28th September 2015

Weather: ESE  force 2 mist around the coasts

Clear again overnight but the lunar eclipse did not bring us many birds, just 4 Goldcrests present, at least one of which was still here from 2 days ago, and a single Chiffchaff that moved on rapidly through the islands. the only other evidence of migration were 4 Grey Wagtails, 3 Pied wagtails, 2 House Martins and a Skylark, while again there seemed to be several more Robins than usual. The highlight of the high tide came in the form of a Short-eared Owl that was first noticed when it disturbed the wader roost on Middle and was mobbed by gulls as it flew across to Hoylake. The Owl was possibly flushed off West Kirby marsh by one of the highest tides of the year. Roosting on the top of the north end rocks during the tide were some Ringed Plover, 65 of which were logged today. Sea birds seen during the tide were 5 Guillemots, 5 Great Crested Grebes and a Red-throated Diver. 

Short-eared Owl over Middle Eye

The same Owl as viewed from the garden in Hoylake that held the Yellow-browed Warbler today (JET)

The ringed male kestrel that has been present for some time (CJ)

Spectacular sunset over the estuary tonight (AEH)

Ringed: 2 Wrens, 1 Goldcrest.         [ 455-35 ]
(DB,AAB,CJ,AS,CJW et al)