18th October 2020

Weather: S 0/1

Redwings were again heard in the dark and a freshly predated one was found west of the obs. There were several Blackbirds around during the day, also 3 Song Thrushes and a Reed Bunting briefly calling, otherwise it was quieter than expected. A group of 85 Pink-footed Geese flew west over the Little Eye area and later a skein of 126 flew in from the north west and over to the south east.

A flock of 30 Wigeon passed the north end and 180 Common Scoter were the only other ducks sighted today, after midday a few Goldfinches appeared.

 Seven Redpolls joined them to fly around the island, and one, a smart male was ringed. 

Fouteen Skylarks passed over today, but apart from them and a couple of Pied Wagtails visible migration was at a definite premium. A pair of Peregrines were about and the Kestrel prospered, catching at least 3 voles. The very high tide unfortunately resulted in massive disturbance to the wader roost by leisure users of every description, things do not seem to get any better. Nine Little Egrets were in the roost before disruption, together with about 5,500 Oystercatchers.

 Ringed: 3 Goldcrests, 1 Blackbird (above), 1 Redpoll.

photos AEH, CJ