15th July 2023

 Weather: S  force 6 , rain squalls

A return to more normal summer weather complete with strong winds encouraged a look at the sea. It was nice to see the first juvenile Gannet of the year, also a second year bird.

The Sandwich Terns were all around the island after the tide, about 600 now, with lots of juveniles, although only 2 Common Terns were seen.

 

 

 

There were 10 Ringed Plover and some juvenile Dunlin with adults, also Sanderling resting on the shore.

 Two immature male Eiders were noted and 8 Little Egrets were no surprtise, they are in good numbers now.

 Among the residents, Rock Pipits were very noticeable and a Robin was lurking in the Blackthorn, they are elusive at this time and often a juvenile will turn up without us being aware they were nesting. A Wheatear was found down the east side of Middle, a mid-summer bird is not especially unusual, we suspect it could be a failed breeder. An Emperor dragonfly was found near the 'air raid' shelter.

 

 
Butterflies noted today were 4 Large Whites, 3 Red Admirals , a Peacock and a Gatekeeper

 Photos CJW