Weather: E force 1, later ENE 4
The first round of the traps soon after dawn found few Willow Warblers and a Chiffchaff and 2 female Redstarts, which was a very pleasing start to the day.
Over a dozen Willow Warblers arrived during the morning, also 10 Greenland Wheatears and there was a small but steady passage of hirundines including 8 Sand Martins and 6 House Martins and of course a few dozen Swallows. Other migrants were 10 White Wagtails, 7 Goldfinches, 9 Siskin and a Yellow Wagtail. On the way to the island at dawn members came upon a young seal loafing on the south end of Middle Eye. It seemed to be as surprised to see us as we were to see it. Seals on the islands are unusual and should be left alone. Later it was seen easing its way over the east hoyle bank towards the north shore tide edge, hopefully the incomiing tide would see it out of danger.
The musical sound of trilling Whimbrel is envelopes the islands just at the moment as they reach their peak numbers of spring passage, while 800 Knot and 420 Dunlin flew in several flocks. The weather is too cold for a good catch in the moth trap, although a Hebrew Character and a Dark Sword-grass were found this morning.
A single Pink-footed Goose was recorded in the afternoon, quite a contrast with the many exiting the estuary early mornings in April. Two energetic members set about the mammoth task of rebuilding of the verandah around the obs building and they did a fantastic job, many thanks to them.
photos CJ, CJW SRW
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