28th March 2023

 Weather: SE force 4/5  some rain

 An afternoon visit just before the tide when the main rain fronts had passed through found 2 Chiffchaffs, a Goldcrest and a Wheatear on the island, and in the few hours available a Robin and Wren were ringed but not before the capture of a 'control' Robin (ringed elsewhere). We had suspected new Wrens and Robins on the island over the last few days, this Robin may give some clues as to where they originate.

 

A small movement of Meadow Pipits was passing, even this late in the day, while a Skylark was on Middle as it has been recently. A sea watch at high tide was a success, yielding 2 Red-throated Divers, an adult Gannet, 2 adult Kittiwakes, 28 Great Crested Grebes and 16 Guillemots. About 120 Common Scoters were seen, a few hung around the island at close quarters.

 The Brent numbered 280,

 and 2 Shelduck favoured the east side, Three Goosanders and a single Red-breasted Merganser were seen and then the regular 6 Eider came into view.

A good count of 220 Curlew was made, also present were 38 Grey Plover, 16 Sanderling and 8 Purple Sandpiper. Two Grey Herons and 4 Little Egret were logged.

At high tide the Grey Seals often take a look at what is happening on the island.

 Ringed: 1 Robin, 1 Wren 

Photos SRW