Saturday 21 September 2019

21st September 2019

Weather: SE 4, 1/8 cloud, moderate visibility with slight mist around the estuary


An early start by members staying over on the island proved fruitless but as soon as the sun rose above the horizon things began to pick up.



A single Raven flew south along the reef early morning and two more appeared passing the Obs before also heading off south.


A single Rock Pipit was noted amongst 12 Meadow Pipits, 3 Grey and 2 Pied Wagtails.  Meanwhile, 9 House Martins flew south and a few Swallow (8) were noted.

Six Pintail flew south between Hilbre and Red Rocks.


Seven Snipe flew up from seaweed covered rocks below ‘Shorelark Shelf” and flew south in tight formation.


A lovely adult winter Mediterranean Gull flew west off the North End.

The real highlight of the day was a dragonfly found in the ‘heli’ garden which was identified as a male Black Darter - only the second record for Hilbre following a sighting on 3 October 2014 (see blog here https://hilbrebirdobs.blogspot.com/2013/10/1st-october-2013.html?m=1). 


Late evening a flock of c400 Pink-footed Geese flew over the estuary calling.

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