Wheatear numbers have remained low compared to past years, with six on the reserve today.
A fresh westerly wind and clear skies made for an entertaining morning of visible migration, with at least 2,438 Goldfinch logged going south, along with 148 Linnet, 87 Meadow Pipit, 78 Chaffinch, 67 Swallow, 20 Skylark, 19 Greenfinch, 6 Pied Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 1 Rock Pipit and 1 Brambling. There was also the first hint of pigeon migration with 6 Woodpigeon flying high and determinedly south and a single Stock Dove. A total of 10 Woodlark were also seen heading south, and this is our highest day count for this species, with the previous high count being 5 birds. Other birds around the reserve include 20 Robin, 6 Song Thrush, 5 Blackcap, 3 Goldcrest, 3 Reed Bunting, a Great Spotted Woodpecker and a Coal Tit. Out at sea it was much quieter, with 101 Black-headed Gull, 3 Brent Goose, 2 Oystercatcher, 2 Dunlin, 1 Curlew and 1 Red-throated Diver southbound, and 2 Brent Goose northbound.
October is the best month to see Hornet at Landguard, where occasional individuals buzz by on their way south.
Ringing: 2 Blackcap, 2 Dunnock, 2 Chaffinch, 2 Goldfinch, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Blue Tit, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Wren, 2 Great Tit, 2 House Sparrow, 1 Blackbird.
Recoveries: 1 Blue Tit (British ring)