25th May 2012

A light south-easterly greeted observers with slight mist and balmy temperatures increasing the anticipation levels. However, it is late in the spring and at this time of year it is usually quality, not quantity, in terms of migrants.

Collared Doves passed over the island early on with small flocks totaling 21. Two Yellow Wagtails spent some time around the North End of the island and there were small numbers of hirundines (30 Swallows and 4 House Martins) along with 3 Swift and a single, late, Skylark.

Grounded migrants were, as expected, few – but single Chiffchaff and Whitethroat were found and caught.

Small numbers of waders were present around the islands including 16 Sanderline, 40 Bar-tailed Godwit (flying over) and 4 Whimbrel. A single Little Egret fed in the gutter and a Sparrowhawk flew east late afternoon.

The highlight of the day was a Short-eared Owl that drifted high over Middle being mobbed by gulls before circling off high towards the Welsh coast.

(CJW+EKW, NLW (from over), DB, PSW et al)  [655-29]