20th July 2010

The local civic dignitaries outing to Hilbre brought the rain mid morning and by the time they visited the observatory it had become quite heavy at times, but they enjoyed a talk by the chairman on the work of the observatory and were able to see a Linnet ringed. A less expected visitor was a rabbit that scurried across the obs garden early in the day.
The first Willow Warblers of the autumn arrived this morning when 4 were grounded no doubt by the cloud and drizzle, 3 of them were young birds in bright yellow dress (below) and the fourth was a greyish bird which was probably an adult. A Reed Warbler which is a rare Hilbre bird was seen briefly this morning in the old obs garden but could not be located again. Other signs of autumn were a Wheatear on Middle island and the increase of wading birds on the shore, 580 Curlew and 23 Whimbrel were particularly impressive.
A Common Sandpiper was at the north end early, 2 summer plumaged Bar-tailed Godwits and 3 Gannets flew over the island. but the only hirundines were 4 Swallows with a Swift in the morning.

Among others a Garden Tiger moth (left) was trapped, a fine looking individual that was a more common sight in times past. After examination the moth lamp had brought in 354 Lesser Yellow Underwings, 51 Dark Arches, a male Drinker, 2 Buff Tips and 19 other species.
Ringed:- 4 Willow Warblers, 2 Dunnocks, 2 Linnets, 1 Meadow Pipit.
(DB,CJ,CJW+5,NDW) [316] photos CJ