Not only did the weather feel slightly autumnal but the birds as well. A Brambling dropped into the Holm Oaks with a pair of Chaffinches before heading north. We've had 6 previous May Brambling records with the latest being a single on the 19th. A 'continental' type Robin was also ringed, presumably still heading back to its breeding grounds somewhere in the north.
Also around were at least 10 Lesser Whitethroats, 10 Whitethroats, 3 Chiffchaffs and a Willow Warbler. On the reserve a Stonechat was by the Practice Guns and 2 Wheatears were still by the Tank Traps.
On the Sea 25 Common Terns and 12 Little Terns were feeding in the mouth of the river first thing this morning.
The cool nights are certainly not very productive for moth trapping and there was a distinct drop in the numbers found in the traps, so partly in desperation I think this is the first time we've put up a photo of a Heart & Dart. One of the commonest and most widespread species in the UK.
Ringing:1 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Robin, 1 Willow Warbler