9th November 2025

 Weather: SE force 4

As often happens first light is often the time to see Cormorants flying out of the estuary, 850 this morning. 

A Short Eared Owl was hunting over the south end soon after dawn but the highlight of the morning was a Lapland Bunting calling as it flew over the island towards Red Rocks. A Sparrowhawk then flew in and rested on the rocks.

 

 Later in the morning another spectacular bird arrived in the shape of a Hen Harrier which caused quite a stir among some other birds present, notably the Carrion Crows.

 

 

 

 

A pair of Ravens around the islands added to the threatening feel of the morning. 

 

  As with recent days many Starlings (231) continued to fly through the islands.

The smaller birds were not to be ignored with 3 Chiffchaffs and 3 Goldcrests down on the island.

A Dunnock is still here after several days on the island.

Also present are 2 Pied Wagtails, 3 Robins, 3 Blackbirds and 6 Wrens.

A few finches included 5 Goldfinch, 2 Sisikin and 5 Linnets.

Others not so far mentioned were 2 Little Egrets, 3 Grey Herons, a Great Crested Grebe, 3,000 Knot, 45 Curlew and 6 Purple Sandpipers.

Photos AEH