26th February 2022

 Weather: ESE force 5

Observers were met with a cold easterly wind as the sun rose and the tide ebbed, some beautiful flocks of Grey Plover fed amongst the freshly uncovered sand as well as some Dunlin and Ringed Plover. The Brent Geese (340 noted with 2 colour ringed) were harassed by 3 Ravens as a flock of Carrion Crows watched from Middle Eye.

Pairs of Rock Pipits chased each other about the rocks and Meadow Pipits displayed on the main island. Skylarks (3), Greenfinches, Siskin, Jackdaw and Reed Bunting passed over giving a welcome spring like feel despite the chilling breeze. Four Common scoter searched the gutter to the east, 49 Curlew fed along the edge, and 3 stunning male Goosander flew south down the west side, while the female Eider was present at the North end.

 Five Purple Sands remained in the shelter at their usual roost, even as the tide dropped. 

 

A cracking Stonechat appeared towards the north but disappeared only to be found in the Heli trap a little later. Stonechat is often regarded by Hilbre regulars as the harbinger of spring as they often appear here in February.

 

 

Dunnock, Robins, 4 Song Thrushes and 6 Blackbirds including a singing male were all active around the island.

Ringing: Stonechat 1, Song Thrush 1 (+ a retrap ringed on 16th November 2021) and 1 Blackbird.

Photos AEH, CJW