Hilbre Bird Observatory: 7th July 2012

Early morning a Red Fox was surprised as it reposed in the Newton trap, and was a little while later seen to cross to Red Rocks (right) escorted for most of the way by some Shelducks. Swifts passed steadily for the first couple of hours with up to 100 being noted. Some signs of returning waders when small groups of Curlews and Redshanks were seen to arrive. Three Whimbrel called, a single Sanderling was found, but the highlight of the afternoon were flocks of 20 and then 15 Black-tailed Godwits which were in summer plumage (below). Both male and female Peregrines were over the sands late afternoon.