Clouded Yellow is a migratory butterfly that we have not seen at the Observatory since June
The south south-westerly winds eased slightly today and it was sunny and bright, so lots of interesting invertebrates about including the above Clouded Yellow, and also Emperor Dragonfly and Small Red-eyed Damselfly. Southbound were 8 Swift, 2 Yellow Wagtail, 51 Swallow, 4 Sand Martin, 1 Tree Pipit, 18 Oystercatcher, 2 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Dunlin, 2 Grey Plover, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 2 Teal, 1 Whimbrel, 1 Sanderling, 6 Knot and 1 Grey Wagtail. Northbound were 3 Sandwich Tern and eastbound out to sea was a single Turnstone. On the reserve there were 12 Willow Warbler, 5 Wheatear, 1 Common Sandpiper and 2 Purple Sandpiper. The Purple Sandpipers are particularly early, being only the 11th and 12th August records of this species for Landguard.
The Drinker is a moth that likes damp areas, so consequently is not recorded at Landguard often. An alternative but unofficial name is "Womble Moth".
Ringing: Starling 14, Willow Warbler 2, House Sparrow 4, Blackcap 2, Robin 1, Sparrowhawk 1.