31st May 2014

Weather:  NW 2, 8/8 cloud, moderate visibility

The sea was a little more interesting with Common Scoters reappearing in surprising numbers with 1,500 counted on the flooding tide.  Common Terns outnumbered Sandwich and three Arctic Skuas were found harassing them off the West Hoyke sandbank.

Insects were high on the agenda today with an excellent moth trap catch overnight with numerous species but this included 5 Netted Pugs, an Angle Shades (see below) and a White Ermine (see below).

Angle Shades

White Ermine

However, the most exciting moth of the day was Eupoecilia angustana, which is a new species for the island.

Bombus monticola

A Bombus monticola (bumble bee) was photographed today on the island which is a very unusual lowland site for this species.

Not to be outdone with all of the non-avian interest the Hilbre Rabbit put in an extended appearance late morning in the usual location.

Ringing: Linnet

(GB (from over), CJ, NDW and SRW).  [593-33]