26th March 2024

 Weather: ENE force 3

 The wind was still in the east and more Meadow Pipits were filtering through the islands and in addition there were a good scattering of migrants. Nice arrivals were 5 White Wagtails,

also a Chaffinch, a Greenfinch, 2 Siskins, a Redpoll and 2 Goldfinches, male and female,

There were 4 Chiffchaffs today, more are expected and Willow Warblers will not be far behind. A single Goldcrest remained on the island. A Dunnock was the first in some time after being a regular for quite a long period.

Two Woodpigeons visited following many this early spring.

Wildfowl are still about including 300 Brent, 350 Common Scoter, 6 Shelduck, 6 Canada Goose, 2 Mallard, 4 Goosanders and a pair of Red-breasted Mergansers close to the island.

Interesting to see was a drake displaying amongst the 5 Eiders present.

In the afternoon an Iceland Gull found on the Hoylake shore (AMC,+EW) was seen distantly through a telescope from the island. Sea birds seen today were 11 Red-throated Divers, 12 Great Crested Grebes, an adult Gannet, 8 Guillemots and 2 Razorbill. A Harbour Porpoise off the west hoyle added interest.
Best of the waders were 30 Sanderling, 180 Turnstone and 19 Purple Sandpipiers roosting on the steps in Niffy bay. A Raven and 3 Little Egrets were also on the list for today. 

Ringed: 4 Chiffchaffs, 2 Goldfinches, 2 Meadow Pipits, 1 Linnet, 1 Dunnock

Photos: CJW, SRW