours and between us we counted 7 Little Gulls E, 5 Guillemots E, 6 Common Scoter, 2 Curlew, 194 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 1 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 95 Gannets E, 1 Rock Pipit, 25 Skylarks E, low over the sea, 1 Razorbill sitting offshore, 1 adult male Peregrine unsuccessfully chasing an incoming Starling, 2 Pintail E, 3 Kittiwake E, 6 Turnstone, 4 Ringed Plovers, 1 Grey Plover, 1 Dunlin, 44 Oystercatchers, 6 Arctic Skuas E, 3 large auks E and 1 Great Skua W.
Marc visited Minnis Bay again betwen 1200 and 1530 and saw another juvenile Sabine's Gull as well as 1 Little Auk (187th), 459 Gannets E, 147 Kittiwakes E, 26 Little Gulls E, 150 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 13 Common Scoter, 4 Guillemots E, 4 large auks E, 1 Merlin E at sea, 1 Spotted Redshank calling and flying E, 8 Great Skuas, 2 Mediterranean Gulls E, 2 Wigeon, 3 Red-breasted Mergansers, 1 Red-throated Diver, 5 Skylarks , 70 Oystercatchers and 8 Little Egrets W.
Derek Smith, Tony Swandale, Julian and Alex Perry and John Cantelo spent most of the day at the Towers. Their highlights included 1 Guillemot, 1 Shag W (186th), 1 Short-eared Owl in off the sea, 1 Long-tailed Skua (188th), 1 Little Auk, 3 Red-breasted Margansers and 1 Little Stint W (189th) .
Anne and I spent an hour at Reculver from 1345 and counted 106 Gannets flying E, 5 Little Gulls E, 24 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 1 Pomarine Skua E (190th), 1 Mediterranean Gull W and 1 Guillemot W.
On a very wet morning with a fresh northerly wind we arrived at Minnis Bay at 0755 where we met Marc Heath who was already there and had seen a juvenile Sabine's Gull flying E at 0730. We remained there for two hours and between us we counted 7 Little Gulls E, 5 Guillemots E, 6 Common Scoter, 2 Curlew, 194 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 1 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 95 Gannets E, 1 Rock Pipit, 25 Skylarks E, low over the sea, 1 Razorbill sitting offshore, 1 adult male Peregrine unsuccessfully chasing an incoming Starling, 2 Pintail E, 3 Kittiwake E, 6 Turnstone, 4 Ringed Plovers, 1 Grey Plover, 1 Dunlin, 44 Oystercatchers, 6 Arctic Skuas E, 3 large auks E and 1 Great Skua W.
Marc visited Minnis Bay again betwen 1200 and 1530 and saw another juvenile Sabine's Gull as well as 1 Little Auk (187th), 459 Gannets E, 147 Kittiwakes E, 26 Little Gulls E, 150 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 13 Common Scoter, 4 Guillemots E, 4 large auks E, 1 Merlin E at sea, 1 Spotted Redshank calling and flying E, 8 Great Skuas, 2 Mediterranean Gulls E, 2 Wigeon, 3 Red-breasted Mergansers, 1 Red-throated Diver, 5 Skylarks , 70 Oystercatchers and 8 Little Egrets W.
Derek Smith, Tony Swandale, Julian and Alex Perry and John Cantelo spent most of the day at the Towers. Their highlights included 1 Guillemot, 1 Shag W (186th), 1 Short-eared Owl in off the sea, 1 Long-tailed Skua (188th), 1 Little Auk, 3 Red-breasted Margansers and 1 Little Stint W (189th) .
Anne and I spent an hour at Reculver from 1345 and counted 106 Gannets flying E, 5 Little Gulls E, 24 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 1 Pomarine Skua E (190th), 1 Mediterranean Gull W and 1 Guillemot W.
Sunday, 20 October 2019
October 20th
This morning we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and then on to the Green Wall and railway embankment. We recorded 1 Marsh Harrier, 55 Chaffinches W, 3 Goldcrests, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 8 Robins, 4 Chiffchaffs, 32 Reed Buntings, 2 Sandwich Terns, 3 Stonechats, 3 Pied Wagtails, 2 Common Buzzards, 16 Mallard, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Little Egret, 1 Curlew, 22 Skylarks, 26 Turnstone, 1 Sanderling, 12 Ringed Plovers, 1 juvenile Gannet W, 21 Meadow Pipits, 28 Carrion Crows, 2 Little Grebes, 36 Corn Buntings, 2 Bearded Tits, 20 Mute Swans, 1 Grey Heron and 4 Coot. We also got tantalising views of a skein of 81 geese flying high and east out at sea.
We met Marc Heath as he walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and back along the embankment. He saw 3 Goldcrests, 1 Grey Heron, 72 Cormorants, 9 Chiffchaffs, 2 Grey Wagtails, 30 Meadow Pipits, 3 Rock Pipits, 1 Kingfisher, 4 Sandwich Terns, 3 Pied Wagtails, 2 Redshank, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Little Egrets, 2 Curlews, 39 Chaffinches, 26 Reed Buntings, 2 Stonechats, 12 Gannets, 29 Corn Buntings, 8 Skylarks, 1 Greenfinch, 42 Turnstone, 9 Ringed Plovers, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 12 Mute Swans, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 30 Mallard, 2 Grey Plovers, 50 Goldfinches, 100 House Sparrows, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 7 Fieldfares W, 1 Wheatear and 13 Brent Geese E.
Derek Smith was also out and had an excellent visit between 0730 and 1330. He walked from Shuart to Brooksend and then on to Plumpudding and the embankment. Birds he counted included 4 Common Buzzards, 1 Sparrowhawk, 8 Little Gulls W, 56 Stock Doves, 9 Ring-necked Parakeets, 1 Ring Ouzel, 80 Skylarks, 1 Grey Wagtail W, 36 alba Wagtails W, 450 Starlings W, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker W, 1 Wheatear, 725 Chaffinches W, 3 Brambling W, 86 Goldfinches W, 42 Greenfinches W, 356 Siskins W, 1 Crossbill W, 55 Chiffchaffs, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 45 Goldcrests and 19 Corn Buntings.
From 1400 to 1600 Derek then walked at Shuart and Plumpudding and counted 24 Gannets E, 3 Little Gulls E, 18 Redwings W, 1 Rock Pipit, 1 Blackcap, 34 Chaffinches W and 1 Yellowhammer.
This morning we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and then on to the Green Wall and railway embankment. We recorded 1 Marsh Harrier, 55 Chaffinches W, 3 Goldcrests, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 8 Robins, 4 Chiffchaffs, 32 Reed Buntings, 2 Sandwich Terns, 3 Stonechats, 3 Pied Wagtails, 2 Common Buzzards, 16 Mallard, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Little Egret, 1 Curlew, 22 Skylarks, 26 Turnstone, 1 Sanderling, 12 Ringed Plovers, 1 juvenile Gannet W, 21 Meadow Pipits, 28 Carrion Crows, 2 Little Grebes, 36 Corn Buntings, 2 Bearded Tits, 20 Mute Swans, 1 Grey Heron and 4 Coot. We also got tantalising views of a skein of 81 geese flying high and east out at sea.
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| Part of the skein of geese flying east out at sea |
We met Marc Heath as he walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and back along the embankment. He saw 3 Goldcrests, 1 Grey Heron, 72 Cormorants, 9 Chiffchaffs, 2 Grey Wagtails, 30 Meadow Pipits, 3 Rock Pipits, 1 Kingfisher, 4 Sandwich Terns, 3 Pied Wagtails, 2 Redshank, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Little Egrets, 2 Curlews, 39 Chaffinches, 26 Reed Buntings, 2 Stonechats, 12 Gannets, 29 Corn Buntings, 8 Skylarks, 1 Greenfinch, 42 Turnstone, 9 Ringed Plovers, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 12 Mute Swans, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 30 Mallard, 2 Grey Plovers, 50 Goldfinches, 100 House Sparrows, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 7 Fieldfares W, 1 Wheatear and 13 Brent Geese E.
Derek Smith was also out and had an excellent visit between 0730 and 1330. He walked from Shuart to Brooksend and then on to Plumpudding and the embankment. Birds he counted included 4 Common Buzzards, 1 Sparrowhawk, 8 Little Gulls W, 56 Stock Doves, 9 Ring-necked Parakeets, 1 Ring Ouzel, 80 Skylarks, 1 Grey Wagtail W, 36 alba Wagtails W, 450 Starlings W, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker W, 1 Wheatear, 725 Chaffinches W, 3 Brambling W, 86 Goldfinches W, 42 Greenfinches W, 356 Siskins W, 1 Crossbill W, 55 Chiffchaffs, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 45 Goldcrests and 19 Corn Buntings.
From 1400 to 1600 Derek then walked at Shuart and Plumpudding and counted 24 Gannets E, 3 Little Gulls E, 18 Redwings W, 1 Rock Pipit, 1 Blackcap, 34 Chaffinches W and 1 Yellowhammer.
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| Yellowhammer - Derek Smith |
Saturday, 19 October 2019
October 19th
The rain had just moved off as we arrived at Reculver for our ringing session at first light this morning. Birds we saw included 2 Green Woodpeckers, 6 Chiffchaffs, 2 Common Buzzards, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 1 Marsh Harrier, 12 Goldcrests, 6 Blackcaps, 10 Robins, 11 Skylarks, 2 Sparrowhawks, 1 Kestrel, 3 Siskins W, 1 Grey Wagtail W, 14 Swallows W, 1 Grey Heron, 9 Pied Wagtails W, 8 House Martins W, 1 female Bullfinch, 12 Chaffinches W and 2 Jays.
Birds ringed 23: Goldcrest 7, Chiffchaff 2, Great Tit 2, Blackcap 4, Robin 2, Bullfinch 1, Dunnock 2, Song Thrush 2, Blackbird 1.
Marc Heath was also out this morning between 0700 and 0900 when he walked from Reculver to Coldharbour. He saw 1 Little Owl, 4 Chiffchaffs, 2 Kingfishers, 25 Meadow Pipits, 3 Wheatears, 110 Cormorants, 1 Kestrel, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Redshank, 29 Reed Buntings, 1 Little Egret, 1 Stonechat, 4 Sandwich Terns, 12 Swallows W, 15 Turnstone, 32 Ringed Plovers, 84 Mallard, 1 Cetti's Warbler, 1 Grey Plover, 100 House Sparrows, 1 Water Rail, 18 Corn Buntings, 1 House Martin W and 80 Chaffinches W.
The rain had just moved off as we arrived at Reculver for our ringing session at first light this morning. Birds we saw included 2 Green Woodpeckers, 6 Chiffchaffs, 2 Common Buzzards, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 1 Marsh Harrier, 12 Goldcrests, 6 Blackcaps, 10 Robins, 11 Skylarks, 2 Sparrowhawks, 1 Kestrel, 3 Siskins W, 1 Grey Wagtail W, 14 Swallows W, 1 Grey Heron, 9 Pied Wagtails W, 8 House Martins W, 1 female Bullfinch, 12 Chaffinches W and 2 Jays.
Birds ringed 23: Goldcrest 7, Chiffchaff 2, Great Tit 2, Blackcap 4, Robin 2, Bullfinch 1, Dunnock 2, Song Thrush 2, Blackbird 1.
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| Female Bullfinch |
Marc Heath was also out this morning between 0700 and 0900 when he walked from Reculver to Coldharbour. He saw 1 Little Owl, 4 Chiffchaffs, 2 Kingfishers, 25 Meadow Pipits, 3 Wheatears, 110 Cormorants, 1 Kestrel, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Redshank, 29 Reed Buntings, 1 Little Egret, 1 Stonechat, 4 Sandwich Terns, 12 Swallows W, 15 Turnstone, 32 Ringed Plovers, 84 Mallard, 1 Cetti's Warbler, 1 Grey Plover, 100 House Sparrows, 1 Water Rail, 18 Corn Buntings, 1 House Martin W and 80 Chaffinches W.
Friday, 18 October 2019
October 18th
With pouring rain this morning we were looking at photos we have taken over the years and came across this one taken by Anne's Mum in 1982.
After the rain cleared through we arrived at Chamber's Wall an hour and a half later than usual just as the sun came out. We walked up to the Green Wall and back and counted 22 Chaffinches, 11 Skylarks, 6 Chiffchaffs, 3 Redwings, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 108 Mallard, 8 Swallows W, 4 Coot, 25 Reed Buntings, 2 Stonechats, 2 Little Egrets, 20 Meadow Pipits, 37 Ringed Plovers, 2 Sandwich Terns, 1 Turnstone, 11 Linnets, 20 Goldfinches, 1 Wheatear, 4 Bearded Tits flying W, 9 Redshank, 2 Oystercatchers, 19 Corn Buntings, 100 House Sparrows, 1 Grey Plover, 1 House Martin W and 2 Pied Wagtails.
Derek Smith was out between 1200 and 1500 in warm and blustery conditions at Shuart and saw 1 Peregrine flying W, 43 Swallows flying S and 30+ Chiffchaffs around the Farm.
With pouring rain this morning we were looking at photos we have taken over the years and came across this one taken by Anne's Mum in 1982.
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| Reculver Coastguard cottages in 1982 just before demolition |
After the rain cleared through we arrived at Chamber's Wall an hour and a half later than usual just as the sun came out. We walked up to the Green Wall and back and counted 22 Chaffinches, 11 Skylarks, 6 Chiffchaffs, 3 Redwings, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 108 Mallard, 8 Swallows W, 4 Coot, 25 Reed Buntings, 2 Stonechats, 2 Little Egrets, 20 Meadow Pipits, 37 Ringed Plovers, 2 Sandwich Terns, 1 Turnstone, 11 Linnets, 20 Goldfinches, 1 Wheatear, 4 Bearded Tits flying W, 9 Redshank, 2 Oystercatchers, 19 Corn Buntings, 100 House Sparrows, 1 Grey Plover, 1 House Martin W and 2 Pied Wagtails.
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| Corn Bunting feeding on seeds on the seawall |
Derek Smith was out between 1200 and 1500 in warm and blustery conditions at Shuart and saw 1 Peregrine flying W, 43 Swallows flying S and 30+ Chiffchaffs around the Farm.
Thursday, 17 October 2019
October 17th
Almost the first birds we saw as we arrived at Reculver this morning were 4 Cattle Egrets flying E past the Towers (185th) . This is only the second record for the area following the first last year.
Other birds seen during our walk to Coldharbour were 8 Swallows W, 41 Linnets, 67 Meadow Pipits, 5 Little Egrets, 3 Pied Wagtails, 1 Grey Heron, 59 Goldfinches, 26 Cormorants, 11 Redshank, 40 Carrion Crows, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Wheatears, 6 Corn Buntings, 100 House Sparrows, 91 Mallard, 15 Reed Buntings, 1 Curlew, 1 Sandwich Tern, 13 Skylarks, 1 adult Mediterranean Gull E, 3 Coot, 11 Turnstone, 6 Ringed Plovers, 1 male Marsh Harrier and 1 Kingfisher.
Almost the first birds we saw as we arrived at Reculver this morning were 4 Cattle Egrets flying E past the Towers (185th) . This is only the second record for the area following the first last year.
Other birds seen during our walk to Coldharbour were 8 Swallows W, 41 Linnets, 67 Meadow Pipits, 5 Little Egrets, 3 Pied Wagtails, 1 Grey Heron, 59 Goldfinches, 26 Cormorants, 11 Redshank, 40 Carrion Crows, 2 Oystercatchers, 2 Wheatears, 6 Corn Buntings, 100 House Sparrows, 91 Mallard, 15 Reed Buntings, 1 Curlew, 1 Sandwich Tern, 13 Skylarks, 1 adult Mediterranean Gull E, 3 Coot, 11 Turnstone, 6 Ringed Plovers, 1 male Marsh Harrier and 1 Kingfisher.
Wednesday, 16 October 2019
October 16th
We didn't manage to get out today until after lunch when we had a walk at Chamber's Wall. We recorded 4 Chiffchaffs, 6 Skylarks, 7 Goldcrests, 3 Robins, 28 Chaffinches W, 26 Goldfinches W, 10 Coot, 1 Curlew, 2 Fieldfares, 4 Siskins W, 8 Linnets, 1 Kestrel, 73 Mallard, 4 Swallows W and 2 Common Buzzards squabbling over a dead Stock Dove.
Derek Smith was out between 1230 and 1600 and walked from Shuart along the railway embankment and recorded 4 Grey Herons, 72 Swallows W, 85 Chaffinches W, 4 Siskins W, 1 Greenfinch W, 36 Goldfinches W, 2 Blackcaps and 35 Chiffchaffs.
We didn't manage to get out today until after lunch when we had a walk at Chamber's Wall. We recorded 4 Chiffchaffs, 6 Skylarks, 7 Goldcrests, 3 Robins, 28 Chaffinches W, 26 Goldfinches W, 10 Coot, 1 Curlew, 2 Fieldfares, 4 Siskins W, 8 Linnets, 1 Kestrel, 73 Mallard, 4 Swallows W and 2 Common Buzzards squabbling over a dead Stock Dove.
Derek Smith was out between 1230 and 1600 and walked from Shuart along the railway embankment and recorded 4 Grey Herons, 72 Swallows W, 85 Chaffinches W, 4 Siskins W, 1 Greenfinch W, 36 Goldfinches W, 2 Blackcaps and 35 Chiffchaffs.
Tuesday, 15 October 2019
October 15th
With light showers and drizzle being blown over by a light SW wind we had an excellent morning walking from Chamber's Wall to the Oyster Farm lagoons. We saw 16 Song Thrushes, 37 Chiffchaffs, 158 Chaffinches W, 1 Merlin, 13 Redwings, 20 Blackbirds, 2 Blackcaps, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 4 Goldcrests, 8 Blue Tits, 10 Great Tits, 22 Goldfinches, 77 Mallard, 1 Ring Ouzel and 9 Bearded Tits calling and flying high W (184th).
From Coldharbour the species we saw included 6 Swallows, 5 Stonechats, 1 Curlew, 25 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 6 Golden Plovers, 9 Ringed Plovers, 2 Oystercatchers, 11 Skylarks, 2 Wheatears, 34 Meadow Pipits on the beach, 2 Redshank, 7 Turnstone, 1 Grey Plover, 1 Black Redstart catching flies on the seawall, 8 Corn Buntings, 100 House Sparrow, 2 Little Grebes, 1 Little Egret, 4 Coot, 1 Green Woodpecker, 2 Ravens flying S, 3 Siskin W and 8 Dunnocks.
Between 1230 and 1500 Derek Smith walked around Shuart and the railway embankment and recorded 8 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 1 Merlin in off the sea, 1 Ring Ouzel, 400 Starlings W, 1 Grey Wagtail W, 230 Chaffinches W, 2 Bearded Tits, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 4 Blackcaps, 80 Chiffchaffs and 22 Goldcrests.
With light showers and drizzle being blown over by a light SW wind we had an excellent morning walking from Chamber's Wall to the Oyster Farm lagoons. We saw 16 Song Thrushes, 37 Chiffchaffs, 158 Chaffinches W, 1 Merlin, 13 Redwings, 20 Blackbirds, 2 Blackcaps, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 4 Goldcrests, 8 Blue Tits, 10 Great Tits, 22 Goldfinches, 77 Mallard, 1 Ring Ouzel and 9 Bearded Tits calling and flying high W (184th).
From Coldharbour the species we saw included 6 Swallows, 5 Stonechats, 1 Curlew, 25 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 6 Golden Plovers, 9 Ringed Plovers, 2 Oystercatchers, 11 Skylarks, 2 Wheatears, 34 Meadow Pipits on the beach, 2 Redshank, 7 Turnstone, 1 Grey Plover, 1 Black Redstart catching flies on the seawall, 8 Corn Buntings, 100 House Sparrow, 2 Little Grebes, 1 Little Egret, 4 Coot, 1 Green Woodpecker, 2 Ravens flying S, 3 Siskin W and 8 Dunnocks.
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| Black Redstart |
Between 1230 and 1500 Derek Smith walked around Shuart and the railway embankment and recorded 8 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 1 Merlin in off the sea, 1 Ring Ouzel, 400 Starlings W, 1 Grey Wagtail W, 230 Chaffinches W, 2 Bearded Tits, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 4 Blackcaps, 80 Chiffchaffs and 22 Goldcrests.
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| Bearded Tit - Derek Smith |
Monday, 14 October 2019
October 14th
We managed an hour's ringing at Reculver this morning before the rain arrived and we had to pack up. Birds we saw included 2 Common Buzzards, 2 Jays, 4 Siskins, 1 Kingfisher, 10 Blackcaps, 2 Redwing, 10 Song Thrushes, 5 Chiffchaffs, 4 Goldcrests, 3 Mute Swans, 1 Brambling, 9 Robins and 1 Coal Tit.
Birds ringed 18: Chiffchaff 3, Blackcap 8, Robin 3, Blue Tit 1, Song Thrush 3.
After we had finished ringing Matt had a walk in the pouring rain at Reculver on the cliffes and around the bushes. He recorded 2 Corn Buntings, 8 Blackcaps, 14 Chiffchaffs, 1 Water Pipit (183rd), 3 Goldcrests, 1 Merlin in off the sea, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Whinchat, 5 Stonechats, 2 Sparrowhawks, 1 Wheatear, 14 Song Thrushes, 3 Redwings, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Rock Pipit, 30 Chaffinches and 1 Siskin.
Derek Smith spent the day walking from Shuart and along the embankment and then back to Plumpudding Netherhale and Brooksend. Between 0730 and 1700 he counted 3 Gannets E, 1 Marsh Harrier, 184 Sanderling at Plumpudding, 1 Jay W, 25 Song Thrushes, 20 Redwing, 2 Ring Ouzels, 3 Stonechats, 280 Chaffinches, 1 Brambling, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 19 Blackcaps, 160 Chiffchaffs, 65 Goldcrests and 5 Corn Buntings.
We managed an hour's ringing at Reculver this morning before the rain arrived and we had to pack up. Birds we saw included 2 Common Buzzards, 2 Jays, 4 Siskins, 1 Kingfisher, 10 Blackcaps, 2 Redwing, 10 Song Thrushes, 5 Chiffchaffs, 4 Goldcrests, 3 Mute Swans, 1 Brambling, 9 Robins and 1 Coal Tit.
Birds ringed 18: Chiffchaff 3, Blackcap 8, Robin 3, Blue Tit 1, Song Thrush 3.
After we had finished ringing Matt had a walk in the pouring rain at Reculver on the cliffes and around the bushes. He recorded 2 Corn Buntings, 8 Blackcaps, 14 Chiffchaffs, 1 Water Pipit (183rd), 3 Goldcrests, 1 Merlin in off the sea, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Whinchat, 5 Stonechats, 2 Sparrowhawks, 1 Wheatear, 14 Song Thrushes, 3 Redwings, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Rock Pipit, 30 Chaffinches and 1 Siskin.
Derek Smith spent the day walking from Shuart and along the embankment and then back to Plumpudding Netherhale and Brooksend. Between 0730 and 1700 he counted 3 Gannets E, 1 Marsh Harrier, 184 Sanderling at Plumpudding, 1 Jay W, 25 Song Thrushes, 20 Redwing, 2 Ring Ouzels, 3 Stonechats, 280 Chaffinches, 1 Brambling, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 19 Blackcaps, 160 Chiffchaffs, 65 Goldcrests and 5 Corn Buntings.
Sunday, 13 October 2019
October 13th
For a change it wasn't raining this morning as we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and back along the Green Wall and railway embankment. We recorded 2 Kestrels, 1 Green Woodpecker, 27 Skylarks, 4 Goldcrests, 8 Redwings, 115 Lapwings, 4 Chiffchaffs, 25 Goldfinches, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 243 Chaffinches W, 142 Mallard, 4 Stonechats, 11 Siskins W, 15 Oystercatchers, 1 Turnstone, 2 Little Egrets, 1 Teal, 36 Linnets, 1 Wheatear, 100 House Sparrows, 18 Corn Buntings, 1 Jay and 1 Golden Plover.
Anthea Skiffington and Bob Dewire walked from Shuart to Plumpudding between 1000 and 1115 and counted 1,144 Chaffinches moving W and also 9 Redwing and 3 Fieldfares.
For a change it wasn't raining this morning as we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and back along the Green Wall and railway embankment. We recorded 2 Kestrels, 1 Green Woodpecker, 27 Skylarks, 4 Goldcrests, 8 Redwings, 115 Lapwings, 4 Chiffchaffs, 25 Goldfinches, 2 Cetti's Warblers, 243 Chaffinches W, 142 Mallard, 4 Stonechats, 11 Siskins W, 15 Oystercatchers, 1 Turnstone, 2 Little Egrets, 1 Teal, 36 Linnets, 1 Wheatear, 100 House Sparrows, 18 Corn Buntings, 1 Jay and 1 Golden Plover.
Anthea Skiffington and Bob Dewire walked from Shuart to Plumpudding between 1000 and 1115 and counted 1,144 Chaffinches moving W and also 9 Redwing and 3 Fieldfares.
Saturday, 12 October 2019
October 12th
On a dull and drizzly morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour where we me Matt who had walked in from Shuart. Birds we saw between us included 2 Pied Wagtails, 2 Wheatears, 1 Kestrel, 22 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 30 Meadow Pipits, 20 Robins, 42 Carrion Crows, 14 Linnets, 14 Corn Buntings, 4 Mallard, 90 Golden Plovers, 80 Reed Buntings, 2 Stonechats, 13 Chiffchaffs, 10 Goldcrests, 4 Song Thrushes, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 10 Long-tailed Tits, 17 Ringed Plovers, 2 Turnstone, 1 Rock Pipit, 1 Kingfisher, 1 adult Mediterranean Gull and 1 House Martin.
Marc Heath was also out this morning and walked from Reculver to Coldharbour an hour before us. He recorded 5 Goldcrests, 2 adult Mediterranean Gulls W, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Little Owl, 13 Meadow Pipits, 2 Chiffchaffs, 1 Little Egret, 1 Curlew, 3 Pied Wagtails, 4 Redshank, 1 Grey Plover, 2 Grey Herons, 14 Cormorants, 3 Oystercatchers, 7 Reed Buntings, 12 Ringed Plovers, 1 Turnstone, 120 Mallard, 1 Blackcap, 5 Corn Buntings, 1 Wheatear, 1 Skylark, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Cetti's Warbler, 12 Great Spotted Woodpecker and 1 Mistle Thrush.
Derek Smith and Patrick Giles spent nearly 12 hours out in the rain and covered the whole of the eastern section of the Marsh from Chamber's Wall and Coldharbour to Brooksend and Netherhale and south to Potten Street. They counted 4 Common Buzzards, 5 Sparrowhawks, 85 Lapwings, 4 Grey Plovers, 60 Sanderling, 30 Redwings W, 35 Song Thrushes, 55 Blackbirds, 23 Skylarks W, 10 alba Wagtails W, 25 Meadow Pipits W, 50 House Sparrows, 4 Siskins W, 118 Chaffinches W, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 84 Chiffchaffs, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler at Netherhale and 56 Goldcrests.
On a dull and drizzly morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour where we me Matt who had walked in from Shuart. Birds we saw between us included 2 Pied Wagtails, 2 Wheatears, 1 Kestrel, 22 Cormorants, 1 Grey Heron, 30 Meadow Pipits, 20 Robins, 42 Carrion Crows, 14 Linnets, 14 Corn Buntings, 4 Mallard, 90 Golden Plovers, 80 Reed Buntings, 2 Stonechats, 13 Chiffchaffs, 10 Goldcrests, 4 Song Thrushes, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 10 Long-tailed Tits, 17 Ringed Plovers, 2 Turnstone, 1 Rock Pipit, 1 Kingfisher, 1 adult Mediterranean Gull and 1 House Martin.
Marc Heath was also out this morning and walked from Reculver to Coldharbour an hour before us. He recorded 5 Goldcrests, 2 adult Mediterranean Gulls W, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Little Owl, 13 Meadow Pipits, 2 Chiffchaffs, 1 Little Egret, 1 Curlew, 3 Pied Wagtails, 4 Redshank, 1 Grey Plover, 2 Grey Herons, 14 Cormorants, 3 Oystercatchers, 7 Reed Buntings, 12 Ringed Plovers, 1 Turnstone, 120 Mallard, 1 Blackcap, 5 Corn Buntings, 1 Wheatear, 1 Skylark, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Cetti's Warbler, 12 Great Spotted Woodpecker and 1 Mistle Thrush.
Derek Smith and Patrick Giles spent nearly 12 hours out in the rain and covered the whole of the eastern section of the Marsh from Chamber's Wall and Coldharbour to Brooksend and Netherhale and south to Potten Street. They counted 4 Common Buzzards, 5 Sparrowhawks, 85 Lapwings, 4 Grey Plovers, 60 Sanderling, 30 Redwings W, 35 Song Thrushes, 55 Blackbirds, 23 Skylarks W, 10 alba Wagtails W, 25 Meadow Pipits W, 50 House Sparrows, 4 Siskins W, 118 Chaffinches W, 4 Cetti's Warblers, 84 Chiffchaffs, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler at Netherhale and 56 Goldcrests.
Friday, 11 October 2019
October 11th
It was overcast and drizzly with a fresh to strong SSW wind blowing this morning as we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and back along the Green Wall. We saw 3 Wheatears, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Sparrowhawk, 15 Golden Plovers, 9 Chiffchaffs, 6 Coot, 1 Kestrel, 3 Goldcrests, 8 Goldfinches, 25 Mallard, 3 Corn Buntings, 1 Little Egret, 13 Oystercatchers, 1 Turnstone, 14 Linnets, 2 Ringed Plovers, 2 Little Grebes, 1 Grey Heron, 1 male Merlin, 70 Lapwings and 1 Red-legged Partridge.
It was overcast and drizzly with a fresh to strong SSW wind blowing this morning as we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and back along the Green Wall. We saw 3 Wheatears, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Sparrowhawk, 15 Golden Plovers, 9 Chiffchaffs, 6 Coot, 1 Kestrel, 3 Goldcrests, 8 Goldfinches, 25 Mallard, 3 Corn Buntings, 1 Little Egret, 13 Oystercatchers, 1 Turnstone, 14 Linnets, 2 Ringed Plovers, 2 Little Grebes, 1 Grey Heron, 1 male Merlin, 70 Lapwings and 1 Red-legged Partridge.
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| Wheatear |
Thursday, 10 October 2019
October 10th
On a cooler but sunny morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and found it quieter than yesterday. We managed to see 3 Pied Wagtails, 2 Kestrels, 14 Cormorants, 51 Goldfinches, 4 Little Egrets, 12 Linnets, 31 Meadow Pipits, 8 Redshank, 64 House Martins W, 7 Turnstone, 3 Oystercatchers, 3 Coot, 14 Ringed Plovers, 4 Swallows W, 7 Skylarks, 2 Stonechtas, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Rock Pipits and 1 Curlew.
At Plumpudding lagoon at high tide Terry Wilson counted 40 Sanderling, 4 Redshank, 20 Turnstone, 4 Curlew, 2 Kestrels and 1 Peregrine.
On a cooler but sunny morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and found it quieter than yesterday. We managed to see 3 Pied Wagtails, 2 Kestrels, 14 Cormorants, 51 Goldfinches, 4 Little Egrets, 12 Linnets, 31 Meadow Pipits, 8 Redshank, 64 House Martins W, 7 Turnstone, 3 Oystercatchers, 3 Coot, 14 Ringed Plovers, 4 Swallows W, 7 Skylarks, 2 Stonechtas, 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Rock Pipits and 1 Curlew.
At Plumpudding lagoon at high tide Terry Wilson counted 40 Sanderling, 4 Redshank, 20 Turnstone, 4 Curlew, 2 Kestrels and 1 Peregrine.
Wednesday, 9 October 2019
October 9th
This morning we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and back along the Green Wall and railway embankment. Birds we saw included 16 Chiffchaffs, 3 Goldcrests, 17 Swallows moving W, 1 Kestrel, 1 Grey Heron, 72 Goldfinches, 4 Coot, 47 Cormorants, 58 Lapwings, 61 Linnets, 2 Little Egrets, 1 Cetti's Warbler, 36 Oystercatchers, 3 Turnstone, 10 Mallard, 1 Stonechat, 42 Carrion Crows, 5 Corn Buntings, 1 Greenshank, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Curlew, 1 Green Woodpecker and 3 Common Buzzards.
This afternoon Mark Chidwick had a Snow Bunting fly in off the sea at Plumpudding before it flew west along the beach.
This morning we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and back along the Green Wall and railway embankment. Birds we saw included 16 Chiffchaffs, 3 Goldcrests, 17 Swallows moving W, 1 Kestrel, 1 Grey Heron, 72 Goldfinches, 4 Coot, 47 Cormorants, 58 Lapwings, 61 Linnets, 2 Little Egrets, 1 Cetti's Warbler, 36 Oystercatchers, 3 Turnstone, 10 Mallard, 1 Stonechat, 42 Carrion Crows, 5 Corn Buntings, 1 Greenshank, 1 Little Ringed Plover, 1 Curlew, 1 Green Woodpecker and 3 Common Buzzards.
This afternoon Mark Chidwick had a Snow Bunting fly in off the sea at Plumpudding before it flew west along the beach.
Tuesday, 8 October 2019
October 8th
On a cloudy morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and back and counted 12 Long-tailed Tits, 9 Chiffchaffs, 2 Grey Herons, 1 Kingfisher, 5 Pied Wagtails, 60 Goldfinches, 51 Meadow Pipits, 27 Mallard, 6 Rock Pipits, 1 Redshank, 44 Carrion Crows, 1 Greenshank, 3 Corn Buntings, 21 Skylarks, 21 Oystercatchers, 32 Cormorants, 45 Linnets, 3 Snipe SW, 4 Stonechats, 10 Ringed Plovers, 2 Kestrels, 2 Turnstone, 1 Golden Plover, 22 House Martins W, 1 Wheatear and 1 Purple Sandpiper (182nd) on the rocks at Reculver.
This afternoon we walked from Chamber's Wall up to the White Poplars and recorded 22 House Martins W, 7 Chiffchaffs, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Sparrowhawk, 3 Swallows W, 4 Coot, 1 Cetti's Warbler, 1 Kestrel and 1 Wigeon.
On a cloudy morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour and back and counted 12 Long-tailed Tits, 9 Chiffchaffs, 2 Grey Herons, 1 Kingfisher, 5 Pied Wagtails, 60 Goldfinches, 51 Meadow Pipits, 27 Mallard, 6 Rock Pipits, 1 Redshank, 44 Carrion Crows, 1 Greenshank, 3 Corn Buntings, 21 Skylarks, 21 Oystercatchers, 32 Cormorants, 45 Linnets, 3 Snipe SW, 4 Stonechats, 10 Ringed Plovers, 2 Kestrels, 2 Turnstone, 1 Golden Plover, 22 House Martins W, 1 Wheatear and 1 Purple Sandpiper (182nd) on the rocks at Reculver.
This afternoon we walked from Chamber's Wall up to the White Poplars and recorded 22 House Martins W, 7 Chiffchaffs, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Sparrowhawk, 3 Swallows W, 4 Coot, 1 Cetti's Warbler, 1 Kestrel and 1 Wigeon.
Monday, 7 October 2019
October 7th
This morning we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and then on to the Oyster Farm. We saw 10 Chiffchaffs, 31 Skylarks, 7 Robins, 9 Goldcrests, 3 Song Thrushes, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 31 Goldfinches, 1 Lesser Whitethroat feeding on blackberries, 4 Coot, 18 Chaffinches and 1 Kestrel. We also recorded 1 Corn Bunting, 1 Golden Plover, 1 Grey Partridge, 1 Grey Heron, 4 Stonechats, 1 Redshank, 44 Mallard, 148 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 6 Swallows W, 14 Turnstone, 20 Cormorants, 18 Meadow Pipits, 1 House Martin W, 1 Wheatear, 1 Dunlin, 1 Curlew, 18 Linnets, 1 alba Wagtail W, 6 Redwings, 12 Blue Tits and 1 Green Woodpecker.
We also met Dave Smith and had a chat after which he walked along the railway embankment and found a Yellow-browed Warbler near the Shuart crossing. Other birds he saw during the morning and early afternoon included 1 Brambling, 1 Hobby, 1 Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Warblers, 6+ Blackcaps, 16+ Chiffchaffs, 1 Dark-bellied Brent Goose, 3 Wheatears, 2 Rock Pipits, 3 Redwings, 3 Swallows and 15+ House Martins. He also saw several Migrant Hawkers and Common Darters.
This afternoon Glynn Crocker refound the Yellow-browed Warbler at Shuart crossing and managed to get a photograph.
This morning we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and then on to the Oyster Farm. We saw 10 Chiffchaffs, 31 Skylarks, 7 Robins, 9 Goldcrests, 3 Song Thrushes, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 31 Goldfinches, 1 Lesser Whitethroat feeding on blackberries, 4 Coot, 18 Chaffinches and 1 Kestrel. We also recorded 1 Corn Bunting, 1 Golden Plover, 1 Grey Partridge, 1 Grey Heron, 4 Stonechats, 1 Redshank, 44 Mallard, 148 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 6 Swallows W, 14 Turnstone, 20 Cormorants, 18 Meadow Pipits, 1 House Martin W, 1 Wheatear, 1 Dunlin, 1 Curlew, 18 Linnets, 1 alba Wagtail W, 6 Redwings, 12 Blue Tits and 1 Green Woodpecker.
We also met Dave Smith and had a chat after which he walked along the railway embankment and found a Yellow-browed Warbler near the Shuart crossing. Other birds he saw during the morning and early afternoon included 1 Brambling, 1 Hobby, 1 Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Warblers, 6+ Blackcaps, 16+ Chiffchaffs, 1 Dark-bellied Brent Goose, 3 Wheatears, 2 Rock Pipits, 3 Redwings, 3 Swallows and 15+ House Martins. He also saw several Migrant Hawkers and Common Darters.
This afternoon Glynn Crocker refound the Yellow-browed Warbler at Shuart crossing and managed to get a photograph.
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| Yellow-browed Warbler - Glynn Crocker |
Sunday, 6 October 2019
October 6th
Matt spent over an hour in the rain this morning at Reculver seawatching from the Towers and walking around the area. He recorded 22 Wigeon W, 11 Teal W, 9 Shelduck W, 8 Little Egrets, 2 Curlews, 46 Oystercatchers, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Rock Pipits, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Red- breasted Merganser W, 1 Gadwall W, 1 Blackbird flying in off the sea in the pouring rain, 2 Pochard W and 1 Heron.
This afternoon we had an 80 minute seawatch from the Towers where we were joined by Chris Gibbard. There wasn't a great deal to be seen but we did count 129 Brent Geese W, 4 Teal, 2 Gannets, 5 Pintail W, 16 Wigeon W, 15 Common Scoter, 2 Sandwich Terns, 1 Red-throated Diver and 1 Mediterranean Gull W. Chris also had a juvenile Arctic Tern W after we had left.
Matt spent over an hour in the rain this morning at Reculver seawatching from the Towers and walking around the area. He recorded 22 Wigeon W, 11 Teal W, 9 Shelduck W, 8 Little Egrets, 2 Curlews, 46 Oystercatchers, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Rock Pipits, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Red- breasted Merganser W, 1 Gadwall W, 1 Blackbird flying in off the sea in the pouring rain, 2 Pochard W and 1 Heron.
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| "Continental" Song Thrush feeding in my garden at Bishopstone |
This afternoon we had an 80 minute seawatch from the Towers where we were joined by Chris Gibbard. There wasn't a great deal to be seen but we did count 129 Brent Geese W, 4 Teal, 2 Gannets, 5 Pintail W, 16 Wigeon W, 15 Common Scoter, 2 Sandwich Terns, 1 Red-throated Diver and 1 Mediterranean Gull W. Chris also had a juvenile Arctic Tern W after we had left.
Saturday, 5 October 2019
October 5th
This morning we had a very good ringing session at Reculver and also saw 4 Cetti's Warblers, 11 Song Thrushes, 2 Redwings, 1 Snipe, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 50 Goldcrests, 3 Sparrowhawks, 4 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 1 Firecrest, 12 Blackcaps, 20 Chiffchaffs, 1 Golden Plover , 2 Wigeon, 1 Greenshank, 2 Grey Wagtails, 5 Jays, 2 Siskins, 8 alba Wagtails W, 14 Goldfinches, 3 Grey Herons, 6 House Martins, 4 Ring-necked Parakeets, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, 2 Kestrels, 2 Swallows, 12 Skylarks, 1 Lapwing, 2 Mistle Thrush and 1 Coal Tit.
Birds ringed 72: Goldcrest 33, Firecrest 1, Chiffchaff 14, Wren 1, Robin 2, Blackcap 8, Blue Tit 6, Great Tit 1, Dunnock 1, Song Thrush 4, Sparrowhawk 1.
This afternoon Matt had a walk at Brooksend, Minnis Bay and Shuart and recorded 17 Ring-necked Parakeets, 1 Jack Snipe flushed from the edge of the path at Minnis Bay, 20 Common Scoter, 1 Peregrine, 2 Sandwich Terns and 6 Redwings.
This morning we had a very good ringing session at Reculver and also saw 4 Cetti's Warblers, 11 Song Thrushes, 2 Redwings, 1 Snipe, 3 Green Woodpeckers, 50 Goldcrests, 3 Sparrowhawks, 4 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 1 Firecrest, 12 Blackcaps, 20 Chiffchaffs, 1 Golden Plover , 2 Wigeon, 1 Greenshank, 2 Grey Wagtails, 5 Jays, 2 Siskins, 8 alba Wagtails W, 14 Goldfinches, 3 Grey Herons, 6 House Martins, 4 Ring-necked Parakeets, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, 2 Kestrels, 2 Swallows, 12 Skylarks, 1 Lapwing, 2 Mistle Thrush and 1 Coal Tit.
Birds ringed 72: Goldcrest 33, Firecrest 1, Chiffchaff 14, Wren 1, Robin 2, Blackcap 8, Blue Tit 6, Great Tit 1, Dunnock 1, Song Thrush 4, Sparrowhawk 1.
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| Firecrest |
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| Juvenile male Sparrowhawk |
This afternoon Matt had a walk at Brooksend, Minnis Bay and Shuart and recorded 17 Ring-necked Parakeets, 1 Jack Snipe flushed from the edge of the path at Minnis Bay, 20 Common Scoter, 1 Peregrine, 2 Sandwich Terns and 6 Redwings.
Friday, 4 October 2019
October 4th
On an overcast and breezy morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour. Birds we saw included 1 Yellow-browed Warbler (181st) calling in the trees near the cafe, 12 Chiffchaffs, 4 Goldcrests, 1 Blackcap, 1 Brambling, 2 Sparrowhawks, 5 Rock Pipits, 81 Meadow Pipits, 6 Swallows, 1 Kestrel, 4 Oystercatchers, 54 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 9 Blue Tits and 10 Great Tits flying W along the seawall, 52 Linnets, 10 Goldfinches, 4 Stonechats, 22 Carrion Crows, 2 Little Egrets, 10 Skylarks, 1 Whinchat, 34 Mallard, 17 House Martins W, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Corn Bunting, 3 Shelduck W and 2 Sandwich Terns W.
For two hours either side of midday there was a large movement of mainly House Martins with lesser numbers of Swallows. The same thing was happening at Grenham and Minnis Bay where Terry Wilson saw the same thing. At Bishopstone at midday I counted about 100 House Martins flying W per minute with also about 10 Swallows per minute. Lesser numbers continued moving all afternoon.
This afternoon I had a call from Matt to say he had caught a Marsh Tit in his garden near Tilmanstone and would I like to come and see it. I have not seen Marsh Tit in the hand for about forty years so as we weren't far away we drove over to see it. A really smart little bird. He also had a Yellow-browed Warbler calling in his garden earlier.
On an overcast and breezy morning we walked from Reculver to Coldharbour. Birds we saw included 1 Yellow-browed Warbler (181st) calling in the trees near the cafe, 12 Chiffchaffs, 4 Goldcrests, 1 Blackcap, 1 Brambling, 2 Sparrowhawks, 5 Rock Pipits, 81 Meadow Pipits, 6 Swallows, 1 Kestrel, 4 Oystercatchers, 54 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 9 Blue Tits and 10 Great Tits flying W along the seawall, 52 Linnets, 10 Goldfinches, 4 Stonechats, 22 Carrion Crows, 2 Little Egrets, 10 Skylarks, 1 Whinchat, 34 Mallard, 17 House Martins W, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Corn Bunting, 3 Shelduck W and 2 Sandwich Terns W.
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| Meadow Pipit |
For two hours either side of midday there was a large movement of mainly House Martins with lesser numbers of Swallows. The same thing was happening at Grenham and Minnis Bay where Terry Wilson saw the same thing. At Bishopstone at midday I counted about 100 House Martins flying W per minute with also about 10 Swallows per minute. Lesser numbers continued moving all afternoon.
This afternoon I had a call from Matt to say he had caught a Marsh Tit in his garden near Tilmanstone and would I like to come and see it. I have not seen Marsh Tit in the hand for about forty years so as we weren't far away we drove over to see it. A really smart little bird. He also had a Yellow-browed Warbler calling in his garden earlier.
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| Marsh Tit |
Thursday, 3 October 2019
October 3rd
We spent an enjoyable morning ringing at Shuart and saw 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 30 Chiffchaffs, 24 Lapwings, 4 Ring-necked Parakeets, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Sparrowhawks, 18 Goldfinches, 1 Little Owl, 6 Song Thrushes, 1 Redwing, 15 Blackcaps, 18 Long-tailed Tits, 6 Goldcrests, 2 Kestrels, 2 Grey Herons, 1 Merlin, 36 Skylarks, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Jay, 12 Greenfinches, 1 Woodlark flying SW (180th), 1 Snipe, 1 Fieldfare, 1 Wheatear, 7 Mallard, 1 Siskin W, 30 Linnets and 1 House Martin.
Birds ringed 72: Chiffchaff 17, Goldcrest 6, Long-tailed Tit 9, Wren 3, Chaffinch 1, Blackcap 9, Reed Bunting 15, Blue Tit 1, Great Tit 3, Dunnock 4, Greenfinch 2, Blackbird 2.
This afternoon we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and returned along the seawall and Green Wall. We saw a good vaiety of species including 2 Grey Wagtails, 18 Chiffchaffs, 500+ Swallows W, 1,000+ House Martins W, 1 Corn Bunting, 1 Merlin, 12 Little Egrets, 1 Green Woodpecker, 5 Goldcrests, 2 Common Buzzards, 1 Marsh Harrier, 4 Grey Partridges, 3 Blackcaps, 1 Grey Heron, 5 Stonechats, 74 Mallard, 1 Sandwich Tern, 10 Linnets, 11 Rock Pipits, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Teal, 33 Ringed Plovers, 1 Wheatear, 3 Little Grebes, 4 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 2 Ravens in with the sheep, 1 Kingfisher, 55 Meadow Pipits and 1 Lapland Bunting.
We spent an enjoyable morning ringing at Shuart and saw 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers, 30 Chiffchaffs, 24 Lapwings, 4 Ring-necked Parakeets, 2 Green Woodpeckers, 2 Sparrowhawks, 18 Goldfinches, 1 Little Owl, 6 Song Thrushes, 1 Redwing, 15 Blackcaps, 18 Long-tailed Tits, 6 Goldcrests, 2 Kestrels, 2 Grey Herons, 1 Merlin, 36 Skylarks, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Jay, 12 Greenfinches, 1 Woodlark flying SW (180th), 1 Snipe, 1 Fieldfare, 1 Wheatear, 7 Mallard, 1 Siskin W, 30 Linnets and 1 House Martin.
Birds ringed 72: Chiffchaff 17, Goldcrest 6, Long-tailed Tit 9, Wren 3, Chaffinch 1, Blackcap 9, Reed Bunting 15, Blue Tit 1, Great Tit 3, Dunnock 4, Greenfinch 2, Blackbird 2.
This afternoon we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and returned along the seawall and Green Wall. We saw a good vaiety of species including 2 Grey Wagtails, 18 Chiffchaffs, 500+ Swallows W, 1,000+ House Martins W, 1 Corn Bunting, 1 Merlin, 12 Little Egrets, 1 Green Woodpecker, 5 Goldcrests, 2 Common Buzzards, 1 Marsh Harrier, 4 Grey Partridges, 3 Blackcaps, 1 Grey Heron, 5 Stonechats, 74 Mallard, 1 Sandwich Tern, 10 Linnets, 11 Rock Pipits, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Teal, 33 Ringed Plovers, 1 Wheatear, 3 Little Grebes, 4 Dark-bellied Brent Geese W, 2 Ravens in with the sheep, 1 Kingfisher, 55 Meadow Pipits and 1 Lapland Bunting.
Wednesday, 2 October 2019
October 2nd
We spent two hours from first light having a seawatch at the Towers where low tide was 0938. Most of the birds we saw were flying west and we recorded 74 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 1 Arctic Tern, 10 Wigeon, 1 Common Tern, 5 Gannets, 1 Arctic Skua, 1 Common Scoter, 2 Curlew, 15 Oystercatchers, 2 Red-throated Divers, 14 Sandwich Terns, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 1 adult Little Gull (178th) and 2 juvenile Sabine's Gulls (179th), 2 large auks E, 1 Great Skua and 10 Shelduck.
Derek Smith birded in the wind at Shuart and the railway embankment but did not see many birds, however he did find a Long-tailed Blue butterfly. The first one to be seen in the area since the small influx in 2013.
We spent two hours from first light having a seawatch at the Towers where low tide was 0938. Most of the birds we saw were flying west and we recorded 74 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 1 Arctic Tern, 10 Wigeon, 1 Common Tern, 5 Gannets, 1 Arctic Skua, 1 Common Scoter, 2 Curlew, 15 Oystercatchers, 2 Red-throated Divers, 14 Sandwich Terns, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 1 adult Little Gull (178th) and 2 juvenile Sabine's Gulls (179th), 2 large auks E, 1 Great Skua and 10 Shelduck.
Derek Smith birded in the wind at Shuart and the railway embankment but did not see many birds, however he did find a Long-tailed Blue butterfly. The first one to be seen in the area since the small influx in 2013.
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| Long-tailed Blue - Derek Smith |
Tuesday, 1 October 2019
October 1st
This morning we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and back along the Green Wall and railway embankment. We saw 24 Chiffchaffs, 3 Swallows W, 1 Goldcrest, 10 Mute Swans, 11 Skylarks, 6 Coot, 1 Little Egret, 8 Goldfinches, 2 Mallard, 38 Linnets, 2 Stonechats, 2 Oystercatchers, 38 Meadow Pipits, 1 Lapland Bunting (177th) calling and flying S over the sheep fields, 2 Sandwich Terns, 19 Cormorants, 55 House Sparrows, 2 Little Grebes, 36 Corn Buntings, 1 Kestrel, 1 Grey Partridge, 1 Golden Plover and 1 Hobby flying W.
Derek Smith was out between 0800 and 1400 and again covered most of the eastern half of the Marsh visting Shuart, the railway embankment, Chamber's Wall and Netherhale and Brooksend. He recorded 1 Eider, 16 Little Egrets W, 1 Hobby W, 1 Arctic Skua, 26 Sandwich Terns, 8 Common Terns, 24 Turnstone, 22 Ringed Plovers, 68 Sanderling, 13 Dunlin, 85 Oystercatchers, 20 Redshank, 35 Skylarks W, 1,800 Swallows W, 1,200 House Martins W, 25 Meadow Pipits W, 1 Grey Wagtail W, 12 alba Wagtails W, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 16 Blackcaps, 43 Chiffchaffs, 30 Goldcrests and 36 Corn Buntings.
This morning we walked from Chamber's Wall to Coldharbour and back along the Green Wall and railway embankment. We saw 24 Chiffchaffs, 3 Swallows W, 1 Goldcrest, 10 Mute Swans, 11 Skylarks, 6 Coot, 1 Little Egret, 8 Goldfinches, 2 Mallard, 38 Linnets, 2 Stonechats, 2 Oystercatchers, 38 Meadow Pipits, 1 Lapland Bunting (177th) calling and flying S over the sheep fields, 2 Sandwich Terns, 19 Cormorants, 55 House Sparrows, 2 Little Grebes, 36 Corn Buntings, 1 Kestrel, 1 Grey Partridge, 1 Golden Plover and 1 Hobby flying W.
Derek Smith was out between 0800 and 1400 and again covered most of the eastern half of the Marsh visting Shuart, the railway embankment, Chamber's Wall and Netherhale and Brooksend. He recorded 1 Eider, 16 Little Egrets W, 1 Hobby W, 1 Arctic Skua, 26 Sandwich Terns, 8 Common Terns, 24 Turnstone, 22 Ringed Plovers, 68 Sanderling, 13 Dunlin, 85 Oystercatchers, 20 Redshank, 35 Skylarks W, 1,800 Swallows W, 1,200 House Martins W, 25 Meadow Pipits W, 1 Grey Wagtail W, 12 alba Wagtails W, 3 Cetti's Warblers, 16 Blackcaps, 43 Chiffchaffs, 30 Goldcrests and 36 Corn Buntings.