17th September 2008

Despite overnight rain, at last some grounded migrants including 3 Willow Warblers and 2 Chiffchaffs ringed. Another Greenland Wheatear was colour-ringed (see photo opposite) and at least 10 Robins were present on Hilbre and Middle Island. Two Peregrines fought over a flock of Knot - the large immature female gave great views flying down the gutter below the Obs (see photo left).

In the afternoon hirundines moved through and a Sparrowhawk passed through. The most amazing record of the day was Common Buzzard (sadly not the much hoped for Honey!) that drifted down the west side before alighting on the Bird Observatory building! Sadly the photographers had left the island...

(CJ, KMc, PGW, SRW)