LBO Home Page

SATURDAY 31st DECEMBER 2011

26 Shelduck, 26 Wigeon, 21 Common Scoter south offshore & two drake Goosanders came in off and up river late morning. Early on when the tide was very low c.40 Seals could be seen hauled out on the Cork Sands in the far distance. Later news of the Pom Skua putting in an appearance mid-day.

FRIDAY 30th DECEMBER 2011

60 Red-throated Divers north 12 south, 53 Cormorants south, 14 Greylag Geese south (unusual record for this time of the year), 5 Brents & 3 Shelduck south. Apart from that it's assorted seagulls with the male Peregrine putting in an appearance.

RECENT RINGING RECOVERIES

In the most recent bunch of a fairly standard batch of recoveries we have a Long-tailed Tit ringed here in September 2010 taken by a cat in Ipswich in September 2011. Starling ringed here in June 1997 found as a skeleton in the fireplace of a house in Manning Road in September 2011 - but we wonder how long this one was down the chimney for ? Great Tit ringed here on 25th September 2011 retrapped in Wivenhoe, Essex on 30th October. Chiffchaff ringed here on 27th September 2011 retrapped three days later 183km WSW of us at Brimpton Gravel Pit, West Berkshire. Of greater interest was a Firecrest ringed here on 7th April 2010 retrapped at Kings Wood, Kent on 22nd September 2011 as we don't get a lot back on this species.

CHRISTMAS LITTER PICK

This years xmas litter pick takes place on Saturday 31st December 0930hrs start. Further details on the events section of http://www.lbo.org.uk/

Thursday 29th December 2011

2 Guillemots, Pom Skua, Cormorants & seagulls offshore. Otherwise it's same old same old.

Wednesday 28th December 2011

29 Wigeon south in small groups in an hour is a bit unexpected as autumn passage should be over by now and the mild conditions is not conducive to cold weather movements. Also on the move 6 Common Scoter, Shelduck & Great Crested Grebe. Peregrine came in off the sea carrying its breakfast & a Pom Skua is again offshore harassing gulls behind the shipping.

Tuesday 27th December 2011

Fieldfare is today's migrant. 9 Linnets are indicative of the mild conditions as they are largely absent at this time of the year but reappear on mild days suggesting that some of them are wintering not to far away (the bulk of our Linnets go to Spain for the winter). Juv Pom Skua quite close offshore dragged a Herring Gull into the water a couple of times before it finally gave up it's meal & then had a job swallowing it's victims discarded puke - entertaining prolonged views for us, but less amusing for the poor Herring Gull. Also offshore Guillemot & Grey Seal.

Monday 26th December 2011

Very mild for the time of the year. 2 Siskins went south with a Grey Wagtail record a bit unseasonal. Mid-morning a gang of 19 Barnacles & 2 Brents went south just off the beach. Apart from that it's the usual birds in the usual places.

Sunday 25th December 2011

Brief observations offshore produced 3 Guillemots, 3 Red-throated Divers, 2 Great-crested Grebes south and at least 45 Kittiwakes following very few boats on the move. Purple Sandpiper is on the point this am.

Saturday 24th December 2011

2 Gadwal, Guillemot, Gannet south & a dose of distant Red-throats offshore. 25 Ringos attempting to roost on the beach plus at least 10 Turnstones along the river bank.

Friday 23rd December 2011

Mild conditions at this time oar usually equals tedium. 6 Common Scoter, 2 Shelduck, Red-throed Diver & a Teal went south in 3/4 hour seawatch. A Fieldfare was new in today. More on site maintenance and that's about it.

Thursday 22nd December 2011

Offshore 5 Red-throated Divers, 5 Teal, 3 Common Scoter, 2 Mergansers & a Pintail south plus 9 Wigeon, 2 Red-throats & a Common Scoter north. At least 3 Snow Buntings today are the first for over a week. Pleasantly mild but in such conditions the birding is never going to be spectacular.

Wednesday 21st December 2011

Mist & fog precluded any meaningful observations out to sea this morning & the highlight of a walk around the reserve was a Meadow Pipit. Shortest day today so it's all uphill from here onwards.

Tuesday 20th December 2012

Early morning coverage only today due to a low water estuary count up river. 3 Great-crested Grebe & 3 Common Scoter south apart from a handful of Cormorants & Red-throated Divers in the distance. A Kestrel trapped in the heligoland is good to get as we very rarely manage to ring this declining species. Also worth a mention is that the first winter Med Gull that was ringed following it's rescue from fishing tackle last week is alive and well and scrounging in the View Point car park (one of 6 Meds present this am).

Monday 19th December 2011

An hours sea watching first thing produced a fine Velvet Scoter going south. Also on the move were 4 Shelduck, 2 Brents, Red-breasted Merganser, Goldeneye, Teal, Oystercatcher and Guillemot in addition to a handful of Cormorants & Red-throated Divers coming and going plus a Pom Skua harassing the gulls. Peregrine also up to no good looking for breakfast. The reserve fairly birdless with it cold enough to freeze the shingle and sand particles together. Rain arriving mid morning means it's now pretty miserable so time to abandon ship.

Sunday 18th December 2011

54 Red-throated Divers south were nearer the Dutch coast than Suffolk ! Closer in 26 Wigeon, 14 Brents, Shelduck, Goldeneye & Curlew south plus the usual Cormorants coming and going plus a handful of Kittiwakes with the other gulls following shipping. Apart from this it's the regulars around the bird feeders in the Helligoland trap & the cottage garden.

Saturday 17th December 2011

Glorious sunny day with a frosty start. A Redwing & a Skylark were new in but the reserve is, otherwise, predictable. 2 Goldies went south in addition to the handful on site. Offshore 11 Wigeon, 10 Brents, 5 Shelduck, 4 Common Scoter, 3 Red-throats & a Dunlin south. Finally Pom Skua & Black-throated Diver seen mid-day.

Friday 16th December 2011

Cold, wet & windy. Pom Skua offshore & a Lapwing went south. All a bit grim.

Thursday 15th December 2011

3/4 hr sea watching 0810 to 0855 produced Cormorants, Seagulls, a Merganser & a Dunlin plus 2 cold feet ! Nowt else of note to report.

Wednesday 14th December 2011

19 Pintail & a Merg south offshore but not a lot else of note. 2 Snow Bunts flying around early on with a Purp on the point & at least 10 Turnstone along the riverbank. Nowt else to report.

Tuesday 13th December 2011

Windy, but not a lot happening. Of note this am was a Whooper Swan going south offshore. Also on the move 13 Pintail, 11 Common Scoter, 5 Wigeon, 2 Eider, Great-crested Grebe, Black-throated Diver, Barwit, Dunlin & a Guillemot. The local pair of Peregrines put in an appearance, 10 Turnstone were on the beach's & 5 Med Gulls in the view point car park (including yesterdays rescued youngster that seems to be bearing no ill effects from its ordeal).

Monday 12th December 2011

Spent the bulk of the morning with grounds maintenance then stalking & catching a 1st winter Med Gull that had taken a fishing hook with squid on it and was dragging around a fishing trace complete with a 5 ounce weight attached. Fortunately when caught the hook and barb was in the birds tongue so it could be extracted (with some effort - but no blood !). Despite it's traumatic experience it seems ok. Only observations of note this am were a Little Egret south, Guillemot offshore, Great-crested Grebe in the river & a Snow Bunting in the old aggregate yard. Batten down the hatches now for the gale forecast for tonight.

Sunday 11th December 2011

Dreary old morning degenerating into drizzle from mid-morning. Highlights offshore were 41 Common Scoter, 5 Shoveler, 2 Gadwal, Goldeneye & Guillemot going south plus the usual Cormorants & Red-throats coming and going plus a Black-throated diver on then south.

Saturday 10th December 2011

A single flock of 80 Cormorants flying out to sea over the obs had presumably spent the night at Loompit Lake before going out to feed. Sea movements apart from Cormorants and a handful of Red-throated Divers was almost non-existent. A couple of Siskins, Goldies & a Mipit went south with a walk around the site producing a couple of Sanderling and Turnstone plus 11 Snow Buntings. A Reed Bunting was a bit more unexpected.

Friday 9th February 2011

Flying visit late afternoon only. Noticed 7 Meds scrounging from fishermen on the beach out the front & all 4 Red-legs (the entire population) hoovering up under the bird feeders in the helli. That i am afraid is it for today's paltry coverage. If anyone out there was here today and have any records for the log today then please drop us a line to landguardbo@yahoo.co.uk and i will add them to the log.

Thursday 8th December 2011

Entertaining offshore with a decent southerly movement of birds mostly reasonably close inshore including 333 Teal, 247 Common Scoter, 22 Wigeon, 13 Shelduck, 10 Brents, 7 Goldeneye, 5 Gannet, 4 Knot, 3 Gadwal, 3 Barwit, 3 Mergansers, Red-throated Divers, Tufted Duck, Grey Plover, Curlew, Great-crested Grebe & Snipe. Going north were 7 Common Scoter, 2 Guillimots, 2 Red-throated Divers, Little Auk & Pom Skua. Not bad at all for early December.

Wednesday 7th December 2011

A handful of Ringos, Turnstones & a Sanderling on the beach's plus 8 Goldfinch's going south (will autumn passage ever end for this species ?). Next to nothing going past offshore and as it's now a cool north-westerly gusting to force 8 it's time to abandon ship. Moth traps packed away for the winter this morning.

Tuesday 6th December 2011

A Harrier picked out a long way offshore to the north-east of us eventually drifted south just off the point and turned out to be a young male Hen Harrier. Nice brisk sunny mornings are great but they make the identification of distant birds in the sun difficult ! Also on the move pre 9am were 2 Great-crests south (plus another siting just off the beach), 4 Shelduck, Grey Plover & Oyk south plus a few Red-throats and Cormorants going back & forth in the distance. 17 Goldfinchs & 6 Siskins went south overhead in what should surely be the end of autumn passage (or is this cold weather movements ?). The rest of the morning then spent with on site maintenance.

Monday 5th December 2011

Brief observations staring out to sea early on produced 7 Shelduck, Goldeneye, Common Scoter and Oyk going south & then it was down to a morning of on site maintenance in an increasingly colder westerly wind.

Sunday 4th December 2011

A Peregrine steaming along offshore homed in on a Little Auk but fortunately for the Little Auk it missed ! It never seems to amaze me how raptors pick out the lost waifs and strays - or do they just fancy a change in diet ? Later in the morning a female Marsh Harrier went south offshore. We seem to be getting a run of Marsh Harriers going south lately. Traditionally they all went south for the winter but with milder winters large numbers have not been bothering - has a couple of cold spells over the last two winters forced some of them to change their mind and resort to old ways ? Also offshore Pom Skua loitering, 8 Common Scoter south, Guillemot north plus plenty of Cormorants coming and going. A new female Sparrowhawk trapped in the Helli missed her intended prey but was a well fed chunky beast so she knows how to look after herself.

Saturday 3rd December 2011

56 Shelduck, 16 Common Scoter going south & a Black-throated Diver going north offshore were this morning highlights. Just the one Snow Bunting seen today. Silver Y in the moth traps is getting late in the year for this migrant species.

Friday 2nd December 2011

Cattle Egret flying south over the rear of the observatory & into Essex at 1030hrs was a most unexpected first site record for Landguard. Mist nets taken down for the winter this morning was today's chore followed by a fungus foray revealing Candlesnuff fungus, Sulphur Tuft & what is probably Common Cavalier (several similar species to this are only discernible under a microscope apparently). Bird wise 4 Snow Bunts & a Rock Pipit towards the point with a couple of Skylarks and Linnets going south. Moth traps still producing with 2 Dark Chestnut, The Satellite & a Light Brown Apple Moth. An entertaining morning.

Thursday 1st December 2011

A short time staring offshore produced 16 Shelduck, Goldeneye & Pintail going south plus a Pom north - or is the Pom just hanging around terrorising gulls following shipping ? A new was Chaffinch in the bushes but this mornings walk round produced nothing of note with the most impressive thing being a very low tide revealing several sandbars offshore that we don't see very often. In the moth traps a Grey Shoulder-knot indicating continued mild conditions. Please note that this blog will not be updated on a daily basis throughout the winter. "Blogger" is ten thousand times quicker than the recent reports page under the old system in use last winter, but with mild conditions it can get tedious repeating the same birds day in day out. Let's say i will just see how it goes.

DECEMBER LITTER PICK

Litter pick this Saturday 3rd December 0930hrs start. More info on the events section of the LBO home page. All welcome.

NOVEMBER RINGING TOTALS

713 new birds of 24 species ringed. Top three:

1st     Blackbird 400     2nd     Robin 66     3rd     Goldfinch 45

This is the highest month total of the year & the third highest November ringing total on record.

Wednesday 30th November 2011

Bit of a raptor sort of morning with 3 Marsh Harriers, Hen Harrier, Merlin & Kestrel going south, Peregrine out to sea plus Sparrowhawk around the bushes & 2 more Kes on the reserve. Offshore movements include 2 Great-crested Grebes, 2 Goldeneye, 2 Mallard, Golden Plover, Lapwing & a Merg. Only new bird in the bushes is a Chaffinch. One of the Kes flushed the Snow Bunts with only 7 seen near the point early on and none later on.

Tuesday 29th November 2011

Entertaining offshore. 5 Eider, 3 Bonxies, 2 Poms & a Guillemot north. Birds moving south amongst a wide range of species included the following: 37 Shelduck, 24 Common Scoter, 6 Gadwal, 5 Mergansers, 2 Pochard, 2 Great-crested Grebes, Guillemot, Black-throated Diver, Goosander & Goldeneye. Of interest was Mrs Peregrine hacking south at great speed offshore contemplating taking the Guillemot before deciding against it & then giving some Gadwal a look before changing her mind - no doubt something else less challenging took her fancy. 13 Snow Bunts with us but no sign of any new birds in the bushes.

Monday 28th November 2011

Autumn still grinding to a halt with a handful of Goldies & a Mipit still making their way south plus a couple of new Blackies, Goldies & Chaffinch in the bushes. Following yesterdays gale it was hoped that a bit more might have been on the move offshore in this mornings flat calm conditions - this was not to be with the highlights (!) being 2 Great-crested Grebes, a Red-throat & a Gannet relocating northwards. 15 Snow Bunts still with us as is Mrs Peregrine & at least 8 Meds. If any readers are ever down here throughout the winter in the late afternoon, when they tend to congregate, and get a decent Med Gull count please drop us an e.mail so we can update the records as most of the regular observers have gone home by then.

Sunday 27th November 2011

Blowing a gale this am. A drake Goosander went south just off the beach but it would appear that nothing is moving offshore. A new Chaffinch in the bushes but nowt else new in (although the wind is making observations difficult). 15 Snow Bunts on the beach as well as 2 Sanderling, 8 Turnstone & at least 11 Meds. Adult female Peregrine came and sat on the beach in the aggregate yard early on - we obviously have a pair with us at the moment but if they have regular perches on the dock cranes then they are mostly out of site from whence we view.

Saturday 26th November 2011

A Swallow going south is quite probably our latest ever autumn record by a day or two. A Black Red was the first of it's kind seen for a while & a trickle of Goldies are still going south. Also new in a couple of Lesser Redpolls. 13 Snow Bunts are still with us on the beach with at least 15 Turnstones & 3 Sanderling on the shore. The leucistic Starling has reappeared today for the first time in a while. Offshore its quiet with a Guillemot the only thing of note.

Friday 25th November 2011

It actually rained here from 0620 to 0730ish - not a lot - but it was definitely rain. Joking apart, if this drought carries on it's heading towards a record dry year. Bird wise a bit of a struggle. No sign of any new migrants in today so it's left to the stuff that's normally here at this time of the year. 6 Meds, Peregrine plus a couple of Red-throated Divers & Kitts offshore are about the only things worth a mention.

Thursday 24th November 2011

Not sure what time in the morning Snow Buntings get up but they were calling a good hour before daylight this morning. I suppose when you are born & bred in the lands of 24 hour daylight this darkness malarkey is just a bit of an inconvenience. 13 present & accounted for this am. New birds in comprised of a Fieldfare with a handful of Skylarks & Mipits still going south overhead. Not a lot of time spent starring out to sea but a couple of Red-throated Divers noted plus a Merg south. Yesterdays Chiffchaff is still with us as a couple of Purps & a Rock Pipit on the point.

Wednesday 23rd November 2011

An adult pale phase Arctic Skua siting on the beach near the point stayed with us all morning. Along the river bank 11 Turnstone & 2 Sanderling with 2 Purps on the point. 13 Snow Bunts on the beach today mostly feeding along the strand line. In the bushes a new Songie, Chaffinch & Chiffchaff (getting late for new Chiffchaffs). Little going over with the highlights being 41 Starlings, 19 Goldies, 3 Skylark, 2 Lapwing & a Rook. 2 Peregrines were flying around the cranes early on before moving off up river to cause some chaos.

Tuesday 22nd November 2011

Mild but murky start degenerating into fog with some spots of rain by mid-day. Bird wise it's a bit yawnsville this morning with the only new migrants in the bushes being singles of Blacky & Chaffinch. Snow Buntings are on the beach somewhere as they can be heard calling from the observatory, but with the fog no-one has had the enthusiasm to go out and round them up yet. The moth traps were far more interesting yielding our 1st ever record of Red-headed Chestnut. This migrant has appeared in Suffolk on half a dozen previous occasions so it was probably only a matter of time before we recorded one - and a particularly stunning individual it is to !

Monday 21st November 2011

2 Swallows going south is starting to get seriously late. A handful of Goldies still going south and a couple of new Blackies in the bushes. Apart from this 2 Purps on the point, male Peregrine on the nearest dock crane and 15 Snow Bunts on the beach. By the numbers of records of Snow Bunts so far this winter i get the impression that they have had a good breeding season, as we know from previous experience that most of the birds that come this far south are birds born this year.

Sunday 20th November 2011

A Golden Plover was calling in the fog & moved off when the fog cleared. Short-eared Owl on the reserve also went inland as more people arrived on the reserve with the fog going. 12 Snow Bunts on the beach this am are looking resplendent in the sunshine. New arrivals today in the bushes limited to a new Robin & Chaffinch but, then again, we are getting to last knockings as far as autumn migration is concerned. In the afternoon another Short-eared Owl appeared - will they ever stop coming as this autumn has shattered all previous records for this species.

Saturday 19th November 2011

A House Martin making it's way south needs to get a move on if it's going to get to Africa for the winter. 25 Goldies, 9 Mipits, 6 Skylarks, 4 Linnets & 2 Rooks also drifted south overhead. Offshore not a lot with the only record of note being a Goosander that came out of the river heading out to who knows where. The Snow Bunting flock has increased to 14, a Rock Pipit is still on the point & a Chiffchaff is still loitering on site. The ridiculously mild weather can't carry on for ever but while it does 2 Little Owls are enjoying siting out in the sun (have they finally evicted this years young or have any of the offspring kicked mum or dad out of the territory ?).

Friday 18th November 2011

An owl seen pre-dawn was re found early pm and as suspected it's a Long-eared. The day sheet is not overloaded with new arrivals today with 7 Lesser Redpolls the pick of the bunch. Brambling, Firecrest & Rock Pipit still with us. Offshore not a lot with 4 Eiders the best of a meagre amount going past. Overhead 16 Goldies & a Pied Wag went south - it's starting to signify that autumn movements are petering out. A nice sunny day so a late Red Admiral came out to play. Winds still onshore so it's not to late for some late autumn arrivals.

Thursday 17th November 2011

Pretty standard sort of morning for this time of the year with a small arrival of new Blackies, Songies & finch's. A Redshank was heard calling pre-dawn and a Lapwing was on the reserve early on only to be flushed by a dog walker. At least 1 Snow Bunt is still with us as are the lingering Brambling, Gold & Firecrest. Overhead migration has just about finished for the autumn with offshore movement also fairly poor, the highlights being a drake Eider, a handful of Common Scoter plus 3 Greylags going north (we don't get many Greylags at this time of the year with speculation that they might be wild ones rather than part of the feral population living just inland of us).

Wednesday 16th November 2011

A small arrival of new Blackies, Songies plus singles of Fieldfare, Robin & Common Redpoll today. Loitering leftovers from recent days are Brambling, Goldcrest, Firecrest & Chiffchaff - all of whom could do with making there way inland for the winter. 10 Snow Bunts are on the beach plus 2 Rock Pipits on the point. Migration overhead & offshore almost non-existent. A leucistic Starling has been with us for several days now with the locals. Finally i will give the male Peregrine a mention as we don't see him so often of late presumably due to the fact he has found some new perches on the new dock cranes out of sight from the obs.

Tuesday November 15th 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate to fresh easterly wind. There was no cloud cover early morning but by mid morning complete cloud cover. A very quiet day with not a great deal seen passing through or grounded. Migrants observed passing through were 1 Red-throated Diver, 3 Cormorant, 2 Skylark and 7 Goldfinch. The ringed female Firecrest and the ringed male Brambling were still present within the Bird Observatory compound. The usual 9 Snow Buntings were found out on the beach. 6 Mediterranean Gulls were seen, 4 adults, 1 2nd-winter and 1 1st-winter bird. A Short-eared Owl, Sparrowhawk and 5 Turnstone were also recored. 1 bird ringed today; 1 Blackbird. A Weasel was seen.

Monday November 14th 2011

Weather consisted of a south south-easterly wind, there was complete cloud cover, it was murky. Migrants observed passing through were 2 Mute Swan, 33 Pink-footed Geese, 253 Brent Geese, 111 Shelduck, 3 Wigeon, 3 Teal, 5 Mallard, 1 Common Scoter, 6 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Cormorant, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Pomarine Skua and 7 Redpoll. The highlight of the day and one of the highlights of the year was a 1st-winter Red-flanked Bluetail trapped and ringed within the Bird Observatory compound! This is the 2nd record for Landguard. Red-flanked Bluetail is a species that has become in recent years much more common in Britain, although it is still a very rare bird; this was a very unexpected surprise and this particular bird could possibly be the latest ever British record! Also present today was the ringed female Firecrest, 3 Chiffchaff, 4 Fieldfare, 4 Song Thrush, 2 Redwing, 2 Pied Wagtail, 6 Meadow Pipit, 2 Brambling and 9 Snow Bunting. 26 birds ringed today, 1 1st-winter Red-flanked Bluetail, 1 female Brambling, 3 Song Thrush, 14 Blackbird, 1 Robin, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Chaffinch, 2 Chiffchaff and 1 Wren. A Grey Seal was seen offshore.

Sunday 13th November 2011

Poor today compared with yesterday with next to nothing moving offshore & only a handful of new birds in the bushes and almost nothing migrating overhead. A couple of feathers found in a mist net early on suggest a Long-eared Owl is here somewhere but we have failed to find it. A Water Rail is in the compound, a Black Red was on the Fort & one of the Firecrests and Brambling from recent days is still with us. On the beach 3 Sanderling as well as the wintering Turnstones. A Red-throated Diver appears to have set up residence in the river in recent days. On shore breezes suggests that we are still in with a chance of some birds this week.

Saturday 12th November 2011

Weather consisted of a southerly wind, it was very cloudy. A very interesting and productive day with much movement offshore. There was very good numbers of Red-breasted Mergansers seen heading south with well over 100 recorded; some of the other species observed on the move were Great Northern Diver, Goldeneye, Rook and Skylark. The highlight of the day was 3 Slavonian Grebes seen resting on the sea, this is a very rare bird at Landguard with the last record here being in the early 1990s. One of yesterday's Firecrests was still present along with yesterday's Chiffchaff, there were 5 Goldcrests also present. Also recorded today was a Woodcock. 43 birds were ringed today, mainly Blackbirds and Song Thrushes.

Friday November 11th 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate south-easterly wind, there was complete cloud cover. It was much cooler today than it had been in recent days. Migrants observed passing through were 8 Brent Geese, 58 Wigeon, 275 Teal, 10 Mallard, 1 Gadwall, 8 Pintail, 11 Common Scoter, 8 Goldeneye, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Red-throated Diver, 1 Cormorant, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Sanderling, 1 Redshank, 5 Turnstone, 1 Arctic Skua, 4 Skylark, 11 Starling and 55 Goldfinch. Also present today were 2 Firecrests, 1 male Goldcrest, 1 Chiffchaff and 2 Blackcap. A Woodcock, 3 Mediterranean Gulls, 2 Fieldfare and 1 Song Thrush were also recorded. 13 birds ringed today; 2 Firecrest, 2 Blackcap, 2 Blackbird, 1 male Goldcrest, 2 Robin, 1 Chiffchaff, 2 Chaffinch and 1 Goldfinch. A Birch Shield Bug was recorded in one of the moth traps.

Thursday November 10th 2011

Weather consisted of a light south-easterly wind, there was complete cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 29 Brent Geese, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Black-throated Diver, 2 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 3 Little Egret, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Kittiwake, 1 Short-eared Owl, 32 Skylark, 124 Starling, 1 Pied Wagtail, 18 Meadow Pipit, 78 Chaffinch, 29 Greenfinch, 687 Goldfinch, 26 Siskin, 78 Linnet and 49 Redpoll. 2 Northern Wheatear were found out on the reserve. There were 4 Fieldfare, 5 Song Thrush and 3 Redwing also seen. 7 Mediterranean Gulls were recorded. 34 birds ringed today; 1 Fieldfare, 7 Blackbird, 2 Song Thrush, 6 Goldfinch, 3 Chaffinch, 5 Lesser Redpoll, 5 Robin, 3 Wren and 2 Greenfinch. A Red Admiral butterfly was recorded.

Wednesday 9th November 2011

Another dose of interesting birds today. Another Puffin continues the exceptional run of records of this species. 3 Black-throated Diver went south and a Pomarine Skua was harassing Herring Gulls offshore late morning. Also worth a mention are 256 Brents, 67 Wigeon, 13 Eider, 5 Goldeneye, 4 Gannet, 3 Guillimot, Bonxie, Little Egret & Little Gull. In the area a handful of thrushes & finches, 3 Chiffchaff, Merlin & a different Wheatear to the one seen the last couple of days. Overhead another 300 Goldies plus a handful of other finches & Mipits went south. The entertaining spell continues.

Tuesday 8th November 2011

Not a good start to the day. Intruders overnight had damaged 6 mist nets to varying degrees, attacked 2 moth traps & indulged in various other acts of petty vandalism and criminal damage. On the bird front an adult White-fronted Goose spending the bulk of the day on the reserve was an unusual sighting as nearly all (or possibly all ?) previous records are of birds in flight. In the bushes a healthy arrival of Robins for this late in the season with 50 present. Also of note 80 Blackies, 15 Redwing, 6 Fieldfare, 2 Woodcock, Mistle Thrush, Brambling, Chiffchaff & a pale looking Siberian type Chiffchaff. On the reserve 9 Snow Bunts and the male Wheatear still with us plus a Sanderling on the beach. Offshore records included 5 Little Auks, 267 Brents, 16 Eider 6 Gannets, 3 Goosanders, 2 Goldeneye, 2 Bonxies, Little Gull & Puffin (rare here with 2 records in quick succession remarkable). Another 50ish new birds ringed today.

Monday 7th November 2011

Weather consisted of a gentle to moderate north north-easterly wind, there was complete cloud cover. There was some light drizzle throughout the morning. Migrants observed passing through were 3 Whooper Swans, 2 Pink-footed Geese, 175 Brent Geese, 59 Wigeon, 12 Teal, 15 Eider, 22 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 5 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 27 Lapwing, 1 Great Skua, 1 Kittiwake, 1 Puffin, 1 Little Auk, 7 Guillemot, 6 Skylark, 2 House Martin, 1 Meadow Pipit and 3 Siskin. 9 Snow Buntings were found on the beach. There were 6 Mediterranean Gulls recorded. 2 Woodcock were seen, one within the Bird Observatory compound and one on the point. 66 birds ringed today; 1 Woodcock, 1 Chiffchaff, 2 Starling, 1 Wren, 13 Robin, 1 Goldfinch, 3 Song Thrush, 37 Blackbird, 1 Fieldfare, 3 Blackcap and 3 Goldcrest.

Sunday 6th November 2011

Blackbird Central today with 1,000+ going through along with at least 830 Starling, 150 Redwing, 120 Fieldfare, 200 Songies, 2 Rouzels & a Mistle Thrush. Also of note 7 Woodcock, 3 Blackcaps, 2 Brambling, Short-eared Owl, Swallow, House Martin, Wheatear & a "tristis" Chiffchaff. Offshore apart from all the thrushy type things coming in 342 Brents, 10 Pink-feet, 80 Wigeon, 43 Teal, 99 Lapwing, 22 Eider, 12 Mergs, 12 Gannets & a Goosander. It's one of those sort of days when stuff kept arriving. Evening update: 284 birds ringed today including 262 Blackies - when the fact that we only had 2/3rds of the nets open today due to the winds one can appreciate how many birds actually passed through the site today.

Saturday November 5th 2011

Weather consisted of a light north north-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. There was overnight rain and light rain early morning. It was misty and mild. Migrants observed passing through were 53 Brent Geese, 1 Shelduck, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Cormorant, 2 Turnstone, 8 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 20 Starling, 1 Fieldfare, 12 Meadow Pipit, 11 Chaffinch, 45 Goldfinch, 18 Siskin, 30 Redpoll and 1 Reed Bunting. A Red-throated Diver was seen fishing close offshore. A Barn Owl was observed within the Bird Observatory compound. A Woodcock was flushed late afternoon within the Bird Observatory compound. 13 birds ringed today; 1 Grey Wagtail, 2 Robin, 3 Goldfinch, 2 Chaffinch, 1 Dunnock, 1 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush and 2 Blackbird. A Common Seal was observed offshore.

Friday November 4th 2011

Weather consisted of a gentle southerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. There was rain throughout the morning. Migrants observed passing through were 503 Brent Geese, 18 Shelduck, 77 Wigeon, 25 Teal, 2 Pintail, 1 Tufted Duck, 16 Common Scoter, 3 Goldeneye, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 10 Cormorant, 4 Oystercatcher, 2 Grey Plover, 3 Lapwing, 185 Knot, 1338 Dunlin, 1 Jack Snipe, 3 Bar-tailed Godwit, 3 Curlew, 1 Guillemot, 1 Rook, 7 Skylark, 3 Starling, 8 Chaffinch, 50 Goldfinch and 4 Siskin. Also present today was 1 Fieldfare, 1 Song Thrush and 1 Redwing. 8 Mediterranean Gulls were recorded; 6 adults, 1 2nd-winter and 1 first-winter. 3 birds ringed today; 1 Robin, 1 Goldfinch and 1 House Sparrow. A Grey Seal was seen offshore.

Thursday November 3rd 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate to fresh south south-easterly wind, there was complete cloud cover. There had been some overnight rain and drizzle. Migrants passing through were 1577 Brent Geese, 16 Shelduck, 6 Wigeon, 23 Common Scoter, 11 Red-breasted Merganser, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Merlin, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 5 Grey Plover, 1 Lapwing, 3 Knot, 55 Dunlin, 5 Curlew, 1 Arctic Skua, 5 Skylark, 1 Meadow Pipit and 3 Redpoll. A Short or Long-eared Owl species was seen very early in the morning within the Bird Observatory compound. 22 birds ringed today; 2 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Wren, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Greenfinch, 4 Goldfinch, 8 Robin, 4 Blackbird and 1 female Blackcap.

NOVEMBER LITTER PICK

Litter Pick this Saturday 5th November 0930hrs start. Please see the events section on http://www.lbo.org.uk/ for further info.

Wednesday 2nd November 2011

A strengthening south-easterly gale has brought us next to nothing. New migrants in the bushes are almost non-existent as are offshore movements. Another 900 Goldies went south prior the gale picking up as did 46 Chaffs, 19 Skylarks, 16 Mipits, 16 Golden Plover but not a lot else. 3 Swallows & a House Martin are today's highlight in the bird department. Mild conditions are still bringing us a few moths with Scarce Bordered Straw & a Pearly Underwing indicative of continued immigration.

Tuesday 1st November 2011

Weather consisted of a south south-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover, it was again mild for the time of the year. Migrants seen passing through were 106 Brent Geese, 3 Shelduck, 3 Wigeon, 2 Common Scoter, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Grey Plover, 5 Knot, 6 Dunlin, 1 Curlew, 34 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 842 Starling, 7 Pied Wagtail, 20 Meadow Pipit, 33 Chaffinch, 26 Greenfinch, 862 Goldfinch, 21 Siskin, 86 Linnet, 39 Redpoll and 1 Reed Bunting. Today's highlights were 2 Short-eared Owls, 1 adult Red-throated Diver and 5 Common Redpoll. Also seen was 3 Turnstone, 6 Mediterranean Gulls, 40 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush and 20 Redwing. 44 birds ringed today; 5 Common Redpoll, 18 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Greenfinch, 1 Dunnock, 1 Wren, 6 Robin, 10 Blackbird and 1 Chaffinch.

October 2011 Ringing Totals

707 birds of 35 species were ringed in October 2011. The Top 3 Species Ringed are shown below:

1. Lesser Redpoll    149          2. Robin    129         3. Blackbird      77

Monday 31st October 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate south south-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. It was mild for the time of the year. Migrants observed passing through were 2 Brent Geese, 2 Mallard, 5 Common Scoter, 2 Cormorant, 1 Grey Plover, 2 Skylark, 1 Swallow, 7 Meadow Pipit, 6 Chaffinch, 1 Brambling, 133 Goldfinch, 18 Siskin, 10 Linnet and 17 Redpoll. The major highlight of the day was a PALLID SWIFT seen heading south towards Essex, seen very well by three regular birders at 09:55 hours. Also found today was a Sparrowhawk, Purple Sandpiper, male Goldcrest, 1 Song Thrush and 1 Redwing. 1 Common Redpoll was found with a Lesser Redpoll in one of the mist nets. 15 birds ringed today; 1 Common Redpoll, 5 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Great Tit, 3 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Robin, 1 male Goldcrest and 1 Greenfinch.

Sunday 30th October 2011

Very mild for late October with the clocks changing today. A small arrival of new Robins, Blackies, Songies, Wrens & a Goldcrest this am (where do these new Wrens keep coming from ?). On the move another 888 Goldies going south as well as 86 Linnets, 59 Chaffs, 42 Redpolls, 37 Mipits, 33 Greenies, 16 Swallows, 6 Skylarks, 2 Jackdaws, 2 Reed Bunts, 2 Stockies & a Rock Pipit. Offshore fairly hopeless apart from 2 Shoveler south. A single Wheatear was noted as were 35 Ringos at high tide.

Saturday 29th October 2011

Weather consisted of a light southerly wind, there was much cloud cover. There was early morning mist and fog. Migrants on the move were 6 Whooper Swans, 286 Brent Geese, 15 Shelduck, 2 Wigeon, 7 Teal, 2 Mallard, 2 Gadwall, 12 Pintail, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Red-throated Diver, 2 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Grey Plover, 8 Knot, 26 Dunlin, 1 Curlew, 1 Sandwich Tern, 1 Little Auk, 52 Skylark, 10 Swallow, 1 House Martin, 200 Starling, 15 Redwing, 1 Grey Wagtail, 2 Pied Wagtail, 109 Meadow Pipit, 3 Rock Pipit, 28 Chaffinch, 13 Greenfinch, 242 Goldfinch, 58 Siskin, 32 Linnet, 26 Redpoll and 2 Reed Bunting. A Coot was seen on the river by many observers. A Black Redstart was found out on the reserve. 2 Peregrine were sighted. 10 Mediterranean Gulls were recorded. 40 birds ringed today; 9 Blackbird, 6 Song Thrush, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Chiffchaff, 12 Robin, 2 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 6 Goldfinch and 1 Redwing. A Grey Seal was seen offshore and a Migrant Hawker Dragonfly was sighted.

Friday 28th October 2011

Weather consisted of a north north-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. Migrants on the move were 5 Brent Geese, 1 Rook, 30 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 6 Starling, 6 Pied Wagtail, 8 Meadow Pipit, 1 Rock Pipit, 14 Chaffinch, 68 Goldfinch, 17 Siskin, 6 Linnet, 6 Redpoll and 2 Reed Bunting. A Red-throated Diver was observed on the river. A Peregrine was seen with prey. The male Firecrest was still present. 11 birds ringed today; 1 female Goldcrest, 3 Robin, 1 Greenfinch, 3 Blackbird, 1 Grey Wagtail and 2 Lesser Redpoll.

Thursday 27th October 2011

Weather consisted of a fresh south-easterly wind, there was complete cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 94 Brent Geese, 21 Wigeon, 21 Common Scoter, 6 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Dunlin, 2 Turnstone, 1 Swallow, 2 Pied Wagtail, 2 Greenfinch, 186 Goldfinch and 33 Siskin. The highlight of the day was a Lapland Bunting. 2 Blackcap were found. 9 birds ringed today; 4 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Robin, 2 Wren and 1 Blackbird. A Grey Seal was found offshore.

Wednesday 26th October 2011

The day started with a juv Moorhen picked up on View Point Road in the half light - unfortunately, despite looking ok, it later died and had presumably been hit by a car (not many people realise that this species migrates). Next a fine ringtail Hen Harrier spent 20 mins wandering around the site being mobbed by corvids before departing. A new Yellow-browed Warbler present today with yesterdays 2 Firecrests still with us. Not to many new arrivals in the bushes today with just a handful of new Blackies, Chaffs & a Blackcap. On the reserve 2 Wheatears with a Purp on the groynes in front of the Butts. Overhead another 1,000 Goldies, 46 Skylarks & 44 Redpolls have gone south. Offshore 311 Dunlin, 127 Brents plus a selection of other waders & ducks in low numbers going south.

Tuesday 25th October 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate south-easterly wind, there was complete cloud cover. Migrants seen on the move were 1 Pink-footed Goose, 3007 Brent Geese, 19 Shelduck, 6 Wigeon, 18 Teal, 2 Common Scoter, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Smew, 1 Red-throated Diver, 3 Cormorant, 1 Kestrel, 21 Ringed Plover, 1 Grey Plover, 11 Sanderling, 7 Dunlin, 9 Culew, 4 Common Gull, 27 Black-headed Gulls, 1 Short-eared Owl, 21 Skylark, 1 Pied Wagtail, 6 Meadow Pipit, 2 Pock Pipit, 10 Chaffinch, 251 Goldfinch and 1 Siskin. The Yellow-browed Warbler was still present feeding behind the Bird Observatory kitchen. Also seen was another Short-eared Owl, 2 Firecrest, 5 Goldcrest, 10 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff and 1 Northern Wheatear. Offshore a Great Crested Grebe was found. Grounded waders sighted were 1 Purple Sandpiper and 6 Turnstone. 44 birds ringed today; 2 Firecrest, 8 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldfinch, 3 Blackbird, 1 Starling, 1 Blue Tit, 10 Song Thrush and 17 Robin. Late news concerns a Shorelark reported by a visitor late morning.

Monday 24th October 2011

A south-easterly onshore gale brought us at least 12 Bonxies, 812 Brents with other species noted in very small numbers. Worth a mention are 4 Eiders & an Arctic Tern. On land hard work due to the strong wind. A Yellow-browed Warbler spent the entire day in the same small group of Sycamores - and a little beauty it was to ! A very small arrival of commoner migrants including a handful of new Blackies, Songies, Robins, Wrens, Goldcrests & singles of Blackcap, Black Red & Woodcock. On the reserve 2 Wheatears with6 Swallows & a Merlin going south.

Sunday 23rd October 2011

Cracking day, weather wise, for the end of October. Another 400 Goldies south this morning with only smaller numbers of other visible migrants on the move. Offshore 17 Golden Plover & a distant Bonxie but not a lot else. In the bushes a handful of new Blackies, Songies & Robins (but literally a handful). Single Little Egret, Goldeneye & House Martin went south with 2 Common Terns still in the river & a Tree Sparrow noted with the House Sparrows.

Saturday 22nd October 2011

Weather consisted of a south south-easterly wind. There was very little cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 1 Sooty Shearwater, 9 Brent Geese, 3 Pintail, 1 Common Scoter, 1 Black-throated Diver, 1 Red-throated Diver, 16 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Curlew, 5 Kittiwake, 1 Long-tailed Skua, 4 Great Skua, 22 Skylark, 539 Starling, 3 Meadow Pipit, 4 Chaffinch, 450 Goldfinch, 3 Siskin and 10 Redpoll. 13 birds ringed today; 3 Lesser Redpoll, 3 Robin, 1 Brambling, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Great Tit, 2 Goldfinch, 1 House Sparrow and 1 Fieldfare. Also of interest found today was a Pomarine Skua and 2 Purple Sandpiper. A Dutch ringed Blackacp was found whilst undertaking the daily bird ringing.

Friday 21st October 2011

Weather consisted of a light to gentle south-westerly wind. There was not much cloud cover. Highlights today were 1 Short-eared Owl, 1 Merlin, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Purple Sandpiper and 2 Brambling. Also recorded were 4 Mediterranean Gulls, 3 Fieldfare, 1 Song Thrush and 5 Redwing.

Thursday 20th October 2011

Weather consisted of a west north-westerly wind, there was very little cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 28 Brent Geese, 8 Eider, 10 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 2 Cormorant, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Oystercatcher, 168 Black-headed Gulls, 3 Woodpigeon, 17 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 56 Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrush, 3 Grey Wagtail, 15 Pied Wagtail, 23 Meadow Pipit, 59 Chaffinch, 48 Greenfinch, 747 Goldfinch, 56 Siskin, 33 Linnet, 35 Redpoll and 2 Reed Bunting. Other birds of interest seen that were grounded were 1 juvenile female Hen Harrier, 2 Turnstone, 2 Common Tern, 1 Little Owl, 2 Goldcrest, 3 Blackcap, 9 Redwing, 2 Tree Sparrow, 2 Rock Pipit and 4 Brambling. 24 birds ringed today; 1 juvenile female Hen Harrier (new species for the Landguard Ringing List), 1 Grey Wagtail, 2 Chaffinch, 1 Fieldfare, 1 Robin, 10 Lesser Redpoll, 1 female Blackcap, 2 Blackbird, 1 female Goldcrest, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Redwing and 1 Woodpigeon.

EASYFUNDRAISING

If you are the sort of person who shops on line may i draw your attention to a way of raising funds for the observatory via "easyfundraising". Please see the link at the base of the home page on http://www.lbo.org.uk/ if you are willing to help us each time you shop on line. Many thanks.

Wednesday 19th October 2011

Bright n' breezy. On the move 1155 Goldies, 193 Redpolls, 84 Chaffs, 64 Linnets, 63 Greenies, 53 Siskins, 18 Skylarks, 14 Mipits, 11 Pied Wags, 3 Reed Bunts, 3 Swallows, 2 Jackdaws & singles of Rock Pipit, Grey Wag, House Martin, Crossbill & Woodlark going south. Fairly quiet in the bushes with the usual mid-October fare in very small numbers. Just 2 Wheatears on the reserve today. Offshore the only thing worth a mention is a solitary Eider going north. 2 immature male Peregrines hammered through calling to each other late morning may be youngsters from the Orwell bridge. Finally just outside our recording area was a Yellow-browed Warbler by the Customs House.

Tuesday 18th October 2011

A small arrival of new birds today with a couple of new Chiffs & Blackcaps in the bushes plus 9 Wheatear on the reserve. Vis mig not spectacular following the overnight rain that cleared around dawn with 231 Goldies, 45 Lesser Redpolls & everything else in low numbers. Offshore 17 Eiders south was unusual (they normally go north here at this time of the year) & an Arctic Skua chasing a small wader (dunlin ?) that hopefully escaped it's grasp, 4 Arctic & 1 Common Tern - but little else. A Little Egret went south and inland with a Merlin putting in a brief appearance. Finally 2 Purps and 2 Rock Pipits were on the point.

Monday 17th October 2011

Migrants observed passing through were 11 Brent Geese, 3 Wigeon, 2 Pintail, 6 Cormorant, 53 Black-heaed Gulls, 10 Skylark, 7 Swallow, 268 Starling, 1 Dunnock, 15 Pied Wagtail, 17 Meadow Pipit, 1 Rock Pipit, 138 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 162 Greenfinch, 689 Goldfinch, 42 Siskin, 52 Redpoll and 3 Reed Bunting. 29 birds ringed today; 15 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 4 Chaffinch, 1 Great Tit, 1 Blackbird, 3 Goldcrest, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldfinch and 1 Meadow Pipit.

Sunday 16th October 2011

Booted Warbler - 1st site record enjoyed by about 500 punters. A good selection of the expected common migrants for the time of year present today in small numbers plus of note a Yellow-browed Warbler (that at one point was in the same field of view as the Booted), a late Tree Pipit, Common Redpoll & 2 Arctic Terns south offshore. Vis mig not over busy with 362 Goldies the dominant species & everything else in counts under 30. Over 50 birds ringed so far. An all round cracking day.

Saturday 15th October 2011

Weather consisted of a south south-easterly wind. There was hardly any cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 147 Brent Geese, 2 Pink footed Geese, 7 Shelduck, 214 Wigeon, 24 Teal, 21 Pintail, 3 Shoveler, 1 Eider, 1 Gannet, 6 Cormorant, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Arctic Skua, 69 Black-headed Gulls, 47 Woodpigeon, 2 Short-eared Owls, 1 Rook, 43 Skylark, 9 Swallow, 3 Grey Wagtail, 21 Pied Wagtail, 22 Meadow Pipit, 3 Rock Pipit, 63 Chaffinch, 34 Greenfinch, 350 Goldfinch, 6 Siskin, 42 Linnet, 69 Redpoll and 5 Reed Bunting. A Great Spotted Woodpecker was seen and 4 Northern Wheatear. 46 birds ringed today; 1 Brambling, 2 Song Thrush, 2 Redwing, 12 Blackbird, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 1 Chiffchaff, 4 Blackcap, 10 Robin, 5 Lesser Redpoll, 4 Chaffinch, 1 Blue Tit, 2 Great Tit and 1 Dunnock. A Weasel was observed out on the reserve. A Hornet, Migrant Hawker Dragonfly and 5 Red Admiral Butterflies were seen.

Friday 14th October 2011

Weather consisted of a light to gentle south-easterly wind becoming moderate to fresh as the day continued. There was much cloud early morning. Migrants on the move were 2,048 Brent Geese, 226 Wigeon, 63 Teal, 3 Mallard, 1 Pintail, 24 Common Scoter, 6 Red-breasted Merganser, 10 Gannet, 15 Cormorant, 1 Hen Harrier, 12 Dunlin, 2 Curlew, 1 Pomarine Skua, 2 Great Skua, 2 Arctic Skua, 176 Black-heaed Gulls, 15 Little Gulls, 1 Common Tern, 1 Jackdaw, 7 Carrion Crow, 36 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 23 Starling, 1 Grey Wagtail, 2 Pied Wagtail, 6 Meadow Pipit, 1 Rock Pipit, 33 Chaffinch, 404 Goldfinch, 5 Siskin, 16 Linnet, 7 Redpoll and 2 Common Crossbill. Grounded migrants recorded were 1 immature male Black Redstart, 3 Fieldfare, 15 Song Thrush, 20 Redwing and 5 Northern Wheatear. Warblers seen were 2 Chiffchaff, 6 Blackcap and 1 Common Whitethroat. 11 Mediterranean Gulls were found. 48 birds ringed today; 16 Robin, 8 Song Thrush, 8 Blackbird, 4 Redwing, 1 Black Redstart, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 1 female Goldcrest, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Dunnock, 4 Blackcap, 1 Brambling and 1 Chaffinch.

Thursday 13th October 2011

Weather consisted of a light to gentle east south-easterly wind. There was complete cloud cover. There was drizzle at dawn. A very productive day with many birds seen and ringed. Migrants observed passing through were 11,697 Brent Geese, 1 Pink-footed Goose, 11 Shelduck, 168 Wigeon, 109 Teal, 4 Mallard, 8 Pintail, 182 Common Scoter, 6 Goldeneye, 7 Red-breasted Merganser, 4 Red-throated Diver, 56 Gannet, 14 Cormorant, 5 Little Egret, 1 Peregrine, 1 Hobby, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Golden Plover, 27 Dunlin, 2 Pomarine Skua, 1 Arctic Skua, 17 Great Skua, 240 Black-headed Gull, 2 Kittiwake, 11 Common Tern, 1 Arctic Tern, 1 Razorbill, 4 Short-eared Owls, 1 Rook, 10 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 1 Grey Wagtail, 1 Pied Wagtail, 12 Meadow Pipit, 1 Rock Pipit, 7 Chaffinch, 51 Goldfinch, 12 Linnet and 2 Reed Bunting. Grounded migrants found included 1 Merlin, 7 Short-eared Owls, 1 Woodlark, 1 Black Redstart and 5 Northern Wheatear. Warblers present were 7 Chiffchaff, 6 Blackcap and 1 Common Whitethroat. 98 birds ringed today; 43 Robin, 6 Goldcrest, 1 Wren, 7 Chiffchaff, 2 Blue Tit, 5 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Chaffinch, 1 Dunnock, 1 Black Redstart, 12 Song Thrush, 6 Redwing and 11 Blackbird.

October Litter Pick

Litter Pick this Saturday 0930hrs start - usual arrangements (please see the events section on http://www.lbo.org.uk/).

Wednesday 12th October 2011

An entertaining morning with the wind speed finally easing to make the birding more enjoyable. Vis mig so far this am included 1178 Goldies, 284 Siskins, 167 Linnets, 89 Mipits, 87 Swallows, 59 Skylarks, 54 Redpolls, 43 Greenies, 42 House Martins, 18 Pied Wags, 8 Reed Bunts, 6 Rock Pipits & a Woodlark that dropped in briefly late morning before moving off south. Fairly quiet in the bushes with single figure counts of Blackcap & Chiffchaff plus a single Whitethroat. 2 Tree Sparrows were with the House Sparrows by the cottage, a Rock Pipit was on the groynes in front of the Butts & 4 Wheatears were on the reserve. A Short-eared Owl came in off the sea & a Merlin went south. Offshore pretty deadly although a Bonxie went south & a Razorbill north. Spoladea recurvalis - first site record of this migrant moth.

Tuesday 11th October 2011

Weather consisted of a fresh to strong west south-westerly wind, it was mild and dry; there was much cloud cover. Migrants on the move were 21 Brent Geese, 3 Pintail, 1 Common Scoter, 6 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Knot, 1 Curlew, 1 Turnstone, 1 Sandwich Tern, 23 Skylark, 66 House Martin, 17 Pied Wagtail, 38 Meadow Pipit, 16 Chaffinch, 1 Brambling, 26 Greenfinch, 781 Goldfinch, 65 Siskin, 111 Linnet, 22 Redpoll and 3 Reed Bunting. The Yellow-browed Warbler was still present amongst the tamarisk within the Bird Observatory compound. There were 4 Northern Wheatear out on the reserve. Also seen today was a male Pheasant, Chiffchaff and 3 Blackcap. 5 birds were ringed today; 3 Lesser Redpoll, 1 male Blackcap and 1 Blackbird.

Monday 10th October 2011

Weather consisted of a westerly wind turning west south-westerly, it was mild and dry. Migrants on the move were 61 Brent Geese, 3 Shelduck, 11 Wigeon, 1 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 12 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 1 Merlin, 1 Kestrel, 2 Grey Plover, 1 Great Skua, 4 Common Gull, 10 Common Tern, 2 Arctic Tern, 6 Skylark, 40 Swallow, 66 House Martin, 3 Pied Wagtail, 23 Meadow Pipit, 17 Chaffinch, 9 Greenfinch, 305 Goldfinch, 28 Siskin, 42 Linnet, 17 Common Crossbill and 9 Redpoll. The Yellow-browed Warbler from yesterday was still here hiding in the tamarisk within the Bird Observatory compound. Other grounded migrants seen were 2 male Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff and 4 Northern Wheatear. There were 3 more Merlin seen on site. 7 Mediterranean Gulls were found, 4 adults, 1 second-winter and 2 first-winter birds. 6 birds ringed today; 1 Little Owl, 1 female Goldcrest, 1 Song Thrush, 2 male Blackcap and 1 Chiffchaff.

Sunday 9th October 2011

At least 100 Songies present first thing the bulk of which quickly moved off inland. Also on site today worth a mention were 2 Redwing, Fieldfare, Ring Ouzel, Woodcock & Yellow-browed Warbler. On the move offshore & overhead it was a tad busy. The highlights were Cory's Shearwater, Grey Phal, male Goosander, Razorbill, Pomarine Skua, 2 Merlin, 2 Short-eared Owls, 2 Gadwal & 6 Avocet. Amongst the big movers were 10.008 Brents (including a white one !), 2066 Wigeon, 352 Dunlin, 233 Teal & 116 Skylarks with a large supporting cast incliding 9 Pintail, 59 Common Scoter, Goldeneye, Red-breasted Merg, Red-throated Diver, 57 Gannets & 13 species of wader in small numbers. Also worth a mention are 4 Arctic, 3 Common & a Sandwich Tern plus an Arctic Skua. The log sheet is certainly packed today.

Saturday 8th October 2011

Weather consisted of a fresh to strong west north-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 39 Brent Geese, 3 Shelduck, 14 Wigeon, 1 Common Scoter, 13 Gannet, 5 Cormorant, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 5 Dunlin, 1 Curlew, 4 Turnstone, 1 Arctic Skua, 1 Pomarine Skua, 2 Sandwich Tern, 6 Skylark, 1 Meadow Pipit, 268 Goldfinch, 43 Siskin and 44 Redpoll. Out on the reserve 3 Blackcap were found and 1 Northern Wheatear. There were more thrushes seen today with 18 Redwing, 7 Song Thrush and 3 Fieldfare all recorded. 5 Mediterranean Gulls were seen. Due to the wind only 2 birds were ringed today; 1 Redwing and 1 Song Thrush. A Grey Seal was seen offshore.

Friday 7th October 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate to fresh west north-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. The wind became more strong as the day continued. Migrants observed passing through were 5 Brent Geese, 1 Mallard, 2 Gannet, 5 Cormorant, 1 Kestrel, 1 Curlew, 20 Black-headed Gull, 2 Skylark, 21 Swallow, 51 House Martin, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 22 Pied Wagtail, 1 Tree Pipit, 42 Meadow Pipit, 49 Chaffinch, 118 Greenfinch, 804 Goldfinch, 152 Siskin, 146 Linnet, 42 Redpoll and 10 Reed Bunting. Out on the reserve 9 Northern Wheatear were found. Warblers present were 8 Chiffchaff, 7 Blackcap and 1 Common Whitethroat. The male Peregrine Falcon was observed sitting up on one of the dock cranes. 4 birds ringed today; 1 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Chiffchaff and 2 Chaffinch.

Thursday 6th October 2011

A very windy day, the weather consisted of a fresh west north-westerly wind, at times considered a near gale! There was much cloud. Migrants observed passing through were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Black-throated Diver, 1 Gannet, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Marsh Harrier, 2 Golden Plover, 4 Grey Plover, 2 Dunlin, 1 Curlew, 1 Kittiwake, 45 Swallow, 319 House Martin, 4 Pied Wagtail, 42 Meadow Pipit, 29 Goldfinch, 26 Siskin and 4 Redpoll. Highlight of the day was a Grey Phalarope seen briefly on the river behind the Bird Observatory. 4 birds ringed in total today, this poor figure is partly due to the windy weather conditions as only some of the nets were open; birds ringed were 2 Chiffchaff and 2 Blackcap. A Red Admiral butterfly was observed migrating south through the windy conditions! A Scarce Bordered Straw was in the moth traps.

Wednesday 5th October 2011

At least 19 Wheatears this am. New in are a handful of Chiffchaffs, a couple of Blackcaps & a Songie. Some vis mig despite the strengthening gale including 43 Goldfinchs, 35 Greenies, 32 Mipits, 18 Swallows, 10 Siskins, 3 Skylarks, 2 House Martins, Sand Martin & a Kes going south. Offshore a waste of time although 2 Kitts are worth a mention for the time of year.

Tuesday 4th October 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate to fresh west south-westerly wind. It was very mild. Migrants observed passing through were 9 Brent Geese, 1 Shelduck, 18 Wigeon, 3 Pintail, 4 Cormorant, 8 Black-headed Gull, 3 Common Tern, 1 Short-eared Owl, 5 Sand Martin, 38 Barn Swallow, 27 House Martin, 2 Grey Wagtail, 14 Pied Wagtail, 11 Meadow Pipit, 12 Chaffinch, 117 Goldfinch, 19 Siskin, 21 Linnet, 6 Redpoll and 3 Reed Bunting. A pair of Peregrine were seen hunting near the dock cranes. 25 Northern Wheatear were found out on the reserve. Warblers seen were 5 Chiffchaff and 6 Blackcap. 12 birds ringed today; 4 Blackcap, 4 Chiffchaff, 1 Robin, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Chaffinch and 1 Woodpigeon. A Weasel was seen hunting over the reserve.

Monday 3rd October 2011

Although the wind has gone round south-west and it's overcast it is still exceptionally warm for the time of the year. A small arrival of continental race Song Thrush's this am but apart from this the bushes are very quiet with a couple of Chiffchaffs the best we can muster. 2 Wheatears on the reserve & a bit of vis mig this am including 75 Swallows, 69 Goldies, 57 Siskin, 31 Linnets, 15 Mipits, 14 Chaffs, 13 Pied Wags, 3 Redpolls, 2 Reed Bunts, 2 Little Egrets, single Sand Martin, Kestrel & Marsh Harrier going south. Offshore just a handful of Brents, ducks & waders on the move plus 4 Great-crested Grebes. The moth traps are still producing a few migrants including a Bordered Straw. In the afternoon the first Redwing of the autumn was noted.

Sunday 2nd October 2011

Another stinking hot morning. Very small numbers of common migrants in the bushes & on the reserve. Some vis mig this am with a few bits & bobs going south including 70 Chaffs, 45 Goldies, 27 Siskins, 38 Swallows, 25 House Martins, 12 Pied Wags, 5 Skylarks, 3 Jackdaws, 2 Grey Wags & a Reed Bunting. Another Palpita vitrealis in the moth traps plus a Green Birch Shieldbug. A Hummingbird Hawk-moth was in the cottage garden.

Saturday 1st October 2011

Weather consisted of a south south-westerly wind turning south-easterly. It was foggy early morning. Migrants observed passing through were 13 Brent Geese, 3 Skylark, 2 Pied Wagtail, 8 Chaffinch, 1 Brambling, 5 Goldfinch and 3 Siskin. Highlight of the day was a Richard's Pipit seen heading south at 10:25 hours. Also seen today was 1 Stonechat and 1 Wheatear. 1 bird ringed today; 1 Chaffinch. In the moth traps the 2nd site record of Pale-lemon Sallow, also of note a Cypress Pug, Palpita vitrealis and Bordered Straw. 2 Hawthorn Shield Bugs were found.

September 2011 Ringing Totals

In September 2011 467 birds were ringed, this is a lower figure than the last two years. On a good note though a record number of Chiffchaffs were ringed this month and more have now been ringed at Landguard this year than in any previous year!

Top 3 species ringed in September 2011

1. Chiffchaff     117        2. Blackcap     80        3. Meadow Pipit     50

Friday 30th September 2011

Weather consisted of a light to gentle south-easterly wind, there was no cloud cover, once again it was very warm, especailly for the time of year! Migrants observed passing through were 22 Brent Geese, 1 Shelduck, 11 Wigeon, 7 Teal, 1 Mallard, 1 Fulmar, 3 Oystercatcher, 2 Grey Plover, 1 Lapwing, 4 Curlew, 2 Skylark, 14 Swallow, 6 Grey Wagtail, 11 Pied Wagtail, 22 Meadow Pipit, 15 Chaffinch, 16 Goldfinch, 4 Redpoll and 1 Reed Bunting. 1 Northern Wheatear was found out on the reserve. Warblers present were 1 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat and 1 Common Whitethroat. 14 birds ringed today; 2 Grey Wagtail, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 5 Long-tailed Tit, 1 Linnet, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Robin and 2 Great Tit. In the moth traps Palpita vitrealis is a noteable migrant having come up from southern Europe. Butterflies seen included Small Heath, Small Copper and Common Blue. 3 Migrant Hawker Dragonflies were found and 1 Common Darter.

Thursday 29th September 2011

Weather consisted of a south-easterly wind, there was no cloud cover. It was misty and warm. Migrants observed passing through were 11 Brent Geese, 1 Teal, 1 Cormorant, 1 female Sparrowhawk, 25 Swallow, 2 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 10 Pied Wagtail, 10 Meadow Pipit, 22 Chaffinch, 49 Goldfinch, 5 Siskin and 3 Reed Bunting. A Whinchat and Wheatear were found out on the reserve. 5 birds ringed today; 1 Song Thrush, 1 Meadow Pipit, 2 Dunnock and 1 Starling.

Wednesday 28th September 2011

Weather consisted of a light south-easterly wind and there was no cloud cover. It was another very warm day for the time of the year. Migrants observed passing through were 336 Brent Geese, 18 Wigeon, 12 Teal, 3 Eider, 5 Oystercatcher, 1 Dunlin, 6 Curlew, 2 Jackdaw, 45 Swallow, 4 Grey Wagtail, 1 Pied Wagtail, 28 Meadow Pipit, 10 Chaffinch, 25 Goldfinch, 8 Siskin and 8 Linnet. Grounded migrants found were 1 Ring Ouzel (the first of the autumn), 1 male Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 1 Northern Wheatear and 4 Redpoll. Warblers present were 2 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat and 2 Common Whitethroat. 17 birds ringed in total today; 8 Chaffinch, 2 Blackcap, 1 Dunnock, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Meadow Pipit, 2 Great Tit and 1 Blackbird. Butterflies found included a Clouded Yellow, Comma, Small Heath, Small Tortiseshell and Common Blue. 20 Red Admiral were seen moving south. Dragonflies seen were Common Darter and Migrant Hawker.

Tuesday 27th September 2011

Fog lingering until almost mid-day. An Osprey appeared out of the murk and flew low over the observatory - if it had been any further away than just over our heads then we wouldn't have known it was there. A Golden Plover was heard calling several times as was a Lapwing that departed inland. Visible migration non-existent in the conditions with sea watching impossible - in fact we couldn't see the sea until late morning. A few grounded migrants noted with Chiffchaff numbers just squeezing into double figures with low single figure counts of Wheatear, Whinchat, Garden Warbler, Lesser 'throat & Goldcrest. In the moth traps 2 Bordered Straw put in an appearance. No doubt if you pop down this pm you will manage more than we did this am as the sun is now out.

Car Parking on Wed 28th

Please note that this Wednesday the View Point car park & the "new" car parking area to the north-west of View Point Road opposite the fort will be closed. This only leaves a limited number of places in the car parking area alongside Left Battery (Icky Ridge to birders). The place will be crawling in police/security due to a visit by the Princess Royal to open the new dock extension. If you wish to avoid potential delays & organised chaos why not park in Manor Terrace car park or catch the bus which is running as normal throughout the days proceedings.

Monday 26th September 2011

Weather consisted of a light to gentle west south-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 203 Brent Geese, 1 Shelduck, 89 Wigeon, 18 Teal, 3 Pintail, 3 Shoveler, 17 Common Scoter, 4 Gannet, 7 Cormorant, 1 Hobby, 2 Avocet, 5 Oystercatcher, 2 Golden Plover, 6 Grey Plover, 11 Knot, 12 Dunlin, 6 Bar-tailed Godwit, 4 Curlew, 46 Black-headed Gull, 3 Sandwich Tern, 2 Sand Martin, 327 Swallow, 121 House Martin, 1 Grey Wagtail, 34 Meadow Pipit, 22 Goldfinch and 7 Linnet. 2 Northern Wheatear were out on the reserve. There was 2 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat and 1 Common Whitethroat recorded. 2 birds ringed today; 1 Grey Wagtail and 1 Greenfinch. A Pink-barred Sallow is notable for us in the moth traps.

Sunday 25th September 2011

Weather consisted of a south south-westerly wind turning south south-easterly. It was a warm day for the time of year. Migrants observed passing through were 71 Brent Geese, 4 Shelduck, 20 Wigeon, 20 Teal, 1 Pintail, 13 Cormorant, 6 Knot, 2 Dunlin, 79 Swallow, 2 Grey Wagtail, 3 Pied Wagtail, 23 Meadow Pipit, 3 Chaffinch, 3 Siskin and 1 Reed Bunting. Grounded migrants found were 1 Whinchat and 1 Wheatear, there were also 3 Chiffchaff and 1 Lesser Whitethroat. 3 Mediterranean Gulls were recorded. 9 birds ringed today; 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Blackbird, 2 Great Tit, 3 Blue Tit, 1 Greenfinch and 1 Robin. Butterflies present included Brown Argus and Small Copper. A Western Conifer Seed Bug was found at midday, a very good record for this species as not commonly seen.

Saturday 24th September 2011

Weather consisted of a light to gentle west south-westerly wind turning to a gentle southerly wind. Migrants observed pasing through were 1 Brent Goose, 18 Wigeon, 1 Gannet, 1 Kestrel, 3 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 4 Sandwich Tern, 200 Swallow, 1 Grey Wagtail, 5 Pied Wagtail, 29 Meadow Pipit, 21 Chaffinch and 5 Siskin. 3 Redpoll were recorded and also 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker. The highlight of the day was a Tawny Pipit seen briefly in flight, heading south over the reserve at 09:20hrs. 15 birds ringed today; 1 male Sparrowhawk, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Common Whitethroat, 1 Meadow Pipit, 2 Great Tit, 1 Chaffinch, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Dunnock, 1 Woodpigeon, 1 Blackcap and 1 Blue Tit.

Friday 23rd September 2011

Weather consisted of a gentle to moderate westerly wind with some cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 1 Shelduck, 1 Cormorant, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Grey Plover, 3 Knot, 2 Dunlin, 60 Black-headed Gull, 6 Sand Martin, 289 Swallow, 48 House Martin, 2 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail, 13 Pied Wagtail, 52 Meadow Pipit, 65 Chaffinch, 8 Greenfinch, 22 Goldfinch, 14 Siskin, 10 Linnet and 17 Redpoll. 1 Northern Wheatear was found out on the reserve. 6 Mediterranean Gulls were found. 18 birds ringed today; 2 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Northern Wheatear, 6 Blackcap, 4 Chiffchaff, 1 Greenfinch, 3 Dunnock and 1 female Sparrowhawk. Butterflies recorded were Brown Argus, Comma, Small Heath, Small Copper and Red Admiral. In the moth traps a Ni Moth is a good migrant to get; also worth a mention a Pearly Underwing.

Thursday 22nd September 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate west south-westerly wind, there was some cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 2 Cormorant, 2 Sandwich Tern, 3 Common Tern, 9 Sand Martin, 453 Swallow, 373 House Martin, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 6 Pied Wagtail, 47 Meadow Pipit, 109 Chaffinch, 2 Greenfinch, 3 Goldfinch, 8 Siskin and 3 Redpoll. Grounded migrants found were 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Pied Flycatcher and 5 Northern Wheatear. 29 birds ringed today; 12 Blackcap, 3 Goldcrest, 5 Chaffinch, 4 Greenfinch, 2 Dunnock, 2 Blue Tit and 1 Chiffchaff. A Delicate was in the moth traps.

RECENT RECOVERIES

Amongst the most recent batch of ringing recoveries are a Chiffchaff ringed here on autumn passage on 26th September 2009 re trapped at Pittance Park, near Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire on 24th April 2011, a Willow Warbler trapped here on spring passage on 26th April 2011 re trapped, at what is presumably its breeding site, at Ardochy, Highland on 31st May 2011 & a Blackbird ringed here as a young female on 26th October 2010 re trapped at Helgoland, Germany on spring passage on 31st March 2011.

Wednesday 21st September 2011

Weather consisted of a north-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. It was damp and warm. Migrants on the move were 1 Tree Pipit, 1 Greenfinch, 12 Chaffinch, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 44 Swallow, 83 House Martin, 6 Siskin and 48 Meadow Pipit. Out on the reserve 4 Northern Wheatear were seen. A Hobby was recorded. Warblers found were 4 Common Whitethroat, 5 Chiffchaff, 5 Blackcap and 3 Lesser Whitethroat. 6 birds ringed today; 4 Chiffchaff, 1 Blackcap and 1 Dunnock.

Tuesday 20th September 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate south westerly wind, there was much cloud. It was mild and dry. Migrants observed on the move were 17 Wigeon, 3 Teal, 5 Gannet, 8 Cormorant, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Hobby, 2 Kestrel, 3 Grey Plover, 2 Dunlin, 1 Curlew, 2 Turnstone, 1 Sandwich Tern, 7 Common Tern, 1 Sand Martin, 232 Swallow, 62 House Martin, 72 Meadow Pipit and 5 Chaffinch. On the reserve 1 Black Redstart was found along with 1 Northern Wheatear. 8 Mediterranean Gulls were recorded, 4 adults, 2 second winter birds and 2 first winter birds. 19 birds were ringed today; 1 Black Redstart, 1 Garden Warbler, 7 Blackcap, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest, 2 Lesser Whitethroat and 1 Common Whitethroat. A Grass Snake was found within the Bird Observatory compound and a Grey Seal was observed offshore.

Monday 19th September 2011

Another 560 Swallows & 279 Mipits south this am. Also pleasing today to see at least 40 Mipits grounded on the reserve. Amongst a selection of other birds heading south today were 16 Chaffinch's, 3 Yellow Wags, 2 Grey Wags & 7 Siskins. Offshore very little for the second day running. In the bushes at least 25 Chiffchaffs plus single figure counts of other common warblers. The regular male Black Red is still with us lurking around the bushes on the reserve on the seaward side of the bird observatory compound. A single Tree Sparrow with the finches & sparrows is also thought to be the same bird that has been seen on & off over the past couple of weeks.

Sunday 18th September 2011

On the move going south so far this am are 875 House Martins, 614Swallows, 9 Sand Martins, 149 Mipits, 35 Siskins plus a selection of other expected mid-September fare in small numbers. At least 25 Chiffs, 6 Blackcaps, 4 Lesser 'throats, 2 Whitethroats, Garden Warbler & Spot Fly knocking about. The usual Black Red is still with us and a Budgie put in a brief appearance. In the moth traps it was pleasing to see a Pearly Underwing as they have been almost non-existent this year.

Saturday 17th September 2011

Offshore today a lot less seabirds due to the winds swinging to a more normal south-westerly. On the move amongst a wide selection of species were a Manxie, 9 Gannets, 81 Brents, 429 Wigeon, 209 Teal, 2 Gadwal, 62 Ringos, 10 Grey Plover, 32 Knot, 237 Dunlin, 34 Redshank, 20 Common Terns & 403 Swallows. A lot quieter in the bushes & on the reserve today but with a litter pick going on in the morning observers were pre-occupied with other things.

Friday 16th September 2011

Lots going on today with the south-easterley conditions. Offshore amongst a wide range of things on the move were 3 Sootys & a Great Shearwater going north, 31 Gannets, 5 Fulmars, 2 Kittiwakes, 2 Guillimots, 5 Arctics, a Pomarine & a Long-tailed Skua, 145 Brents, 380 Teal, 46 Common Scoter & a Hobby. On land at least 15 Chiffchaffs & 4 Blackcaps in the bushes plus singles of Redstart, Tree Sparrow & Wryneck.

Thursday 15th September 2011

Weather consisted of a light north-westerly wind. It was cool and dry. Migrants observed passing through were 8 Brent Geese, 2 Shelduck, 1 Teal, 3 Eider, 54 Common Scoter, 1 Velvet Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 4 Gannet, 11 Cormorant, 15 Little Egret, 4 Oystercatcher, 2 Ringed Plover, 1 Turnstone, 63 Black-headed Gull, 5 Sandwich Tern, 4 Common Tern, 10 Sand Martin, 103 Swallow, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 4 Grey Wagtail, 7 Pied Wagtail, 92 Meadow Pipit, 20 Chaffinch, 2 Greenfinch, 6 Goldfinch, 4 Siskin and 8 Redpoll. Grounded migrants found were 50 Chiffchaff, 3 Willow Warbler, 15 Blackcap, 4 Lesser Whitethroat, 8 Common Whitethroat, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Northern Wheatear, 1 Black Redstart and 2 male Common Redstarts. A Peregrine Falcon was recorded. 64 birds ringed today; 36 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest, 12 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Reed Warbler, 4 Meadow Pipit, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 1 Starling, 3 Dunnock, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Great Tit and 1 Common Whitethroat. Several butterfly species were recorded including Comma and Small Heath.

SEPTEMBER LITTER PICK

Litter Pick this Saturday 18th September 0930hrs start. Further details on the events page of the LBO home page. This one is part of the MCS beachclean event. All welcome.

Wednesday 14th September 2011

Weather was a moderate to fresh west south-westerly wind, there was no cloud cover. Migrants seen passing through were 3 Mute Swan, 2 Pintail, 1 Gannet, 1 Kestrel, 7 Dunlin, 1 Common Gull, 6 Sandwich Tern, 32 Sand Martin, 1086 Swallow, 644 House Martin, 12 Tree Sparrow, 36 Yellow wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 13 Pied Wagtail, 2 Tree Pipit, 875 Meadow Pipit, 44 Chaffinch, 14 Greenfinch, 24 Goldfinch, 352 Siskin, 30 Linnet and 4 Redpoll. It was an excellent day for raptor migration waith 4 Marsh Harrier seen passing through, also 1 Hen Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard and 1 Hobby recorded. Grounded migrants were 25 Chiffchaff, 8 Willow Warbler, 25 Blackcap, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 14 Common Whitethroat, 9 Northern Wheatear, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Black Redstart and 2 Common Redstart. The first Firecrest of the autumn was also recorded. 61 birds ringed today; 14 Blackcap, 15 Chiffchaff, 16 Meadow Pipit, 4 Willow Warbler, 1 Chaffinch, 2 Robin, 1 Firecrest, 2 Blue Tit, 3 Common Whitethroat, 1 Greenfinch, 1 Great Tit and 1 Dunnock. Several butterfly species were found including Comma, Small Copper and Small Heath.

Tuesday 13th September 2011

Weather consisted of a west south-westerly wind, it was cool. Migrants seen passing through were 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Little Egret, 3 Marsh Harrier, 1 Hobby, 4 Ringed Plover, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Whimbrel, 5 Black-headed Gull, 4 Common Tern, 1 Swift, 27 Sand Martin, 1394 Swallow, 420 House Martin, 3 Tree Sparrow, 15 Yellow Wagtail, 5 Pied Wagtail, 182 Meadow Pipit, 11 Chaffinch, 16 Greenfinch, 21 Goldfinch and 65 Siskin. At 09:40 hours a Red-throated Pipit came in from the north-east along the shingle with a small group of Meadow Pipits. It called three times before pitching in towards the cottage, seen briefly on the deck at a distance before being lost, presumably departing to the souh-west. This is the fourth Red-throated Pipit to be noted here in the last thirty years but we have still not managed to get the species on the site list due to a failure to get good views to document the records properly. 16 birds ringed in total today; 4 Blackcap, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Reed Warbler, 3 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 1 Wren, 1 Dunnock and 1 Great Tit.

Monday 12th September 2011

Weather consisted of a strong south-westerly wind. There was complete cloud cover and it was warm. Birds seen migrating through were 3 Wigeon, 3 Gannet, 1 Hobby, 5 Oystercatcher, 2 Grey Plover, 1 Arctic Skua, 1 Pomarine Skua, 1 Common Gull, 1 Kittiwake, 1 Sandwich Tern, 11 Common Tern and 35 Swallow. Grounded migrants found were 1 Whinchat, 5 Wheatear and 2 Chiffchaff. 2 birds ringed; 2 Chiffchaff.

Sunday 11th September 2011

A dead Manxie being eaten by a Great Black-backed Gull is an unfortunate casualty of the weather conditions. 359 Swallows & 12 Sand Martins going south counted so far. Offshore a selection of waders & ducks going past in low numbers plus 76 Common, 8 Sandwich & a Little Tern. At least 25 Wheatears on the reserve with a selection of migrants in the bushes including 4 Lesser 'throats & singles of Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler & Goldcrest. A Gadwal in the river out the back is of interest to us despite them being common enough up river.

Saturday 10th September 2011

Weather consisted of a fresh south south-easterly wind turning south south-westaerly. There was complete cloud cover. It was muggy and mild. A very good day's seawatching with the highlight being 3 species of Skua seen. Migrants observed passing through were 11 Brent Geese, 2 Wigeon, 7 Teal, 34 Common Scoter, 8 Cormorant, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Marsh Harrier, 11 Oystercatcher, 14 Grey Plover, 1 Dunlin, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 2 Whimbrel, 16 Arctic Skua, 4 Pomarine Skua, 2 Great Skua, 6 Sandwich Tern, 20 Common Tern, 6 Black Tern, 7 Swift, 51 Sand Martin, 325 Swallow, 43 House Martin, 8 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail, 336 Meadow Pipit, 4 Chaffinch and 11 Goldfinch. A Shearwater species was seen heading north but it was extremely distant and seen for a very short time so hard to make an accurate identification. Grounded migrants found were 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Whinchat and 23 Northern Wheatear; there was also 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler, 2 male Blackcap, 5 Lesser Whitethroat and 2 Common Whitethroat. 6 birds ringed today; 3 Chiffchaff, 2 male Blackcap and 1 Willow Warbler. A Grey Seal was seen on the river.

Friday 9th September 2011

Weater consisted of a light south-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. It was muggy and dry. There were many birds seen passing through today, most of them were Meadow Pipits! Migrants on the move were 4 Teal, 7 Cormorant, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 8 Ringed Plover, 1 Golden Plover, 34 Knot, 19 Dunlin, 2 Whimbrel, 9 Redshank, 3 Turnstone, 1 Common Gull, 68 Sand Martin, 44 Swallow, 12 Tree Sparrow, 38 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Pied Wagtail, 2 Tree Pipit, 1238 Meadow Pipit, 43 Chaffinch, 2 Greenfinch, 25 Goldfinch and 30 Siskin. One of the days highlights was a 1st-winter Yellow-legged Gull seen on the beach. 40 Wheatear and 3 Whinchat were seen out on the reserve. Warblers found were 4 Chiffchaff, 30 Willow Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 5 Lesser Whitethroat and 7 Common Whitethroat. A Great Spotted Woodpecker was found. 56 birds ringed today, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Chiffchaff, 21 Willow Warbler, 21 Meadow Pipit, 3 Blackcap, 1 Robin, 1 Dunnock and 1 Woodpigeon. A Harbour Porpoise and a Grey Seal were seen offshore. 10 Migrant Hawker Dragonflies and a Common Blue Damselfly were recorded.

Thursday 8th September 2011

Weather consisted of a fresh to strong west south-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 1 Mallard, 8 Cormorant, 2 Ringed Plover, 1 Grey Plover, 5 Knot, 4 Dunlin, 1 Whimbrel, 1 Arctic Skua, 4 Sandwich Tern, 4 Swallow, 35 Meadow Pipit and 5 Goldfinch. 9 Northern Wheatear were seen on the reserve. Warblers found were 1 Chiffchaff, 4 Willow Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 4 Lesser Whitethroat and 2 Common Whitethroat. 7 birds ringed today; 2 Blackacp, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Willow Warbler and 1 Chiffchaff. A Slow Worm was found within the Bird Observatory compound and a Grey Seal was seen offshore.

Wednesday 7th September 2011

The gale continues but with the wind easing slightly a few more birds noted. 2 Tree Pipits were the highlight with a supporting cast of 14 Wheatear, 3 Whitethroats, 3 Willow Warblers, 2 Garden Warblers, a Lesser 'throat , a Blackcap & a Chiffchaff.  Mipits are trying to get moving despite the wind with 15 logged going south as were 2 Yellow and a Pied Wag. Offshore a Curlew Sand and a Little Egret moved through, but little else noted. Finally the semi resident Black Red is still loitering around the bushes in front of the obs.

Tuesday 6th September 2011

The weather consisted of a strong south south-westerly wind later turning west south-westerly; at times the wind became stronger gusting a force 8! There was rain on and off throughout the day. Very poor seawatching with the only birds of note observed passing through being 3 Wigeon, 2 Cormorant, 3 Arctic Skua, 6 Sandwich Tern, 22 Common Tern and 5 Swift. This was very dissapointing considering 3 observers spent the entire morning scanning the sea! 3 Wheatear were also found but no warblers were seen. No birds were ringed due to the mist nets not being opened due to the bad weather.

Monday 5th September 2011

Weather consisted of a fresh south-westerly wind. There was no cloud cover early in the morning. Later in the day the wind became stronger approaching a near gale, there was much more cloud coverage by mid-day. Migrants observed passing through were 4 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 5 Cormorant, 3 Oystercatcher, 1 Curlew, 2 Hobby, 1 Little Egret, 7 Sandwich Tern, 4 Common Tern, 2 Swift and 82 Swallow. Grounded migrants found were 10 Northern Wheatear, 1 Chiffchaff and 1 Common Whitethroat. Due to the strong wind only 2 birds were ringed today; 1 male Sparrowhawk and 1 juvenile Blackbird. A Grey Seal was seen offshore. Not many butterflies recorded today, only 3 species were seen.

Sunday 4th September 2011

Amongst an assortment of ducks moving south this morning were 96 Wigeon, 85 Teal, 16 Common Scoter, 10 Pintail & 3 Shoveler. A handful of waders also on the move with the highest count achieved by Grey Plover with 7. Also worth a note were a Little Egret, Hobby & a Jackdaw. Hirundines on the move were 665 Swallows, 34 House Martins & 29 Sand Martins with a solitary Swift also putting in an appearance. 2 Yellow Wags dropped in briefly on the reserve where there was at least 14 Wheatears, 5 Whitethroats, 3 Willow Warblers, 2 Lesser 'throats, a Spot Fly & a Chiffchaff. Still plenty of Linnets and Spadgers on site to plough through whilst hoping for that elusive goodies hoped for at this time of the year !

Saturday 3rd September 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate south south-westerly wind, there was very little cloud cover. Migrants seen passing through were 17 Wigeon, 111 Teal, 4 Pintail, 3 Shoveler, 3 Cormorant, 2 Oystercatcher, 6 Ringed Plover, 11 Dunlin, 4 Curlew, 3 Swift, 9 Sand Martin, 1143 Swallow, 160 House Martin, 5 Yellow Wagtail and 1 Pied Wagtail. Warblers found were 3 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler and 4 Common Whitethroat. There was a Black Redstart seen and 1 Whinchat, 10 Northern Wheatear were found. 3 birds ringed today; 2 Chiffchaff and 1 Chaffinch. Butterflies seen included a Clouded Yellow and Comma. Up to 5 Migrant Hawker Dragonflies were found and a Slow Worm was recorded. Migrant moth numbers and variety have been very poor this summer, so it was pleasing to get the first two Rusty-dot Pearls of the autumn.

Friday 2nd September 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate south south-easterly wind, there was no cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 28 Wigeon, 279 Teal, 3 Pintail, 10 Shoveler, 8 Cormorant, 15 Oystercatcher, 3 Sandwich Tern, 6 Common Tern, 1 Sand Martin, 141 Swallow and 5 Yellow Wagtail. Other birds found today were 1 Black Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 1 Northern Wheatear, 1 Lesser Whitethroat and 1 Common Whitethroat. 2 adult Red-legged Partridge were found with 4 young which is a very pleasing sight. A total of 2 birds ringed today; 1 Robin and 1 Great Tit. A Grass Snake was recorded and a Common Seal was seen offshore. Butterflies present included Comma, Small Copper and Gatekeeper.

Thursday 1st September 2011

Weather consisted of a south-easterly wind with hardly any cloud cover, later in the day the wind went east south-easterly and the wind became much stronger. Migrants on the move were 23 Teal, 2 Cormorant, 5 Oystercatcher, 1 Dunlin, 10 Sandwich Tern, 11 Common Tern, 7 Swallow and 1 Yellow Wagtail. Out on the reserve 1 Golden Plover was present along with 1 Northern Wheatear. Other birds found included a Sparrowhawk, 1 male Blackcap and 1 Common Whitethroat. 3 birds ringed today; 1 male Blackcap, 1 Robin and 1 Blue Tit. At least 3 Migrant Hawker Dragonflies were recorded. Butterflies seen included 1 Clouded Yellow and 1 Comma.

AUGUST RINGING TOTALS

A total of 195 birds of 28 species ringed. Top three:

1st     Willow Warbler 47     2nd     Greenfinch 23     joint 2nd     Linnet 23

This is our lowest ever August ringing total & a sad reflection of the times we are living in.

Wednesday 31st August 2011

Of note this morning was a Velvet Scoter drfting south on the sea, the first Merlin of the autumn, a juvenile Turtle Dove and a tame juv Golden Plover near the Manor Terrace car park. 454 Swallows & 11 Sand Martins south so far. Also worth a mention are 2 Grey Wagtails south, single Lapwing & a young Black Red on the reserve. The bushes are very quiet for migrants.

Tuesday 30th August 2011

Weather consisted of a west north-westerly wind, there was much cloud cover. Migrants on the move were 1 Cormorant, 10 Oystercatcher, 1 Grey Plover, 3 Dunlin, 17 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Whimbrel, 1 Greenshank, 3 Sandwich Tern, 2 Common Tern, 1 Swift, 11 Sand Martin, 245 Swallow, 1 House Martin, 4 Yellow Wagtail, 3 Grey Wagtail, 1 Pied Wagtail and 2 Goldfinch. Warblers found were 1 Willow Warbler, 1 male Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat and 2 Common Whitethroat. 1 Black Redstart was seen and 1 Northern Wheatear. 4 Mediterranean Gulls were recorded, 1 adult, 1 second  winter and 2 first winters. 6 birds ringed; 2 Grey Wagtail, 2 Robin, 1 Linnet and 1 Blue Tit. A Grass Snake was seen and 3 Migrant Hawker Dragonflies were found.

Monday 29th August 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate to fresh west north-westerly wind, there was much cloud; later in the day the wind went westerly and the wind became stronger. Migrants seen passing through were 2 Shoveler, 1 Oystercatcher, 7 Ringed Plover, 1 Curlew, 10 Sandwich Tern, 23 Common Tern, 64 Sand Martin, 172 Swallow, 43 House Martin, 12 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail and 1 Tree Pipit. Highlights seen today was an Osprey heading south and 2 Marsh Harrier. Out on the reserve 4 Northern Wheatear were found. 2 birds ringed; 1 Willow Warbler and 1 Robin.

Sunday 28th August 2011

A selection of the commoner departing summer visitors present in small numbers including 9 Whitethroats, 7 Wheatears, 6 Willow Warblers, Redstart, Pied & Spot Fly. 82 Swallows, 16 Sand Martins, a House Martin plus 6 Yellow Wags went south plus a handful of waders offshore.

Saturday 27th August 2011

Weather consisted of a fresh west south-westerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. Migrants on the move were 1 Cormorant, 22 Oystercatcher, 4 Ringed Plover, 3 Grey Plover, 9 Dunlin, 2 Curlew, 6 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Turnstone, 1 Common Tern, 1 Swift, 14 Sand Martin, 69 Swallow and 4 Yellow Wagtail. On the reserve a Black Redstart and Whinchat were found. There was a Willow Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat and 6 Common Whitethroat also seen. At the point a Purple Sandpiper was the first record of the autumn. A Migrant Hawker Dragonfly was recorded aswell as a Grey Seal.

Friday 26th August 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate to fresh east south-easterly wind, there was complete cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 5 Wigeon, 44 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Common Scoter, 10 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 5 Oystercatcher, 12 Grey Plover, 1 Sandwich Tern, 10 Common Tern and 5 Swallow. The highlight today was a Great Skua seen moving north at 08:20 hours. Warblers found were 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Garden Warbler, 1 Lesser Whitethroat and 6 Common Whitethroat. A Mediterranean Gull was recorded. 7 birds ringed today; 1 Garden Warbler, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Robin, 3 Starling and 1 Collared Dove. Butterflies seen included Small Copper, Common Blue and Comma. A Migrant Hawker Dragonfly was seen.

Thursday 25th August 2011

Weather consisted of a southerly wind. There was complete cloud cover. Highlights today were 1 Razorbill, 8 Ruff, 3 Arctic Skua, 1 Fulmar and 3 Little Gull, all seen on the move. Other birds observed passing through were 7 Wigeon, 19 Teal, 6 Gannet, 12 Oystercatcher, 5 Ringed Plover, 2 Grey Plover, 14 Dunlin, 4 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Whimbrel, 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Turnstone, 11 Sandwich Tern, 15 Common Tern, 3 Swift and 7 Swallow. Warblers present were 1 Willow Warbler and 5 Common Whitethroat. A Black Redstart was found aswell as 1 Northern Wheatear.

Wednesday 24th August 2011

14 Black Terns feeding offshore before they drifted south is a good count for us. Not a huge amount moving offshore but a Ruff flying inland is worth a mention as are an Arctic Tern & Little Gull south. On site a selection of migrants including 12 Willows, 6 Wheatears, 6 Whitethroats, 3 Redstarts, 2 Spot Flys, Lesser 'throat, Blackcap, Garden & Reed Warbler. Overhead a trickle of hirundines & 3 Yellow Wagtails south plus a Crossbill north. In the moth department a Toadflax Pug was our first since 1998 & a Purple Bar paid us a rare visitation.

Tuesday 23rd August 2011

Weather consisted of an east north-easterly wind with complete cloud cover. There was at times heavy rain throughout the morning; by late afternoon the wind had changed to a northerly direction. Migrants on the move were 7 Gadwall, 6 Wigeon, 142 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 1 Common Scoter, 2 Fulmar, 1 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 15 Oystercatcher, 2 Grey Plover, 1 Arctic Skua, 6 Sandwich Tern, 364 Common Tern, 3 Arctic Tern, 5 Black Tern, 1 Swift and 5 Swallow. Highlights today included a juvenile Dotterel that was seen on the reserve at 19:40 hours; there was also a Roseate Tern adult seen heading south at 19:10hours. 3 Common Redstart were found and 1 Black Redstart. There were also 2 Whinchat recorded and 2 Pied Flycatcher. Warblers seen were 8 Willow Warbler, 3 Lesser Whitethroat and 3 Common Whitethroat. 7 birds ringed today; 2 Common Redstart, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 2 Willow Warbler, 1 Goldfinch and 1 Collared Dove.

Monday 22nd August 2011

Weather consisted of a north-westerly wind. Migrants on the move were 12 Oystercatcher, 231 Swallow and 1 Yellow Wagtail. A Pied Flycatcher was found and 1 Spotted Flycatcher. A Black Redstart was also recorded. 3 Northern Whetear were seen out on the reserve. Offshore were 3 Sandwich Tern and 5 Common Tern. Warblers recorded were 4 Willow Warbler, 4 Lesser Whitethroat and 5 Common Whitethroat. 5 Migrant Hawker Dragonflies were found. A Grey Seal was observed offshore.

Sunday 21st August 2011

Hard work - situation normal. Amongst the mass of finchs, sparrows & starlings trying to avoid the 2 Sparrowhawks marauding around the site were 2 Tree Sparrows. Also on the reserve 3 Wheatears & a Yellow Wag. 277 Swallows & 5 Sand Martins went south with a Golden Plover calling continuously as it headed inland. In the moth traps 2 examples of Aethes smeathmanniana were the first of their kind to appear since 2007.

Vols Needed

It is intended to take down the temporary shore fencing on Monday 22nd August. Many hands make light work. Please meet around the cottage 0900hrs & wear appropriate footwear for the task.

Saturday 20th August 2011

Weather consisted of a south westerly wind. There was much cloud early morning. Migrants seen passing through were 9 Teal, 1 Sandwich Tern, 28 Swallow and 2 Sand Martin. A Green Woodpecker was found aswell as a Great Spotted Woodpecker. 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Common Whitethroat and 1 Lesser Whitethroat were recorded. 1 bird ringed today; 1 Willow Warbler.

Friday 19th August 2011

Weather consisted of a light westerly wind. There was very little cloud. Migrants seen passing through were 2 Whimbrel, 1 Sand Martin and 1 Swallow. A young Pied Flycatcher was caught early morning within the Bird Observatory compound. A fine looking male Common Redstart was seen out on the reserve along with 5 Northern Wheatear. A female Sparrowhawk was observed hunting over the site. Warblers found were 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Garden Warbler, 4 Lesser Whitethroat, 8 Common Whitethroat and 1 Sedge Warbler. 8 birds ringed today; 1 Pied Flycatcher, 2 Garden Warbler, 3 Common Whitethroat, 1 Willow Warbler and 1 Blue Tit. A Migrant Hawker Dragonfly was found. A Muntjac Deer was seen within the Bird Observatory compound.

Thursday 18th August 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate to fresh north easterly wind, there was much cloud. Migrants observed passing through were 2 Teal, 4 Common Scoter, 1 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Grey Plover and 1 Common Gull. Warblers seen were 2 Willow Warbler, 1 Lesser Whitethroat and 6 Common Whitethroat. 2 birds ringed today; 1 Willow Warbler and 1 Woodpigeon.

AUGUST LITTER PICK

Litter Pick this Saturday 20th August 0930hrs start. Usual arrangements. Further info on the events page of http://www.lbo.org.uk/

Wednesday 17th August 2011

Hard work in the migrant department - but then again hard work is becoming the norm over the years. 76 Swallows & 2 Yellow Wags went south. A Sedge Warbler was by the Butts pond & 2 Willow Warblers were on the reserve. Several Whitethroats & Lesser 'throats on the reserve are probably progeny of the breeding stock. Sounds a bit grim & it certainly is for migrants - there are plenty of birds about it's just that they are in the Linnet/Greenie/Spadger/Starling type department ! In the moth traps a Rosy Wave is a good record for us of this nationally scarce species.

Tuesday 16th August 2011

Weather consisted of a gentle south-westerly wind with much cloud. Migrants seen passing through were 16 Teal, 1 Fulmar, 1 Kestrel, 18 Oystercatcher, 8 Ringed Plover, 20 Grey Plover, 6 Dunlin, 1 Redshank, 3 Sandwich Tern, 29 Swift, 21 Sand Martin, 15 Swallow and 4 House Martin. 1 Northern Wheatear was found out on the reserve. Warblers present were 4 Willow Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat and 1 Common Whitethroat. 9 birds ringed today; 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Common Whitethroat, 1 Linnet, 2 Robin, 3 Goldfinch and 1 Greenfinch. A Migrant Hawker Dragonfly was found.

Monday 15th August 2011

912 Swallows, 20 Sand Martins & 4 House Martins south so far this am. Also on the move 2 Yellow Wags but little else. About 5 Willow Warblers are scattered around the site and the juv Cuckoo is still with us. Just as well the Swallows are moving as if you take them out of the equation then it is a bit deadly this morning. A Small Phoenix in the moth traps is only the second site record of a species that is fairly common and widespread in Suffolk.

Sunday 14th August 2011

A bit of deja vu this morning with yesterdays Cuckoo & Pied Fly still with us. Very little new in but records include a couple of Wheatears & Willow Warblers. A Tree Pipit calling as it went south was the first of the autumn with 2 Yellow Wags contemplating the same thing but dropping in on the reserve for a breather. A handful of Teal & waders went south offshore with 91 Swallows south counted so far. In the moth traps a Pine Leaf Mining Moth was the first of its kind to pay us a visit since 2004 - but as we are short of pine trees its probably regretting it.

Saturday 13th August 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate to fresh south south-westerly wind. There was complete cloud cover. There was drizzle to light rain very early in the morning. Migrants observed passing through were 72 Teal, 5 Shoveler, 4 Tufted Duck, 27 Common Scoter, 3 Cormorant, 9 Oystercatcher, 9 Ringed Plover, 2 Golden Plover, 12 Grey Plover, 2 Knot, 16 Dunlin, 26 Bar-tailed Godwit, 4 Whimbrel, 1 Curlew, 1 Greenshank, 2 Turnstone, 5 Sandwich Tern, 9 Swift, 5 Sand Martin and 36 Swallow. Highlight of the morning was a female Velvet Scoter moving south with Teal at 07:15hrs. A Pied Flycatcher was found within the Bird Observatory compound, the first of the autumn. A Whinchat was seen out on the reserve. A juvenile Cuckoo was found mid-day within the compound. 7 birds ringed today; 1 Pied Flycatcher, 3 Willow Warbler, 1 juvenile Cuckoo, 1 Greenfinch and 1 Linnet. A Migrant Hawker Dragonfly was recorded.

Friday 12th August 2011

Weather consisted of a light to gentle westerly wind. Migrants seen passing through were 2 Gannet, 1 Curlew, 2 Sandwich Tern, 23 Common Tern, 6 Sand Martin, 28 Swallow and 1 Yellow Wagtail. A Black Redstart was found; also seen was a male Blackcap and a Willow Warbler. There was a Lesser Whitethroat found and 2 Common Whitethroat. 5 birds ringed today; 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Greenfinch, 1 Wren, 1 male Sparrowhawk and 1 Woodpigeon. A Migrant Hawker Dragonfly was recorded. Butterflies seen included Speckled Wood and Common Blue.

Thursday 11th August 2011

Weather consisted of a fresh to strong south westerly wind. There was much cloud cover. Migrants observed passing through were 3 Gannet, 2 Oystercatcher, 7 Ringed Plover, 1 Sanderling, 4 Sandwich Tern and 20 House Martin. 4 Willow Warbler were recorded. 3 birds ringed today; 1 Willow Warbler and 2 Greenfinch.

Wednesday 10th August 2011

A small arrival of new Robins today (at least 10 on site) plus a couple of Willow Warblers. New Robins at this time of the year will be dispersing juveniles kicked out by their parents looking for winter territories - as soon as they get a red breast then mum & dad are no longer nice to them as they are now seen as competition. Plenty of birds on the reserve with good numbers of Linnets, Greenies, Starlings plus a healthy flock of House Sparrows around the cottage. On the move vacating our shores 19 Swifts, 69 House Martins, 67 Swallows & 9 Sand Martins going south. Also on the move a handful of waders going south offshore plus a lone Common Scoter north. A single Painted Lady is the second in two days and hopefully indicates an upturn in the fortunes after what has been a very poor year for this species.

Tuesday 9th August 2011

The weather consisted of a moderate north-westerly wind, as the morning went on the wind became quite strong. Birds on the move were 2 Canada Geese, 1 Cormorant, 15 Oystercatcher, 1 Hobby, 2 Redshank, 2 Sandwich Tern, 4 Common Tern and 55 Swallow. Out on the reserve was 1 Northern Wheatear. Also seen today was 1 Yellow Wagtail and a juvenile Green Woodpecker. Warblers found were 1 Willow Warbler, 4 Lesser Whitethroat and 2 Common Whitethroat. 4 birds ringed today; 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 juvenile Green Woodpecker and 2 Wren. An Emperor Dragonfly was recorded and a Migrant Hawker. 9 species of butterfly were found including 1 Painted Lady.

Monday 8th August 2011

Weather consisted of a moderate west north-westerly wind. There was much cloud. Migrants on the move were 1 Shelduck, 4 Cormorant, 2 Oystercatcher, 3 Ringed Plover, 1 Dunlin, 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 57 Barnacle Geese, 8 Redshank, 1 Turnstone, 1 Common Tern, 11 Sand Martin and 44 Swallow. 7 Wheatear were seen out on the reserve. A Reed Warbler was also found. 3 birds ringed today; 2 Whitethroat and 1 Reed Warbler. A Migrant Hawker Dragonfly was recorded.

Sunday 7th August 2011

Trickle of waders going past including 9 Oyks, 8 Knot, 4 Whimbrel, 2 Turnstone, 2 Dunlin, a Barwit, a G.P. & a Ringo. Also on the move a handful of hirundines. Migrants in the bushes a bit non-existent with the highlight being a dispersing Great-spotted Woodpecker. On the reserve 2 Wheatears with 30 Common Terns feeding off the point. Several Whitethroats & Lesser Whitethroats scattered about may well be starting to include the odd migrant but with 5 pairs of Whitethroats & 3 pairs of Lessers having bred this year it is impossible to tell migrants from the offspring of the nesters. The strengthening WSW winds are not conducive to producing any excitement amongst the wildlife as well as the observers !

Saturday 6th August 2011

Weather consisted of a gentle southerly wind. There was complete cloud cover. Migrants seen moving through were 3 Teal, 2 Cormorant, 52 Oystercatcher, 2 Ringed Plover, 2 Grey Plover, 16 Whimbrel, 1 Curlew, 24 Barnacle Geese, 1 Garganey (a very good record for Landguard), 6 Common Tern, 10 Sand Martin and 1 Yellow Wagtail. On the reserve 5 Whetear were found. Warblers present were 1 Reed Warbler and 1 Willow Warbler plus 2 Common Whitethroat. Highlights today also include 2 Crossbill and 1 Green Woodpecker. 5 birds ringed today; 1 Willow Warbler, 3 Linnet and 1 Blackbird.

Friday 5th August 2011

Weather consisted of a gentle to moderate west south-westerly wind. There was very little cloud. Migrants seen on the move were 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Kittiwake, a juvenile Cuckoo, 1 Swift and 8 Swallow. Out on the reserve was a splendid looking male Black Redstart and 6 Northern Wheataer. A total of 4 Willow Warbler and 10 Common Whitethroat were found. 7 birds ringed today; 2 Willow Warbler, 1 Blackbird, 1 Dunnock, 2 Collared Dove and 1 Linnet.

Thursday 4th August 2011

Weather consisted of a slightly breezy southerly wind, there was complete cloud cover. The morning began with drizzle and light rain before becoming heavy rain by mid-day. Migrants observed passing through were 1 Cormorant, 2 Dunlin, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 27 Swift, 3 Sand Martin and 2 Swallow. Offshore were 5 Common Tern. There were 12 Willow Warbler found and 1 Sedge Warbler. 17 birds ringed today; 10 Willow Warbler, 1 Sedge Warbler, 3 Greenfinch, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Linnet and 1 Robin. In the moth trap Red Twin-spot Carpet and Oncocera semirubella are good for Landguard. 4 Harlequin Ladybird were also found in the moth traps. A Common Seal was seen offshore.

Wednesday 3rd August 2011

A new Nightingale & a Willow Warbler on site this am. 3 Wheatear on the reserve with 22 Swallows & 3 Sand Martins noted going south. Plenty of birds on the reserve, although most of them are the progeny of local breeders. Stinking hot night last night meant that the moth traps were very busy. Migrant moth numbers very poor so it was a surprise to get the first site record of Dark Crimson Underwing and a stunning fresh individual it was to. Another first for the site noted today was a Western Conifer Seed Bug sunning itself on the observatory building - we have been expecting this but it's always good to see the first one.

Tuesday August 2nd 2011

Weater consisted of a gentle south-easterly wind with much cloud. Migrants seen on the move were 9 Cormorant, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Greenshank and 1 Redshank. A Black Redstart was present as was 3 Wheatear and a Yellow Wagtail. 9 birds ringed today; 1 juvenile male Green Woodpecker, 1 Goldfinch, 2 Linnet, 1 Dunnock, 1 Common Whitethroat, 1 Chaffinch, 1 Wren and 1 Blackbird. 2 Migrant Hawker Dragonflies and an Emperor Dragonfly were recorded. A Hummingbird Hawkmoth was seen. There were many species of butterfly recorded, in total 13 species.

Monday August 1st 2011

Weather consisted of a gentle south south-easterly wind becoming slightly more windy as the morning progressed, there was no cloud cover. The Nightingale from yesterday was still present. On the reserve was a juvenile Black Redstaert and 3 Northern Whetear. A juvenile Green Woodpecker was heard and seen. Migrants observed on the move were 11 Oystercatcher, 2 Curlew, 1 Common Tern, 5 Sand Martin and 9 Swallow. Also recorded was a Whimbrel, 1 adult Med Gull and 2 Sandwich Tern. 22 birds ringed today; 1 juvenile Green Woodpecker, 11 Greenfinch, 7 Linnet, 2 Blackbird and 1 House Sparrow. 2 Migrant Hawker Dragonflies were observed.

July Ringing Totals

A total of 212 new birds of 27 species ringed this month:

1st     Greenfinch 61     2nd     Linnet 40     3rd     Dunnock 14

This is a similar figure to the last couple of years and continues the run of poor July ringing totals that we are becoming used to.

Sunday July 31st 2011

More signs of autumn passage getting underway with a couple of Willows, a Reed Warbler & a Nightingale in the bushes plus a Wheatear on the Reserve. A handful of Swallows & a Sand Martin went south. Plenty of birds to look at on the Reserve although the bulk of them are Linnets, Greenies, Spadgers & Starlings. A Painted Lady was good to see as they have been almost non-existent so far this year. The breeze has gone round south-easterly as the morning went on so we live in hope for the next few days.