23rd March 2012

The first Sand Martin of the year passed a member crossing to Hilbre early morning as it flew over the sand, and was an indication of another good migration day. A subtle change of weather meant there was only a single Goldcrest to be seen but in compensation at least 12 Chiffchaffs were on the island and an amazing 1,000 or so Meadow Pipits passing through. Lesser Redpoll became a new species ringed this year when 4 of 27 logged were captured, although none of the 29 Siskins made use of the feeders provided. Three Fieldfares were present early on with a Redwing, 2 Reed Buntings, 11 Pied and 10 White Wagtails, 4 Goldfinches and a Greenfinch.Other records today included a Gadwall flying west between he islands, which is quite a rare bird at Hilbre, a single Wigeon, a flock of 17 Wood Pigeons, a Skylark,and a Wheatear, a Little Egret, a Gannet on the sea, plus of course the regular Merlin.
Ringed:-4 Lesser Redpolls, 2 Meadow Pipits,7 Chiffchaffs, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Goldcrest
(DB,AAB,RAE,AEH,THM,KMc, et al)       [ 183-16 ]