Sunday, 31 December 2017

Sunny spells with a F3 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0815-1200.

While quiet otherwise a nice adult Iceland Gull flew south past the seawatch hut plus 2 Pink footed Geese, 2 Wigeon, 3 Teal, 1 Gadwall, 14 Red-throated Diver, 2 Fulmar, 1 Cormorant and 2 Sanderling.

Other sightings mainly at Kilnsea wetlands were the 16 Barnacle Geese with the 410 Brent Geese and 1 Pale-bellied Brent, 2 Whooper Swan, 22 Mute Swan, 10 Shoveler, 200 Wigeon, 37 Teal, 1 Pochard, 2 Tufted Duck, 7 Goldeneye, 16 Little Grebe, 150 Black-tailed Godwit on Long bank, 160 Curlew, the Tawny Owl at Kew, a good count of 7 Stonechat, 1 Chifchaff at the Obs and 1 Snow Bunting sandy beaches.

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Saturday, 30 December 2017

A cloudy day with a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0810-1120.

The 1st winter Rose-coloured Starling is still in Easington by Dimlington bungalows, while a 1st winter Caspian Gull was reported on the beach at the breach area.
Generally quiet over the sea, but the first hints of some Duck on the move as well as an increase in some species on Kilnsea wetlands. On the move were 2 Shoveler, 2 Goldeneye, male Long tailed Duck, 3 Common Scoter, 45 Red-throated Diver, 4 Gannet. 

Other sightings and good counts included 17 Barnacle Geese south past the seawatch hut then around Kilnsea wetlands, 400 Brent Geese, 26 Mute Swan, 295 Wigeon, 1 Pintail, 9 Shoveler, 1 Pochard, 3 Tufted Duck, 7 Goldeneye, 1 Merlin, 11 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Greenshank, 3 Stonechat and 15 Long tailed Tit in Easington plus the usual Ring-necked Parakeet.

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Friday, 29 December 2017

Rain and sleet till early evening with a F2-4 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0810-1120.
Little birding seemingly done today in the poor conditions with the sea getting most attention.

On the move were 7 Teal, 8 Common Scoter, 11 Red-throated Diver, 1 Black throated Diver, 1 ‘Blue’ Fulmar, 2 Gannet and 1 Skua sp. 

Other sightings and good counts included 650 Brent Geese, 4 Blackbird in/off, 11 Fieldfare in/off, 1 Redwing in/off and 1 Chiffchaff in Easington.

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Thursday, 28 December 2017

Clear and sunny all day with a F1-3 N wind.
Migration Watches: 0815-1400.

As we fast approach 2018, the 1st winter Rose-coloured Starling is still in residence in Easington and looking like it will make it onto a few lists in the new year.
The cold weather on the continent is starting to have an effect on winter thrushes, with increases on grounded birds, and birds seen arriving over the sea from the continent. Seen today were 25 Blackbird (1 in/off), 219 Fieldfare (188 in/off), 17 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush and 1 Mistle Thrush.

Bits over the sea with 7 Common Scoter, 80 Red-throated Diver, 3 Great Northern Diver, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 10 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 1 Kittiwake, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 13 Auk sp, 20 Guillemot and 3 Razorbill. 

Other sightings and good counts included 572 Brent Geese with 1 Pale-bellied Brent, 18 Mute Swan, 318 Wigeon, 1 Pintail, 8 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 3 Goldeneye, 3 Common Buzzard in the Easington area, 1 Merlin, 1 Peregrine, 57 Lapwing, 20 Black-tailed Godwit, 74 Carrion Crow in Easington, 3 Stonechat, 23 Chaffinch and 31 Yellowhammer while the Ring-necked Parakeet is still about in Easington.

Ringing: 1 Robin, 1 Blackbird, 1 Tree Sparrow, 2 House Sparrow.

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Wednesday, 27 December 2017

A cold day with rain until mid morning with a F4-2 N wind.
Watches: 1030-1400.

With a few 'white wingers' being seen at numerous coastal localities, it was nice to get in on the action today with a nice 1st winter Glaucous Gull on the beach by the Bluebell.
The sea was livened up somewhat, even though there were no early counts, but still 1 Teal, 3 Common Scoter, 7 Red throated Diver, 14 Fulmar plus a nice 'Blue' Fulmar, 2 Bonxie, 9 Kittiwake, 5 Auk sp and 16 Guillemot were seen.

Other sightings today were 32 Greylag Geese, 515 Wigeon, 26 Teal, 10 Shoveler, 4 Goldeneye, 1 Merlin, 1 Common Buzzard, a Woodcock at long bank, 30 Black tailed Godwit and the Tawny Owl at Kew.

Ringing:

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Tuesday, 26 December 2017

Sunny spells with a F4 W wind. 
Watches : 0815-1030.

Little was done today, but a decent movement of Divers from the seawatch hut with 66 Red throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Black throated Diver plus 1 Teal, 2 Gannet, 19 Auk sp and 7 Guillemot.

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Monday, 25 December 2017

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM EVERYONE AT SPURN BIRD OBSERVATORY.

Hardly anything seen, bar 72 Black-tailed Godwit, 180 Redshank and 30 Tree Sparrow.

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Sunday, 24 December 2017

Mainly cloudy with a F3-4 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0750-1030.

The Rose-coloured Starling is still frequenting the area around Dimlington bungalows, visiting feeders in various gardens and with patience regularly appears in the gardens by the roadside. Please resoect the residents privacy if you visit over the festive period.

Little over the sea with 54 Red-throated Diver, 1 Auk sp and 3 Gulliemot, but a Puffin flew north. 
Other sightings were 132 Shelduck on the Humber, 12 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 5 Goldeneye on Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Water Rail along the canal, 75 Black-tailed Godwit on Long bank and Goldcrest at the Obs.

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Saturday, 23 December 2017

Sunny spells with a F2-3 WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0800-1030.

Sightings included 1 Pintail, 13 Shoveler, 3 Tufted Duck, 3 Goldeneye, 1 Common Buzzard on Easington straight, 31 Lapwing, 35 Black-tailed Godwit and the usual Tawny Owl though in recent days it has been evident that more than bird is involved with both male and female heard while a Skylark went south.
Over the sea only 52 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 4 Auk sp and 5 Guillemot. 

Ringing: 2 House Sparrow, 1 Greenfinch.

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Friday, 22 December 2017

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Thursday, 21 December 2017

Warm and foggy all day a F1-2 W wind.
Watches: 0830-0945. 

The Rose-coloured Starling remains showing well in Easington. 

Other sightings today were 2500 Golden Plover, 60 Black tailed Godwit, 2 Stonechat, 10 Long tailed Tit, 1 Treecreeper, 23 Reed Bunting and 2 Snow Bunting while the Ring Necked Parakeet was still screeching about Easington.

Ringing: 2 House Sparrow.

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Wednesday, 20 December 2017

Generally overcast with a F1-2 W wind.
Migration Watches: 
The first decent wader catch of the winter yielded a nice selection of species.
Some nice species and totals were accumulated through the day, but no seawatching totals as of yet, 14 Mute Swan, 160 Shelduck, 145 Wigeon, 38 Teal, 27 Mallard, 1 Pintail, 12 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, an increase to 5 Goldeneye, 16 Little Grebe, 108 Lapwing, 18 Black-tailed Godwit, 9 Snipe, 2 Water Rail, 1 Stonechat, 20 Fieldfare and a Snow Bunting at the breach.

Ringing: 1 Oystercatcher, 7 Knot, 3 Dunlin, 3 Redshank, 3 Tree Sparrow, 1 House Sparrow, 2 Goldfinch. (20 of 7 species).

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Tuesday, 19 December 2017

Clear and dry all day with a F1-2 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0800-1030.

A incredible 'guesstimated' total of around 2000 Brent Geese was something of a surprise today, considering how few there have been so far this autumn and also with only tiny numbers of juveniles. Let us hope they remain to winter in such good numbers to get a proper count and hopefully a new record count which is 1820 from March 2016. Anyone up for the challenge?

Other sightings included 17 Mute Swan, 43 Shelduck, 160 Wigeon, 49 Teal, 27 Mallard, 1 Pintail, 13 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 3 Goldeneye, 12 Little grebe, 1 Water Rail, 3 Snipe, 1 Greenshank still at Beacon ponds, 1 Merlin, 1 Common Buzzard, the usual male Tawny Owl, 2 Stonechat, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Grey Wagtail and 22 Linnet at beacon ponds while a small trickle of birds south were 7 Skylark, 26 Linnet and a Lapland Bunting which went back north.

Over the sea only 3 Great Crested Grebe, 77 Red-throated Diver and 1 Gannet were recorded. 
Ringing:

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Monday, 18 December 2017

Frosty start, bright and sunny with a F1-2 W wind.
Watches: 0800-0900, 1340-1425.

The Rose-coloured Starling was still in Easington around the Dimlington bungalows area and slowly taking on a pink hue to its plumage.
Other birds of note were 101 Wigeon, 13 Shoveler, 1 Pintail, 2 Tufted Duck, 7 Snipe, 120 Black tailed Godwit, 2 Coot, 1 Tawny Owl, 1 Little Owl, 1 Coal Tit, 1 Rock Pipit, 2 Stonechat, 1 Bullfinch and 2 Siskin.

The sea was poor with only 12 Common Scoter, 22 Red throated Diver, 11 Cormorant and 2 Auk sp. 

Ringing: 1 House Sparrow, 1 Tree Sparrow, 1 Goldfinch.

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Sunday, 17 December 2017

Frosty start remaining cold with showers and a a F3-5 W wind.
Watches: 0800-1015.

Decent counts of Wildfowl on Kilsea wetlands and Beacon ponds 560 Brent Geese, 1 Pale bellied Brent, 350 Wigeon, 75 Teal, 7 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 3 Goldeneye, 2nd winter Mediterranean Gull, 3 Snipe, 46 Black tailed Godwit, 1 Tawny Owl still at Kew, 100 Fieldfare and 50 Tree Sparrow.

The sea was poor, but a male Long-tailed Duck flew south plus 4 Common Scoter, 6 Red throated Diver and 1 Gannet. 

Ringing: 1 Chaffinch.

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Saturday, 16 December 2017

Hard overnight frost gave way to sunny spells with a F1-2 N wind.
Watches: 0815-0945.

A few extra Thrushes in the area were probably remnants from the cold weather inland, while the male Hen Harrier wandered down from Welwick before returning.
Also today were 15 Mute Swan, 450 Brent Geese, 2 Scaup, 2 Tufted Duck, 9000 Knot, 102 Black-tailed Godwit Long bank, 1 Greenshank still on beacon ponds, 50 Fieldfare, 3 Song Thrush, 18 Redwing,1 Mistle Thrush and 1 Bullfinch.

The sea was very quiet, and only 1 Common Scoter, 7 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Gannet, 3 Auk sp and 3 Kittiwake were seen.

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Friday, 15 December 2017

Occasional showers with a F3-5 W wind.
Watches: 0800-1100.

The wandering flock of Brent Geese re-apeared, but disappointingly of the 620 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, only 2 were juveniles with very few seen over the last few years. Also today were 20 Mute Swan, 340 Wigeon, 90 Teal, 10 Shoveler, 1 Pintail, 2 Scaup, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Goldeneye on Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Common Buzzard, 40 Lapwing, 50 Black-tailed Godwit Long bank, 1 Greenshank still on beacon ponds, 1st year Mediterranean Gull on Easington straight, 2 Stonechat, 1 Coal Tit and 60 Linnet on Beacon lane.

The sea was yet again quiet, but a Little auk flew north, while also on the move were 1 Goldeneye, 14 Common Scoter, 19 Red-throated Diver, 1 Gannet, 3 Guillemot and 1 Kittiwake.

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Thursday, 14 December 2017

Generally clear and dry with a F3-5 W wind.
Watches: 0815-1100.

The sea was typically quiet, but a few Diver were on the move with 1 Wigeon, 1 Eider, 5 Common Scoter, 95 Red throated Diver, 1 Black throated Diver, 2 Gannet, 3 Guillemot and 2 Auk sp. 

Other birds of note were 18 Mute Swan, 6 Grey Partridge, 9 Snipe, 1 Barn Owl, 1 Coal Tit, 15 Yellowhammer, 10 Reed Bunting.

Ringing: 1 Blackbird, 2 Chaffinch.

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Wednesday, 13 December 2017

Overcast with showers and a F3-4 WNW wind.
Watches:0800-1030.

What little was seen was over the sea today. The best being 1 Wigeon, 9 Teal, 1 Eider, 7 Common Scoter, 33 Red-throated Diver, 2 Gannet and 1 Auk sp.

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Tuesday, 12 December 2017

Heavy frost to begin, remaining very cold all day, despite the sunshine with a F2-4 N wind.
Watches: 0800-1030.
A big increase in Snipe was no doubt related to the cold snap on the continent with an impressive number seen arriving off the sea.

A nice mix of species continue to be seen as the month draws on with wildfowl on Kilnsea wetlands still prominent, 400 Brent Geese, 316 Wigeon, 55 Teal, 12+ Shoveler, 2 Scaup, 1 Common Buzzard, 68 Common Snipe in the area (38 in/off), 23 Black-tailed Godwit, 77 Lapwing, 70 Blackbird, female Blackcap at the Obs, 1 Coal Tit, 1 Bullfinch in churchfield, 130 Linnet at Sammys and 16 Yellowhammer.

The sea was poor, despite the arriving Snipe and only produced 12 Common Scoter, 12 Red-throated Diver, 2 Kittiwake.

Ringing: 3 Blackbird, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Chaffinch.

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Monday, 11 December 2017

Early morning frost, remaining cold, but sunny with a F2-3 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0815-1100.
The sea continued the same theme with a trickle of movement, 1 Gadwall, 44 Teal, 10 Common Scoter, 76 Red-throated Diver, 11 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 3 Bonxie, 42 Kittiwake and 3 Auk sp.
Other bits of interest were 200 Wigeon, 150 Teal, 15 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup and 1 Goldeneye Kilnsea wetlands, 33 Lapwing and 130 Black-tailed Godwit Long bank marsh, 2 Chiffchaff, 3 Lesser Redpoll and 1 Mealy Redpoll in the Crown carpark and a Snow Bunting at Sandy beaches.

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Sunday, 10 December 2017

Cold and overcast with a F3-4 W-N wind.
Migration Watches: 0800-1030.
The sea had little on the move with 2 Wigeon, 2 Common Scoter, 36 Red-throated Diver, 3 Gannet, 1 Kittiwake, 3 Guillemot, 1 Razorbill and 3 Auk sp.
Other bits of interest were 18 Mute Swan, 200 Wigeon, 104 Teal, 11 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaupand 1 Goldeneye Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Jack Snipe, 70 each of House and Tree Sparrow in one garden in Kilnsea and 2 Lesser Redpoll in the crown carpark.

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Saturday, 09 December 2017

Bitterly cold with sunny periods and a F2-3 N wind.
Migration Watches: 0755-1100.
The conditions gave hope for some movement over the sea, but only produced 3 Wigeon, 2 Common Scoter, 35 Red-throated Diver, 4 Gannet, 1 Shag, 4 Guillemot, 1 Razorbill and 7 Auk sp.
Other bits of interest were 24 Mute Swan, 282 Wigeon, 84 Teal, 49 Mallard, 18 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup and 1 Goldeneye Kilnsea wetlands, 45 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Greenshank Beacon ponds, a Common Buzzard that went south, 1 Barn Owl, 2 Song Thrush, female Blackcap at the Obs, 22 Linnet Warren, 4 Lesser Redpoll in the crown carpark and a female Bullfinch at Kew.

Ringing: 1 Goldifnch.

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Friday, 08 December 2017

Early frost remaining all-day in sheltered spots, but bright and sunny throughout with a F3 W-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0815-1115.

The sea was hard work and cold for the few stubborn observers putting in the hours, though only getting 1 Eider, 1 Long tailed Duck, 4 Common Scoter, 30 Red throated Diver, 7 Gannet, 2 Kittiwake, 13 Guillemot and 29 Auk sp for their tenacity. 

Other birds of note were mainly around the Kilnsea wetlands were 23 Mute Swan, 38 Pink footed Geese south in the evening, 24 Shelduck, 200 Wigeon, 1 Pintail, 9 Shoveler, 2 Scaup, 1 Tufted Duck, 3 Goldeneye, 19 Little Grebe, 6 Little Egret, 1 Common Buzzard, 50 Black tailed Godwit, 2 Greenshank, 90 Fieldfare Peter lane, female Blackcap under the feeders in the Obs garden, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Coal Tit, 2 Siskin and 4 Lesser Redpoll in the crown carpark and a Snow Bunting by the sea watch hut.

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Thursday, 07 December 2017

Overcast all day with a F4-5 gusting 6 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0810-1120.

The strong wind made it difficult in looking for anything today and there was no sign of the Lesser Yellowlegs despite being looked for. Hopefully when the wind drops it will re-appear.

On the move over the sea were 5 Common Scoter, 1 Goosander, 39 Red throated Diver, 1 Black throated Diver, 3 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 1 Kittiwake, 4 Guillemot and 25 Auk. 

Other birds of note were 175 Brent Geese, 10 Shoveler, 2 Scaup, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Common Buzzard, 26 Golden Plover in/off, 68 Black tailed Godwit, 1 Jack Snipe, 2 Stonechat, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Lesser Redpoll and a Snow Bunting at Sandy beaches.

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Wednesday, 06 December 2017

The decent period of birding continues with both good birds remaining and the sea while overall remains quiet still has a few bits of interest to maybe make it worthwhile.

The Lesser Yellowlegs and 1st winter Rose coloured Starling both remained in residence. 

All the main news was from the seawatch hut with 64 Pink footed Geese north, 2 Pintail, 3 Wigeon, 3 Eider, 16 Common Scoter, 48 Red throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Black throated Diver, 1 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 1 Bonxie, 1 Pomarine Skua, 12 Auk sp and 4 Guillemot.

Other bits of interest were 900+ Golden Plover, 190 Redshank, 66 Black tailed Godwit, 1 Rock Pipit and 7 Stonechat.

Nearby a male Hen Harrier and Marsh Harrier were at Welwick in the evening.

Ringing: Nil.

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Tuesday, 05 December 2017

Overcast all day with a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0755-1110.

Both the Lesser Yellowlegs on long bank and the 1st winter Rose-coloured Starling at Dimlington bungalows were both still present. The Starling has now gone through an extensive moult and will be interesting to see it, if it stays into the winter.

The sea produced 11 Whooper Swan, 19 Teal, 45 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, adult Pomarine Skua, 2 Kittiwake and 3 Auk sp. 
Other sightings were the 2 Scaup and 2 Goldeneye on Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Merlin, 1 Water Rail, 800 Golden Plover with 60 in/off, 220 Lapwing, 2500 Knot, 56 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Rock Pipit, 2 chiffchaff, 2 Coal Tit, 3 Siskin, 3 Redpoll, 1 Bullfinch and 1 Snow Bunting.

Ringing: 1 Chiffchaff, 1 House Sparrow, 1 Bullfinch.

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Monday, 04 December 2017

Clear, dry and sunny all day with a F1-2 w wind.
Watches: 0800-1030.

The Lesser Yellowlegs is still present today on Long bank and visiting Kilnsea wetlands.

Passerine wise the mild conditions made for nice birding in the area. Seen today were 22 Skylark, 1 rock Pipit, 2 Stonechat, 1 Blackcap, 2 Coal tit, 7 Siskin and 3 Lesser Redpoll while going south were 22 Skylark, 2 Alba Wagtail, 9 Goldfinch, 20 Siskin and 25 Linnet. 
A trickle of birds over the sea, 1 Whooper Swan, 41 Pink-footed Geese NW, 3 Wigeon, 1 Eider, 19 Common Scoter, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 3 Gannet and 1 Cormorant.

Other bits mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands area were 145 Brent Geese, 100 Wigeon, 60 Teal, 9 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, the 2 Scaup, 3 Goldeneye, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Peregrine, 38 Lapwing, 2 Snipe, 1 Woodcock, 76 Black-tailed Godwit, 420 Redshank and 1 Greenshank.

Ringing: 1 Tree Sparrow.

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Sunday, 03 December 2017

Early rain gave way to a clear chilly day and a F2-3 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0750-0950.

The Lesser Yellowlegs remained all day on Long bank, though mainly distant. In Easington the 1st winter Rose-coloured Starling re-appeared, in the Dimlington bungalows area and the question is, has there been only one all along since August?

The sea was quiet again with 6 Eider, 1 Velvet Scoter, 16 Red-throated Diver, 1 Gannet and 2 Cormorant.
Other bits of interest were a 20 Mute Swan, 9 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup and 2 Goldeneye Kilnsea wetlands, 15 Little Grebe, 60 Lapwing, 28 Black-tailed Godwit Humber, Greenshank on the Humber, 1 Woodcock, 1 Jack Snipe, 3 Song Thrush, 1 Coal Tit, 1 Bullfinch, 45 Siskin, 12 Yellowhammer and a Snow Bunting blogging.

Ringing: 1 Blue Tit, 1 Chaffinch, 10 Siskin.

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Saturday, 02 December 2017

Mostly sunny with a F2-3 NW-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0815-1040, 1430-1530.

Little birding done today by the locals as an enthusiastic bunch had a day of surfacing the paths in church field with a full voluntary work day. Thanks to everyone who turned up, to help out. The observatory wouldnt be around today without the constant support and help you lot offer!!

The Lesser Yellowlegs was still present all day, but more distantly on Long bank marsh.
Also today the Hen Harrier was still in the green lane area. 

The sea was back to ‘normal’ with 105 Teal, 28 Wigeon, 7 Eider, 12 Common Scoter, 4 Goosander, 57 Red-throated Diver, 2 Gannet, 2 Guillemot and 4 Auk sp.
Other bits of interest were a 4 Whooper Swan, 400 Brent Geese, 10 shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaupand 2 Goldeneye Kilnsea wetlands, 55 Lapwing, 45 Black-tailed Godwit Humber, 1 Greenshank on the Humber, 3 Woodcock, 1 Fieldfare, 3 Song Thrush, 1 Mistle Thrush, 1 Chiffchaff, 18 Magpie, 2 Bullfinch and a Snow Bunting at the breach while 1 Skylark, 3 Meadow Pipit, 14 Goldifnch, 16 Siskin and 36 Linnet went south.

Ringing: 2 Redshank, 1 Dunlin, 1 Knot.

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Friday, 01 December 2017

Clear spells with frequent sometimes wintry showers with a F2-3 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0740-1110.

Spurn in 2016 had 3-4 new species, or 5 depending on your take on splitting and lumping. 2017, while not living up to that billing, has in reality, actually been a very good year, despite up to the end of Novemebr, no new species for the observatory being recorded. The autumn has had no less than 5 species of American wader with adult American Golden Plover, juvenile Long-billed Dowitcher, 2 White-rumped Sandpiper (adult and juvenile), adult Buff-breasted Sandpiper and 3 juvenile Pectoral Sandpiper and hopes were high for something we had not recorded before, but the autumn wader passage came and went and that was that, or so we thought. 
This morning Jonnie Fisk out walking the dog, found Spurns overdue 1st and much anticipated LESSER YELLOWLEGS, a 1st winter feeding with a few Redshank in water logged fields, and puddles just east of Kilnsea church, showing well by the roadside, and still present late afternoon.

The sea had a nice selection of species with 64 Teal, 5 Wigeon, 48 Eider, 3 Long-tailed Duck, 197 Common Scoter, 59 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northen Diver, 8 Gannet, 8 Cormorant, 1 Pomarine Skua, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 22 Kittiwake, 2 Little Auk and 12 Auk sp.
Other bits of interest were 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup and 2 Goldeneye Kilnsea wetlands, ringtail Hen Harrier in Easington, Water Rail along the canal, Woodcock at sandy beaches, 160 Curlew and 28 Black-tailed Godwit in long bank, Greenshank on the Humber, 2 Fieldfare, 1 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush in the triangle, 2 Blackcap and 1 Bullfinch.

Ringing: 3 Blackbird, 1 Blackcap, 3 Goldfinch, 2 Tree Sparrow, 1 House Sparrow.

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Thursday, 30 November 2017

Covering of snow at dawn with frequent wintry flurries all day with a F2-3 N. 
Watches : 0750-1015.

All the news was from the seawatch hut with only 5 Wigeon, 1 Shelduck, 3 Scaup, 6 Eider, 3 Common Scoter, 1 Snipe in/off and 1 Pomarine Skua seen while 9 Snipe were in the area.

Ringing: nil

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Wednesday, 29 November 2017

Frequent heavy showers during the day with a F3-4 wind and of gusts of 6 NW.
Migration Watches: 0800-1100.
The anticipation was for a good seawatch, but unfortunately the poor visibility put paid to that, which was disappointing with a few decent birds further up the coast.
The sea only produced 43 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 5 Shoveler, 39 Common Scoter, 1 Goldeneye, 44 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northen Diver, 79 Gannet, 3 Skua sp, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 62 Kittiwake, 6 Guillemot and 6 Auk sp.
With the conditions little else was done, but a few bits of interest were noted, 4 Whooper Swan, 9 Mute Swan, the Tawny Owl still present at Kew, 2 Fieldfare, 1 Redwing and 2 Starling in/off.

Ringing:

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Tuesday, 28 November 2017

Overcast all day with a F2-3 NW-W. 
Watches : 0750-1050.

The sea produced steady totals of 4 Teal, 2 Goosander, 22 Common Scoter, 24 Gannet, 54 Red throated Diver, 1 Shag, 1 Guillemot and 40 Auk sp.

Some decent totals of Wildfowl still in the Kilnsea wetlands area, 1 Pink footed Goose, 250 Wigeon, 180 Teal, 8 Shoveler, 6 Pintail, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup and 2 Goldeneye while also seen today were 3 Kestrel, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Grey Partridge, 11 Lapwing, 2 Black tailed Godwit, 1 Short eared Owl, 1 Grey Wagtail and 1 Coal Tit while 2 Alba Wagtail flew south.

Ringing: 1 Goldfinch.

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Monday, 27 November 2017

Showers early morning, remaining overcast with an increasing F2-5 W 
Watches : 0810-1245.

A Tundra Bean Goose was on Holderness field early morning then flew off west.

Over the sea were 4 Whooper Swan, 1 Shelduck, 1 Eider, 18 Common Scoter, 37 Red throated Diver, 36 Gannet, 10 Kittiwake and 196 Auk sp.

Otherwise 4 Kestrel, 1 Peregrine, 2 Water Rail, 1 Barn Owl, 1 Coal Tit, 1 Lesser Redpoll and 1 Bullfinch were noted while 13 Siskin and 6 Goldfinch flew south.

Ringing: 1 Water Rail, 1 Blackbird, 1 Robin, 4 Goldfinch, 3 House Sparrow.

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Sunday, 26 November 2017

Early hard overnight frost gave way to a sunny, but cold raw day F3 WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0750-1050, 1310-1510.
All the action was over the sea with an impressive amount of Common Gull on the move, diligently counted despite the cold.

The sea produced 1 Manx Shearwater, 37 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, adult Pomarine Skua, 78 Black-headed Gull, 1717 Common Gull, 3 Kittiwake, 318 Auk sp, 16 Guillemot and 1 Razorbill.
Other sightings were 5 Whooper Swan plus the odd bird, 1 Coot canal scrape, a Buzzard in Easington, 1 Rock Pipit, 67 Blackbird and 1 Coal Tit.

Ringing: Nil.

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Saturday, 25 November 2017

Early morning frost, clear and dry all day with a F2-3 SW 
Watches : 0800-1100.

Quiet in the main with the odd birds still arriving in/off.

Over the sea were a Tundra Bean Goose south, 5 Wigeon, 3 Common Scoter, 9 Red throated Diver, 1 Shag, 4 Gannet, 1 Kittiwake and 28 Auk sp.

Otherwise 3 Whooper Swan plus the odd bird still present, 2 Snipe, 1 Woodcock and a Ruff in Church field, 4 Fieldfare, 3 Redwing in/off, 1 Starling in/off, 7 Siskin and 1 Snow Bunting at the borrow pit.

Ringing: 2 Blackbird, 4 House Sparrow, 1 Tree Sparrow.

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Friday, 24 November 2017

After early frost clear and sunny all day with a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0800-1115.

Pretty much the same as the last few days, with the last winter migrants making their way into the country. Over the sea a surprise big count of Common Scoter.

Migrants totals were 2 Woodcock, 3 Rock Pipit, 6 Stonechat, 27 Fieldfare, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 10 Long-tailed Tit, 2 Lesser Redpoll and 1 Snow Bunting. 

The sea was steady yet again with 106 Pink footed Geese, 801 Common Scoter, 72 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northen Diver, 11 Gannet and 18 Auk sp while a trickle of southbound passerines included 7 Skylark, 3 Goldfinch and 50 Siskin. 

Sightings mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands and Long bank area were 16 Mute Swan, 3 Whooper Swan, 295 Wigeon, 5 Pintail, 152 Teal, 16 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Peregrine, 10 Little Grebe, 650 Oystercatcher, 25 Lapwing, 3 Snipe and the Tawny Owl again at Kew.

Ringing: 1 Wren, 1 Blackbird, 1 Goldfinch.

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Thursday, 23 November 2017

A bright start clouding over later with a blustery F3-5 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0800-1115.

Migrants totals were 3 water Rail, 1 Woodcock, 1 Stonechat, 14 Fieldfare, 13 Redwing,1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 10 Long-tailed Tit, 1 Brambling, 9 Siskin and 9 Snow Bunting. 

The sea was steady with 1 Wigeon, 5 Teal, 2 Eider, 17 Common Scoter, 22 Red-throated Diver, 15 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 1 Bonxie, 4 Kittiwake and 69 Auk sp while overland only 1 Marsh Harrier and 9 Siskin were seen. 

Sightings mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands and Long bank area were 16 Mute Swan, 4 Whooper Swan, 300 Wigeon, 3 Pintail, 127 Teal, 16 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 2 Goldeneye and 1 Mediterranean Gull.

Ringing: 1 Water Rail, 4 Blackbird, 1 Redwing, 1 House Sparrow.

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Wednesday, 22 November 2017

Generally cloudy with a blustery F4-6 SW 
Watches : 0800-1115.

Little birding was done today due to the increasing wind, though the sea got a bit more attention than it probably deserved.

Over the sea were 24 Teal, 2 Mallard, 1 Goldeneye, 27 Common Scoter, 17 Red throated Diver, 6 Gannet and 6 Auk sp.

Otherwise 4 Whooper Swan, 2 Snipe, 1 Woodcock, 1 Water Rail, 1 Goldcrest and 10 Long tailed Tit was the best of the rest.

Ringing: 1 Blackbird.

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Tuesday, 21 November 2017

Cloudy all day with infrequent showers, with a F2-4 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0755-1115.
Migrant numbers are slowly tailing off with some settling into their wintering spots.

Totals were 2 Water Rail, 3 Jack Snipe Beacon ponds, 2 Woodcock, 1 Rock Pipit, 3 Stonechat, 2 Blackbird in/off, 12 Fieldfare, 5 Chiffchaff, 11 Long-tailed Tit and 3 Brambling. 
The sea was typically quiet for the time of year with 33 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 116 Common Scoter, 4 Goldeneye, 45 Red-throated Diver, 12 Gannet and 2 Kittiwake. 

Sightings mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands and Long bank area were 22 Mute Swan, 3 Whooper Swan, 200 Wigeon, 5 Pintail, 104 Teal, 15 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 17 Little Grebe, 58 Lapwing, 1200 Knot, 3 Snipe and 11 Black-tailed Godwit on the Humber.

Ringing: 1 Water Rail, 1 Goldfinch.

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Monday, 20 November 2017

A grey overcast day with frequent showers and a F2 WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0800-1200.

The biggest suprise today was a Storm Petrel brought to the Obs today having been found on a boat at Hull after it had enetered the Humber. It was in good condition, and was fed and rested and released at dark. Despite many east coast spots, catching good numbers of Stormies, we have always caught a modest amount in the July to september period. Saying that the number we catch had reduced to zero, despite plenty of effort on perfect nights. we are not sure why, but can only guess that the newly established banks of wind turbines in the same period are to blame, but of course this is pure conjecture.

Quiet for movement over the sea with 1 Teal, 4 Tufted Duck, 66 Common Scoter, 8 Goldeneye, 37 Gannet, 20 Red-throated Diver, 1 Red-necked Grebe south then sat on the sea, 2 Guillemot and 2 Auk sp.

The few migrants seen today were 4 Woodcock, 2 Stonechat, 3 Fieldfare, 3 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush, 4 Chiffchaff, 10 Long-tailed Tit, 1 Starling in/off, 20 Siskin flew south and Bullfinch.

The Kilnsea wetlands area had the 4 Whooper Swan with the assumed hybrid, a Merlin and 2 Sparrowhawk about the area, 4 Black-tailed Godwit on the Humber and a Water Rail.

Ringing: 1 Storm Petrel.

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Sunday, 19 November 2017

A heavy overnight frost with of sunshine and a cool F2-1 WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0745-1045.

Not really great conditions for anything today, so it was nice to see an increase in Thrush numbers plus a nice Shorelark was at chalk bank while nearby at the breach 2 Snow Bunting were present.

A small but welcome increase in migrant numbers today with 1 Woodcock, 1 Rock Pipit, 4 Stonechat, 250 Blackbird, 18 Fieldfare, 40 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrest, 17 Long tailed Tit, 1 Brambling, 8 Siskin and 7 Lesser Redpoll.

Quiet again over the sea with 50 Pink footed Geese, 38 Teal, 4 Eider, 47 Common Scoter, 1 Goldeneye, 7 Red throated Diver, 26 Gannet, 16 Kittiwake and 5 Auk sp.

The few other birds of note were 4 Whooper Swan and 4 Black tailed Godwit.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 31 Blackbird, 1 Great Tit, 4 Goldfinch, 2 Lesser Redpoll.

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Friday, 17 November 2017

Heavy overnight frost, then bright and sunny to start, clouding up later F2-3 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0740-1130, 1315-1535.

A lovely day, but hard work in locating anything of note. Saying that, as we have said all year, Kilnsea wetlands has been worth checking whenever you are paying a visit. Check the high tide times before your visit, as this has generally been the best time, when the numbers of ever present Duck are swelled by Waders and Gulls from the Humber.

Poor totals over the sea were 2 Mallard, 27 Common Scoter, 7 Red-throated Diver, 18 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 2 Shag and 1 Arctic Skua.
The few migrants seen today were 2 Fieldfare, 4 Redwing, 1 Stonechat, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 233 Starling in/off, 2 Brambling, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 28 Siskin flew south, 1 Bullfinch and 2 Snow Bunting.

The Kilnsea wetlands area produced 4 Whooper Swan, 16 Mute Swan, 250 Wigeon, 180 Teal, 5 Pintail, 1 Scaup, 1 Goldeneye, 14 Little Grebe, 1 Marsh Harrier, 7 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Mediterranean Gull by Easington gas terminal and the usual Tawny Owl at kew.

Ringing: 3 Blackbird, 1 Fieldfare, 1 House Sparrow, 1 Tree Sparrow, 1 Lesser Redpoll.

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Thursday, 16 November 2017

Overcast to begin clearing to leave a sunny if slightly chilly day, with a F2 SW-3 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0735-1130.

The Barred Warbler was still at the potato fields, but migrant totals were reduced yet again, though many of yesterdays spots were not checked with 40 Blackbird, 40 Redwing, 14 Fieldfare, 1 Song Thrush and 7 Chiffchaff. 

Slightly better for overland southerly movement, but understandably quiet for this late on in the autumn with 3 Meadow Pipit, 4 Rock Pipit, 9 Skylark, 16 Starling, 8 Tree Sparrow, 9 Chaffinch, 1 Brambling, 1 Bullfinch, 2 Redpoll, 186 Siskin, 13 Linnet, 8 Goldfinch and 6 Reed Bunting.
The sea was yet again hard work with 46 Pink-footed Geese in, 5 Brent Geese, 1 Mallard, 2 Wigeon, 1 Eider, 45 Common Scoter, 1 Goosander, 7 Red-throated Diver, 2 Great Northern Diver, 12 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 1 Guillemot and 1 Little Auk. 

Sightings mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands and Long bank area were 20 Mute Swan, 4 Whooper Swan plus the hybrid, 450 Wigeon, 4 Pintail, 253 Teal, 21 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Scaup, Peregrine, displaying Sparrowhawks over Kew, 12 Little Grebe, 3 Grey Partridge, 38 Lapwing, 288 Curlew, 35 Black-tailed Godwit and the Tawny Owl still roosting at Kew.

Ringing: Nil.

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Wednesday, 15 November 2017

Overcast with some sunny spells and a F3-5 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0655-1145.

Winter is slowly creeping nearer, the numbers of migrants continue to drop as does the diversity among them. 
A Hawfinch was by Easington cemetery, flying off north and appeared to drop into the Vicars lane area. Other migrant totals were 6 Woodcock, 330 Blackbird, 40 Redwing, 380 Fieldfare, 1 Song Thrush, 3 Chiffchaff, 12 Goldcrest, 3 Coal Tit, 100 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling and 4 Bullfinch. 

The sea was quiet and only produced 10 Pink-footed Geese northwest, 7 Wigeon, 2 Eider, 24 Common Scoter, 3 Goldeneye, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 69 Red-throated Diver, 10 Gannet, 1 Cormorant while overland only 12 Siskin and 3 Redpoll went south.

Sightings in the Kilnsea wetlands and Long bank area were 4 Whooper Swan plus the hybrid, 200 Teal, 4 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 3 Grey Partridge, 44 Lapwing, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Kingfisher and in Easington 2 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 1 Grey Wagtail and the noisy ‘ringed’ Ring-necked Parakeet still touring the garden feeders.

Ringing: 3 Blackbird, 1 Starling, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Tree Sparrow, 1 House Sparrow, 1 Bullfinch, 3 Lesser Redpoll.

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Tuesday, 14 November 2017

Calm and sunny to start, clouding over with a F2-1 NW-WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0720-1100.

A smattering of migrants about today with 6 Woodcock, 2 Snipe (12 in/off), 1 Redwing, 19 Fieldfare, 1 Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrest, 1 Treecreeper, 13 Starling in/off, 1 Brambling, 1 Siskin and 1 Bullfinch.

The sea produced 55 Pink-footed Geese, 23 Teal, 4 Goldeneye, 1 Tufted Duck, 90 Common Scoter, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 52 Red-throated Diver, 3 Great Crested Grebe, 5 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 3 Shag, 1 Bonxie and 5 Auk sp, while overland a Marsh Harrier, 3 Chaffinch and 9 Siskin were seen.

Sightings in the Kilnsea wetlands and Long bank area were 4 Whooper Swan with the Swan sp, 16 Mute Swan, 289 Wigeon, 184 Teal, 5 Pintail, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 1 Goldeneye, 18 Little Grebe, 20 Lapwing, 3 Black-tailed Godwit and the Tawny Owl at Kew.

Ringing: 7 Blackbird, 1 Robin, 2 House Sparrow, 1 Goldfinch.

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Monday, 13 November 2017

Sunny spells clouding up in the afternoon F3-1 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1045, 1245-1600.

The sea was were the main interest was, though didn’t produce much in reality for the effort shown. An interesting looking Swan with 2 Whooper Swan at Long bank, confused some observers with an odd Whooper, strange Bewicks and/or hybrid Mute x Whooper all thrown into the hat.

Totals for the sea were 3 Gadwall, 6 Eider, 133 Common Scoter, 2 Long-tailed Duck, 9 Goldeneye, 2 Great Northern Diver, 24 Red-throated Diver, 1 Shag, 5 Little Gull, 8 Kittiwake, 40 Auk sp, 3 Guillemot, 1 Razorbill and 2 Little Auk.

The trickle of migrants continues and it seems like the year is to go without a big fall which we have become accustomed to over the previous few year. Totals were 5 Short-eared Owl in/off, 7 Woodcock, 1 Jack Snipe, 90 Blackbird, 30 Fieldfare, 20 Redwing, 1 Blackcap, 1 Goldcrest, 2 Chiffchaff, 5 Starling in/off, 2 Brambling and 22 Siskin (15 in/off).

Ringing: 1 Woodcock, 27 Blackbird, 1 Wren, 1 Blackcap, 1 Tree Sparrow. (31 of 5 species).

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Sunday, 12 November 2017

A cold day with wintery showers and a strong F4-6 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1445.

The hoped for ‘big seawatch’ didn’t really happen, and no Little auk were seen despite seemingly positive conditions, but some decent totals of Auk and Kittiwake were returned, with a few Skua thrown in. 

Totals for the sea were 6 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Eider, 56 Common Scoter, 7 Goldeneye, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 1 Manx Shearwater, 346 Gannet, 14 Red-throated Diver, 2 Arctic Skua, 1+ Pomarine Skua, 14 Bonxie, 2 Mediterranean Gull, 1st winter Glaucous Gull, 3434 Kittiwake and 340 Auk sp.

The late Barred Warbler was still at the Potato fields, while other migrant totals were 1 Woodcock, 1 Snipe, 2 Stonechat, 60 Blackbird, 51 Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrush, 6 Redwing, 1 Siskin and 6 Lesser Redpoll.

Other interesting sightings mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands area were 448 Wigeon, 115 Teal, 5 Pintail, 11 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Black-tailed Godwit and the resident Tawny Owl still about at Kew. 

Ringing: 3 Blackbird.

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Saturday, 11 November 2017

Clear and sunny and a F1-2 W-N wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1010.

A nice day overall, while there were not lots to see, it was a pleasant one to be out in the field. Observers out and about did manage to find a late Barred Warbler at the potato fields, while there was also a small increase in passerines and Woodcock and a few bits over the sea.

Migrant numbers ticked over today with 2 Water Rail, 21 Woodcock, 15 Snipe (12 in/off), 1 House Martin at the Obs, 11 Stonechat, 50 Blackbird, 12 Redwing, 55 Fieldfare, 7 Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest, 1 Brambling, 13 Siskin, 6 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Snow Bunting.

The sea produced 3 Mute Swan, 18 Pink-footed Geese, 12 Teal, 4 Eider, 29 Common Scoter, 51 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 87 Gannet, 1 Arctic Skua, 4 Bonxie, 294 Kittiwake and 53 Auk sp, while overland only 3 Jackdaw and 9 Siskin were seen. 
Other interesting sightings were 2 Whooper Swan, 6 Pintail, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 1 Goldeneye, 7 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Greenshank, 1 Mediterranean Gull and the Tawny Owl at Kew.

Ringing: 4 Blackbird, 1 Redwing, 1 Tree Sparrow, 5 Lesser Redpoll.

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Friday, 10 November 2017

Clear and sunny with some cloud in the evening and a F3-5 W-WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0750-1215.

3 Shorelark were seen today, with two remaining on the beach at the north end of Beacon ponds, while another flew south and 15 Snow Bunting were nearby at Easington lagoon.
Over the sea 2 juvenile Sabines Gull flew north, the first November record, though there have been December birds.

Even less migrant around today with 1 Woodcock, 1 Jack Snipe, late House Martin and Wheatear, 82 Blackbird, 12 Redwing, 2 Fieldfare, 1 Goldcrest, 23 Starling in/off, 5 Chaffinch, 16 Siskin, 10 Twite and 18 Snow Bunting.

The sea produced 20 Whooper Swan, 15 Wigeon, 8 Eider, 38 Common Scoter, 1 Goosander, 30 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater, 1 Shag, 1 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 500 Kittiwake and 1000 Auk sp. 

Other interesting sightings were 7 Whooper Swan, 13 Shoveler, 3 Pintail, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 1 Goldeneye, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Mediterranean Gull and the Tawny Owl at Kew.

Ringing: 3 Blackbird, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Starling, 1 House Sparrow.

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Thursday, 09 November 2017

Overcast with occasional drizzle in the afternoon and a F-43 W-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1100.
Windier conditions made it difficult looking for passerines, but it was obvious a big clearout had occurred and in fact had been witnessed the previous evening as streams of Blackbirds headed off West.

Always nice to see, 3 Shorelark were feeding on the beach at the north end of Beacon ponds.

Other migrant totals were much reduced with 6 Lapwing in/off, 1 Woodcock in/off, 1 Jack Snipe, 11 Skylark in/off, 150 Blackbird, 22 Redwing, 21 Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Mistle Thrush, 4 Stonechat, 2 Blackcap, 3 Chiffchaff, 7 Goldcrest, 23 Starling in/off, 5 Brambling, 18 Siskin, 1 Twite and 15 Snow Bunting.

A trickle of birds on the move south with 30 Skylark, 1 Alba Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail, 4 Brambling, 15 Greenfinch, 46 Goldfinch, 104 Siskin, 12 Linnet and 2 Twite. 
The sea produced 9 Pink-footed Geese with birds moving unseen after dark, 96 Wigeon, 254 Teal, 1 Mallard, 25 Eider, 34 Common Scoter, 2 Velvet Scoter, 2 Goldeneye, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 24 Red-throated Diver, 2 Gannet, 5 Cormorant, 3 Bonxie and 16 Auk sp. 
Other interesting sightings were 7 Whooper Swan on Easington straight and the Tawny Owl still at Kew.

Ringing: 16 Blackbird, 2 Redwing, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Starling, 1 Tree Sparrow, 3 Lesser Redpoll, 3 Chaffinch. (29 of 9 species).

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Wednesday, 08 November 2017

Clear and dry all day with a F1-3 W-SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1200.
A better day of arrivals with a more varied species list and a few good birds thrown in too.

A day with a few surprises so late in the autumn began with a 1w male Bluethroat trapped at the Warren, which showed well later. This was the first this year, which just about maintains it's annual status. Spurn's 2nd WHITE-BILLED DIVER flew south past the seawatch hut and in a poor year generally for them a Firecrest was trapped in Churchfield.

A decent arrival with totals of 10 Lapwing in/off, 14 Woodcock, 1 Jack Snipe, 1 Short-eared Owl in/off, 17 Skylark in/off, 1040 Blackbird, 160 Redwing, 34 Fieldfare, 9 Song Thrush, 9 Stonechat, 2 Blackcap, 4 Chiffchaff, 1 Siberian Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrest, 176 Starling in/off, 5 Brambling, 6 Siskin, 1 Twite, 4 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Bullfinch and 9 Snow Bunting.

The sea produced 24 Pink-footed Geese, 147 Wigeon, 157 Teal, 5 Pintail, 8 Pochard, 1 Tufted Duck, 28 Eider, 43 Common Scoter, 1 Velvet Scoter, 5 Goldeneye, 37 Red-throated Diver, 4 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 1 Pomarine Skua, 1 Arctic Skua and 54 Auk sp. 
Other interesting sightings were 6 Whooper Swan, 1 Goldeneye, 2 Scaup, 1 Merlin, 7 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Barn Owl and the Tawny Owl.

Ringing: 1 Barn Owl, 2 Wren, 1 Bluethroat, 181 Blackbird, 11 Redwing, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Firecrest, 1 Starling, 1 Tree Sparrow, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Bullfinch. (203 of 11 species).

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Tuesday, 07 November 2017

Cloudy with showers and a F3-4 NW-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1115, 1300-1500.
The Thrushes keep arriving on a daily basis, despite the head wind while the sea yet again just about ticked over.

A decent arrival with totals of 160 Lapwing in/off, 1 Jack Snipe, 3 Woodcock, 1 Short-eared Owl in/off, 5 Skylark in/off, 1430 Blackbird (748 in/off), 353 Redwing (157 in/off), 73 Fieldfare (57 in/off), 3 Song Thrush, 1 Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrest, 303 Starling in/off, 1 Brambling, 16 Siskin and 10 Snow Bunting.

The sea produced 9 Whooper Swan northwest, 7 Brent Geese, 16 Shelduck, 219 Wigeon, 373 Teal, 2 Tufted Duck, 74 Common Scoter, 4 Goldeneye, 17 Red-throated Diver, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Manx Shearwater, 29 Gannet, 11 Knot, 3 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Bonxie, 1 Arctic Skua, 98 Auk sp, 1 Razorbill and 2 Guillemot. 

Other interesting sightings were 8 Whooper Swan on Easington straight, 89 Teal, 5 Pintail, 14 Shoveler, 2 Scaup and 1 Black-tailed Godwit.

Ringing: 137 Blackbird, 6 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush, 31 Starling. (175 of 4 species).

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Monday, 06 November 2017

Clear and dry all day with a F1-2 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1130.

A trickle of Thrushes arriving off the sea today, while 3 Siberian Chiffchaff or great lookalikes were seen.

The small number of migrants present were 4 Woodcock, 3 Stonechat, 1 Black Redstart, 116 Blackbird, 370 Redwing in/off, 176 Fieldfare in/off, 3 Song Thrush, 1 Blackcap, 8 Chiffchaff, 3 Siberian Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 3 Goldcrest, 8 Starling in/off, 2 Brambling, 12 Siskin and 1 Snow Bunting at Sammys point.

Very little on the move overland with 30 Skylark, 4 Rock Pipit, 4 Chaffinch, 1 Brambling, 2 Greenfinch, 7 Goldfinch, 79 Siskin and 5 Linnet.
The sea produced 43 Whooper Swan, 97 Pink-footed Geese, 2 Pochard, 61 Common Scoter, 22 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 32 Gannet, 6 Cormorant, 19 Auk sp and 2 Guillemot. 

Other interesting sightings were 6 Whooper Swan, 400 Wigeon, 6 Pintail, 9 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 6000+ Golden Plover, 28 Lapwing, 1500+ Knot, 1 Ruff, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Barn Owl and the Tawny Owl still about at Kew.

Ringing: 1 Robin, 43 Blackbird, 11 Redwing, 1 Fieldfare, 1 Blackcap, 1 Starling, 1 Great Tit, 1 House Sparrow, 8 Tree Sparrow, 1 Greenfinch, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin, 1 Lesser Redpoll. (72 of 13 species).

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Sunday, 05 November 2017

Generally clear and dry with the heavy shower in the afternoon and a F2-4 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0640-1140.

The day was pretty quiet overall, with a trickle of birds arriving off the sea, but nothing on the move south Passerine wise.

Migrant totals were 9 Woodcock (3 in/off), 1 Snipe, 1 Short-eared Owl, 71 Sylark in/off, 5 Meadow Pipit in/off, 11 Rock Pipit in/off, a Richard’s Pipit in Easington at the sewage farm, 5 Stonechat, 130 Blackbird, 40 Fieldfare, 170 Redwing, 3 Blackcap, 4 Chiffchaff, a late Willow warbler, 8 Goldcrest, 233 Starling in/off, 3 Brambling, 3 Twite, 42 Siskin (12 in/off), 3 Lesser Redpoll in/off, 8 Snow Bunting (2 in/off) and 1 Reed Bunting in/off.

Very little were on the move over the sea with 24 Pink-footed Geese, 33 Whooper Swan, 82 Wigeon, 18 Teal, 3 Pochard, 3 Tufted Duck, 53 Common Scoter, 2 Goosander, 28 Red-throated Diver, 6 Sanderling, 3 Dunlin, 24 Gannet, 5 Cormorant and 18 Auk sp.

Other interesting sightings mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands area were 6 Whooper Swan, 2 Pintail, 2 Scaup, 1 Goldeneye, 30 lapwing, 8 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1 Barn Owl and the resident Tawny Owl still about at Kew. 

Ringing: 1 Wren, 1 Robin, 6 Blackbird, 1 Blackcap, 1 Chaffinch.

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Saturday, 04 November 2017

Generally dry with odd heavy shower and a F1-2-4 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1000.
The autumn is slowing down, despite it not being another classic there has been just about enough to satisfy most observers. There is still some hope of some late arrivals with decent conditions, which by the large have eluded the east coast. 
The highlight of the day was a Hawfinch in Churchfield. Compared to some inland sites, we have received very few of this huge influx, bit more of a drip feed. Hopefully birds will continue to appear over the winter period.

Migrant totals were 3 Woodcock, 4 Snipe, 4 Water Rail, 1 Short-eared Owl, 3 Stonechat, 60 Blackbird, 300 Fieldfare, 200 Redwing, 2 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Siberian Chiffchaff Easington sewage farm, 1 Goldcrest, 29 Starling in/off, 5 Brambling, 12 Siskin and 6 Lesser Redpoll.

Very quiet for the vis-miggers with very little on the move so only 1 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 2 Carrion Crow, 1 Siskin, 4 Linnet, 1 Twite, 1 Redpoll and 1 Snow Bunting were seen today.
Totals for the sea were also low with 6 Whooper Swan, 3 Shelduck, 8 Wigeon, 3 Teal, 5 Shoveler, 1 Scaup, 4 Common Scoter, 2 Goldeneye, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Red-throated Diver, 6 Gannet and 1 Cormorant.

Other interesting sightings mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands area were 3 Pintail, 10 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Ruff, 44 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Spotted Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 1 barn Owl and the resident Tawny Owl still about at Kew. 

Ringing: 23 Blackbird, 7 Redwing, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Starling, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Goldfinch. (35 of 6 species).

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Friday, 03 November 2017

Overcast all day with a F2-0-2 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0640-1200, 1410-1500.
A great all round day after yesterday (when little happened), with nice arrivals, a trickle of mainly south bound Finches while the sea had a few Ducks and another 2 Little Auk. Even the ringers had a good day with plenty of Thrushes to keep them going.

Migrant totals were 101 Lapwing in/off, 29 Woodcock (14 in/off), 10 Snipe (5 in/off), 1 Jack Snipe, 4 Short-eared Owl (3 in/off), 9 Stonechat, 1350 Blackbird, 9 Song Thrush, 1684 Fieldfare, 3228 Redwing, 2884 Starling in/off, 2 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Siberian Chiffchaff still at the warren, 6 Goldcrest, 21 Brambling (5 in/off) and 1 Bullfinch.

A steady trickle for the vis-miggers brought 51 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 14 Meadow Pipit, 15 Rock Pipit, 4 Alba Wagtail, 8 Tree Sparrow, 10 Chaffinch, 23 Goldfinch, 217 Siskin, 1 Twite, 12 Redpoll, 2 Snow Bunting and 2 Reed Bunting.
The sea was decent and had a few notable birds which was interspersed with arriving Thrushes and Woodcock. Totals were 3 Whooper Swan, 120 Pink-footed Geese, 12 Shelduck, 41 Wigeon, 2 Eider, 11 Teal, 1 Mallard, 2 Tufted Duck, 53 Common Scoter, 1 Velvet Scoter, 10 Goldeneye, 4 Red-breasted Merganser, 48 Red-throated Diver, 2 Great Northern Diver, 1 Great-crested Grebe, 195 Gannet, 7 Cormorant, 1 Little Gull, 13 Auk sp and 2 Little Auk.

Other interesting sightings were 3 Whooper Swan Easington straight, 2 Scaup, 5 Black-tailed Godwit Humber and the Tawny Owl still about at Kew. 

Ringing: 1 Woodcock, 3 Fieldfare, 24 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush, 135 Blackbird, 2 Ring Ouzel, 1 Blackcap. 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 8 Tree Sparrow, 2 House Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 3 Goldfinch, 5 Siskin, 1 Bullfinch. (192 of 17 species).

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Thursday, 02 November 2017

Clear and dry with a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0645-1000.
The day was quiet overall and poor for birds on the move land and sea, but there were a few migrants about still to keep a bit of hope going for something different.

Migrant totals were 5 Woodcock (1 in/off), 1 Snipe, 4 Water Rail, 5 Short-eared Owl (1 in/off), 1 Black Redstart, 8 Stonechat, 160 Blackbird, 50 Fieldfare, 3 Blackcap, 3 Chiffchaff, 5 Goldcrest, 60 Starling in/off, 1 Brambling, 1 Twite, 1 Bullfinch and 2 Snow Bunting.

Very quiet for the vis-miggers with very little on the move so only 1 Skylark, 2 Swallow, 2 Carrion Crow, 1 Siskin, 4 Linnet, 1 Twite, 1 Redpoll and 1 Snow Bunting were seen today.
Totals for the sea were also low with 11 Whooper Swan north-west, 1 Eider, 36 Common Scoter, 1 Velvet Scoter, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 49 Red-throated Diver, 25 Gannet, 1 Shag and 16 Auk sp.

Other interesting sightings mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands area were 300 Brent Geese Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Pale-belied Brent, 360 Wigeon, 260 Teal, 7 Pintail, 12 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Little Stint, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, the Tawny Owl still about at Kew and 2000 Starling in the canal scrape roost. 

Ringing: 3 Wren, 1 Dunnock, 2 Stonechat, 1 Song Thrush, 5 Blackbird, 1 Redwing, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Starling, 2 House Sparrow, 37 Tree Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 1 Twite, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin. (60 of 15 species).

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Wednesday, 01 November 2017

Clear and dry with a F2-3 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0615-1130.

The sea has eventually calmed down with Auk numbers back to their ‘usual’ numbers, but this may change again with northerly type winds straight from the Arctic predicted for the weekend. Overland a hint of change and maybe a late rush of movement to come, while Kilnsea wetlands continues to be worth a visit alone with good Duck numbers and at high tide well used by Waders from the Humber.

Migrant totals were steady and with a lack of easterly winds to come, it appears we wont be getting any late Thrush falls, but more likely a daily trickle when conditions are conducive for arrivals. seen today were 1 White Wagtail, 1 Stonechat, 190 Blackbird, 2 Song Thrush, 54 Redwing, 6 Blackcap, 8 Chiffchaff, 2 Siberian Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest, 3 Brambling, 11 Twite, Siskin and 1 Bullfinch.

Even though numbers wise it was quiet for vis-migging, there was a nice selection of species on the move south with 1 Sparrowhawk, 31 Skylark, 1 Swallow, 1 Richard’s Pipit, 18 Meadow Pipit, 4 Rock Pipit, 4 Alba Wagtail, 1 Jackdaw, 8 Tree Sparrow, 6 Chaffinch, 5 Greenfinch, 58 Goldfinch, 118 Siskin, 37 Redpoll and 7 Reed Bunting.
The sea was very quiet and only 143 Pink-footed Geese, 1 Wigeon, 2 Eider, 17 Common Scoter, 11 Red-throated Diver, 19 Gannet, 12 Cormorant and 5 Auk sp were seen for the effort.

Other interesting sightings mainly at Kilnsea wetlands were 4 Whooper Swan Easington straight, 453 Brent Geese and 1 Pale-bellied Brent, 440 Wigeon, 282 Teal, 5 Pintail, 12 Shoveler, 8 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 1 Goldeneye, 6000 Golden Plover, 2 Little Stint, 1 Greenshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 669 Redshank, 15 Little Egret and 1 Merlin. 

Ringing: 2 Song Thrush, 11 Blackbird, 2 Blackcap. 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Siberian Chiffchaff, 4 Tree Sparrow, 4 Twite, 18 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Goldfinch, 2 Greenfinch. (46 of 9 species).

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Tuesday, 31 October 2017

Mainly grey and overcast with occasional rain and a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1300, 1500-1600

It was a great day for watching arriving Woodcock, Starling and Thrushes by the sea-watch hut, where it was much quieter for seabirds than the last 2 days. A Great-white Egret flew south in the morning, which is rapidly changing its status at Spurn to an annual visitor.

Migrant totals were a good total of 25 Woodcock (with 16 in/off), 4 Stonechat, 73 Blackbird (with 13 in/off), 290 Fieldfare (with 190 in/off), 2 Song Thrush, 48 Redwing (with 3 in/off), 1 Blackcap, 8 Chiffchaff, 5 Goldcrest, 2466 Starling in/off, 1 Brambling, 11 Siskin and 1 Bullfinch.

The sea even though quieter than yesterday still had 2 Whooper Swan, 48 Wigeon, 53 Teal, 1 Pintail, 5 Eider, 122 Common Scoter, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 43 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great-crested Grebe, 233 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 58 Auk sp, 155 Little Gull and 1 Arctic tern. 
Not a lot on the move south due to the weather, but 1 Stock Dove, 4 Jackdaw, 1 Skylark, 1 Swallow, 5 Meadow Pipit, 4 Linnet and 2 Redpoll were seen.

Other interesting sightings were 8 Whooper Swan, 438 Brent Geese, 23 Pink-footed Geese, 252 Teal, 3 Pintail, 10 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Goldeneye, 2 Little Stint and 1 Merlin. 

Ringing: 1 Robin, 18 Blackbird, 2 Redwing, 1 Goldcrest, 4 Starling, 2 Goldfinch.

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Monday, 30 October 2017

Clear and dry all day with a F2-3 N-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0620-1000.

The decent sea watching continued, but not in the spectacular fashion of the previous day, though another big Auk count was made, but not at the same level as ‘proper’ seawatching headlands, further up the coast. It had to happen eventually and Woodcock arrived in decent numbers today, plus a small Thrush arrival too, which also brought the 3rd BLACK-BELLIED DIPPER for Spurn along the saltmarsh at Sammy’s. The arrival also brought a Great-grey Shrike to the triangle, which flew off north west and a Waxwing to the Bluebell area.

Migrant totals were an impressive 38 Woodcock, 1 Jack Snipe, 2 Black Redstart, 22 Stonechat, 1 Ring Ouzel, 480 Blackbird, 80 Fieldfare, 6 Song Thrush, 125 Redwing, 4 Blackcap, 4 Chiffchaff, 7 Goldcrest, 1 Coal Tit, 20 Brambling, 10 Twite, 20 Siskin, 2 Bullfinch and 7 Snow Bunting.

The sea even though quieter than yesterday still had 5 Brent Geese, 17 Wigeon, 22 Teal, 6 Mallard, 1 Pochard, 3 Eider, 174 Common Scoter, 8 Goldeneye, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Goosander, 31 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 1 Manx Shearwater, 174 Gannet, 2 Arctic Skua, 261 Kittiwake, 3416 Auk sp, 2 Puffin and 6 Little Auk. 
Not a day for vis-migging in general, but a few bits coming off the sea. On the move south unless stated were 1 Short-eared Owl in/off, 15 Skylark, 12 Meadow Pipit, 5 Rock Pipit 1 Grey Wagtail, 1300 Starling in/off, 5 Goldfinch, 5 Siskin and 23 Redpoll.

Other interesting sightings were 630 Brent Geese, 200 Greylag Geese, 2 Pink-footed Geese, 120 Wigeon, 2 Tufted Duck all in the Kilnsea wetlands area, 1 Short-eared Owl Sammy’s and the Tawny Owl at Kew. 

Ringing: 1 Woodcock, 1 Water Rail, 1 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 1 Black Redstart, 75 Blackbird, 1 Redwing, 2 Chiffchaff, 7 Goldcrest, 1 Starling, 5 Chaffinch, 1 Greenfinch, 1 Goldfinch, 11 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Twite, 16 Tree Sparrow, 1 House Sparrow. (128 of 17 species).

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Sunday, 29 October 2017

Mainly cloudy with occasional showers and a F4-6 N-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1645.
Sea-watching this year has been pretty poor at Spurn, with no decent Shearwater passage (with few Petrels), while Skua movement has been ok on one or two days and even Duck and Wader passage has been relatively and uncharacteristically rubbish. So after a good movement yesterday is was nice to have a fantastic and varied species list, with record counts for Auks sp and a few Little Auk and Petrels thrown in too.

The sea produced 10 Whooper Swan, 3 Brent Geese, 6 Mallard, 14 Teal, 2 Long-tailed Duck, 65 Common Scoter, 1 Goldeneye, 65 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Black-throated Diver, 1 Great-crested Grebe, 4 Sooty Shearwater, 5 Manx Shearwater, 1 Balearic Shearwater, 2 Storm Petrel, 1 Leach’s Petrel, 618 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 1 Pomarine Skua, 10 Bonxie, 10 Arctic Skua, 30 Little Gull, 385 Kittiwake, 8366 Auk sp, 1 Razorbill, 6 Puffin and 32 Little Auk. 

Not much seen migrants wise with most observers seawatching, but 1 Jack Snipe, 2 Stonechat, 2 Black Redstart, 90 Blackbird, 106 Redwing, 14 Fieldfare, 23 Starling in/off, 1 Goldcrest and 3 Snow Bunting at the Breach.

Other interesting sightings were 2 Water Rail, 2 Little Stint and a Barn Owl.

Ringing: 2 Blackbird, 1 Tree Sparrow.

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Saturday, 28 October 2017

Mainly cloudy with sunny spells and a F4-6 WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1220, 1500-1720.

Sea-watching was the place to be as the strong winds, brought a decent varied movement over the sea. The highlight was the 14th BLACK GUILLEMOT which flew north past the sea watching hut. 
Also on the move were 9 Whooper Swan, 2 Brent Geese, 6 Wigeon, 8 Teal, 3 Scaup, 1 Eider, 25 Common Scoter, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great-crested Grebe, 1 Fulmar, 3 Manx Shearwater, 134 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 5 Shag, 1 Purple Sandpiper, 2 Bonxie, 2 Mediterranean Gull, 1 Little Gull, 4 Kittiwake, 1100 Auk sp, 18 Guillemot, 13 Razorbill and 1 Puffin. 

Conditions to look for migrants were not ideal with the strong wind and seawatching dominating the day. Totals returned were 3 Jack Snipe, 1 Short-eared Owl in/off, 2 Stonechat, 360 Blackbird, 370 Redwing, 13 Song Thrush, 1 Fieldfare, 18Starling in/off, 1 Blackcap, 4 Goldcrest, 7 Long-tailed Tit, 2 Brambling, 14 Twite, 65 Lesser Redpoll and 3 Bullfinch.

Not surprisingly it was a quieter day overland with 1 Marsh Harrier, 38 Skylark (with 35 in/off), 2 Swallow, 1 House Martin, 1 Jackdaw, 14 Meadow Pipit, 3 Greenfinch, 28 Goldfinch, 32 Linnet and 13 Redpoll.

Other interesting sightings and totals mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands and Beacon ponds area were the Bittern again, 250 Brent Geese, 1 Pale-bellied Brent, 580 Wigeon, 3 Shoveler, 3 Pintail, 2 Goldeneye, 1 Merlin, 2 Little Stint and the Tawny Owl at Kew.

Ringing: 7 Blackbird, 1 Blackcap, 2 Tree Sparrow, 1 Bullfinch, 1 Greenfinch, 1 Goldfinch.

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Friday, 27 October 2017

Bright and sunny all day with a F1 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0730-1000, 1415-1515.
Increases for some migrants while Thrushes remained at a similar level, though with some northerlies predicted a few seabirds could be on offer.

The highlights were the first Waxwing of the autumn seen flying north over the warren and then the triangle, and 2 Bean Geese in/off that went south, while a Water Pipit was by the breach and the Bitternwas seen again at the south end of Beacon ponds.

Totals for migrants were decreasing despite small thrush arrivals with 5 Water Rail, 3 Jack Snipe, 4 woodcock, 46 Robin, 5 Black Redstart, 17 Stonechat, 1 Wheatear, 3 Ring Ouzel, 610 Blackbird, 370 Redwing, 65 Song Thrush, 1 Mistle Thrush, 140 Fieldfare, 1 Blackcap, 2 Yellow-browed Warbler, 12 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler, 10 Goldcrest, 7 Long-tailed Tit, 18 Brambling, 12 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Bullfinch and 2 Snow Bunting.

A quieter day overland with 26 Skylark, 50 Meadow Pipit, 3 Jackdaw, 15 Rook, 31 Tree Sparrow, 8 Greenfinch, 11 Goldfinch, 3 Siskin, 10 Linnet, 10 Twite and 33 Redpoll.
Over the sea were 475 Pink-footed Geese, 6 Barnacle Geese, 1 Wigeon, 40 Common Scoter, 8 Goldeneye, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 26 Red-throated Diver, 2 Great-crested Grebe, 13 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 4 Bonxie, 1 Arctic Skua, 2 Mediterranean Gull and 4 Little Gull. 

Other interesting sightings and totals mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands and Beacon ponds area were 5 Whooper Swan, 362 Brent Geese, 1 Pale-bellied Brent, 336 Wigeon, 264 Teal, 9 Shoveler, 3 Pintail, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Goosander, 7 Common Buzzard in Easington area, 441 Oystercatcher, 27 Lapwing, 2 Little Stint, 1 Black-tailed Godwit and 1 Barn Owl.

Ringing: 1 Wren, 1 Dunnock, 47 Blackbird, 1 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Blackcap, 1 Great Tit, 1 Starling, 69 Tree Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 1 Brambling, 1 Greenfinch, 3 Goldfinch, 4 Twite, 8 Lesser Redpoll. (151 of 15 species).

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Thursday, 26 October 2017

Overcast all day and a F1-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0715-1100, 1530-1615.
Similar totals across the board, but it still feels like a big arrival of Thrushes is imminent, while there have been few Woodcock about too. The most impressive part of the day was in the evening when our very own Starling ‘murmuration’ took place with huge numbers at the canal scrape roost.

A Bittern was seen to drop into Southfield farm, which is possibly a long staying, but infrequently seen bird and a Long-eared Owl roosting in canal hedge were the highlights of the day.

Totals for migrants were decreasing despite small thrush arrivals with 3 Water Rail, 1 Jack Snipe, 9 Stonechat, 2 Wheatear, 4 Ring Ouzel, 364 Blackbird, 550 Redwing, 21 Song Thrush, 1 Mistle Thrush, 4 Fieldfare, 1 Blackcap, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler, 9 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 19 Goldcrest, 11 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Brambling, 30 Twite, 20 Lesser Redpoll and a Lapland Bunting at Sammys.

A decent day for overland vis-mig with 27 Skylark, 2 Sand Martin, 8 Swallow, 4 House Martin, 165 Meadow Pipit, 14 Rock Pipit, 3 Grey Wagtail, 6 Alba wagtail, 4 Jackdaw, 14 Rook, 4 House Sparrow, 336 Tree Sparrow, 25 Chaffinch, 6 Brambling, 36 Greenfinch, 250 Goldfinch, 122 Siskin, 35 Linnet, 6 Twite, 39 Redpoll, 1 Bullfinch, 1 Snow Bunting, 1 Yellowhammer and 13 Reed Bunting.

Over the sea were 27 Whooper Swan, 96 Pink-footed Geese, 3 Shelduck, 1 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 1 Scaup, 3 Eider, 20 Common Scoter, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Goosander, 18 Red-throated Diver, 3 Gannet, 9 Cormorant, 1 Mediterranean Gull and 45 Little Gull. 

Other interesting sightings and totals were 4 Whooper Swan Long bank area 450 Brent Geese, 498 Wigeon, 257 Teal, 5 Pintail, 2 Tufted Duck, 19 Little Grebe, 1500 Dunlin and 3 Little Stint Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Greenshank, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Barn Owl, 1 Little Owl Churchfield, the Tawny Owl at Kew, 1 Kingfisher and a very impressive 20,000 Starling to roost on canal scrape.

Ringing: 2 Robin, 16 Blackbird, 6 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 8 Long-tailed Tit, 28 Tree Sparrow, 3 Goldfinch, 2 Linnet, 1 Twite, 5 Lesser Redpoll. (75 of 13 species).

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Wednesday, 25 October 2017

Sunny spells with a F3-1 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0715-1200, 1500-1530.
Some decent totals for migrants were returned, though the phenomenal roost for Starling at canal scrape was probably the stand out count and spectacle all in one. Otherwise a ‘pinging’ vis-mig group of Bearded Tit was a nice sight at Numpties.

Migrant totals for the day were good, but a decline in redwing numbers, 5 Water Rail, 1 Woodcock, 1 Jack Snipe, 5 Short-eared Owl, 1 White Wagtail, 1 Water Pipit on Clubley’s, 4 Black Redstart, 7 Stonechat, 1 Whinchat, 80 Robin, 5 Ring Ouzel, 455 Blackbird, 280 Redwing, 1 Mistle Thrush, 13 Fieldfare, 35 Song Thrush, 5 Blackcap, 6 Yellow-browed Warbler, 9 Chiffchaff, 22 Goldcrest, 30 Long-tailed Tit, 2 Bearded Tit, 18,000 Starling into the canal scrape roost, 6 Brambling, 20 Siskin14 Twite, 10 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Bullfinch.

Steady for the vis-miggers (which has been a regular used opening statement to the sightings page counts during the year), 141 Skylark, 7 Swallow, 3 House Martin, 130 Meadow Pipit, 16 Rock Pipit, 1 Grey Wagtail, 5 Alba Wagtail, 8 Bearded Tit, 64 Tree Sparrow, 19 Chaffinch, 8 Brambling, 4 Greenfinch, 219 Goldfinch, 217 Siskin, 77 Linnet, 52 Redpoll and 7 Reed Bunting.

The sea produced 100 Pink-footed Geese, 1 Pale-bellied Brent, 26 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 17 Common Scoter, 5 Velvet Scoter, 2 Goldeneye, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 20 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 7 Gannet, 9 Cormorant, 3 Shag, 161 Little Gull, 473 Black-headed Gull and 16 Auk sp. 
Sightings in the Kilnsea wetlands and Long bank area were 4 Whooper Swan, 11 Mute Swan, 170 Greylag Geese, 353 Brent Geese, 260 Wigeon, 300 Teal, 3 Pintail, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Merlin, 2 Peregrine, 4 Little Grebe, 23 Lapwing, 3 Little stint, 1 Greenshank and elsewhere a Little Owl on Beacon lane and a mobile group of 19 Magpie.

Ringing: 3 Robin, 23 Blackbird, 13 Redwing, 1 Blackcap, 7 Goldcrest, 3 Great Tit, 6 Tree sparrow, 3 Siskin, 5 Goldfinch, 2 Starling, 8 Lesser redpoll. (74 of 11 species)

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Tuesday, 24 October 2017

Cloudy with rain till mid-day, then sunny spells and a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0715-1530.
Rain in the morning, all but ruined the chance of another good day of migration, though it was good over the sea for Wildfowl and a small arrival of Thrushes kept the interest going.

Totals for migrants were 4 Water Rail, 5 Woodcock, 1 Jack Snipe in/off, 1 Black Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 6 Stonechat, 3 Ring Ouzel, 310 Blackbird, 1200 Redwing, 70 Song Thrush, 7 Fieldfare, 10 Blackcap, 2 Yellow-browed Warbler, 13 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler, 20 Goldcrest, 15 Brambling, 14 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Snow Bunting.

A decent day for overland visible migration after the rain had stopped with 15 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 80 Meadow Pipit, 7 Rock Pipit, 1 Grey Wagtail, 4 Alba wagtail, 8 Chaffinch, 8 Brambling, 31 Goldfinch, 47 Siskin, 11 Linnet, 39 Twite, 56 Redpoll and 7 Reed Bunting.
Over the sea were 22 Brent Goose, 746 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 370 Teal, 1 Mallard, 8 Pintail, 8 Shoveler, 4 Tufted Duck, 147 Common Scoter, 5 Goldeneye, 11 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 22 Gannet, 5 Cormorant, 25 Dunlin in, 10 Little Gull, 2 Kittiwake, 1 Guillemot and 13 Auk sp. 

Other interesting sightings and totals were 2 Whooper Swan Humber, 417 Oystercatcher and 1 Avocet Chalk bank, 3 Little Stint, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Short-eared Owl, the Tawny Owl at Kew, 1 Kingfisher and 5000 Starling to roost on canal scrape.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 13 Blackbird, 10 Redwing, 5 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 4 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 7 Starling, 2 Goldfinch, 7 Lesser Redpoll. (52 of 11 species).

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Monday, 23 October 2017

Clear and dry all day with a F2-4 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1100, 1500-1700.

For many birders today, it could almost be a bit of an anticlimax after missing the Swallow yesterday, but a fantastic passage overland and migrant numbers increasing plus the OLIVE-BACKED PIPIT present and still showing at Chalk bank, surely kept minds occupied, while a Great-white Egret flew south, briefly stopping at Beacon ponds. The juvenile WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER made a re-appearance today being seen briefly on Kilnsea wetlands, so is clearly still about somewehere on the Humber.

Totals for migrants were 4 Water Rail, 2 Woodcock, 12 Snipe in/off, 127 Robin, 4 Black Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 2 Wheatear, 8 Stonechat, 6 Ring Ouzel, 517 Blackbird, 520 Redwing, 66 Song Thrush, 16 Fieldfare, 8 Blackcap, 3 Yellow-browed Warbler, 19 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 44 Goldcrest, 1 Coal Tit, 20 Brambling, 54 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Snow Bunting.

Another great day for overland visible migration, especially Finches with 140 Wood Pigeon, 79 Skylark, 3 Swallow, 248 Meadow Pipit, 5 Rock Pipit, 4 Grey Wagtail, 8 Alba wagtail, 5 Jackdaw, 23 Rook, 2 Carrion Crow, 156 Tree Sparrow, 27 Chaffinch, 6 Brambling, 26 Greenfinch, 646 Goldfinch, 520 Siskin, 50 Linnet, 72 Twite, 100 Redpoll, 2 Bullfinch and 14 Reed Bunting.
Over the sea were 2 Whooper Swan, 19 Pink-footed Geese, 1 Brent Goose, 4 Wigeon, 3 Teal, 5 Pintail, 89 Common Scoter, 24 Red-throated Diver, 3 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 85 Gannet, 6 Cormorant, 1 Pomarine Skua, 6 Little Gull, 162 Herring Gull, 1 Kittiwake, 1 Guillemot and 13 Auk sp. 

Other interesting sightings and totals were 12 Lapwing, 3 Little Stint, 1 Ruff, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Kingfisher and 6000 Starling to roost on canal scrape.

Ringing: 2 Dunnock, 2 Robin, 4 Meadow Pipit, 50 Blackbird, 8 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Blackcap, 5 Goldcrest, 24 Tree Sparrow, 1 Starling, 2 Goldfinch, 44 Lesser Redpoll, 5 twite. (150 of 13 species).

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Sunday, 22 October 2017

Dry all day, with some cloud and a very strong F6-7 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0650-1515.

A few days ago a phone call was received from further up the coast, about a briefly seen Hirundine, which was not one of the commoner species, but a hybrid could not be ruled out, while the suggestion was obvious. A mad dash, by most observers to the vis-mig spot in readiness unfortunately yielded nothing, and after a couple of days of Thrush arrivals was almost forgotten. Well that all changed this morning for 3 lucky observers when a CLIFF SWALLOW flew south past the seawatch hut over the sea, then tracked down towards the narrows. Unfortunately there has been no further sign of it. Potentially this is the 2nd record for Spurn.
The OLIVE-BACKED PIPIT was present all day showing well at Chalk bank. 

Totals for migrants were 4 Short-eared Owl in/off, 1 Jack Snipe, 1 Black Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 2 Stonechat, 2 Ring Ouzel, 260 Blackbird, 20 Redwing in/off, 1 Song Thrush in/off, 10 Fieldfare, 2 Yellow-browed Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 15 Brambling, 54 Lesser Redpoll and 2 Snow Bunting.

Over the sea were 59 Whooper Swan, 6 Pink-footed Geese, 13 Brent Geese, 136 Wigeon, 43 Teal, 2 Pintail, 9 Eider, 49 Common Scoter, 1 Goldeneye, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Goosander, 40 Red-throated Diver, 137 Gannet, 30 Cormorant, 1 Arctic Skua, 2 Bonxie, 223 Black-headed Gull, 2 Mediterranean Gull, 436 Herring Gull, 14 Kittiwake, 16 Guillemot, 5 Razorbill and 331 Auk sp. 

A better day for overland visible migration with 52 Skylark, 4 Swallow, 4 House Martin, 28 Meadow Pipit, 5 Rock Pipit, 50 Tree Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 14 Brambling, 61 Goldfinch, 78 Siskin, 24 Linnet, a fantastic total of 74 Twite, 47 Redpoll and 1 Reed Bunting.

Other interesting sightings and totals were 7 Whooper Swan, 5 Shoveler, 2 Goldeneye, 5 Lapwing, 1 Little Stint, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1 Barn Owl while a Marsh Harrier with a green wing tag was seen.

Ringing: 1 Robin, 7 Blackbird, 10 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush, 1 Redwing.

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Saturday, 21 October 2017

Migration Watches: 0655-1030.
Quieter for wildfowl over the sea and a big clear out of Thrushes and other migrants, but still plenty to get stuck into.

The juvenile WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER was still present in the morning on Kilnsea wetlands, until flushed by a Peregrine, and appears from the records to be the first juvenile ever knowingly recorded at Spurn. An OLIVE-BACKED PIPIT showing well at Middle camp, could be the triangle bird from 2 days ago and the ever present Rose-coloured Starling was still in Easington. 

Totals for migrants were 1 Short-eared Owl, 4 Black Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 4 Stonechat, 2 Wheatear, 6 Ring Ouzel, 194 Blackbird, 800 Redwing, 67 Song Thrush, 11 Fieldfare, 5 Blackcap, 6 Yellow-browed Warbler, 15 Chiffchaff, 10 Goldcrest, 2 Coal Tit, 70 Brambling, 5 Twite, 2 Bullfinch, a Hawfinch at the Obs and 3 Snow Bunting.

Over the sea were 19 Whooper Swan, 11 Brent Geese, 112 Wigeon, 58 Teal, 1 Pintail, 2 Shoveler, 4 Tufted Duck, 2 Scaup, 9 Eider, 45 Common Scoter, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 9 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Manx Shearwater, 17 Gannet, 3 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 1 Sandwich Tern, 254 Auk sp and 1 Puffin. 
Again only some overland visible migration with a late Sand Martin, 3 Swallow, 2 Rock Pipit, 30 Goldfinch, 30 Linnet and 4 Siskin.

Other interesting sightings and totals were 4 Whooper Swan, 18 Shoveler, 1 Goldeneye, 5 Lapwing, 6 Little Stint, 1 Whimbrel and 1 Black-tailed Godwit all on Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Ruff Humber and 13,000 Starling in the canal roost.

Ringing: 5 Blackbird, 10 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Chiffchaff, Goldcrest, 2 Goldfinch, 1 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Brambling.

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Friday, 20 October 2017

Clear, but some rain and showers during the day and the wind switching from E-W.
Migration Watches: 0700-1130.

A much more sedate day, but still more arrivals throughout and some impressive Starling totals arriving off the sea.

The highlight was the finding of a juvenile WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER on Kilnsea wetlands, which is a change from the usual records of summer adults. A Swift seen in poor light over Easington was identified from photos taken as a PALLID SWIFT. Swifts are notoriously difficult to identify depending on the light conditions. A Siberian Chiffchaff was in Easington, a Little Bunting was at Middle camp, a Bittern along the canal and the Rose-coloured Starling still in Easington. 

Totals for migrants were 1 Jack Snipe, 1 Short-eared Owl, 56 Robin, 3 Black Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 16 Stonechat, 1 Wheatear, 8 Ring Ouzel, 293 Blackbird, 3230 Redwing, 494 Song Thrush, 2 Mistle Thrush, 59 Fieldfare, 13 Blackcap, 7 Yellow-browed Warbler, 15 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler, 11 Goldcrest, 14 Long-tailed Tit, 2 Coal Tit, 3000 Starling in/off, 217 Brambling, 13 Chaffinch, 5 Siskin, 5 Lesser Redpoll, 5 Twite, 5 Bullfinch and a Hawfinch at Kew.

Over the Wildfowl dominated sea were 47 Brent Geese, 11 Shelduck, 940 Wigeon, 404 Teal, 2 Pintail, 2 Scaup, 10 Eider, 110 Common Scoter, 5 Red-breasted Merganser, 18 Red-throated Diver, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 75 Gannet, 3 Arctic Skua, 27 Little Gull and 1 Sandwich Tern. 
Some overland visible migration with 34 Skylark, 6 Swallow, 1 House Martin, 1 Rock Pipit, 3 Grey Wagtail, 6 Siskin and Redpoll.

Other interesting sightings and totals were 4 Whooper Swan, 82 Brent Geese, 6 Lapwing, 6 Little Stint, 1 Ruff, 1 Greenshank and 6500 Starling in the canal roost, while over Easington a Swift was still lingering though has not been seen well.

Ringing: 2 Wren, 1 Dunnock, 14 Robin, 24 Blackbird, 25 Redwing, 14 Song Thrush, 3 Blackcap, 3 Chiffchaff, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 6 Tree Sparrow, 1 House Sparrow, 3 Brambling, 1 Siskin, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Bullfinch. (92 of 17 species).

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Thursday, 19 October 2017

Thick fog till 2pm, with occasional showers and a stiff F3-4 E wind.
Migration Watches: 1515-1730.

The day started quite steady, but as the fog lifted in the afternoon, Thrushes began to literally and spectacularly fall from the sky and for once the birding lived up to the hoped for anticipation. The huge arrival was along the whole of the east coast, and the total involved must have been phenomenal. 

The highlight was an OLIVE-BACKED PIPIT at Cliffe farm, which flew south along the canal and over the Warren, while 2 Little Bunting were seen with birds along the canal and at the point, a Shorelark was at the Breach then from the first Chalk Bank hide, Water Pipit at the Borrow pit and the Rose-coloured Starling still in Easington. There was no sign of the Arctic Warbler today. 

Totals for migrants were 5 Water Rail, 1 Jack Snipe, 4 Short-eared Owl, 21 Rock Pipit, 3 Grey wagtail, 118 Robin, 3 Black Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 13 Stonechat, 3 Wheatear, a great total of 20 Ring Ouzel, 1342 Blackbird, 12,000 Redwing, 450 Song Thrush, 3 Mistle Thrush, 26 Blackcap, 5 Yellow-browed Warbler, 29 Chiffchaff, 20 Goldcrest, 1 Firecrest, 16 Long-tailed Tit, 2 Coal Tit, 1250 Starling in/off, 219 Brambling, 244 Chaffinch, 4 Siskin in/off, 21 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Twite, 4 Bullfinch, 3 Hawfinch and 1 Lapland Bunting.

The sea received little coverage but still had some interest with 18 Whooper Swan, 50 Pink-footed Geese, 2 Brent Geese, 47 Wigeon, 12 Teal, 2 Pintail, 4 Pochard, 18 Eider, 44 Common Scoter, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Manx Shearwater, 1 Leach’s Petrel, 44 Gannet, 1 Bonxie, 4 Arctic Skua, 25 Little Gull, 1 Arctic Tern, and 2 Mediterranean Gull. 

Other interesting sightings and totals were 5 Whooper Swan, 82 Brent Geese, 6 Lapwing, 5 Ruff, 1 Spotted Redshank and 1 Merlin.

Ringing: 5 Robin, 22 Blackbird, 84 Redwing, 7 Song Thrush, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler, 1 Goldcrest, 12 Tree Sparrow, 3 Brambling, 3 Goldfinch, 1 Lesser Redpoll. (160 of 11 species).

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Wednesday, 18 October 2017

A calm cloudy dry start to the day, with the wind increasing to a F2-3 E.
Migration Watches: 0730-1000.

Anticipation was high, with the easterly airflow and as dawn broke the sound of Redwing filled the air, but that was pretty much that though, as birds moved off very quickly and the much hoped for fall failed to materialise. The calm conditions early on, did though allow a good period of visible migration. The ringers who in general have had a quiet year, got to enjoy a good day, involving mainly Sparrows and Finches.

The ARCTIC WARBLER was still present in the crown carpark, also visiting the Obs Garden, while the ever present Rose-coloured Starling was still in Easington. A Barred Warbler was by the Bluebell moving down to Rose cottage, maybe the bird from last week re-appearing, a Firecrest moved quickly through canal hedge and a Hawfinch flew high north over the Warren.

Totals for migrants today were a late Hobby, 6 Water Rail, 1 Woodcock, 58 Robin, 2 Whinchat, 13 Stonechat, 4 Ring Ouzel, 192 Blackbird, 43 Song Thrush, 810 Redwing, 25 Fieldfare, 11 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler, 18 Chiffchaff, 22 Goldcrest, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 25 Long-tailed Tit, 3 Coal Tit, 93 Brambling, 37 Chaffinch, 7 Bullfinch and 87 Reed Bunting.

A quieter day of vis-migging 18 Whooper Swan, 3 Grey Heron, 137 Skylark, 9 Swallow, 3 House Martin, 165 Meadow Pipit, 12 Rock Pipit, 5 Grey Wagtail, 18 Alba wagtail, 3 Jackdaw, 14 Rook, 1000 Tree Sparow getting itchy to leave, 14 Chaffinch, 11 Greenfinch, 82 Goldfinch, 17 Siskin, 53 Linnet, 4 Twite, 357 Redpoll and 13 Reed Bunting. 
The sea was again poor today with 4 Shelduck, 3 Teal, 42 Common Scoter, 6 Eider, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 36 Red-throated Diver, 2 Great-crested Grebe, 28 Gannet, 1 Manx Shearwater, 8 Little Gull and 2 Sandwich Tern. 

Other interesting sightings and totals were 4 Whooper Swan, 144 Brent Geese, 1 Goldeneye, 5 Little Stint, 1 Merlin, 3 Short-eared Owl with 1 in/off the sea and the Tawny Owl roosting at Kew.

Ringing: 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 2 Meadow Pipit, 4 Dunnock, 7 Wren, 2 Robin, 11 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush, 14 Redwing,3 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff, 5 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Great Tit, 8 Long-tailed Tit, 2 House Sparrow, 105 Tree Sparrow, 3 Brambling, 5 Chaffinch, 15 Goldfinch, 137 Lesser Redpoll, 4 Bullfinch, 2 Reed Bunting. (338 of 23 species).

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Tuesday, 17 October 2017

Sunny spells with a stiff F4-6 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1700.

The ARCTIC WARBLER was still present in the crown carpark, also visiting the Obs Garden, while the ever present Rose-coloured Starling was still in Easington, while the Great-white Egret was seen again along Easington straight. 

Totals for migrants today in difficult conditions were 8 Stonechat, 80 Blackbird, 250 Redwing, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler in/off at the Warren, 3 Chiffchaff and 3 Goldcrest.

A quiet day of vis-migging a Hen Harrier in/off, 1 Stock Dove, 66 Skylark, 1 Sand Martin, 19 Swallow, 15 House Martin, 58 Meadow Pipit, 9 Rock Pipit, 5 Alba wagtail, 17 Greenfinch, 230 Goldfinch, 11 Siskin, 92 Linnet, 2 Redpoll and 6 Reed Bunting. 
The sea was again poor today with 10 Shelduck, 47 Wigeon, 3 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, Common Scoter, 5 Eider, 5 Goosander, 119 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Bonxie, 56 Little Gull and 2 Mediterranean Gull. 

Other interesting sightings and totals were 2 Whooper Swan, 20 Mute Swan, 85 Brent Geese, 6 lapwing, 5 Little Stint, 1 Peregrine and 2 Merlin.

Ringing: 1 Wood Pigeon, 4 Blackbird, 2 Redwing, 1 Chiffchaff, 5 Lesser Redpoll.

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Monday, 16 October 2017

mixture of sunshine and cloud, with a strengthening 2-5/6 S-SE wind, the much talked about orange sun, providing an interesting spectacle.
Migration Watches: 0700-1230.

The ARCTIC WARBLER was still present for its 9th day and counting in the crown carpark, and the resident Rose-coloured Starling was still in Easington, visiting birders gardens, now having undergone a moult and sporting a new set of greater coverts.

Totals for migrants today were 1 Jack Snipe, 1 Woodcock, 6 Stonechat, 2 Wheatear, 205 Blackbird, 35 Song Thrush, 235 Redwing, 6 Fieldfare, 3 Blackcap, 2 Yellow-browed Warbler, 10 Chiffchaff, 12 Goldcrest, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 2 Bearded Tit canal, 160 Starling in/off, 11 Brambling, 130 Chaffinch, 12 Twite and 87 Reed Bunting.
A quiter day of vis-migging in the strong wind with 4 Wood Pigeon, 17 Skylark, 1 Swallow, 3 House Martin, 36 Meadow Pipit, 22 Rock Pipit, 1 Grey Wagtail, 9 Alba wagtail, 6 Jackdaw, 2 Rook, 13 Chaffinch, 14 Greenfinch, 138 Goldfinch, 1 Twite, 7 Redpoll and 13 Reed Bunting. 
The sea was poor today with 19 Shelduck, 62 Wigeon, 1 Teal, 4 Pintail, 1 Shoveler, 5 Scaup, 72 Common Scoter, 3 Eider, 2 Red-throated Diver, 26 Gannet, 6 Little Gull and 1 Bonxie. 

Other interesting sightings and totals were 2 Whooper Swan, 19 pink-footed Geese, 1 Goldeneye, 5 Little Stint, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Spotted Redshank, Merlin, the Tawny Owl roosting at Kew and the Ring necked Parakeet in Easington.

Ringing: 2 Wren, 1 Robin, 18 Blackbird, 2 Song Thrush, 13 Redwing, 1 Blackcap, 3 Chiffchaff, 6 Goldcrest, 2 starling, 6 Tree Sparrow, 4 Brambling, 7 Chaffinch, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Reed Bunting. (67 of 14 species).

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Sunday, 15 October 2017

A misty start early morning slowly cleared, with sunny spells and a F2-4 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1430, 1500-1630.
A bit out of the blue, a small arrival, mainly passerines were arriving against the south westerly wind. 

Present for its 8th day, the ARCTIC WARBLER was still showing occasionally well in the crown carpark. The usual Rose-coloured Starling was still in Easington, while the Great-white Egret was on Kilnsea wetlands before flying off.

Totals for migrants today were 1 Jack Snipe, 4 Snipe in/off, 2 Water Rail canal, 1 Short-eared Owl in/off, 1 Whinchat, 17 Stonechat, 1 Wheatear, 76 Robin, 240 Blackbird, 1 Mistle Thrush, 15 Song Thrush, 285 Redwing, 3 Fieldfare, 4 Blackcap, 9 Yellow-browed Warbler with quite a few new birds fresh in, 27 Chiffchaff, 12 Goldcrest, 1 Pied Flycatcher still proving popular in the Obs garden, 620 Starling in/off, 7 Brambling, 12 Twite showing well by the borrow pit and 87 Reed Bunting.

A good-ish day of vis-migging with Hen Harrier, 6 Skylark, 27 Swallow, 3 House Martin, 188 Meadow Pipit, 32 Rock Pipit, 17 Alba wagtail, 6 Rook, 11 Chaffinch, 16 Greenfinch, 224 Goldfinch, 1 Twite, 43 Linnet, 126 Redpoll, 3 Yellowhammer and 37 Reed Bunting. 
The sea was poor today with 2 Whooper Swan, 30 Pink-footed Geese, 9 Wigeon, 3 Pintail, 12 Shoveler, 4 Eider, 5 Common Scoter, 4 Red-throated Diver, 22 Cormorant, 7 Little Gull, 1 Bonxie, 1 Common Tern and 4 Sandwich Tern.

Other interesting sightings and totals were the Slavonian Grebe on Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Whooper Swan, 1 pale-bellied Brent, 1 Goldeneye, Little Egret, 4 Little Stint, 1 Greenshank, 1 Merlin, 2 Peregrine, 1 Short-eared Owl sammy’s, the Tawny Owl roosting at Kew and the Ring necked Parakeet in Easington.

Ringing: 6 Blackbird, 4 Song Thrush, 3 Redwing, 2 Robin, 6 Chiffchaff, 2 Yellow-browed Warbler, 2 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 9 Tree Sparrow, 57 Lesser Redpoll. (86 of 10 species).

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Saturday, 14 October 2017

Warm and sunny all day with a F3-4 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0715-1200.
Pretty much the same as the last few days, but with a very good movement of passerines overland.

Yesterdays Great-white Egret was still present and after a little fly about settled back on Beacon ponds. The ARCTIC WARBLER was still proving a star attraction, and often showing very well in the crown carpark. The usual Rose-coloured Starling was by Dimlington bungalows and perching on the church with Starlings.

Totals for migrants today were 4 Water Rail canal, 2 Whinchat, 15 Stonechat, 2 Wheatear, 5 Song Thrush, 27 Redwing, 3 Fieldfare, 8 Yellow-browed Warbler, 7 Chiffchaff, 6 Goldcrest, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 2 Bearded Tit canal, 3 Coal Tit, 1 Brambling and 22 Twite.

A good day of vis-migging with 1 Common Swift, 355 Skylark, 14 Swallow, 36 House martin, 80 Meadow Pipit, 29 Rock Pipit, 1 Grey Wagtail, 32 Alba wagtail, 2 Dunnock, 3 Jackdaw, 3 Rook, 17 House Sparrow, 1260 Tree Sparrow, 19 Chaffinch, 1 Brambling, 66 Greenfinch, 2318 Goldfinch, 28 Siskin, 7 Twite, 573 Linnet, 167 Redpoll, 1 Yellowhammer and 63 Reed Bunting. 
The sea was poor today with 2 Common Scoter, 1 Goosander, 17 Gannet, 3 Little Gull and 1 Kittiwake the only birds of note.

Other interesting sightings and totals were the Slavonian Grebe on Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Whooper Swan, 1 Scaup on the Humber, 2 Gadwall, 3 Pintail, 12 Shoveler, 35 Little Egret, 4 Little Stint, 1 Merlin, 2 Peregrine, 1 Kingfisher and the Ring necked Parakeet in Easington.

Ringing: 1 Song Thrush, 1 Meadow Pipit, 1 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 54 Tree Sparrow, 1 Goldfinch, 29 Lesser Redpoll. (90 of 8 species).

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Friday, 13 October 2017

Overcast with some sunny spells and a F3-5 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0655-1145.

The ARCTIC WARBLER finally started to perform well today in the Crown carpark though the Rose-coloured Starling was still present, but a bit more mobile. Late afternoon a Great-white Egret which had been seen further up the coast spent the rest of the day on Beacon ponds and Kilnsea wetlands.

The stronger wind made it difficult in looking for migrants, but there was still enough about to keep the interest going with 2 White Wagtail, 13 Stonechat, 1 Whinchat, 34 Redwing, 5 Fieldfare, 1 Blackcap, 3 Yellow-browed Warbler, 13 Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 1 Coal Tit, 2 Bearded Tit, 16 Brambling and 2 Twite. 

A decent day for Finches and yet more alba wagtail in a good year for them, totals returned were 33 Skylark, 3 Swallow, 20 House Martin, 44 Meadow Pipit, 37 Rock Pipit, 2 Grey Wagtail, 17 Alba Wagtail, 5 Jackdaw, 1400 Tree Sparrow, 13 Chaffinch, 44 Greenfinch, 808 Goldfinch, 4 Siskin, 234 Linnet, 4 Twite, 46 Redpoll, 2 Yellowhammer and 24 Reed Bunting. 
The sea was quiet and only produced 111 Pink-footed Geese, 1 Pale-bellied Brent, 7 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 1 Eider, 9 Common Scoter, 4 Red-throated Diver, 1 Manx Shearwater, 23 Gannet, 6 Cormorant, 3 Shag, 4 Sandwich Tern and 9 Auk sp.

Sightings in the Kilnsea wetlands and Long bank area were 2 Whooper Swan, 8 Pink-footed Geese, 217 Brent Geese, 457 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 156 Teal, 3 Pintail, 13 Shoveler, 18 Grey Partridge, 2 Merlin, 2 Peregrine, 13 Little Grebe, 13 Lapwing, 4 Little stint,1 Black-tailed Godwit while 300 Tree Sparrow were in Churchfield.

Pied Flycatcher. Richard Willison.Ringing: 4 Stonechat, 1 Robin, 3 Goldcrest, 4 Tree Sparrow

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Thursday, 12 October 2017

Cloudy and dry with sunny spells and a F3-4 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0655-1145.
Despite the wind, most of the good birds were still showing and for some even increased, while it was a better day for visible migration (vis-mig). 

No sign of the Olive backed Pipit, but the ARCTIC WARBLER was still showing and occasionally giving brilliant views, in the Ivy covered willows in the crown carpark. The usual Rose-coloured Starling by dimlington bungalows and Red-backed shrike by the cemetery were still showing off in Easington.

Totals for migrants today were 1 Black Redstart at the point, 2 Whinchat, 15 Stonechat, 6 Wheatear, 5 Song Thrush, 26 Redwing, 70 Blackbird, a late Grasshopper warbler at the breach, 3 Blackcap, 8 Yellow-browed Warbler, 18 Chiffchaff, 35 Goldcrest, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Pied Flycatcher, 2 Bearded Tit canal, 6 Coal Tit, 5 Brambling and 4 Lesser Redpoll.

The sea had some interest, but very little in terms of numbers with 12 Whooper Swan, 35 Pink-footed Geese, 4 Barnacle Geese, 1 Wigeon, 7 Common Scoter, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 5 Goosander, 23 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 2 Manx Shearwater, 45 Gannet, 13 Cormorant, 5 Little Gull and 20 auk sp. 
A better day of vis-migging with 194 Skylark, 23 Swallow, 125 Meadow Pipit, 95 Rock Pipit, 3 Grey Wagtail, 32 Alba wagtail, 7 Chaffinch, 31 Greenfinch, 2036 Goldfinch, 18 Siskin, 213 Linnet, 235 Redpoll, 1 Yellowhammer and 19 Reed Bunting. 

Other interesting sightings and totals were the Slavonian Grebe on Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Whooper Swan, 96 Greylag Geese, 168 Brent Goose, 1 Scaup on the Humber, 13 Little Grebe, 5 Little Stint, 2 Ruff, 1 Spotted Redshank still Kilnsea wetlands with 1029 Redshank, 1 Merlin, 1 Peregrine, 3 Kingfisher and the Ring necked Parakeet in Easington.

Ringing: 1 Sparrowhawk, 3 Blackbird, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler, 5 Goldcrest, 2 Goldfinch, 11 Lesser Redpoll.

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Wednesday, 11 October 2017

Cloudy all day with occasional rain and a strong blustery F4-6 W wind.

Migration Watches: 0640-1245.

The poor weather made it difficult birding and it wasn't till late morning that birds began to show.

The OLIVE BACKED PIPIT was still on the south east corner of Easington gas terminal, and the ARCTIC WARBLER was showing well in the crown carpark, the Barred Warbler along the canal, the juvenile Rose-coloured Starling still by Dimlington bungalows while the Red-backed Shrike seems to have developed a taste for wasps which is its commonest prey item.

Few migrants were located today with 1 Woodcock, 1 Wheatear, 1 Fieldfare, 2 Yellow browed Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 6 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Brambling, 1 Siskin and 5 Twite showing well at Beacon ponds.

Quiet again over the sea with 6 Whooper Swan, 21 Pink footed Geese, 2 Shelduck, 40 Common Scoter, 25 Red throated Diver, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Manx Shearwater, 35 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 1 Knot, 1 Bonxie, 1 Arctic Skua, 10 Little Gull and 63 Auk sp.

Movement overland was poor with 1 Grey Heron, 20 Swallow, 1 Rock Pipit seen. 

Other birds of note were the Slavonian Grebe and 2 Whooper Swan kilnsea wetlands, 383 Wigeon, 133 Teal, 10 Shoveler, a Goosander on the Borrow pit, 1 Merlin, 3 Little Stint, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Spotted Redshank and 1 Greenshank.

Ringing: 1 Siskin.

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Tuesday, 10 October 2017

Cloudy all day with occasional sunny spells and a F3-4 W wind.

Migration Watches: 0700-1045.

Similar to the previous day with all the good birds still on show, but more on the move overland.

The OLIVE BACKED PIPIT was occasionally showing well on the south side of Easington gas terminal, and likewise the ARCTIC WARBLER was still about even calling, the Barred Warbler at Cliff farm from the canal bank where 4 Bearded Tit were 'pinging' in the reeds while the ever present 'celebrity' Rose-coloured Starling, and Red-backed Shrike remained on show.

Decent and varied migrant numbers remain 1 Jack Snipe, 4 Wheatear, 1 Black Redstart, 7 Stonechat, 109 Blackbird, 4 Fieldfare, 122 Redwing, 17 Song Thrush, 4 Blackcap, 1 Garden Warbler, 1 Whitethroat, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 8 Yellow browed Warbler, 12 Chiffchaff, 30 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 1 Coal Tit, 5 Brambling, 3 Siskin and 6 Lesser Redpoll.

Quiet over the sea with 240 Pink footed Geese, 1 Shelduck, 35 Wigeon, 26 Teal, 25 Common Scoter, 23 Red throated Diver, 15 Gannet, 15 Cormorant and 8 Auk sp.

Movement overland was still good with 90 Skylark, 46 Swallow, 14 House Martin, 86 Meadow Pipit, 97 Rock Pipit, 5 Grey Wagtail, 18 Alba Wagtail, 2 Fieldfare in, 2 Rook, 12 Carrion Crow, 15 Chaffinch, 7 Brambling, 24 Greenfinch, 862 Goldfinch, 9 Siskin, 137 Linnet, 164 Redpoll and 11 Reed Bunting. 

Other birds of note were the Slavonian Grebe and 2 Whooper Swan kilnsea wetlands, 200 Wigeon, 1 Pintail, 1 Merlin, 2 Peregrine, 5 Little Stint, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Spotted Redshank, the Tawny Owl at Kew and 3000 Starling.

2 Red-veined Darter were still on the wing.

Ringing: 1 Wren, 18 Blackbird, 11 Redwing, 6 Goldcrest, 1 Great Tit, 19 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Tree Sparrow.

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Monday, 09 October 2017

Clear early on clouding over later with a F0-1 W wind.

Migration Watches: 0640-0815.

The good birding period continues and attracting a steady stream of birders. All the star bird remain and generally showing well, while some nice new finds were seen. 

An elusive OLIVE BACKED PIPIT was a nice find on the south side of Easington gas terminal, continuing the recent surge of records. The ARCTIC WARBLER was giving birders the run around, even visiting the Observatory garden, a Barred Warbler was found by the sluice along the canal and nearby the Cetti's Warbler remained. 2 Red-breasted Flycatcher were seen, one still on Beacon Lane and a new bird on Green lane, 9 Bearded Tit along the canal, though 7 flew off north west while the ever present Rose-coloured Starling and Red-backed Shrike remained showing well.

Decent and varied migrant numbers remain 7 Jack Snipe, 36 Robin, 3 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, 2 Black Redstart, 2 Ring Ouzel, 291 Blackbird, 13 Fieldfare, 391 Redwing, 42 Song Thrush, 1 Mistle Thrush, 4 Blackcap, 1 Garden Warbler, 1 Whitethroat, 18 Yellow browed Warbler, 25 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Firecrest, 47 Goldcrest, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 3 Pied Flycatcher, 37 Brambling, 7 Siskin, 65 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Crossbill, 1 Bullfinch, Lapland Bunting by the Borrow pit and a Snow Bunting on Beacon Lane.

Quiet over the sea with 102 Pink footed Geese, 2 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 47 Common Scoter, 3 Red throated Diver and in what has been a good autumn for them another 30 Cormorant flew south.

Movement overland was a bit better with 76 Skylark, Swallow, 2 House Martin, 37 Meadow Pipit, 5 Rock Pipit, 1 Grey Wagtail, 20 Alba Wagtail, 69 Chaffinch, 11 Brambling, 271 Goldfinch, 8 Siskin, 28 Linnet, 34 Redpoll and 19 Reed Bunting. 

Other birds of note were the Slavonian Grebe on Beacon ponds, 390 Wigeon, a ringtail Hen Harrier at Beacon ponds in the evening, 2 Merlin, 2 Lapwing, 8000+ Golden Plover, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1 Whimbrel, 2 Kingfisher and the Easington Ring necked Parakeet still entertaining?

Ringing: 1 Meadow Pipit, 8 Wren, 1 Dunnock, 2 Robin, 17 Blackbird, 3 Song Thrush, 15 Redwing, 1 Cetti's Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 13 Goldcrest, 2 Bearded, 9 Long tailed Tit, 1 Blue Tit, 2 Great Tit, 6 Starling, 1 Blackcap, 3 House Sparrow, 125 Tree Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 6 Brambling, 1 Greenfinch, 46 Goldfinch, 1 Linnet, 2 Lesser Redpoll, 4 Reed Bunting. (274 of 25 species).

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Sunday, 08 October 2017

Early cloud clearing later with a F0-1 W-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0640-1000.

A fabulous day of arrivals, with Norwegian radar the previous evening showing large numbers of birds on the move from 1930 hrs. Anticipation was therefore high, and the morning dawned to the sound of Redwing and other Thrushes, and as the day went on great birds were found. 
The highlight was the 4th ARCTIC WARBLER of the autumn trapped and ringed in Churchfield and still showing later in the churchyard, while late afternoon an OLIVE-BACKED PIPIT was found in Northfield, but a possible Parrot Crossbill seen and heard over the Warren flying north, which has been sound recorded could be more significant still. 
Other good birds were a 2 Red-breasted Flycatcher, singles on Beacon lane and Vicars lane, 9 Bearded Tit along the canal, Great-grey Shrike just north of the Riverside, a Hawfinch which dropped in by the riverside, a Shorelark north over Driftwood and a good arrival of 26 Yellow-browed Warbler, while not forgetting the resident juvenile Rose-coloured Starling and Red-backed Shrike in Easington.

Migrant totals were 5 Jack Snipe, 2 Tree Pipit, 7 rock pipit, 40 Robin, 1 Redstart, 1 Black Redstart, 3 Whinchat, a crazy total of 50 Stonechat, 3 Wheatear, 4 Ring Ouzel, 170 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, 80 Song Thrush, 1355 Redwing, 8 Blackcap, 3 Garden Warbler, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 17 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler, 55 Goldcrest, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Pied Flycatcher, 6 Coal Tit, 88 Brambling, 1 Siskin, 34 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Bullfinch at sammys and the showy Lapland Bunting still in Clubleys.

On the move south unless stated were 1 Short-eared Owl in/off, 70 Skylark in/off, 1 Swallow, 13 Meadow Pipit in/off, 9 Rock Pipit in/off, 1 Grey Wagtail, 5 Alba Wagtail in/off, 32 Tree Sparrow, 2 Chaffinch, 52 Goldfinch, 17 Linnet, 85 Redpoll, 3 Crossbill northwest, 1 Yellowhammer and 10 Reed Bunting in/off.
The sea understandably didn’t receive lots of coverage but still had 7 Whooper Swan, 86 Pink-footed Geese, 45 barnacle Geese south then west up Humber, 18 Brent Geese, 95 Wigeon, 49 Teal, 4 Mallard, 4 Pintail, 2 Scaup, 179 Common Scoter, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 27 Red-throated Diver and 1 Great Northern Diver. 

Other interesting sightings were the Slavonian Grebe on Beacon ponds, an unseasonal Avocet on Kilnsea wetlands, 2100 Dunlin, 7 Little Stint, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Whimbrel, 1 kingfisher and the Tawny Owl at Kew. 


Ringing: 1 Kestrel, 1 Wren, 3 Dunnock, 4 Robin, 19 Blackbird, 13 Song Thrush, 9 Redwing, 1 Garden Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Arctic Warbler, 7 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 3 Great Tit, 2 Starling, 32 Tree Sparrow, 1 Goldfinch, 9 Brambling, 1 Greenfinch, 62 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Yellowhammer. (176 of 21 species).

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Saturday, 07 October 2017

Generally cloudy with occasional showers and a F4-5 W-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0715-1110, 1200-1730.

A return to some good vis-migging at the warren, and movement over the sea, but further declines in migrant numbers. The 15 Coal tit recorded, seem to be part of a wider east coast movement, but are of British origin the birds seen so far.
In Easington the resident Rose-coloured Starling and Red-backed Shrike were both still present and showing well, while the Slavonian Grebe was still on beacon ponds. 
Migrant totals dropped even more with 1 Woodcock at the warren, 1 Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 18 Stonechat, 4 Wheatear, 1 Blackcap, 1 Garden Warbler, 14 Chiffchaff, 35 Goldcrest, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 2 Brambling, 2 Snow Bunting and a showy Lapland Bunting on Clubleys.

A much better day for movement south 1 Marsh Harrier, 53 Skylark, 49 Swallow, 11 House Martin, 67 Meadow Pipit, 17 Rock Pipit, 1 Grey Wagtail, 18 Alba Wagtail, 1 Dunnock, 5 House Sparrow, 117 Tree Sparrow, 2 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 20 Greenfinch, 718 Goldfinch, 10 Siskin, 241 Linnet, 149 Redpoll and 18 Reed Bunting.
The sea was good for Wildfowl today with 338 Pink-footed Geese, 3 Whooper Swan, 8 Brent Geese, 7 Shelduck, 127 Wigeon, 24 Teal, 15 Pintail, 5 Eider, 212 Common Scoter, 7 Velvet Scoter, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 120 Red-throated Diver, 1 Black-throated Diver, 2 Great Northern Diver, 386 Gannet, 9 Cormorant, 3 Knot, 41 Snipe and 2 Jack Snipe in/off, 2 Bar-tailed Godwit, 2 Arctic Skua, 3 Bonxie, 5 Mediterranean Gull, 2 Kittiwake, 5 Little Gull, 1 Common Tern, 1 Sandwich Tern, 39 Auk sp, 4 Guillemot and 1 Razorbill. 

Other interesting sightings were 120 Greylag Geese, 5000 Golden Plover, 5 Lapwing, 9 Little Stint, 1 Purple Sandpiper, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1 kingfisher, the Tawny Owl at Kew and 1 Treecreeper. 

Ringing: 1 Garden Warbler, 1 Chiffchaff, 9 Goldcrest, 29 Lesser Redpoll. (40 of 4 species).

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Friday, 06 October 2017

Dry with sunny periods and cloud and a F2-3 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1020.

A nice mixture today of newly arriving winter visitors and migrants on their way to Africa which are still throwing up a few surprises. It’s not often this late into the autumn, a mega passerine has failed to turn up on the east coast, but of course there is still time. There is a steady trickle of good birds to enjoy plus the great mixture of species on offer, will more than do for the moment.

A very unseasonal Nightjar late afternoon on Beacon lane briefly raised hopes of something rarer, but good views soon put that to rest. The usual Rose-coloured Starling and Red-backed Shrike were both still present and showing well, while theSlavonian Grebe was on beacon ponds and the 2 Bearded Titre-appeared along the canal. Firsts for the autumn were 2 Jack Snipe in Church field and at Sammys, 3 Snow Bunting by the gas terminal and chalk bank and a Mealy Redpoll at sammys.
Migrant totals were down again, but increases for Thrushes with returns 2 Redstart, 3 Whinchat, 22 Stonechat, 4 Wheatear, 10 Song Thrush, 1 Fieldfare, 86 Redwing, 1 Mistle Thrush, 4 Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, 17 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 39 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 66 Lesser Redpoll, .

Viz-migging was non-existent today with only 2 Buzzard, 8 Meadow Pipit, 1 Grey Wagtail, 17 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin and 15 Linnet.
The sea just about ticked over with 249 Pink-footed Geese, 89 Wigeon, 29 Teal, 1 Pintail, 1 Eider, 72 Common Scoter, 2 Velvet Scoter, 60 Red-throated Diver, 1 Manx Shearwater, 322 Gannet, 16 Cormorant, 5 Arctic Skua, 18 Bonxie, Yellow-legged Gull, 41 Kittiwake, 64 Little Gull, 5 Sandwich Tern and Razorbill. 

Other interesting sightings were 94 Greylag Geese, 260 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 199 Teal, 23 mallard, 2 Pintail, 16 Shoveler, 3 Tufted Duck, 16 Little Grebe, 1 Water Rail and 3 Coot along the canal, 419 Grey Plover, 8 Lapwing, 4 Little Stint, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 1800 Redshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1 kingfisher, 1 Barn Owl and 2500 Starling.

Ringing: 1 Wren , 3 Robin, 1 Blackbird, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Great Tit, 1 Coal Tit, 43 Tree Sparrow, 3 House Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 64 Lesser Redpoll. (112 of 12 species).

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Thursday, 05 October 2017

Decent weather wise with a strong F4-5 W-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1200, 1445-1615.

The Spurn area in general is still continuing to give a great days birding, with a nice selection and numbers of migrants, while the sea offered up a decent Skua fest and Kilnsea wetlands is still producing nice roost flocks and photo opportunities. A huge reduction in Goldcrest numbers, but an increase in other migrant numbers particularly Redwing and Chiffchaff, suggesting a small continental arrival.

A Slavonian Grebe cavorting with Little Grebes on Beacon ponds was a nice diversion from looking for passerines.
Almost feeling like were repeating ourselves, but in Easington, the juvenile Rose-coloured Starling by Dimlington bungalows and juvenile Red-backed Shrike by the cemetery, both remained showing well.

Totals for migrants today were 1 Black Redstart by the gas terminal, 40 Robin, 4 Redstart, 9 Whinchat, 36 Stonechat, 9 Wheatear, 17 Song Thrush, 50 Redwing, 3 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, the first 2 Yellow-browed Warbler for a few days at the Bluebell and the Obs, 97 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 44 Goldcrest, 1 Firecrest by Rose cottage, 2 Spotted Flycatcher and 35 Lesser Redpoll.

The sea was produced 19 Whooper Swan, 29 Pink-footed Geese, 2 Brent Geese, 2 Teal, 7 Wigeon, 3 Pintail, 13 Common Scoter, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 81 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater, 147 Gannet, 8 Cormorant, 3 Oystercatcher, 1 Snipe, 2 Turnstone, 1 Pomarine Skua, 10 Arctic Skua, 28 Bonxie, 3 Mediterranean Gull, 3 Little Gull, 165 Common Gull and 10 Kittiwake. 
Another poor day of overland movement with only 1 Swift, 6 Meadow Pipit, 3 and 3 Redpoll. 

Kilnsea wetlands is still holding good numbers of wildfowl and waders and still worth checking the high tide times before paying it a visit. Totals were 12 Mute Swan, 96 Greylag Geese, 1 Brent Goose, 227 Wigeon, 113 Teal, 7 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 3 Pintail, 6 Gadwall, 26 Mallard, 8 Lapwing, 5 Little Stint, 800 Dunlin, 1 Ruff, 112 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank playing hide and seek among 1000 Redshank. 

Other interesting sightings were 14 Little Egret, 1 Merlin, 1 Peregrine, 273 Curlew, Little Owl at willow cottage, 1 Short-eared Owl, 80 Tree Sparrow and the Ring necked Parakeet in Easington.

Ringing: 1 Song Thrush, 6 Chiffchaff, 14 Goldcrest, 11 Lesser Redpoll.

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Wednesday, 04 October 2017

A decent day with showers in the evening and a F5-6 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1045, 1630-1800.

An unexpected arrival of Goldcrest, which given the lack of any other associated species were no doubt British birds on the move, with 113 trapped in sheltered nets at Kew. This suggests many more were about than the final total, which also didn’t include any counts north of the Obs.

Some of the good birds remained with the ever present Rose-coloured Starling still in Easington, and nearby the Red-backed Shrike and Turtle Dove still by the cemetery.

Migrant totals were still good despite the strong wind with totals of 1 Black Redstart, 7 Whinchat, 39 Stonechat, 2 Wheatear, 18 Song Thrush, 42 Chiffchaff, an incredible 442 Goldcrest, the first Firecrestof the autumn in the church yard, 1 Spotted Flycatcher and 40 Lesser Redpoll.

Viz-migging was non-existent today with only 4 Whooper Swan south from sammys (first of the autumn), 1 Snipe in/off, 1 Swift, 8 Redpoll and 3 Siskin worth mentioning
The sea just about held some interest with 490 Pink-footed Geese north-west, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Eider, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 24 Common Scoter, 38 Red-throated Diver, summer plumage Black-throated Diver, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 84 Gannet, 1 Bonxie, 4 Kittiwake, 3 Guillemot, 1 Razorbill and 1 Puffin. 

Other interesting sightings were 120 Shelduck Humber, 271 Wigeon, 6 Gadwall, 134 Teal, 20 mallard, 8 Pintail, 8 Shoveler, 2 Water Rail along the canal, 3 Little Stint, 870 Redshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1 Barn Owl, the Tawny Owl showing well at Kew and the Ring-necked Parakeet still making a noise in Easington. 

Ringing: 14 Chiffchaff, 113 Goldcrest, 4 Lesser Redpoll. (131 of 3 species).

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Tuesday, 03 October 2017

Dry and clear all day with a strong F5-6 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0650-1130, 1400-1800.

The Pink-footed Goose season began in earnest today with big numbers on the move further north, which eventually reached Spurn in the late afternoon. These birds will reach Norfolk by the evening, having started the day in Northumberland or further north, with many still passing after dark. The offshore wind turbines at Spurn have deflected more birds out beyond, what we can see these days, (so the days of big counts are probably behind us) and the flocks we see sometimes fly in between them to get back closer in shore.

Both juvenile Rose-coloured Starling are apparently still present, one still in Kilnsea with the 'resident' bird still in Easington, and nearby the juvenile Red-backed Shrike is still performing nicely by the cemetery. 2 Bearded Tit were seen along the canal, so hopefully it will be another good autumn for them.

Totals for migrants today were 2 Swift, 1 Black Redstart by Easington gas terminal, 6 Redstart, 3 Whinchat, an influx of 35 Stonechat, 2 Wheatear, 4 Song Thrush, 1 Blackcap, 35 Chiffchaff, 27 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Pied Flycatcher and 10 Lesser Redpoll.

Another decent day of overland movement with 1 Grey Heron, 1 Marsh Harrier, 4 Kestrel,50 Wood Pigeon, 56 Skylark, 33 Swallow, 40 House Martin, 233 Meadow Pipit, 1 Alba Wagtail, 181 Tree Sparrow, 5 Chaffinch, 1 Brambling, 28 Greenfinch, 3087 Goldfinch, 9 Siskin, 109 Linnet, 4 Twite, 47 Redpoll, 16 Reed Bunting and the first 2 Lapland Bunting of the autumn.

The sea was generally dominated by wildfowl with 1444 Pink-footed Geese, 12 Brent Geese, 54 Wigeon, 28 Pintail, 3 Shoveler, 2 Eider, 8 Common Scoter, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 35 Red-throated Diver, 188 Gannet, 43 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 2 Turnstone, 1 Arctic Skua, 13 Bonxie, 12 Little Gull, 6 Kittiwake and 6 Sandwich Tern.

Other decent birds or counts were 21 Little Egret, 1 Merlin, 6 Little Stint on Kilnsea wetlands and the Tawny Owl in the Obs garden.

Ringing: 15 Chiffchaff, 15 Goldcrest, 23 Tree Sparrow, 8 Lesser Redpoll.

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Monday, 02 October 2017

Generally cloudy with occasional showers and a very strong F6-7 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1400.

The Easington Rose-coloured Starling is still present, while at the nearby Cemetery the juvenile Red-backed Shrike is still showing in the hedge running west and the Turtle Dove is still at Willow cottage. The Crown and anchor carpark Red-breasted Flycatcher was still showing occasionally well.

Totals for migrants today were 1 Swift, 3 Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 9 Wheatear, 2 Yellow-browed Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, 11 Goldcrest, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 2 Siskin and 10 Lesser Redpoll.

A small amount of overland movement with 1 Marsh Harrier in/off, 1 Hen Harrier, 1 Osprey, 1 Hobby, 7 Kestrel, 2 Short-eared Owl in/off, 1 Swift, 73 Swallow, 483 House Martin, 338 Meadow Pipit, 10 Alba Wagtail, 19 Tree Sparrow, 852 Goldfinch, 353 Linnet and 103 Redpoll. 

The sea was produced 52 Pink-footed Geese, 1 Brent Geese, 8 Teal, 95 Wigeon, 8 Pintail, 3 Tufted Duck, 6 Common Scoter, 1 Goosander, 62 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Manx Shearwater, 151 Gannet, 7 Cormorant, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Turnstone, 3 Kittiwake and 6 Sandwich Tern. 

Other decent birds or counts were 100 Brent Geese, 3 Pintail Kilnsea wetlands, 4 Mediterranean Gull, Little Egret, 1 Merlin, 1 Peregrine, 2 Little Stint, 1 Curlew Sandpiper and 6 Ruff Kilnsea wetands, 6 Greenshank, 1 Short-eared Owl and 1 Kingfisher.

Ringing: 2 Lesser Redpoll.

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Sunday, 01 October 2017

Early morning drizzle, remaining cloudy with a strong F4-5 S wind.
Migration Watches: 0730-1130.

The early morning drizzle and strong winds scuppered a big movement overland, and indeed any birding was difficult, but quite a few of the good birds were still present and showing quite well.

The Turtle Dove is still attracting a steady stream of birders, looking for a year tick! The juvenile Red-backed Shrike is still nearby opposite the cemetery, while both the juvenile Rose-coloured Starling are in Easington and in field opposite the Riverside hotel. The Red-breasted Flycatcher still occasionally showing well in the crown carpark.

Totals for migrants today were 1 Tree Pipit, 4 Redstart, 3 Whinchat, 1 Stonechat, 2 Wheatear, 14 Song Thrush, 1 Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 7 Yellow-browed Warbler, 8 Chiffchaff, 3 Willow Warbler, 26 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 3 Pied Flycatcher and 1 Brambling.

Very little on the move overland and indeed no count s were made after 9am with 4 Snipe, 48 Swallow, 1 Tree Pipit, 216 Meadow Pipit, 2 Rock Pipit, 4 Grey Wagtail, 2 Alba Wagtail, 5 Greenfinch, 34 Goldfinch and 3 Linnet. 

The sea was still quiet with 70 Pink-footed Geese, 10 Brent Geese, 20 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 3 Pochard, 3 Tufted Duck, 81 Common Scoter, 1 Velvet Scoter, 19 Red-throated Diver, 74 Gannet, 16 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 2 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Knot, 4 Dunlin, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Bonxie and 6 Sandwich Tern. 

Other decent birds or counts were 25 Little Egret, 1 Hobby, 2 Ruff, 2 Little Stint, 4 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper and 1 Kingfisher.

Ringing: 1 Grey Wagtail, 1 Chiffchaff, 8 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit.

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Saturday, 30 September 2017

Sunshine and cloud, quite a warm day with a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0645-1630.

A fantastic day of migration with a surprise big late movement of Meadow Pipit which was county wide, so birds were passing on a large broad front. After a poor autumn up to now, Redpoll were suddenly here in big numbers along with an unusual number of Chaffinches and a strong passage of other finches. The early morning passage was so heavy, and birds passing from low to extreme heights, much was missed, but it was an extraordinary day. 

The final totals of the day were 2 Grey Heron, 1 Marsh Harrier, 3 Ruff, 3 Stock Dove, 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 196 Skylark, 2 Shorelark, 509 Swallow, 111 House Martin, 5 Tree Pipit, 4728 Meadow Pipit, 5 Rock Pipit, 2 Flava Wagtail, 13 Grey Wagtail, 14 Alba Wagtail, 1 Mistle Thrush, 6 Jackdaw, 5 Rook, 500 Starling,121 House Sparrow, 630 Tree Sparrow, 297 Chaffinch, 4 Brambling, 24 Greenfinch, 5080 Goldfinch, 5 Siskin, 1744 Linnet, 518 Redpoll, 2 Twite, 101 Reed Bunting and 5 Yellowhammer. 

The 2 juvenile Rose-coloured Starling were still about today with one frequenting the garden of No2 Dimlington bungalows to churchyard in Easington and the other in the Kilnsea area. The Turtle Dovewas still with Collared Doves by Willow cottage in Easington, while the Red breasted Flycatcher still in the garden at Kew or the Crown carpark, plus at least 3 ‘eastern type’ Lesser Whitethroat with birds in Churchfield, along the canal and on vicars lane, Easington. The Easington area also held 2 juvenile Red-backed Shrike with birds by the cemetery and another on Vicars lane.

Totals for migrants today were 1 Tree Pipit, 61 Robin, 8 Redstart, 6 Whinchat, 11 Stonechat, 18 Wheatear, 62 Song Thrush, 9 Redwing, 1 Reed Warbler, 8 Blackcap, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Whitethroat, 14 Yellow-browed Warbler, 54 Chiffchaff, 5 Willow Warbler, 92 Goldcrest, 8 Spotted Flycatcher, 5 Pied Flycatcher and 4 Twite at sammys point.

The sea was still quiet with 130 Pink-footed Geese, 305 Wigeon, 11 Teal, 8 Eider, 3 Common Scoter, 44 Red-throated Diver, 48 Gannet, 88 Cormorant, 1 Bonxie and 15 Sandwich Tern. 

Other decent birds or counts were 135 Brent Geese, 258 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 204 Teal, 14 Shoveler, 1 Pintail, 1 Merlin, juvenile Hobby, 3 Water Rail along the canal, 10,000 Golden Plover, 8,000 Knot, 3,000 Dunlin and 500 Sanderling on the Humber, 2 Ruff, 2 Little Stint, 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 5 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 3 Snipe and 2 Kingfisher.

Ringing: 4 Meadow Pipit, 4 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 14 Goldcrest, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 1 Twite, 149 Lesser Redpoll, 2 Chaffinch, 1 Goldfinch, 3 House Sparrow, 1 Tree Sparrow. (187 of 14 species).

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Friday, 29 September 2017

Migration Watches: 0730-1500.

A clear out of some migrants, with no sign of either Arctic Warblers, though early morning drizzle and wind didn’t help. 

There were 2 juvenile Rose-coloured Starling today with one frequenting the garden of No2 Dimlington bungalows in Easington and the other in the Kilnsea area. A Turtle Dove with Collared Doves by Willow cottage in Easington, was an attraction to some birders who hadn’t seen one this year, while the Red breasted Flycatcher was seen again in the garden at Kew in the afternoon and an ‘eastern type’ Lesser Whitethroat at the Warren. The Bittern put in another of its infrequent appearances at the south end of Beacon ponds.

Totals for migrants today were 1 Tree Pipit, 34 Robin, 16 Redstart, 8 Whinchat, 2 Stonechat, 10 Wheatear, 1 Ring Ouzel, 93 Song Thrush, 3 Reed Warbler, 6 Blackcap, 1 Garden warbler, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Whitethroat, 7 Yellow-browed Warbler , 20 Chiffchaff, 7 Willow Warbler, 24 Goldcrest, 5 Spotted Flycatcher, 4 Pied Flycatcher, 7 Redpoll, 3 Brambling and 61 Reed Bunting.

The sea was still quiet with 59 Wigeon, 76 Teal, 1 Pintail, 10 Shoveler, 1 Scaup, 4 Eider, 156 Common Scoter, 2 Red breasted Merganser, 62 Red-throated Diver, 300 Gannet, 14 Cormorant, 4 Oystercatcher, 1 Little Stint, 1 Arctic Skua, 7 Bonxie, 3 Little Gull, 5 Kittiwake, 1 Arctic Tern and 1 Puffin. 
Viz-migging was much better today and potentially could be good in the coming week with Finch numbers building. Moving today were 6 Grey Heron, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Stock Dove, 72 Skylark, 467 Swallow, 426 House Martin, 5 Tree Pipit, 741 Meadow Pipit, 7 Rock Pipit, 3 Grey Wagtail, 15 Alba Wagtail, 3 Dunnock, 26 Song Thrush, 36 Jackdaw, 369 Starling, 65 House Sparrow, 40 Tree Sparrow, 21 Chaffinch, 6 Brambling, 14 Greenfinch, 1147 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin, 768 Linnet, 72 Redpoll, 17 Reed Bunting and 1 Corn Bunting. 

Other decent birds or counts were 251 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 126 Teal, Shoveler, 3 Pintail, 1 Merlin, 2 Water Rail, 6200 Golden Plover, 1 Purple Sandpiper, 1 Ruff, 1 Little Stint, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 3 Snipe and 2 Kingfisher.

Ringing: 1 Meadow Pipit, 1 Robin, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 6 Lesser Redpoll.

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Thursday, 28 September 2017

Cloud and drizzle early, clearing to leave a warm day and a F3-4 SE-SSE wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1200.

The good birds keep coming among another small but obvious arrival of migrants. Increases in Chats, Warblers and Flycatchers keep the visiting birders happy, while the male Red-breasted Flycatcher is still the star bird, and our 3rd Arctic Warbler of the autumn turned up at the point.

There are 2 ARCTIC WARBLER today with a new bird at the point and one still in the hedge opposite Bluebell pond caravan site, the juvenile Rose-coloured Starling back in fields in Kilnsea, 2 Red-breasted Flycatcher with the adult male still at the Warren and the fem/imm bird on Beacon lane, which moved to the Crown carpark, the juvenile Red-backed Shrike by the Riding school on Marsh lane and the biggest count so far of 23 Yellow-browed Warbler. Finally the presumed halimodendri Lesser Whitethroat was by Cliff farm.

Totals for migrants today were 8 Tree Pipit, 24 Wren, 38 Dunnock, 80 Robin, 30 Redstart, 16 Whinchat, 1 Stonechat, 22 Wheatear, 81 Song Thrush, 1 Redwing, 4 Grasshopper Warbler, 8 Reed Warbler, 21 Blackcap, 5 Garden warbler, 10 Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Whitethroat, 13 Chiffchaff, 12 Willow Warbler, 15 Goldcrest, 6 Spotted Flycatcher, 12 Pied Flycatcher, 8 Siskin, 39 Redpoll, 4 Brambling and 61 Reed Bunting.

The sea was quieter than of late with 130 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 106 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 62 Common Scoter, 2 Knot, 3 Dunlin, 2 Ruff, 23 Red-throated Diver, 104 Gannet, 1 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie and 1 Puffin. 

Quieter over the land too with the strong wind having an effect with 1 Marsh Harrier, 2 Hobby, 2 Skylark, 1 Sand Martin, 59 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 4 Tree Pipit, 79 Meadow Pipit, 3 Rock Pipit, 2 Grey Wagtail, 2 Alba Wagtail, 2 Rook, 41 Tree Sparrow, 1 Greenfinch, 24 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin, 47 Linnet, 20 Redpoll, 3 Reed Bunting and 1 Yellowhammer. 

Other decent birds or counts were 83 Brent Goose, 196 Shelduck, 150 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 3 Pintail, 1 Merlin, 2 Water Rail, 2 Little Stint, 1900 Dunlin, 1 Ruff, 1 Spotted Redshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 6 Greenshank, 9 Snipe, 1 Barn Owl, 1 Short-eared Owl, 2 Kingfisher and 1200 Starling.

Ringing: 1 Sparrowhawk, 4 Wren, 2 Blackbird, 6 Song Thrush, 6 Robin, 1 Reed Warbler, 5 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 1 Goldfinch, 19 Lesser Redpoll, 3 Greenfinch, 16 Tree Sparrow, 1 Reed Bunting. (69 of 16 species).

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Wednesday, 27 September 2017

Cloudy early, clearing to leave a warm day and a F2-4 ESE-S wind.
Migration Watches: 0645-1100.

There was an obvious arrival early morning of migrants, with many birds lifting off again as soon as the low cloud vanished and it warmed up a bit. It was a day without any big arrivals, but there was so much anticipation of a good bird in the air, kept most people going. In the end the day was a very satisfying one if you managed to see many of the good birds on offer.

An ARCTIC WARBLER was photographed opposite Rose cottage, but was mobile and was soon lost, while in the same area a good candidate halimodendri Lesser Whitethroat was present. The Warren area hosted a Blythi Lesser Whitethroat alongside a ‘normal’ one, 2 Red-breasted Flycatcher with the adult male still in the Warren area, and a new bird on Beacon lane, while still there was still 17 Yellow-browed Warbler, which involved a scatter of new birds. The juvenile Rose-coloured Starling was with the mobile Starling flock in the Easington and a Red-backed Shrike was around the Riding school, which may be the same bird from gas terminal 2 days ago. Not to be forgotten the Cetti’s Warbler was still skulking along the canal.

Totals for migrants today were 3 Tree Pipit, 24 Dunnock, 110 Robin, 19 Redstart, 10 Whinchat, 1 Stonechat, 14 Wheatear, 2 Ring ouzel, 88 Song Thrush, 12 Redwing, 2 Reed Warbler, 8 Blackcap, 2 Garden warbler, 8 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, 19 Chiffchaff, 6 Willow Warbler, 24 Goldcrest, 4 Spotted Flycatcher, 4 Pied Flycatcher, 14 Siskin, 15 Redpoll, 20 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling and 2 Yellowhammer.

Over the sea were 25 Brent Geese in/off, 26 Teal, 60 Common Scoter, 2 Velvet Scoter, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 2 Eider, 23 Red-throated Diver, 1 Black-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 205 Gannet, 10 Shag, 1 Arctic Skua, 7 Bonxie, 26 Little Gull and a Yellow-legged Gull. 

A clearer day brought a small movement south with 8 Grey Heron, 16 Skylark, 37 Swallow, 1 Tree Pipit, 544 Meadow Pipit, 4 Rock Pipit, 4 Grey Wagtail, 6 Alba Wagtail, 3 Dunnock, 6 Jackdaw, 3 carrion Crow, 51 House Sparrow, 24 Tree Sparrow, 3 Brambling, 8 Chaffinch, 5 Greenfinch, 151 Goldfinch, 5 siskin, 98 Linnet, 8 Redpoll, 2 Yellowhammer and 57 Reed Bunting. 

Other decent birds or counts were 6 Brent Goose, 3 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 2 Pintail, 1 Merlin, 1 Peregrine terrorising an impressive 20,000+ Knot on the Humber, 1 Little Stint, 8 Ruff, 2 Spotted Redshank including the first juvenile on Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Whimbrel, 1 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Barn Owl, 1 Little Owl, 1 Short-eared Owl, 2 Tawny Owl still around the Obs area, 1 Kingfisher.

Ringing: 11 Meadow Pipit, 1 Tree Pipit, 2 Grey Wagtail, 3 Wren, 20 Robin, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Blackcap, 1 Garden Warbler, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler, 1 Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 3 Chaffinch, 1 Siskin, 13 Lesser Redpoll, 1 Reed Bunting. (68 of 16 species).

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Tuesday, 26 September 2017

Misty early on thickening during the day and a F2 E/NE wind.
Migration Watches: 0645-0900.

A clear out of many of yesterdays birds, but a new arrival although not in any great numbers. Saying that any day with an adult male Red-breasted Flycatcheris a good one, and was much photographed during the day, while another great count, totalling 17 Yellow-browed Warbler was made. A juvenile Rose-coloured Starling was with the Starling flock in the Blue bell area, but lost in fog just north of here, and the Bittern had another fly around the south end of Beacon ponds.

Migrant totals were similar to yesterday with 3 Tree Pipit, 24 Dunnock, 94 Robin, 13 Redstart, 17 Whinchat, 2 Stonechat, 10 Wheatear, 2 Ring ouzel, 132 Song Thrush, 2 Grasshopper Warbler, 6 Reed Warbler, 18 Blackcap, 4 Garden warbler, 9 Lesser Whitethroat, 8 Whitethroat, 16 Chiffchaff, 13 Willow Warbler, 20 Goldcrest, 5 Spotted Flycatcher, 5 Pied Flycatcher, 4 Siskin, 2 Redpoll, 2 Brambling and 2 Yellowhammer.

Over the sea were 10 Pink-footed Geese, 10 Wigeon, 1 Teal, 22 Common Scoter, 3 Red-throated Diver, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 63 Gannet, 21 Little Gull and 1 Kittiwake. 
Before the fog got too thick there was a small movement south with 1 Marsh Harrier, 48 Skylark, 20 Swallow, 331 Meadow Pipit, 4 Rock Pipit, 8 Grey Wagtail, 5 Alba Wagtail, 2 Brambling, 7 Chaffinch, 57 Goldfinch, 105 Linnet, 9 Redpoll, 2 Yellowhammer and an impressive 81 Reed Bunting. 

Other decent birds or counts were 94 Brent Goose, 200 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 60 Teal, 10 Shoveler, 3 Pintail, 1 Merlin, 2 Peregrine, 1 Little Stint, 7 Ruff, 1100 Redshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 8 Greenshank, 1 Green Sandpiper, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Barn Owl, 1 Short-eared Owl, the Tawny Owl still around the Obs area, 2 Kingfisher .

Ringing produced another steady day, but a nice selection of what has been arriving in the last few days.
Ringing: 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Redshank, 1 Sparrowhawk, 9 Meadow Pipit, 7 Dunnock, 4 Robin, 2 Wren, 1 Blackbird, 2 Redwing, 10 Song Thrush, 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Willow Warbler, 6 Goldcrest, 1 Red-breasted Flycatcher, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 2 Great Tit, 6 Goldfinch, 5 Redpoll, 2 Greenfinch, 1 Chaffinch, 3 House Sparrow, 18 Tree Sparrow, 6. (94 of 24 species).

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Monday, 25 September 2017

Morning rain till about 9am, clearing with long sunny period and a F1-3 E/SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1445, 1605-1900.

The expected or at least hoped for arrival did not really happen, but a nice mix of species along with some decent totals, and the odd good bird made it a very enjoyable day.

The Raddes Warbler was relocated on Beacon lane showing on and off during the afternoon in hedges bordering the lane. The first Richard’s Pipit of the autumn flew south, landing in the salt marsh just south of the Warren, while a juvenile Red-backed Shrikewas found on the south side of Easington gas terminal and a good total of 10 Yellow-browed Warbler was returned. Rarer still in Spurn terms was an elusive singing Cetti’s Warbler in canal hedge all day, mainly in the dell area.

Some decent migrant totals, with the first good arrival of Thrushes and Blackcaps. Totals were 3 Tree Pipit, 2 Yellow Wagtail, 59 Robin, 17 Redstart, 34 Whinchat, 9 Stonechat, 13 Wheatear, 6 Ring ouzel, 140 Song Thrush, 2 Grasshopper Warbler, 3 Reed Warbler, 26 Blackcap, 5 Garden warbler, 6 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Whitethroat, 14 Chiffchaff, 9 Willow Warbler, 35 Goldcrest, 4 Spotted Flycatcher, 7 Pied Flycatcher, 2 Siskin, 20 Redpoll, 47 Chaffinch and 4 Brambling.

Over the sea 13 Brent Geese, 15 Shelduck,47 Teal, 61 Wigeon, 2 Tufted Duck, 84 Common Scoter, 17 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 1 Fulmar, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 2 Manx Shearwater, 111 Gannet, 17 Arctic Skua, 3 Bonxie, 62 Little Gull, 2 Kittiwake, 1 Black Tern, 240 Commic Tern and 1 Arctic Tern. 
Again only small amounts of overland migration in un-helpful winds with 5 Grey Heron, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Kestrel, 6 Skylark, 34 Swallow, 169 Meadow Pipit, 2 Rock Pipit, 2 Flava Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 3 Alba Wagtail, 68 Goldfinch, 38 Linnet and 4 Reed Bunting. 

Other decent birds or counts were 56 Brent Goose, 3 Pintail, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Water Rail, 7000 Golden Plover, 1 Avocet, 6 Little Stint, 20+ Ruff, 5 Snipe, 9 Greenshank, 1 Short-eared Owl, 1 Kingfisher and the Ring-necked Parakeet still in Easington.

Ringing: 4 Dunnock, 5 Robin, 1 Redstart, 1 Ring Ouzel, 1 Blackbird, 5 Song Thrush, 1 Reed Warbler, 5 Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest, 1 Goldfinch, 6 Tree Sparrow. (39 of 13 species).

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Sunday, 24 September 2017

Bright and clear all day with a F1-2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0620-1000.

The easterly winds are already having the desired effect with a very early RADDES WARBLER in Church field, an 'Eastern' type Lesser Whitethroat at potato fields, a total of 6 Yellow-browed Warblers with new birds at the Warren, potato fields, vicars lane and Beacon lane, while the Marsh Warbler is still around Pallas's pond.

Migrant numbers increased with the weather conditions and hopefully a sign of what is to come over the next few day and totals of 11 Redstart, 11 Whinchat, 5 Wheatear, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Whitethroat, 11 Chiffchaff, 4 Willow Warbler, 25 Goldcrest, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 4 Pied Flycatcher and 1 Brambling.

Viz-migging continued the theme of the last few day with Finches dominating and produced 1 Sparrowhawk, 5 Kestrel, 15 Skylark, 1 Sand Martin, 69 Swallow, 528 Meadow Pipit, 2 Rock Pipit, 2 Flava Wagtail, 4 Alba Wagtail, 6 Grey Wagtail, 2 Jackdaw, 43 House Sparrow, 38 Tree Sparrow, 13 Chaffinch, 13 Greenfinch, 236 Goldfinch, 2 Siskin, 461 Linnet and 27 Reed Bunting.
The sea just about held some interest with 7 Brent Geese, 19 Shelduck, 28 Wigeon, 49 Teal, 2 Pintail, 272 Common Scoter, 1 Avocet, 25 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater, 356 Gannet, 3 Arctic Skua, 3 Bonxie, 1 Little Gull, 1 Kittiwake, 540 Common Tern, 7 Arctic Tern, 13 Guillemot, 16 Razorbill and 1 Puffin. 

Other interesting sightings were 180 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 24 Brent Goose and 330 Shelduck Humber, 1 Marsh Harrier Kilnsea wetland area, 5 Ruff, 1 Little Stint, 530 Sanderling Chalk bank, 4 Whimbrel, 7 Greenshank, 1 Common sandpiper at Sammys and 1200 Starling in Kilnsea. 

Ringing: 4 Meadow Pipit, 3 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 1 Blackbird, 2 Redstart, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Great Tit, 1 House Sparrow, 6 Greenfinch, 2 Reed Bunting. (23 of 12 species).

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Saturday, 23 September 2017

Cloudy and drizzle early morning clearing later with a F1-2 SSE wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1400.

Another increase in Finches on the move as Hirundines numbers decline. A change in the weather is forecast with more easterly type winds predicted, hopefully bringing a good arrival of migrants from Monday onwards.

The Marsh Warbler was still present and showing on and off all day, by the entrance gate around Pallas’s pond, but only 2 Yellow-browed Warbler were seen today. 
Migrant numbers were similar to the previous day with 3 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Stonechat, 2 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, 4 Song Thrush, 1 Redwing in the triangle, 3 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Whitethroat, 11 Chiffchaff, 5 Willow Warbler, 25 Goldcrest and 2 Crossbill at the Obs.

Viz-migging produced 1 Sparrowhawk, 5 Kestrel, 11 Skylark, 202 Swallow, 24 House Martin, 654 Meadow Pipit, 5 Rock Pipit, 1 Flava Wagtail, 4 Alba Wagtail, 5 Grey Wagtail, 4 Jackdaw, 5 Chaffinch, 4 Greenfinch, 242 Goldfinch, 9 Siskin, 518 Linnet, 15 Redpoll and 5 Reed Bunting.
A few more Duck on the move over the sea which in general was quiet, 8 Brent Geese, 6 Shelduck, 94 Wigeon, 128 Teal, 2 Pintail, 72 Common Scoter, 47 Red-throated Diver, 2 Great Crested Grebe, 4 Manx Shearwater, 189 Gannet, 5 Cormorant, 8 Knot, 1 Purple Sandpiper, 2 Redshank, 2 Greenshank, 3 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 1 Yellow-legged Gull, 2 Little Gull, 4 Kittiwake, 2 Arctic Tern, 7 Guillemot, 3 Razorbill and 3 Puffin. 

Other interesting sightings were 221 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 22 Brent Goose, 2 Gadwall, 134 Wigeon, 149 Teal, 3 Pintail, 12 Shoveler, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Marsh Harrier, 31 Little Egret, 1500 Golden Plover Humber, 3 Ruff, 1 Little Stint and 1 Curlew Sandpiper on Kilnsea wetland, 1100 Redshank, 1 Snipe, 1 Whimbrel, 7 Greenshank while 100 Goldfinch were in Church field.

Ringing: 1 Kestrel, 4 Meadow Pipit, 2 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 1 Blackbird, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 5 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Great Tit, 2 Tree Sparrow, 3 Chaffinch, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Reed Bunting. (26 of 14 species).

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Friday, 22 September 2017

Dry and sunny all day with a F1-2 S-SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1115.

Wildfowl numbers continue to increase on Kilnsea wetlands, with Mallard in particular showing a healthy rise. Waders continue to impress here too considering the size of the pool.

A nice surprise today was a dark phase juvenile Honey Buzzard which flew as far south as the triangle, returning north west towards Welwick. No sign of the Red breasted Flycatcher, but a Marsh Warbler was seen at Pallas's pond, though its identity was only confirmed later that night and 3 Yellow-browed Warbler were at the Obs and in the Churchyard. 
Migrant totals while low, a nice selection was available with 2 Redstart, 1 Stonechat, 5 Whinchat, 5 Wheatear, 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 2 Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 1 Garden Warbler, 4 Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Whitethroat, 11 Chiffchaff, 9 Willow Warbler, 15 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher and 2 Siskin.

The viz miggers again had a steady morning, but an increase in species diversity with 1 Grey Heron, 1 Sparrowhawk, 53 Skylark, 1 Sand Martin, 141 Swallow, 2 Tree Pipit, 371 Meadow Pipit, 3 Rock Pipit, 1 Flava Wagtail, 4 Alba Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 5 Great Tit, 2 Jackdaw, 1 Rook, 3 Greenfinch, 147 Goldfinch, 2 Siskin, 143 Linnet, 3 Redpoll and 20 Reed Bunting.
The sea was very quiet with 1 Brent Geese, 16 Wigeon, 2 Common Scoter, 6 Red-throated Diver and 103 Gannet. 

Other interesting sightings were 220 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 1 Brent Goose, 2 Gadwall, 120 Wigeon, 149 Teal, 162 mallard, 3 Pintail, 17 Shoveler, 1 Goldeneye, 5 Little Grebe, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Peregrine, 41 Little Egret, 2 Water Rail, 1100 Golden Plover Humber, 900 Dunlin, 4 Little Stint and 1 Curlew Sandpiper on Kilnsea wetland, 3 Ruff, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1200 Redshank, 4 Snipe, 2 Whimbrel, 7 Greenshank, the Tawny Owl still at Kew, 1 Short eared Owl, 1 Barn Owl, 2 Kingfisher, 200 Goldfinch and 170 Linnet. 

Ringing: 1 Great spotted Woodpecker, 9 Meadow Pipit, 1 Swallow, 7 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 1 Blackbird, 1 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 8 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 8 Tree Sparrow, 1 House Sparrow, 2 Greenfinch, 1 Goldfinch, 3 Reed Bunting. (46 of 15 species).

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Thursday, 21 September 2017

Cloudy but dry till rain after late afternoon with a F2-4 S-SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1300, 1540-1720.

A further decline in migrant numbers though the ringed Red-breasted Flycatcher remained in the crown car park and 2 Yellow-browed Warbler were at the Obs and in the Churchyard. 
Migrant totals were 3 Whinchat, 1 Wheatear, 2 Whitethroat, 4 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Goldcrest and 1 Spotted Flycatcher.

In less than ideal conditions a few bits were on the move overland with 2 Common Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 3 Ruff, 10 Sand Martin, 696 Swallow, 346 House Martin, 149 Meadow Pipit, 4 Flava Wagtail, 2 Alba Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail, 4 Greenfinch, 25 Goldfinch and 74 Linnet.

Much less on the move over the sea with the wind change, 3 Brent Geese, 31 Wigeon, 6 Teal, 1 Pintail, 13 Eider, 47 Common Scoter, 1 Velvet Scoter, 8 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 17 Sandwich tern , 200 Common Tern and 1 Puffin. 

Other interesting sightings were 227 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 1 Brent Goose, 3 Gadwall, 65 Teal, 62 mallard, 3 Pintail, 16 Shoveler, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Peregrine, 37 Little Egret, 1000 Golden Plover Humber, 1 Little Stint and 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 5 Ruff, 1 Spotted Redshank, 8 Greenshank, 1 Purple Sandpiper, the Tawny Owl still at Kew and a Little Owl on Peter lane. 

Ringing: 1 Meadow Pipit, 2 Tree Sparrow.

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Wednesday, 20 September 2017

Warm and sunny day with a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0640-1130.

A decline in migrant numbers overall, but the ringed Red-breasted Flycatcher remained still elusive in the crown car park and 5 Yellow-browed Warbler were about the area. 
Migrant totals were 2 Redstart, 5 Whinchat, 2 Wheatear, 2 Sedge warbler, 2 Reed Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, 6 Chiffchaff, 7 Willow Warbler, 17 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 3 Brambling and 2 Redpoll.

The better conditions for viz migging had an almost immediate effect and an increase in Finch numbers on the move with 7 Ruff, 1 Snipe, 3 Swift, 1 Skylark, 631 Swallow, 221 House Martin, 1911 Meadow Pipit, 1 Flava Wagtail, 13 Alba Wagtail, 3 Grey Wagtail, 9 Jackdaw, 6 Carrion Crow, 14 Starling, 35 Tree Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 295 Goldfinch, 6 Siskin, 323 Linnet and 6 Reed Bunting.

Much less on the move over the sea with the wind change, 204 Pink-footed Geese, 2 Brent Geese, 7 Wigeon, 18 Common Scoter, 3 Red-throated Diver and 27 Cormorant. 

Other interesting sightings were 253 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 1 Brent Goose, 98 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 65 Teal, 55 mallard, 3 Pintail, 21 Shoveler, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Hobby triangle, 1 Peregrine hunting the Humber, 22 Little Egret, 1400 Golden Plover Humber, 4 Lapwing, 5 Little Stint and 1 Ruff Kilnsea wetlands, 4 Snipe, 1 Whimbrel, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1200 Redshank, 5 Greenshank, 1 Purple Sandpiper, 1 Common Sandpiper, the Tawny Owl still at Kew, 1 Short-eared Owl and 1 Kingfisher. 

Ringing: 1 Kestrel, 39 Meadow Pipit, 1 Wren, 1 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow warbler, 8 Goldcrest, 1 Great Tit, 1 House Sparrow, 5 Greenfinch, 4 Goldfinch, 4 Redpoll, 1 Reed Bunting. (68 of 13 species).

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Tuesday, 19 September 2017

Warm and sunny day with a light NW-SW wind.

The calmer conditions allowed observers to get to grips with migrants on the ground, the ringed Red-breasted Flycatcher remained in the crown, a good total of 16 Yellow-browed Warbler about the area, with 6 at the point the best count, while a new Barred Warbler was trapped at the Warren. 
Migrant totals were up for some species, but down on others with the ever present Black Redstart, 2 Redstart, 21 Robin, 4 Whinchat, 2 Stonechat, 5 Wheatear, 2 Sedge warbler, 3 Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 1 Garden Warbler, 4 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Whitethroat, 25 Chiffchaff, 13 Willow Warbler, 20 Goldcrest, 2 Spotted Flycatcher, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 1 Brambling and 2 Redpoll.

On the move over the sea were 227 Pink-footed Geese, 14 Wigeon, 17 Teal, 2 Shoveler,31 Common Scoter, 2 Eider, 26 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Fulmar, 1 Manx Shearwater, 347 Gannet, 1 Bonxie, 1500 Common Tern and 5 Puffin, 

A small number of birds were on the move overland, but the conditions will be better on other days, 70 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 139 Meadow Pipit, 5 Grey Wagtail and 5 Reed Bunting.

Other interesting sightings were 220 Greylag Geese, 1 Brent Goose, 89 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 82 Teal, 25 Shoveler, 1 Goldeneye, a record count of 48 Little Egret, 2 Water Rail along the canal, 10 Lapwing, 2 Little Stint, 3 Curlew Sandpiper and 4 Ruff Kilnsea wetlands, 3 Snipe, 1 Whimbrel, 1100 Redshank, 8 Greenshank, 1 Purple Sandpiper, 1 Swift and 1 Kingfisher. 

Ringing: 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Wood Pigeon, 1 Swallow, 31 Meadow Pipit, 6 Dunnock, 3 Robin, 1 Wren, 1 Barred Warbler, 1 Chifchaff, 5 Goldcrest, 3 Blue Tit, 3 Great Tit, 6 Tree Sparrow, 5 Greenfinch, 12 Goldfinch, 2 Redpoll, 4 Reed Bunting. (86 of 17 species).

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Monday, 18 September 2017

Early morning rain gave way to cloud with sunny spells, but with an increasing F3-4 N-NW wind.
Sea Watches: 0630-1115, 1300-1630.

There was no sign of the Arctic Warbler today in a strong northerly blowing through its favoured areas, and indeed it was hard going finding migrants, with sheltered areas being the most productive. The best of the new arrivals were a Marsh Warbler at Sammys in the last paddock, while 2 Red-breasted Flycatcher were seen, a new bird at Southfield farm and one in the crown. Only 3 Yellow-browed Warbler, with 2 at the Warren and 1 in the Cliffe farm/Kew area., while 2 Barred Warbler were still showing at the warren and Little hedge. 

Migrant totals were decent for the windy conditions with the usual Black Redstart, 2 Redstart, 3 Whinchat, 1 Stonechat, 6 Wheatear, 4 Blackcap, 4 Lesser Whitethroat, 10 Chiffchaff, 7 Willow Warbler, 3 Goldcrest, 5 Spotted Flycatcher, 4 Pied Flycatcher, 3 Siskin, 1 Brambling and 8 Redpoll.

On the move over the sea were 20 Greylag Geese, 16 Pin-footed Geese, 67 Wigeon, 11 Pintail, 85 Teal, 232 Common Scoter, 141 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 6 Fulmar, 5 Sooty Shearwater, 1 Manx Shearwater, 1133 Gannet, 3 Shag, 12 Arctic Skua, adult Long-tailed Skua, 14 Bonxie, juvenile Sabines Gull, 929 Auk sp and 5 Puffin, 

Other interesting sightings were 153 Pink-footed Geese Easington straight, 1 Brent Goose, 73 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 85 Teal, 1 Pintail, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Hobby, 9000+ Knot Humber, 2 Little Stint, 1 Curlew Sandpiper and 11 Ruff Kilnsea wetlands, 5 Snipe, 1 Whimbrel, 240 Curlew, 5 Greenshank, 5 Swift, 1 Kingfisher and 3 Grey Wagtail while the Tawny Owl is still at Kew. 

Ringing: 3 Meadow Pipit, 2 Blackbird, 2 Blackcap, 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Goldcrest, 1 Great Tit, 9 Tree Sparrow, 1 House Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 2 Goldfinch. (24 of 10 species).

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Sunday, 17 September 2017

A nice warm day with a F2 N wind.
Migration Watches: 0840-1230, 1845-1920.

Early morning a very vocal ARCTIC WARBLER was found between Easington cemetery and Willow cottage, even singing at one point, though later on was more elusive. Other good birds were 2 Red-breasted Flycatcher in Canal hedge and at Rose cottage, 3 Barred Warbler, Warren, Canal hedge, Grange farm area and 8 Yellow-browed Warbler, while a Greenish Warbler was reported at the point.

The conditions brought a small number of common migrant through, 2 Tree Pipit, 2 Redstart, 9 Whinchat, 4 stonechat, 14 Wheatear, 3 Song Thrush, 1 Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 8 Chiffchaff, 10 Willow Warbler, 23 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 6 Pied Flycatcher and the first 3 Brambling of the autumn.

The sea was quiet after most birds had filtered off north in the previous days, 66 Pink-footed Geese, 41 Teal, 8 Wigeon, 274 Common Scoter, 41 Red-throated Diver, 27 Fulmar, 3 Sooty Shearwater, 2 Manx Shearwater, 29 Cormorant, 13 Arctic Skua, 15 Bonxie, 144 Little Gull, 95 Kittiwake and 9 Puffin. 
Again only small amounts of overland migration in un-helpful winds with 1 Skylark, 2 Sand Martin, 29 Swallow, 306 Meadow Pipit, 1 Grey Wagtail, 2 Alba Wagtail, 2 Greenfinch, 1 Siskin, 24 Linnet, 1 Redpoll and 1 Reed Bunting. 

Other decent birds or counts were 21 Pink-footed Geese, the usual Brent Goose, 62 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 121 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Goldeneye Beacon ponds, 37 Little Egret, 2 Little Stint, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 4 Ruff, 6 Snipe, 4 Greenshank, Tawny Owl calling at Kew, 1 Barn Owl and a Kingfisher.

Ringing: .

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Saturday, 16 September 2017

Heavy showers but warm with a difficult F2-4 NW-N wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1300.

A small arrival saw the first Red-breasted Flycatcherof the year turn up at the Warren. Unusually it was an adult bird, and was trapped a little while later. 4 Yellow-browed Warbler were seen, and the same or another Bittern appeared today in the triangle, while a Greenish Warbler was reported calling in Easington at the Cemetery, but lost in bad weather.

The sea still demanded a look with decent seabirds throughout the day, 34 Teal, 46 Wigeon, 2 Shoveler, 4 Scaup, 61 Common Scoter, 1 Purple Sandpiper, 46 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 24 Fulmar, 19 Sooty Shearwater, 21 Manx Shearwater, 20 Arctic Skua, 1 Long-tailed Skua, 1 Pomarine Skua, 18 Bonxie, 4 Little Gull, juvenile Sabines Gull and 10 Puffin. 
Small amounts of overland migration in un-helpful winds with 5 Swift, 14 Sand Martin, 22 Swallow, 1 Tree Pipit, 153 Meadow Pipit, 4 Grey Wagtail, 2 Flava Wagtail and 30 Linnet. 

The conditions are slowly allowing small numbers of migrant through 1 White Wagtail, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Redstart, 3 Whinchat, 2 stonechat, 2 Wheatear, 3 Song Thrush, 3 Redwing, 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 2 Reed Warbler, 1 Blackcap, 1 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Wood Warbler crown carpark, 10 Chiffchaff, 6 Willow Warbler, 4 Goldcrest, 1 Spotted Flycatcher and 4 Pied Flycatcher.

Other decent birds or counts were 21 Pink-footed Geese, the usual Brent Goose, 700+Shelduck, 80 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 1 Pintail, 4 Shoveler, 63 Teal, 1 Goldeneye Beacon ponds, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 4 Ruff, 6 Snipe, 4 Greenshank, 1 Barn Owl and a Kingfisher.

Ringing: 1 Robin, 1 Red-breasted Flycatcher, 1 Yellow-browed Warbler, 1 Goldcrest.

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Friday, 15 September 2017

Migration Watches: 0610-1900.

The trickle of passerine arrival continues with now 2 Yellow-browed Warbler in the Observatory garden, and given some favourable conditions along with Chiffchaff and Blackcap should be the most regular warbler encountered over the next few weeks.

Sammys point popped up with a good bird in the form of a Corncrake seen down to a few feet, while the observer rested his bunions.

The sea in keeping with the last few days was where the main interest remained with totals of 113 Teal, 17 Wigeon, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Scaup, 97 Common Scoter, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 51 Red-throated Diver, 40 Fulmar, 21 Sooty Shearwater, 56 Manx Shearwater, 1 Balearic Shearwater, 2190 Gannet, 7 Cormorant, 4 Oystercatcher, 47 Arctic Skua, 3 Long-tailed Skua, 55 Bonxie, 4 Little Gull, 46 Kittiwake, 193 Sandwich Tern, 5172 Common Tern, 42 Arctic Tern, 3 Roseate Tern, 1 Black Tern, 10 Guillemot and 10 Puffin. 
Poor for overland migration with only 3 Swift, 4 Sand Martin, 15 Meadow Pipit and 1 Flava Wagtail. 

Migrant numbers remained low, and some easterly winds are desperately needed, 1 White Wagtail, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Redstart, 3 Whinchat, 1 Wheatear, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 7 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler and 12 Goldcrest were the only sightings.

Kilnsea wetlands area is still ticking over, 131 Greylag Geese, 23 Pink-footed Geese Easington straight, the usual Brent Goose, 40 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 3 Pintail, 14 Shoveler, 114 Teal, 10 Little Grebe, 1 Little Stint, 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Snipe, 2 Greenshank, 1 Short-eared Owl and a Kingfisher was on Beacon ponds.

Ringing: 2 Robin, 2 Blackbird, 1 Wren, 2 Dunnock, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 29 Tree Sparrow, 3 House Sparrow, 14 Tree Sparrow, 1 Reed Bunting.

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Thursday, 14 September 2017

Migration Watches: 0620-1930. 

The sea was where all the main action was today, but late in the day a Yellow-browed Warbler in the Observatory garden focussed eyes back to the east, and thoughts of last year’s glut of good birds. Also the skulking Barred Warbler appeared yet again, this time re-trapped in a net having put on 10 grammes since the 4th September from 22.5g to 32.4g.

Over the sea were 2 Pink-footed Geese, 2 Canada Geese, 1 Pale-bellied Brent Goose, 167 Teal, 50 Wigeon, 1 Mallard, 2 Velvet Scoter, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 68 Common Scoter, 76 Red-throated Diver, Black-throated Diver, 11 Sooty Shearwater, 54 Manx Shearwater, 14 Fulmar, 780 Gannet, 4 Shag, 10 Oystercatcher, 2 Greenshank, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Curlew, 2 Turnstone, 86 Arctic Skua, 2 Pomarine Skua, 5 Long-tailed Skua, 87 Bonxie, 3 Little Gull, 2 Kittiwake, 166 Auk sp, 11 Puffin, 9 Guillemot while Tern numbers dropped a bit with 297 Sandwich Tern, 1 Roseate Tern, 1 Black Tern and 634 Common Tern. 

On the move overland were 1 Swift, 19 Sand Martin, 32 Swallow, 10 House Martin, 408 Meadow Pipit, 1 Flava Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 120 Tree Sparrow and 2 Reed Bunting.

Other bits of interest were 1 Brent Goose, 180 Shelduck, 116 Teal, 33 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 5 Shoveler, 3 Pintail, 17 Little Egret Triangle, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Little Stint, 4 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Ruff, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 5 Whimbrel and 4 Greenshank.

Migrant totals were slightly up with 1 Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 1 Reed Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff, 6 Willow warbler, 7 Goldcrest, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 1 Spotted Flycatcher and 2 Siskin.

Ringing: 2 Blackbird, 5 Goldcrest, 2 Greenfinch, 12 Tree Sparrow.

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Wednesday, 13 September 2017

Dry and clear all day but with a stormy F5-7 W wind.
Sea Watches: 0615-1400, 1630-1930.

The storm force winds made birding very difficult and much was confined to the hides of the seawatch hut or at Kilnsea wetlands.


Both the juvenile Long-billed Dowitcher and Wryneck continued to show well today, the Dowticher especially spending time infront of the hide.

On the move over the sea were 1 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 5 Pintail, 4 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 14 Common Scoter, 22 Red-throated Diver, 7 Fulmar, 21 Manx Shearwater, 1077 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 3 Whimbrel, 13 Arctic Skua, 18 Bonxie, 3 Little Gull, 1 Kittiwake, 133 Black-headed Gull and 36 Auk sp while the increase in Tern numbers recently offshore produced 286 Sandwich Tern, 8600 Common Tern, 26 Arctic Tern and 4 Roseate Tern.

Overland it was quiet, with only 1 Swift, 28 Swallow, 15 Sand Martin, 61 Meadow Pipit and 3 Flava Wagtail. 
Migrant totals were poor in the wind with 1 Wheatear and 1 Song Thrush.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 438 Shelduck on the Humber, 4 Pintail, 1 Common Buzzard while Waders on Kilnsea wetlands were Little Stint, 3 Curlew Sandpiper, 5 Black-tailed Godwit and 1 Spotted Redshank among plenty of commoner birds.

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Tuesday, 12 September 2017

Broken cloud all day, with a strong and a F4-5-3 W-NW-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0635-1800. 

The day started like it was going to be a big one for the viz-miggers, with birds streaming past early on, but a wind change to a more north westerly soon brought thoughts of that to an end, but some decent totals were returned, while the sea also delivered and brought the first anticipated Pink-footed Geese plus a good Skua passage. 
The star birds from the weekend were still present with the juvenile Long-billed Dowitcher on Kilnsea wetlands and the Wryneck performing brilliantly for the cameras.

Over the sea were 185 Pink-footed Geese, 2 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 2 Mallard, 14 Pintail, 23 Common Scoter, 56 Red-throated Diver, a summer plumaged Black-throated Diver, 43 Manx Shearwater, 9 Fulmar, 570 Gannet, 27 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 7 Oystercatcher, 5 Ruff, 1 Snipe, 19 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Curlew, 5 Turnstone, 36 Arctic Skua, adult Long-tailed Skua, 38 Bonxie, 1 Yellow-legged Gull, 3 Kittiwake, 28 Auk sp, 4 Puffin, 13 Guillemot, 1 Razorbill while Tern numbers remained good with 724 Sandwich Tern, 2 Roseate Tern and 4000+ Common Tern but no real roost count was made due to poor light. 

On the move were 3 Marsh Harrier, 4 Kestrel, 1 Merlin, 2 Hobby, 8 Wood Pigeon, 7 Swift, 239 Sand Martin, 947 Swallow, 411 House Martin, 2 Tree Pipit, 3234 Meadow Pipit, 3 Flava Wagtail, 5 Grey Wagtail, 2 Alba Wagtail, 4 Carrion Crow, 300 Tree Sparrow, 1 House Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 1 Greenfinch, 75 Linnet, 2 Redpoll and 9 Reed Bunting..

Other bits of interest were 1 Brent Goose, 180 Shelduck, 25 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 9 Shoveler, 8 Little Grebe, 19 Little Egret Triangle, a German ringed Mediterranean Gull, 250 Oystercatcher, 1700 Golden Plover, 3 Lapwing, 8000 Knot, Humber, 2 Little Stint, 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 1100 Dunlin, 1 Ruff, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Whimbrel, 1480 Redshank, 6 Greenshank, 1 Common Sandpiper and 2 Short-eared Owl on Clubleys while migrant totals were understandably low in the strong wind. In the sheltered areas, 1 White Wagtail, the Black Redstart, 1 Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 4 Wheatear, 1 Garden Warbler, 5 Whitethroat, 4 Chiffchaff, 3 Willow warbler, 4 Goldcrest and 3 Spotted Flycatcher.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 3 Robin, 2 Blackbird, 2 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrest, 55 Tree Sparrow. (68 of 7 species).

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Monday, 11 September 2017

Heavy showers and sunshine throughout with a difficult F4-6 W wind.
Migration Watches: 1215-1415, 1700-1950.

Most people seemed to have a lie in today, with rain lashing the windows and a strong blustery wind early morning. After the tiring weekend, 20 or so volunteers visited the Indian in Withernsea for a traditional wind down end of Migfest get together, the previous night. That said it was still an interesting day with the evening Tern roost paying dividends, with birds earlier having poured in from the east during the day. 

The juvenile Long-billed Dowitcher continued to show well, it’s ‘sewing machine’ feeding action much in evidence from the hide on Kilnsea wetlands and the Wryneck still posing in vegetation and using its tongue to feed on aphids in a generally unusual manner to how most people are used to seeing them, when feeding on the ground.

Kilnsea wetlands area is still attracting a brilliant array of species especially at high tide, the usual Brent Goose, 21 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 3 Pintail, 9 Shoveler, 117 Teal, 2 Lapwing, 3 Little Stint, 3 Curlew Sandpiper, 700 Dunlin, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 10 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1200 Redshank and 1 Greenshank, while 2 Roseate Tern spent a short while here, then heading off south.

The counters at the warren had an off day mainly due to the weather, but still had 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Kestrel, 3 Swift, 161 Sand Martin, 60 Swallow, 71 House Martin, 17 Meadow Pipit, 1 Flava Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail and 2 Goldfinch. 

The sea was quiet till the evening with 8 Teal, 3 Pintail, 3 Shoveler, 8 Common Scoter, 13 Red-throated Diver, 8 Manx Shearwater inc one on the Humber, 68 Gannet, 4 Oystercatcher, 4 Dunlin, 2 Ruff, 12 Arctic Skua and 6 Bonxie while in the evening roost, was after a poor start very good despite terrible light producing 862 Sandwich Tern, 5172 Common Tern, 42 Arctic Tern, 16 Roseate Tern and 4 Black Tern. 

Migrants scourers managed to find a Ring Ouzel at the Warren, the Black Redstart, 1 Wheatear, 2 Stonechat, 2 Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler and 3 Goldcrest.

Otherwise 130 Shelduck were counted on the Humber, 5 Little Grebe bobbed on Beacon ponds, a Merlin terrified the fewer Meadow Pipits and a Kingfisher was on Beacon ponds.

A Convolvulus Hawkmoth was picked up from the sand at the breach, soon recovering and released at the Obs.

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Sunday, 10 September 2017

A decent start with some showers later but a difficult F3-4 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1940.

- Second full day of the Migration festival and a great mix of species seen.
- Another good viz-mig day for Meadow Pipits and Hirundines at Numpties.
- The Long-billed Dowitcher attracting an appreciative audience
- Sabine’s Gull stuns observers by flying over Migfest HQ at Westmere!
- Wryneck still the star performer, with lots of stunning pics.

The platform at Westmere surprisingly had a stunning juvenile Sabine’s Gull fly west over towards the Crown, where it flew as far as the Warren, even landing on the Humber, and while staying on gulls a rather nice Caspian Gull flew north from the breach spending quite a while on Kilnsea wetlands.

The juvenile Long-billed Dowitcher continues to show well on Holderness field, with the same area still attracting 3 Little Stint, 4 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Avocet, 1 Spotted Redshank and 2 Greenshank, while other totals were 800 Golden Plover, 200 Curlew, 1 Common Sandpiper and 34 Turnstone.

The counters at the warren had a nice varied day giving a flavour of what Spurn can produce with 1 Hobby, 1 Cuckoo, 6 Swift, 62 Sand Martin, 590 Swallow, 1539 House Martin, 2 Tree Pipit, 4000 Meadow Pipit, 3 Flava Wagtail, 2 Alba Wagtail, 2 Dunnock, 5 Jackdaw, 90 Goldfinch, 54 Linnet and 7 Reed Bunting. 
A nice mix of Ducks, Waders and Seabirds over the sea, made for an interesting day with 40 Wigeon, 35 Teal, 2 Pintail, 3 Shoveler, 26 Common Scoter, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 43 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater, 299 Gannet, 28 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 34 Oystercatcher, 4 Ringed Plover, 3 Grey Plover, 7 Knot, 2 Purple Sandpiper, 2 Dunlin, 3 Snipe, 7 Bar-tailed Godwit, 5 Whimbrel, 3 Arctic Skua, 7 Bonxie, 2 Yellow-legged Gull, 17 Kittiwake, 1 Guillemot and 2 Razorbill while in the evening roost, 498 Sandwich Tern, 3015 Common Tern, 20 Arctic Tern, 7 Roseate Tern and 3 Black Tern. 

Migrant totals in the difficult conditions were a Long-eared Owl along Beacon Lane, the showy Wryneckay Sandy beaches, 4 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, 1 Stonechat, 2 Black Redstart at Sandy beaches, 2 Reed Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 6 Willow Warbler and 9 Goldecrest.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 170 Shelduck, 2 Wigeon, 3 Pintail, 2 Shoveler, 1 Peregrine, 2 Short-eared Owl, 2 Kingfisher.

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Saturday, 09 September 2017

- First full day of the Migration festival.
- Good viz-mig day for Meadow Pipits and Swallow at Numpties.
- Spurns purple patch for Waders continues.
- We keep repeating it, but Kilnsea wetlands is the place to be. Check it out!
- Wryneck showing well and Barred Warbler still skulking.

The first full day of the migration festival produced the goods yet again, with a juvenile LONG-BILLED DOWITCHER the highlight, showing well on Holderness field, while in the evening a Pectoral Sandpipergraced the same pools. 
Other Wader totals were 5000 Golden Plover, 300 Ringed Plover, 1 Avocet, 5 Greenshank, 4 Little Stint, 6 Curlew Sandpiper Kilnsea wetlands, 5000 Knot, 40 Ruff, 3 Common Sandpiper while a Dotterel flew south past the Warren.

The counters at the warren had a good viz-mig day with 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, 131 Sand Martin, 1296 House Martin, 1345 Swallow, 4800 Meadow Pipit, 9 Flava Wagtail, 5 Grey Wagtail, 6 Alba Wagtail, 1 Jackdaw, 590 Tree Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 21 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin and 2 Reed Bunting.

On the move over the equally diverse sea were 3 Wigeon, 11 Pintail, 6 Teal, 145 Common Scoter, 75 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 2 Fulmar, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 4 Manx Shearwater, 181 Gannet, 5 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 32 Oystercatcher, 2 Purple Sandpiper, 6 Snipe, 6 Bar-tailed Godwit, 3 Curlew, 4 Turnstone, 1 Pomarine Skua, 2 Long-tailed Skua, 38 Arctic Skua, 3 Bonxie, 1 Little Gull, 2 Little Tern, 400 Sandwich Tern, 2820 Common Tern and 2 Roseate Tern.

The previous nights Wryneck showed well at Sandy beaches, to a steady stream of visitors during the day while the Warren Barred Warbler was more elusive. 
Continuing the theme of it being a great day migrant totals were decent with 1 Wood Warbler, the usual Black Redstart, 1 Redstart, 8 Whinchat, 8 Wheatear, Grasshopper Warbler in Churchfield, 1 Sedge Warbler, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Blackcap, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 8 Whitethroat, 13 Chiffchaff, 24 Willow Warbler, 29 Goldcrest and 1 Pied Flycatcher.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker.

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Friday, 08 September 2017

Rain and dull conditions early on petered out leaving the odd sunny spells with a F3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1000.

- The BTO/SBO migration festival begins.
- Full programme of events and talks all weekend.
- Right on cue a Wryneck appears!
- Festival warms up with a steady morning of migration.
- Nice selection of migrants and passage Waders.

The first unofficial day of the migration festival began, before the first welcome, meet and greet and talk in the evening. The day was quite steady in reality, but the appearance of a Wryneck at sandy beaches, livened up the end of the day and gave hope for a few birds over the weekend, while the viz-miggers had a decent morning, despite the rain showers, before the fantastic group of Migfest volunteers assembled to get everything ready for this landmark annual event.

Fingers crossed, one thing that we have been waiting to show our audience is a great visible migration (viz-migging) over the weekend and today gave hope the predicted conditions will have the desired effect. The south westerly brought a routine amount of birds heading south at the Numpties watchpoint with an Osprey, 20 Sand Martin, 110 Swallow, 25 House Martin, 1054 Meadow Pipit, 5 Flava Wagtail, 1 Grey wagtail, 69 Tree Sparrow, 56 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin and 1 Reed Bunting.
Over the very quiet sea were 7 Teal, 2 Common Scoter, 3 Red-throated Diver, 4 Gannet and 1 Ringed Plover.

Not big numbers but a decent scatter of migrants with a Blue-headed Wagtail on Holderness field, the usual Black Redstart at Sandy beaches, 1 Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 5 Wheatear, 4 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Willow Warbler, 3 Goldcrest. 

Other interesting sightings were the resident Brent Goose on Kilnsea wetland, 1 Gadwall, 3 Pintail, 11 Little Egret, 2 Marsh Harrier, 3 Common Buzzard, 5 Ruff, 10 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1 Little Stint, 1900 Dunlin, 7 Curlew Sandpiper and a Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 2 Meadow Pipit, 2 Goldcrest.

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Thursday, 07 September 2017

Clear early morning clouding in the afternoon with a F2-4 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0620-1115, 1750-1900.

- The 5th Migration festival begins Friday. Tickets still available on the day.
- Good viz-mig day for Meadow Pipits at Numpties, with a ‘big day’ possible over the weekend.
- Curlew Sandpipers increase to 8 at Kilnsea wetlands.
- We keep repeating it, but Kilnsea wetlands is the place to be. Check it out!
- Barred Warbler still skulking at the Warren.

The counters at the warren are starting to get their rewards for long hours in the field and while a big day could happen at any time, decent totals were returned today with 1 Hobby, 32 Sand Martin, 78 Swallow, 1415 Meadow Pipit, 6 Flava Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail, 1 Alba Wagtail, 4 Jackdaw, 165 Tree Sparrow and 65 Goldfinch.

Even quieter over the sea today with little of note, 1 Common Scoter, 5 Red-throated Diver, 29 Gannet, 1 Manx Shearwater, 75 Gannet, 8 Cormorant, 3 Oystercatcher, 2 Whimbrel, 2 Bonxie while the roost movement produced only 84 Sandwich Tern, 178 Common Tern and 2 Arctic Tern, but also a nice Roseate Tern in the evening. 
Migrant numbers were similar to previous days, the Barred Warbler remained at the Warren plus totals of 1 Cuckoo Beacon Lane, 1 Tree Pipit Church field, 1 White Wagtail, 2 Whinchat, 2 Redstart, the usual Black Redstart at Sandy beaches caravan site, 5 Wheatear, 2 Sedge Warbler, 5 Whitethroat, 3 Chiffchaff, 12 Willow Warbler and 19 Goldcrest.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Canada Goose, 173 Greylag Geese, 220 Shelduck, 12 Wigeon, 155 Teal, 2 Pintail, 4 Shoveler, 1 Gadwall, 20 Little Egret, 1 Merlin, 2 Peregrine, 1 Avocet, 5 Greenshank, 700 Redshank, 1000 Dunlin, 8 Curlew Sandpiper Kilnsea wetlands, 6 Snipe, 5 Ruff, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 180 Linnet and 165 Tree Sparrow.

Ringing: 24 Meadow Pipit, 3 Robin, 2 Blackbird, 1 Wren, 1 Sedge Warbler, 4 Whitethroat, 1 Willow Warbler, 9 Goldcrest, 29 Tree Sparrow, 1 House Sparrow, 1 Greenfinch. (77 of 11 species).

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Wednesday, 06 September 2017

A clear start clouding later with a F4 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1215, 1600-1815.

- Days counting down till the Migration festival begins.
- Viz-miggers get in on the action with Meadow Pipits among a number of species on the move.
- Curlew Sandpipers giving fantastic views from the hide at Kilnsea wetlands.
- Good show of Birds of Prey in the last few days.
- Scatter of migrants, keeping it interesting. 

On the move over a much quieter sea than of late were 4 Teal, 1 Common Scoter, 2 Red-throated Diver, 5 Fulmar, 216 Gannet, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 1 Manx Shearwater, 75 Gannet, 26 Cormorant, 1 Ringed Plover, 1 Turnstone, 1 Bonxie, 9 Arctic Skua, 145 Black-headed Gull, 1 Kittiwake and 1 Black Tern. 
The first day with a good strength wind brought the first decent movement which should pick up in the next few days, weather permitting. Totals were 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Hobby, 24 Swift, 48 Sand Martin, 145 Swallow, 156 House Martin, 1 Tree Pipit, 840 Meadow Pipit, 17 Flava Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail, 1 Alba Wagtail, 2 Jackdaw, 75 Tree Sparrow and 24 Goldfinch.

Migrant numbers remained steady, but still held some interest with 1 Tree Pipit, 1 White Wagtail, 7 Whinchat, 2 Redstart, the usual Black Redstart, 5 Wheatear, 7 Willow Warbler, 8 Goldcrest and 1 Spotted Flycatcher.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Canada Goose, 193 Greylag Geese, 18 Wigeon, 150 Teal, 2 Pintail, 1 Gadwall, 24 Little Egret, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Merlin, 1 Peregrine, 1800 Golden Plover Humber, 500 Dunlin, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1500 Redshank, 7 Ruff, 5 Curlew Sandpiper Kilnsea wetlands, 313 Curlew, 1 Black Tern Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Kingfisher, 180 Linnet and 150 Tree Sparrow.

Ringing: 2 Whinchat, 1 Redstart, 1 Robin, 1 Dunnock, 3 Willow Warbler, 1 Goldcrest, 48 Tree Sparrow.

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Tuesday, 05 September 2017

Poor weather with heavy rain and a F1-4 SW-W wind.

Migration Watches: 0645-0930, 1315-1900.

- The 5th migration festival begins on Friday.
- Bittern still skulking in the reeds.
- Barred Warbler again at the warren plus nice selection of migrants.
- Great selection of Waders and Wildfowl on Kilnsea wetlands.
- Some interest over the sea with a few Skuas and decent evening Tern roost.

The Bittern made a welcome re-appearance on Kilnsea wetlands then flew back to the shooting pond at the south end of Beacon ponds.

Migrant wise there was the Barred Warbler still at the Warren, 2 Whinchat, 1 Wheatear, the resident Black Redstart, 2 Redstart, 3 Reed Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler, 5 Lesser Whitethroat, 7 Whitethroat, 3 Chiffchaff, 9 Willow Warbler and 3 Goldcrest.

On the move over the sea were 12 Wigeon, 138 Teal, 27 Common Scoter, 3 Red throated Diver, 5 Fulmar, 1 Manx Shearwater, 177 Gannet, 97 Oystercatcher, 1 Knot, 1 Sanderling, 1 Ruff, 105 Dunlin, 1 Common Sandpiper, 3 Arctic Skua, 4 Bonxie and 2 Kittiwake and the evening Tern roost produced 220 Sandwich Tern, 1014 Common Tern, 26 Arctic Tern and 2 Black Tern.
Movement overland was very poor with only 11 Swift, 2 Sand Martin and 13 Flava Wagtail.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 184 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 207 Teal, 44 Wigeon, 1 Pintail, 76 Mallard, 4 Shoveler, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Merlin, 2 Peregrine, 2 Lapwing, 1500 Golden Plover, 300 Sanderling, 4 Curlew Sandpiper, 4 Black tailed Godwit, 177 Curlew, 360 Redshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 12 Greenshank, 4 Whimbrel, 1 Purple Sandpiper, 2 Common Sandpiper, Kingfisher and a Tawny Owl.

Ringing: 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Dunnock, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler, 2 Goldfinch.

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Monday, 04 September 2017

Rain and drizzle early on petered out leaving odd sunny spells with a F3-2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0650-1245.

- The 5th Migration Festival starts on Friday.
- Fantastic Teal movement over the sea.
- Kilnsea wetlands keeps on pulling the good birds in, plus nice Wader selection.
- Small arrival of ‘Drift’ migrants.

Early morning rain dropped in 2 Barred Warbler along the peninsula. The first this autumn and both typically juvenile birds, one trapped at the Warren and the other found near the Lighthouse. Spurn is probably THE place to see this species on the east coast if not mainland Britain.

Kilnsea wetlands continued its recent run of good birds with a fine juvenile CITRINE WAGATIL, Spurns 7th, (but also the 3rd we have had in as many years), while also gracing the same pool, the 3rd Red-necked Phalarope (and the 2nd juvenile) of the year, while also here a Garganey is present among the assorted Duck on show. 
The good birds continued with a Great White Egret which eventually went south, an Osprey sat on the Humber mud out from the Observatory and 2 Purple Sandpiper showing well by the breach.

The SE winds brought a small arrival of migrant with 4 Redstart, 9 Whinchat, 2 Stonechat, 2 Wheatear, 4 Lesser Whitethroat, 7 Whitethroat,2 Chiffchaff, 11 Willow Warbler, 2 Goldcrest and 2 Pied Flycatcher. 

The sea was very productive Duck wise with 6 Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 14 Shelduck, 539 Teal, 13 Wigeon, 1 Pintail, 2 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 48 Common Scoter, 3 Red-throated Diver, 223 Gannet, 12 Oystercatcher, 1 Grey Plover, 3 Knot, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 14 Dunlin, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 2 Whimbrel and 1 Curlew.
Viz migging remains quiet and the counters may as well have stayed in bed, the best being only 1 Hobby, 3 Swift, 1 Grey Wagtail and 7 Swallow, but better days are maybe just around the corner.

Other interesting sightings were the resident Brent Goose on Kilnsea wetland, 120 Teal, 1 Pintail, 2 Lapwing, 9 Ruff, 2 Snipe, 23 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 5 Greenshank, 5000 Dunlin, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 4 Common Sandpiper, 700+ Starling, 80+ Goldfinch and 260+ Linnet.

Ringing: 1 Robin, 1 Barred Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Tree Sparrow, 1 Greenfinch.

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Sunday, 03 September 2017

A cloudy cool start with some sunny periods and a F3-4 SSE-S wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1200, 1300-1400, 1545-1945.

The 5th Migration Festival begins this Friday, and a small change in the weather to more south westerly winds is predicted, which fingers crossed should allow for some great visible migration involving Meadow Pipits, Hirundines , Finches and hopefully a few Birds of Prey, along with other species.

Today continued where yesterday ended, with small numbers of migrants about, the Pectoral Sandpiper creeping about, good numbers of duck moving over the sea, but with Kilnsea wetlands still the place to go at the moment, while nearby Beacon ponds pulled in a Bittern. 

A Bittern found at the southern end of Beacon ponds was a welcome addition to the yearlist, with increases in the population reflecting in more records at Spurn and now becoming just about annual.

A very small increase in some migrants, but declines in others with 1 Cuckoo, 5 Whinchat, 3 Redstart, 7 Wheatear, 3 Blackcap, 4 Willow Warbler, 2 Goldcrest and 4 Pied Flycatcher.
The Pectoral Sandpiper remained on Kilnsea wetlands/Holderness field all day, though can vanish into long grass for long periods.

On the move with over the sea were 3 Wigeon, 227 Teal, 3 Pintail, 7 Shoveler, 181 Common Scoter, 4 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 7 Fulmar, 216 Gannet, 15 Oystercatcher, 8 Dunlin, 12 Knot, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 4 Bonxie, 6 Arctic Skua, 5 Guillemot and 5 Puffin. 

Surprisingly it was very poor overland with the only birds being noted were 4 Grey Heron, 1 Marsh Harrier, 3 Kestrel, 1 Swift, 2 Sand Martin and 47 Swallow.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Canada Goose, 209 Greylag Geese, 6 Wigeon, 77 Teal, 1 Pintail, 7 Shoveler, 3 Gadwall, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Merlin, 1 Peregrine, 3 Lapwing, 11 Ruff, 3 Greenshank, 1 Purple Sandpiper still by the breach, 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Whimbrel, 2 Common Sandpiper, 20+ Mediterranean Gull and 1 Short-eared Owl.

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Saturday, 02 September 2017

A clear warm sunny day with an increasing F0-3 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0615-1000.

Despite the fact there were a few good birds about today it was still hard work in the conditions. The ‘nine’ o’clock arrival brought a vocal, but flighty Ortolan Bunting to the Warren, spending a short time in the saltmarsh, then flying off north. With it brought an increase in migrants with 1 Tree Pipit, 4 Whinchat, 1 Stonechat, 5 Wheatear, 1 Song Thrush, 8 Reed Warbler, 1 Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, 17 Lesser Whitethroat, 21 Whitethroat, 3 Chiffchaff, 19 Willow Warbler, 6 Goldcrest and 4 Pied Flycatcher.
The Pectoral Sandpiper remained on Kilnsea wetlands/Holderness field often proving quite elusive.

On the move with over the sea were 44 Teal, 1 Pochard, 4 Tufted Duck, 73 Common Scoter, 6 Fulmar, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 177 Gannet, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Turnstone, 7 Bonxie, 1 Arctic Skua and 5 Auk sp.

On the move overland heading south were 4 Sparrowhawk, 13 Common Buzzard, 3 Kestrel, 4 Sand Martin, 117 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 107 Meadow Pipit, 14 Flava Wagtail, 6 Grey Wagtail, 50 House Sparrow, 58 Tree Sparrow, 4 Greenfinch, 8 Goldfinch, 57 Linnet and 2 Reed Bunting.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Canada Goose, 30 Teal, 4 Shoveler, 2 Gadwall, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Merlin, 1 Peregrine, 500+ Ringed Plover, 2 Lapwing, 8 Ruff, 3 Greenshank, 1 Purple Sandpiper by the breach, juvenile Curlew Sandpiper, 5 Snipe, 1 Whimbrel, 2 Common Sandpiper, 54 Mediterranean Gull and 1 Short-eared Owl.

2 Hummingbird Hawkmoth were seen today.

Ringing: 2 Swallow, 13 Meadow Pipit, 7 Dunnock, 1 Robin, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Whitethroat, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 3 Great Tit, 5 House Sparrow, 4 Tree Sparrow, 2 Goldfinch, 1 Reed Bunting. (46 of 14 species).

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Friday, 01 September 2017

A quiet day for this time of year, but a Leach's Petrel flew north in the evening while the Pectoral sandpiper remains on Holderness field. 
Other waders seen today were 5000 Golden Plover, 3500 Knot, 3 Curlew Sandpiper, 4 Ruff, 4 Greenshank and 1 Common Sandpiper while by Long bank a record 251 Greylag Geese were present. 

Ringing: 1 Wood Pigeon, 5 Meadow Pipit, 1 Dunnock, 1 Reed Warbler, 2 Willow Warbler, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Great Tit, 14 Tree Sparrow. (28 0f 10 species).

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Thursday, 31 August 2017

Clear warm morning, thundery showers in the afternoon with a variable wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1130.

Kilnsea wetlands strikes again with 2 Pectoral Sandpiper showing well among the other waders present. 
Earlier a putative flyover Citrine Wagtail seen and heard flying south over Numpties.

Steady migrant numbers with 10 yellow Wagtail, 1 Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 2 Stonechat, 12 Wheatear, 1 Song Thrush, 4 Reed Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler, 6 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Chiffchaff, 15 Willow Warbler and 3 Goldcrest.

Overland viz-migging remains quiet and some south-westerly winds are needed fast, the best being 26 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 7 Sand Martin, 40 Meadow Pipit, 4 Flava Wagtail, 5 Grey Wagtail, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 36 Goldfinch and 1 Reed Bunting went south.

The sea was even quieter than the previous day with only 3 Cormorant, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Whimbrel, 1 Curlew and 1 Bonxie.

Other interesting sightings were the resident Brent Goose on Kilnsea wetland, 1 Canada Goose, 11 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 1 Pintail, 6 Shoveler, 5 Little Grebe, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Merlin, 5000 Golden Plover, 2 Lapwing, 6 Ruff, 7 Snipe, 8 Greenshank, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Common Sandpiper, 2 Short eared Owl and 1 Kingfisher.

Ringing: 6 Meadow Pipit, 1 Wren, 1 Robin, 1 Redstart, 2 Willow Warbler, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Linnet, 71 Tree Sparrow, 1 Reed Bunting. (86 of 10 species).

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Wednesday, 30 August 2017

Overcast with intermittent showers with a F1-3 SE-W wind.
Migration Watches: 

We seem to be stuck in the doldrums at the moment with little on the move over land and sea and a change in the weather is needed.

A decline of some migrant numbers with the regular Black Redstart, 15 Wheatear, 1 Song Thrush, 8 Sedge Warbler, 4 Reed Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler, 7 Lesser Whitethroat, 9 Whitethroat, 2 Chiffchaff, 15 Willow Warbler and 1 Goldcrest. 

Over the sea it was the quietest it’s been for some time with 3 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 2 Fulmar, 100 Gannet, 1 Oystercatcher, 32 Dunlin, 1 Turnstone, 4 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie and 1 Kittiwake.

Other interesting sightings were the resident Brent Goose on Kilnsea wetland, 1 Canada Goose, 4 Wigeon, 1 Pintail, 1 Shoveler, 1 Marsh Harrier, 2 Common Buzzard, 1 Hobby, 2 Lapwing, 6 Ruff, 4 Snipe, 4 Greenshank, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 42 Mediterranean Gull, 1 Yellow-legged Gull and 1 Short eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Sedge Warbler, 4 Whitethroat, 3 Willow Warbler, 1 Great Tit, 10 Goldfinch, 5 Tree Sparrow. (26 of 8 species).

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Tuesday, 29 August 2017

Cloudy with intermittent showers with a F2-3 W-N wind.
Migration Watches: 0640-1000.

A small and scattered arrival almost out of nowhere brought an Icterine Warbler to Churchfield and 6 Pied Flycatcher to the area along with a new Black Redstart, 1 Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 1 Wheatear, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Blackcap, 1 Garden Warbler, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 14 Whitethroat and 13 Willow Warbler. 

Over the sea it was quiet with 42 Teal, 15 Shoveler, 80 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 3 Fulmar, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 6 Manx Shearwater, 282 Gannet, 3 Oystercatcher, 26 Redshank, 4 Arctic Skua, 1 Little Gull, 292 Black-headed Gull and 1 Kittiwake while the Tern roost was very poor again, 1 Black Tern, 60 Sandwich Tern, 1400 Common Tern and 3 Arctic Tern the best.

Other interesting sightings were the resident Brent Goose on Kilnsea wetland, 2 Lapwing, 2000+ Knot, 150+ Sanderling, 11 Ruff, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Spotted Redshank, 2 Greenshank, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Short eared Owl and 3 Little Owl.

Ringing: 1 Moorhen, 1 Robin, 1 Song Thrush, 5 Swallow, 1 Icterine Warbler, 1 Blackcap, 1 Whitethroat, 1 Willow warbler, 1 Pied Flycatcher, 3 Goldfinch, 79 Tree Sparrow.

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Monday, 28 August 2017

Clear sunny day with a F2-3 SW-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0640-0815, 1745-2000.

Kilnsea wetland is still ticking over with a good selection of passage Waders among large numbers of commoner species and good numbers of Mediterranean Gull remain.

A Wood Warbler was in Kilnsea churchyard, continuing the great year for this species, while the Rose-coloured Starling is still wandering with the local Starling flocks.
On the negative side there were fewer migrants about today with 3 Tree Pipit, 1 Whinchat, 6 Wheatear and 19 Willow Warbler.

On the move over the sea were 23 Teal, 2 Tufted Duck, 14 Common Scoter, 1 Fulmar, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 4 Manx Shearwater, 104 Gannet, 1 Oystercatcher, 2 Redshank, 9 Arctic Skua and 1 Kittiwake while the evening roost movement had 39 Sandwich and 1200 Common Tern. 
On the move overland heading south were 6 Sand Martin, 63 Swallow, 7 House Martin, 9 Flava Wagtail, 20 House Sparrow, 15 Goldfinch and 20 Linnet.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Wigeon, 48 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 1 Gadwall, 18 Little Egret, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Merlin, 1 Hobby, 1 Little Stint, 12 Ruff, 1 Greenshank, 10 Snipe, 6 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 54 Mediterranean Gull, 2 Little Gull and a Kingfisher.

Ringing: 1 Willow Warbler, 5 House Sparrow.

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Sunday, 27 August 2017

Migration Watches: 0640-1000, 1800-2000.

The juvenile Rose-coloured Starling continues to delight visiting birders often giving good views in birders gardens in Kilnsea.

An increase in some migrants produced a nice Long-eared Owl in Church field, the usual Black Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 2 Stonechat, 13 Wheatear, 12 Lesser Whitethroat, 20 Whitethroat, 2 Chiffchaff and 25 Willow Warbler.

On the move with over the sea were14 Teal, 40 Common Scoter, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 135 Gannet, 9 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 9 Oystercatcher, 1 Purple Sandpiper, 3 Arctic Skua, 3 Kittiwake and 1 Puffin while the evening roost movement had 2 Black Tern, 115 Sandwich and only 412 common Tern. 
On the move overland heading south were 1 Marsh Harrier, 6 Sparrowhawk and only 17 Swallow.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Wigeon, 25 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 1 Gadwall, 24 Little Egret, 3 Common Buzzard blogging, 1 Peregrine, 1 Hobby, 1100 Golden Plover, 1 Little Stint, 13 Ruff, 5 Greenshank, 1 Green Sandpiper, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 97 Mediterranean Gull, 1 Yellow-legged Gull, 1 Short-eared Owl and a Little Owl.

Ringing: 1 Blackbird, 1 Willow Warbler, 28 Tree Sparrow, 1 House Sparrow, 4 Greenfinch.

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Saturday, 26 August 2017

Bright and sunny most of the day with a F1-2 S-SE wind.
Sea Watches: 0645-1000, 1730-2015.

The juvenile Rose-coloured Starling made a re-appearance today, as usual sitting on wires near Westmere farm.

Migrant totals continue to tick over rather than enthral with 5 Whinchat, 2 Stonechat, 1 Wheatear, 1 Song Thrush, 3 Sedge Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 7 Lesser Whitethroat, 16 Willow Warbler and 2 Goldcrest.

On the move over the sea were 1 Teal, 9 Shoveler, 35 Common Scoter, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Fulmar, 29 Gannet, 28 Oystercatcher, 2 Knot, 3 Dunlin, 1 Whimbrel, 1 Redshank, 2 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie while the evening Tern roost only produced 1294 Common Tern and 1 Black Tern.

Overland was quiet too, with only 1 Swift, 70 Swallow, 10 House Martin, 8 Sand Martin, the first Rock Pipit of the autumn and 3 Flava Wagtail. 

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Marsh Harrier, 2 Common Buzzard and 1 Hobby while Waders on Kilnsea wetlands were 1 Lapwing, 1 Little Stint, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Snipe, 5 Ruff, 9 Greenshank and 2 Green Sandpiper. 26 Little Egret mainly at Kilnsea wetland, 1 Yellow-legged Gull Humber, 2250 Black-headed Gull and 77 Mediterranean Gull, 2 Short-eared Owl and 1200 Starling.

Ringing: 2 Blackbird, 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Willow Warbler, 1 Chiffchaff, 2 Great Tit, 42 Tree Sparrow. (52 of 8 species).

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Friday, 25 August 2017

Bright and sunny all day a F1-2 S-SE wind.
Sea Watches: 0630-1100, 1745-1945.

Kilnsea wetlands was graced by the presence of 2 Great White Egrets showing well from the hides, while the first juvenile Curlew Sandpiper of the autumn was aslo present.

Some good migrant totals still in the area at the moment without any real decent arrivals, with 1 Redstart, 1 Black Redstart, 5 Whinchat, 2 Wheatear, 2 Blackcap, 1 Garden Warbler, 34 Willow Warbler, 2 Spotted Flycatcher and 1 Pied Flycatcher.

The evening Tern roost produced 84 Sandwich Tern, 2016 Common Tern and 1 Black Tern with birds still passing after dark allowing some to be caught and ringed.
On the move over the sea were 22 Common Scoter, 2 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 55 Gannet, 2 Shag, 54 Oystercatcher, 2 Ringed Plover, 10 Dunlin, 2 Curlew, 4 Whimbrel, 2 Redshank, 6 Arctic Skua, 3 Bonxie and 2 Kittiwake.

Overland 757 Swallow, 38 House Martin, 26 Sand Martin, 9 Meadow Pipit, 40 Flava Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail, 3 Alba Wagtail, 7 Goldfinch and 3 Linnet all went south. 

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Marsh Harrier, 2 Common Buzzard, 279 Oystercatcher at Chalk bank, while Waders on Kilnsea wetlands were 1 Lapwing, 1 Little Stint, 7 Ruff, 2 Greenshank and 1 Common Sandpiper. 2 Short-eared Owl remain in the Long bank area occasionally showing very well.

Ringing: 12 Common Tern, 1 Arctic Tern, 1 Wren, 3 Dunnock, 1 Sedge Warbler, 2 Willow Warbler, 5 Starling, 5 Linnet, 59 Tree Sparrow. (89 of 9 species).

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Thursday, 24 August 2017

Migration Watches: 0615-1130, 1800-2015.

The first big day for Hirundine movement particularly Swallow, while also some increases in passage Waders on Kilnsea wetlands. The first Goldcrest of the autumn also put in an appearance today.

It's still here doing the rounds of the local gardens. The Rose coloured Starling continues to occasionally perform on roofs and wires in Kilnsea when not hiding on feeders out of sight. It still prefers the Driftwood campsite area, but ongoing building work often makes its visits fleeting.

On the move overland heading south were 31 Swift, 146 Sand Martin, 2896 Swallow, 249 House Martin, 16 Flava Wagtail, 18 Goldfinch, 64 Linnet and 54 Tree Sparrow.

On the move with over the sea were 27 Teal, 3 Shelduck, 36 Common Scoter, 15 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 23 Oystercatcher, 1 Knot, 22 Dunlin, 10 Whimbrel, 91 Redshank, 5 Snipe, 2 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie and 5 Kittiwake while the evening roost movement produced a respectable 2 Black Tern, 3855 Common Tern, 8 Arctic and 48 Sandwich Tern. 
Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 2 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard blogging, 1 Hobby, 6 Ruff, 6 Greenshank, 1 Little Stint, 1600 Redshank, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 2 Wood Sandpiper, 19+ Mediterranean Gull and 2 Short eared Owl. The numbers of migrants dropped off again and only produced 1 Tree Pipit, 2 Wheatear, 16 Willow Warbler, 2 Goldcrest and 3 Spotted Flycatcher all day.

Ringing: 6 Common Tern, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Robin, 1 Sedge Warbler, 4 Willow Warbler, 12 Starling, 2 Linnet, 97 Tree Sparrow, 21 House Sparrow. (145 of 9 species).

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Wednesday, 23 August 2017

Migration Watches: 0530-0830, 1715-2000.

The first good Tern roost movement was the highlight of the day, while the first big Teal passage kept the seawatchers ticking over during the day and an increase in Willow Warblers for migrant hunters.

The Rose coloured Starling is still wandering about the gardens in Kilnsea today.

The evening roost movement had 10 Black Tern, 4013 Common Tern, 9 Arctic Tern, 128 Sandwich Tern plus the first 2 Long-tailed Skua of the autumn sea watches.

Also on the move over the sea were 2 Wigeon, 545 Teal, 228 Common Scoter, 7 Fulmar, 5 Manx Shearwater, 165 Gannet, Cormorant, 1 Shag, 12 Ringed Plover, 12 Grey Plover, 5 Knot, 117 Dunlin, 7 Sanderling, 6 Whimbrel, 1 Curlew, 3 Turnstone, 1 Arctic Skua, 3 Bonxie, 23 Black-headed Gull, 2 Little Gull and 1 Kittiwake while on the move overland heading south were 5 Green Sandpiper, 2 Common Sandpiper, 3 Swift, 2 Tree Pipit, 6 Flava Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail and 1 Alba Wagtail.

An increase in migrants produced the usual Black Redstart, a Fieldfare by Easington gas terminal, 14 Whinchat, 2 Wheatear, 57 Willow Warbler and 1 Pied Flycatcher.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 4 Wigeon, 122 Teal, 3 Shoveler, 1 Gadwall, 24 Little Egret, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard blogging, 1 Little-ringed Plover, 1 Little Stint, 3 Ruff, 7 Greenshank, 4 Green Sandpiper, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 7 Long tailed Tit Easington and 150 Linnet Holderness field.

Ringing:

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Tuesday, 22 August 2017

Rain early morning petered out with sunny spells later and a F1-2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1120, 1400-1500, 1700-2000.

A fantastic total of Oystercatcher flew south over the sea today, while Waders on Kilnsea wetlands continued to perform and migrant watchers enjoyed an increase and the hope of something rarer.

The juvenile Rose-coloured Starling is still about in Kilnsea occasionally on wires between Driftwood and westmere farm.

A noticeable increase in migrant numbers today with 1 Tree Pipit, 9 Whinchat, 1 Black Redstart, 10 Wheatear, 20 Willow Warbler and 1 Pied Flycatcher.

On the move over the sea were 45 Teal, 60 Common Scoter, 9 Fulmar, 1 Manx Shearwater, 82 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 542 Oystercatcher, 49 Ringed Plover, 20 Grey Plover, 1 Knot, 41 Dunlin, 4 Whimbrel, 1 Green Sandpiper, 10 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie and 2 Kittiwake while the evening roost movement was quiet with only 790 Common Tern, 37 Arctic and 97 Sandwich Tern.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 28 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 3 Shoveler, 1 Common Buzzard blogging, 4050 Golden Plover, 1 Ruff, 3 Greenshank, 1 Little Stint, 1400 Redshank, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Green Sandpiper, 3 Common Sandpiper 1 Snipe and 15 Mediterranean Gull. 

Ringing: 1 Dunlin, 2 Redshank, 1 Robin, 4 Swallow, 14 Tree Sparrow, 1 Goldfinch.

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Monday, 21 August 2017

Misty start soon cleared to a nice sunny all day with a F1-2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1030, 1800-2000.

The Rose-coloured Starling was still about Driftwood, also visiting the Observatory. Late afternoon a superb juvenile Red-necked Phalarope appeared on Kilnsea wetland among the impressive throng of species already present. We can only re-iterate that when visiting Spurn, dont leave without a visit to the Wetlands, as it seems to have a knack of producing good birds at the moment, often holding fantastic numbers of Waders, Wildfowl, Terns and Gulls.

There was a decline in migrant numbers today with only 1 Tree Pipit, 5 Whinchat, 1 Wheatear, 7 Willow Warbler and 1 Spotted Flycatcher to show for the effort.

An increase today of Wader movement over the sea, among other species was welcome with 40 Teal, 45 Common Scoter, 1 Red throated Diver, 7 Fulmar, 1 Manx Shearwater, 324 Gannet, 7 Cormorant, 441 Oystercatcher, 14 Ringed Plover, 5 Knot, 2 Sanderling, 1 Purple Sandpiper, 6 Dunlin, 69 Redshank, 5 Whimbrel in, 1 Turnstone, adult Pomarine Skua, 5 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie and 9 Kittiwake while the evening roost movement produced 34 Sandwich Tern, 927 Common Tern, 10 Arctic Tern, 2 Roseate ternand 2 Black Tern. 
Viz-migging at Numpties was slow with 350 Swallow, 25 House martin, 18 Flava Wagtail, 1 Rook and 17 Meadow Pipit (the first beginnings of movement).

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Wigeon, 1 Marsh Harrier blogging , 15 Little Egret, 2 Grey Heron, 1000+ Golden Plover, 1 Little ringed Plover, 1 Lapwing, 3 Ruff, 5 Greenshank, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Green Sandpiper and 1 Common Sandpiper. 

Ringing:

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Sunday, 20 August 2017

Bright and sunny with a decreasing F 3-1 SW wind.

Migration Watches: 0615-0945, 1730-2030.

A juvenile ROSE-COLOURED STARLING was found on the feeders at Driftwood, still present in the evening also wandering about the village. (In an update to this it turns out it was seen by the Blue Bell yesterday). 

Also today a Turtle Dove in Corner field while migrant wise there was a definite increase in numbers with 10 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, 1 Black Redstart, 1 Redstart, 12 Yellow Wagtail, 3 Reed Warbler, 45 Willow Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler and 7 Spotted Flycatcher.

On the move over the sea were 11 Common Scoter, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 116 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 25 Oystercatcher, 11 Knot, 2 Ruff, 10 Snipe in, 1 Arctic Skua and the evening Tern roost produced 99 Sandwich Tern, 3544 Common Tern, 64 Arctic Tern, 5 Roseate Tern and 2 Black Tern while overland it was poor with 2 Tree Pipit, 12 Swallow, 3 Flava Wagtail.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 18 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 4 Shoveler, 5 Grey Partridge, 1 Peregrine, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Little Stint Kilnsea Wetlands, 3 Black tailed Godwit, 1200 Redshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 8 Greenshank, 1 Green Sandpiper, 30 Mediterranean Gull and 1 Short eared Owl.

Ringing: 8 Willow Warbler, 1 Chiffchaff.

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Saturday, 19 August 2017

Sightings today included a Great-white Egret over the Borrow pit and 3 Egyptian Geese in the area.

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Friday, 18 August 2017

Sunny spells with a stiff F4-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0715-0915, 1015-1115, 1800-2010.

Very little was seen today with most observers at the Birdfair or twitching the Stint at Nosterfield.

A steady trickle overland with 19 Swift, 4 Flava Wagtail, 227 Swallow, 182 House Martin and 7 Sand Martin while over the sea it was quiet with 14 Gannet, 108 Oystercatcher, 7 Ringed Plover, 1 Golden Plover, 14 Dunlin, 6 Sanderling, 6 Whimbrel, 15 Redshank, 1 Arctic Skua, 1 Little Gull, 70 Black-headed Gull and 41 Kittiwake while the Tern roost was very poor again, 1 Black Tern, 556 Common Tern and 2 Arctic Tern the best.

Other interesting sightings were the resident Brent Goose on Kilnsea wetland, 2 Wigeon, 2 Shoveler, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Avocet, 4 Greenshank,2 Green Sandpiper, 36 Mediterranean Gull, 5 Whinchat, the Black Redstart and only 1 Willow Warbler.

A Hummingbird Hawkmoth was in Kilnsea and a Convolvulus Hawkmoth in Churchfield

Ringing: Nil.

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Thursday, 17 August 2017

Rain until early morning brightening with some sunshine and a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1130, 1345-1545, 1800-2030.

The Western Bonelli's Warbler was still present today upto 10am when it flew towards the village. Please park in Easington square and walk down Beck St, to view the bird at the sewage works/football pitch. Some more pics from yesterday below.

It was a much quieter day overland after the rain with 7 Swift, 60 Swallow, 15 House Martin and 2 Sand Martin while over the sea it was steady with 44 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 132 Common Scoter, 1 Fulmar, 66 Gannet, 108 Oystercatcher, 3 Ringed Plover, 1 Golden Plover, 4 Sanderling, 7 Knot, 12 Whimbrel, 2 Arctic Skua and 1 Kittiwake while the Tern roost continued to be quiet with 1 Little Tern, 1 Black Tern, 691 Common Tern and 4 Arctic Tern.

Other interesting sightings were the resident Brent Goose on Kilnsea wetlands, 17 Teal, 122 Ringed Plover, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 32 Mediterranean Gull, 1 Cuckoo, 3 Whinchat, 1 Stonechat, 1 Garden Warbler and only 2 Willow Warbler.

A Hummingbird Hawkmoth was in Kilnsea

Ringing: 1 Willow Warbler, 3 Tree Sparrow pulli.

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Wednesday, 16 August 2017

A nice warm day with plenty of hazy sunshine and a F1-3 S wind.
Migration Watches: 0550-1045, 1800-1900.

A superb WESTERN BONELLI'S WARBLER is showing well in Easington, by the sewage works just off Beck Street. Please park in the village square and walk to view. The bird has been sub-singing so is presumably a male.

The Bonelli’s aside, it was still quiet for migrants and present were 1 Tree Pipit, 6 Yellow Wagtail, the long staying Black Redstart, 3 Whinchat, 1 Chiffchaff and 9 Willow Warbler.
It was a better day though for viz-migging with 2 Marsh Harrier, 2 Stock Dove, 752 Swallow, 15 House Martin, 36 Sand Martin, 1 Tree Pipit, 86 Flava Wagtail and 2 Alba Wagtail.

Wader movement, among other species over the sea remains quite steady with 7 Shelduck, 2 Teal, 21 Common Scoter, 1 Fulmar, 105 Gannet, 1 Shag, 21 Oystercatcher, 6 Dunlin, 6 Redshank, 1 Whimbrel and 1 Arctic Skua.

Other interesting sightings were the resident Brent Goose on Kilnsea wetlands, 18 Teal, 52 Mallard, 4 Shoveler, 115 Ringed Plover, 6000 Dunlin, 7 Whimbrel and 2 Greenshank.
Unfortunately a Badger was found dead on the road by Canal scrape, with maybe the same one having been seen recently at the Warren.

Ringing: 6 Sand Martin, 30 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 2 Reed Warbler, 1 Whitethroat, 2 Willow Warbler, 8 Tree Sparrow. (51 of 7 species)

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Tuesday, 15 August 2017

Blue sky and sunny all day with a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1045, 1615-1900.

A few bits of interest about today. Kilnsea wetlands has juvenile Yellow-legged Gull, juvenile Little Gull and one of the daily Marsh harrier among the decent Wader numbers. 
The first Pied Flycatcher of the autumn was in the entrance area to Sandy beaches caravan site. There was also still a few other migrants about in the area keeping interest going, 5 Whinchat, the Black Redstart remains at Sandy beaches caravan Site, 6 Yellow Wagtail and 10 Willow Warbler were the best.

The sea was very quiet with hardly any Waders on the move with 10 Teal, 30 Common Scoter, 84 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 3 Golden Plover in, 1 Redshank, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 5 Whimbrel in, 1 Turnstone, 1 Arctic Skua, 2 Kittiwake while 126 Sandwich Tern north in the morning.
Viz-migging at Numpties seems like a good movement is due any day, but still limited to a 'trickle' with 51 Swift, 220 Sand Martin, 285 Swallow, 207 House martin, 4 Flava Wagtail, 9 Linnet while a Crossbill with strong white wing bars flew west over Kew, a case of one that may have got away.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, a big increase to 56 Teal, 3 Shoveler, 2 Wigeon, 2 Marsh Harrier blogging , 15 Little Egret, 4 Grey Heron, 700 Golden Plover, 200 Grey Plover, 110 Ringed Plover, 6500 Dunlin, 8 Greenshank, 7 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Curlew Sandpiper and the usual Short-eared Owl. 

Ringing: 3 Swallow, 3 Sand Martin.

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Monday, 14 August 2017

Mostly cloudy, but warm and humid with a F1-2 SE-S wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1100, 1750-1915.

A quieter day than of late over land and sea, but still good on Kilnsea wetlands with a good selection of Waders still on view, 4 Spoonbill north over here, were the highlight today, a species which it has been a good year for at Spurn.

On the move over the sea were 20 Teal, 26 Common Scoter, 1 Fulmar, 124 Gannet, 2 Oystercatcher, 19 Grey Plover, 14 Dunlin, 7 Knot, 3 Redshank, adult Curlew Sandpiper and 4 Arctic Skua.
Viz-migging at Numpties produced steady counts of 4 Swift, 18 Sand Martin, 326 Swallow, 4 House Martin, 3 Flava Wagtail, 2 Alba Wagtail and 8 Linnet.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Wigeon, 16 Teal, 3 Shoveler, 2 Marsh Harrier Long bank area, 1200 Golden Plover Humber, 950 Redshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 10 Greenshank, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Green Sandpiper, 1 Common Sandpiper, 16 Mediterranean Gull, 1 Short-eared Owl and 1 Kingfisher while passerines seen were 3 Whinchat, 1 Wheatear and 4 Willow Warbler. 

Ringing: 2 Swallow, 1 Meadow Pipit, 1 Blackbird, 1 Whitethroat.

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Sunday, 13 August 2017

Hot and sunny all day with a F1 W-2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1200, 1800-1945.

A Caspian Gull was at Kilnsea wetlands, where a juvenile Yellow-legged Gull was also present along with 20+ Mediterranean Gull.

The sea was uneventful with 1 Teal, 15 Common Scoter, 1 Tufted Duck, 3 Fulmar, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 157 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 92 Oystercatcher, 2 Ringed Plover, 5 Sanderling, 24 Dunlin, 3 Knot, 41 Redshank, 5 Turnstone, 3 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 5 Kittiwake, 151 Sandwich Tern north in the morning and only 876 common Tern south in the evening.
Viz-migging at Numpties continued the steady theme with 1 Marsh Harrier, 77 Sand Martin, 551 Swallow, 3 Alba Wagtail, 35 Linnet and a juvenile Bullfinch.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Little Grebe with young on canal scrape, 2 Common Buzzard, 1 Merlin, 1 Spotted Redshank, 5 Greenshank, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Snipe, 1 Wood Sandpiper, 3 Green Sandpiper, 1 Common Sandpiper, 1 Short-eared Owl and 1 Kingfisher while passerines seen were 3 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, 2 Blackcap, 1 Spotted Flycatcher and 26 Willow Warbler. 

A Convolvulus Hawkmoth was at Kew.

Ringing: 1 Wren, 1 Robin, 1 Dunnock, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 5 Willow Warbler.

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Saturday, 12 August 2017

Mostly cloudy with the odd shower and a F4/5-2 W-NE wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1500, 1630-1945.

It was a decent day of movement over the sea yet again dominated by waders on the move while the Kilnsea wetlands area still continues to attract most of the local interest.

Over the sea were 3 Eider, 132 Common Scoter, 3 Great-crested Grebe, 2 Fulmar, 1 Manx Shearwater, 110 Gannet, 19 Oystercatcher, 44 Ringed Plover, 1 Grey Plover, 1 Lapwing in, 32 Sanderling, 175 Dunlin, 2 Snipe in, 9 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Curlew, 30 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 12 Turnstone, 2 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 37 Kittiwake, 2 Black Tern and 317 Common Tern in the evening.

Viz-migging at Numpties produced steady counts of 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, 20 Swift, 41 Sand Martin, 468 Swallow, 24 House Martin, 1 Tree Pipit and 6 Flava Wagtail.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Wigeon, 55 Mallard, 3 Gadwall, 9 Teal, 6 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 5 Grey Partridge, 2 Little-ringed Plover, 2 Avocet, 850 Redshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 5 Greenshank, 5 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Common Sandpiper, 4 Yellow-legged Gull, including 3 juveniles, 45 Mediterranean Gull and 1 Short-eared Owl while passerines seen were 1 Cuckoo, 5 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear and 25 Willow Warbler. 

Ringing: Nil.

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Friday, 11 August 2017

A bright start with cloud building and a F1-3 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0515-1330, 1545-1945.

Pretty much the same today, but is lesser numbers with 1 Cuckoo, 1 Stonechat, 1 Black Redstart, 3 Wheatear, 2 Garden warbler and 34 Willow Warbler. 

Good counts of Wader on the Humber and Kilnsea wetlands continue among the larger numbers of species with 98 Ringed Plover, 1 Avocet, 500 Golden Plover Humber, 4500 Knot, Purple Sandpiper at the narrows, Ruff, 7 Black-tailed Godwit, 1100 Redshank and 3 Greenshank.
Wader movement, among other species over the sea remains quite steady with 16 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 7 Eider, 425 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 5 Fulmar, 6 Manx Shearwater, 164 Gannet, 24 Oystercatcher, 10 Ringed Plover, 2 Grey Plover, 10 Knot, 354 Dunlin, 19 Sanderling, 2 snipe in, 20 Whimbrel, 2 Curlew, 1 Greenshank, 46 Redshank, 34 Black-tailed Godwit, 11 Turnstone, 3 Arctic Skua, 2 Kittiwake and 819 Sandwich Tern north in the morning.

Viz-migging was 1 Grey Heron in, 1 Kestrel, 99 Swift, 646 Swallow, 29 House Martin, 86 Sand Martin, 3 Alba wagtail, 51 Linnet and 2 Corn Bunting

Other interesting sightings were the resident Brent Goose on Kilnsea wetlands, 6 Teal, 9 Shoveler, 16 Little Egret and Common Buzzard.

Ringing: 1 Wood Pigeon, 1 Reed Warbler, 7 Willow Warbler.

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Thursday, 10 August 2017

A much better day with plenty of sunshine and a F1 N-3 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1100, 1630-2030.

With ‘autumn’ slowly swinging into place, the increased numbers of Passerine migrants is starting to hot up and any Easterly winds from now on, should produce some expected early Scandinavian drifters.
Today typical species and numbers of British leavers/local breeders in the area with 2 Cuckoo, 1 Tree Pipit, 5 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Black Redstart, 5 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, 15 Sedge Warbler, 7 Reed Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 1 Garden warbler, 8 Lesser Whitethroat, 35 Whitethroat, Wood Warbler in the Crown carpark, a nice scatter of 23 Willow Warbler and a Spotted Flycatcher.

Good counts and species of Wader on the Humber and Kilnsea wetlands continue among the larger numbers of Dunlin and Knot with 230 Oystercatcher, 2 Avocet, 500 Golden Plover Humber, 6 Ruff, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 700 Redshank, 5 Greenshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 7 Whimbrel and 2 Common Sandpiper.

Steady over the sea with 200 Common Scoter, 6 Fulmar, 15 Manx Shearwater, 457 Gannet, 174 Oystercatcher, 11 Ringed Plover,2 Knot, 15 Dunlin, 1 Sanderling, 2 Whimbrel, 1 Green Sandpiper, 3 Turnstone, 1 Pomarine Skua, 2 Arctic Skua, 7 Bonxie, 1 Little Gull, 438 Sandwich Tern, 471 Common Tern, 5 Kittiwake and 2 Auk sp.
Viz-migging was poor with only 1 Grey Heron in, 1 Short-eared Owl in and 15 Swallow south

Other interesting sightings were the resident Brent Goose on Kilnsea wetalnds, 2 Wigeon, 11 Teal, 4 Shoveler, 13 Little Egret, 1 Marsh Harrier, 20 Mediterranean Gull on Kilnsea wetland, 1 Great-spotted woodpecker and a Kingfisher.

Among good numbers of commoner Butterflies, a Clouded Yellow was seen. In Easington

Ringing: 1 Wood Pigeon, 1 Wren, 3 Robin, 1 Sedge warbler, 1 Garden Warbler, 1 Whitethroat, 2 Willow Warbler, 1 Linnet.

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Wednesday, 09 August 2017

Heavy overnight rain slowly petered out (leaving some localised flooding), sunny spells did follow with a F4-2 N wind.
Migration Watches: 0550-1115, 1255-1345, 1745-2040.

The hoped for ‘big’ seawatch never really materialised, but was still interesting with some decent totals. Over the sea were 5 Teal, 3 Eider, 697 Common Scoter, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 1 Balearic Shearwater, 16 Manx Shearwater, 536 Gannet, 25 Fulmar, 128 Oystercatcher, 3 Ringed Plover, 6 Dunlin, 21 Arctic Skua, 7 Bonxie, 5 Little Gull and 31 Kittiwake.

Other birds of note mainly in the Kilnsea wetlands/Beacon ponds area were 1 Brent Goose, 10 Teal, 9 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 80 Grey Plover, 1 juvenile Avocet, 2 Ruff, 8 Greenshank, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1200 Dunlin, 2 Green Sandpiper, 1 Common Sandpiper and 21 Mediterranean Gull while passerines seen were 1 Cuckoo, 1 Wheatear and 3 Willow Warbler. 

Ringing: Nil.

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Tuesday, 08 August 2017

Heavy rain all day with a F1-3 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0545-1015, 1435-1700, 1730-1830.

The difficult conditions no doubt led to most birding being done from hides or the car. 

Over the sea were 4 Teal, 6 Eider, 380 Common Scoter, 16 Fulmar, 229 Gannet, 4 Oystercatcher, 3 Dunlin, 7 Arctic Skua and 55 Kittiwake.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 17 Teal, 4 Shoveler, 1 Peregrine, 49 Mediterranean Gull on Kilnsea wetland, juvenile Yellow-legged Gull, adult Little Gull and 2 Willow Warbler while on Kilnsea wetlands were 1 Little-ringed Plover, 3 Ruff, 16 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Greenshank, 1 Spotted Redshank and 1 Snipe.
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Ringing: Nil.

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Monday, 07 August 2017

A rainy start soon brightened up leaving with a F1-3 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0615-1100, 1730-2000.

In the approach up to Wadertastic on Sunday, still a nice mix of birds on Kilnsea wetlands with 1 Lapwing, 1 Little-ringed Plover, 4 Ruff, 20 Black-tailed Godwit, 4 Greenshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 11 Whimbrel, 138 Curlew, 6 Snipe and 1 Wood Sandpiper.

Wader movement, among other species over the sea remains quite steady with 2 Shoveler, 3 Tufted Duck, 2 Velvet Scoter, 353 Common Scoter, 2 Fulmar, 127 Gannet, 84 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 11 Knot, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 30 Dunlin, 1 Sanderling, 38 Redshank, 1 Whimbrel, 7 Turnstone, 5 Arctic Skua, 1 Little Tern, 44 Sandwich Tern, 212 Common Tern, 5 Kittiwake and 4 Auk sp.
Viz-migging only produced 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Wood Sandpiper, 83 Swallow and 64 Sand Martin.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 43 Teal, 38 Mallard, 3 Shoveler, 1 Peregrine, 30 Mediterranean Gull on Kilnsea wetland, 1 Short-eared Owl, 1 Whinchat triangle, 1 Black Redstart, 10 Willow Warbler and 32 Goldfinch at Kew.

Ringing: 1 Swallow, 1 Robin, 1 Willow Warbler.

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Sunday, 06 August 2017

A warm, sunny day clouding up later, with rain late pm and a F2-3 SW wind..
Migration Watches: 0615-1030, 1800-2100.

A decent day to be looking for passerines with 1 Cuckoo, 2 Tree Pipit, 5 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, 7 Blackcap, 33 Willow Warbler, 3 Spotted Flycatcher and a Treecreeper at Middle camp which landed on the observer! Maybe, something to do with the lack of trees in that area.

A great count of 106 Mediterranean Gull was picked out from the Black-headed Gulls on the Humber this morning before the heat haze became too bad. No doubt many more would have been counted, given better conditions. Over the past 5 or so years the number been increasing in the area, and the record stands at 108.
Quieter over the sea, but still a bit of interest with 48 Common Scoter, 3 Manx Shearwater, 10 Fulmar, 67 Oystercatcher, 1 Golden Plover, 6 Knot, 12 Sanderling, 43 Dunlin, 2 Snipe, 9 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 3 Whimbrel, 2 Redshank, 10 Turnstone, 7 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 1 Little Gull, 367 Kittiwake and 3 Puffin.
Bits and pieces overland, but starting to pick up for Hirundines with 51 Swift, 27 Sand Martin, 449 Swallow, 3 House Martin, 1 Flava Wagtail, 3 Alba Wagtail, 22 Tree Sparrow and 72 Starling. 
The evening Tern movement was quiet but saw a late surge with 1 Little Tern, 123 Sandwich Tern, 1122 Common Tern and 37 Arctic Tern go to roost.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 8 Teal, 33 Mallard, 4 Shoveler, 2 Marsh Harrier, 2 Common Buzzard, the juvenile Red Kite on Easington straight, 1 Peregrine terrorising Waders over the Humber, 1 Hobby, 4 Greenshank, 550 Redshank, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Wood Sandpiper and 3 Ruff Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Short-eared Owl Triangle, 4 Great-spotted Woodpecker and a juvenile Mistle Thrush by Easington cemetery. 

Ringing: 1 Robin, 4 Swallow, 1 Whitethroat, 8 Willow Warbler, 1 House Sparrow.

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Saturday, 05 August 2017

Warm and sunny day with a F3-1 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0450-0900, 1130-1400.

Preparations for the annual Friends of Spurn BBQ at the Observatory were well underway today using the newly acquired Marquee. 

The first day of the passerines ‘autumn’ with many juvenile birds on their first journey south with 1 Cuckoo, 1 Blackcap, 43 Willow Warbler, 1 Spotted Flycatcher while a Treecreeper trapped at Kew and a Red Kite was in the triangle then flew off north low.

Quieter again over the sea, with 15 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 16 Common Scoter, 2 Manx Shearwater, 210 Gannet, 1 Fulmar, 77 Oystercatcher, 1 Golden Plover, 7 Sanderling, 16 Dunlin, 2 Snipe, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 22 Whimbrel, 1 Redshank, 11 Turnstone, 1 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 7 Little Gull, 100+ Kittiwake and 3 Puffin.
A good viz-mig day for Swallow, but poor yet again for Sand Martin. On the move were 1 Marsh Harrier in heavy moult, 17 Swift, 47 Sand Martin, 645 Swallow, 27 House Martin, 2 Tree Pipit, 2 Flava Wagtail and a Crossbill north over the Warren

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 19 Greylag Geese, 3 Wigeon, 4 Shoveler, 2 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, a nice juvenile Merlin, 1 Peregrine, 1 Hobby, 1 Avocet, 2 Little-ringed Plover, 2 Snipe, 4 Greenshank, 1 Wood Sandpiper, 1 Common Sandpiper and 3 Ruff Kilnsea wetlands, [strong2 juvenile Yellow-legged Gull, 25+ Mediterranean Gull, 1 Little Tern, 1 Short-eared Owl Triangle and 4 Great-spotted Woodpecker. 

Ringing: 1 Robin, 1 Treecreeper.

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Friday, 04 August 2017

Bright and sunny all day with patchy cloud and a F3-4 W-WNW wind..
Migration Watches: 0515-2030.
A day where it’s almost hard to decide what to write first, with birds moving over the sea, arriving in/off and going overland. Altogether a great varied day.

The fine total of 1167 juvenile Swift heading south was a fantastic total and hopefully a reflection of a brilliant breeding season? Over the sea a Cory’s Shearwater north at 08:30, with probably another half an hour later which has been put down as a large shear sp, was a welcome sight and hopefully more to come with the big numbers in the south-west. An Osprey came in/off then flew south over the sea and a juvenile Caspian Gull was expertly picked out at Easington by Dean Nicholson.

Fantastic numbers and species of Wader yet again over the sea among other species with20 Shelduck out east, 46 Common Scoter, 19 Manx Shearwater, 7 Fulmar, 310 Oystercatcher, 1 Avocet, 2 Ringed Plover, 180 Knot, 30 Sanderling, 74 Dunlin, 21 Bar-tailed Godwit, 58 Whimbrel, 1 Curlew, 217 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 3 Green Sandpiper, 3 Wood Sandpiper, 25 Turnstone, 5 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 50 Kittiwake and 1 juvenile Yellow-legged Gull.
Apart from the Swifts it picked up overland with 2 Marsh Harrier, 3 Kestrel, 1 Hobby, 137 Sand Martin, 27 Swallow, 6 House Martin, 2 Tree Pipit and 7 Alba Wagtail. 
The evening Tern movement saw 1 Little Tern, 96 Sandwich Tern, 488 Common Tern and 43 Arctic Tern go to roost, though the wind was less than favourable for a decent count.

Other birds of note were 1 Wigeon, 9 Teal, 4 Shoveler, 1 Peregrine, 1 Merlin hunting Starlings, 2 Little-ringed Plover, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Greenshank and 1 Ruff, Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Curlew Sandpiper Humber, 30+ Mediterranean Gull, juvenile Cuckoo at the warren, 1 Wheatear triangle, 1 Whinchat Clubley’s and 5 Willow Warbler. 

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 4 Tree Sparrow pulli.

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Thursday, 03 August 2017

Another very windy day with a force 4-5 SW with showers on and off.
Migration Watches: 0600-1100, 1140-1420, 1730-2100.
Another great day of Wader movement, with Knot in particular continuing the very good autumn for them.

Moving over the sea today were 23 Teal, 68 Common Scoter, 9 Manx Shearwater, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Fulmar, 12 Ringed Plover, 322 Knot, 56 Sanderling, 70 Dunlin, 2 Bar-tailed Godwit, 6 Black-tailed Godwit, 30 Whimbrel, 3 Curlew, 6 Redshank, 22 Turnstone, 3 Arctic Skua, 2 Kittiwake and 5 Lesser Black-backed Gull while it remained quiet overland with only 2 Marsh Harrier, 209 Swift and 23 Sand Martin. 
The evening Tern movement saw 1 Roseate Tern, 386 Sandwich Tern, 1630 Common Tern and 58 Arctic Tern go to roost.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Wigeon, 14 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Great-crested Grebe Beacon ponds, 1 Peregrine, 2 juvenile Yellow-legged Gull and 65 Mediterranean Gull Kilnsea wetlands,600 Sanderling Chalk bank, 560 Redshank Humber, juvenile Cuckoo at the warren, 1 Wheatear Point, 1 Garden Warbler middle camp and 1 Willow Warbler. 

Ringing: 4 Tree Sparrow pulli.

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Wednesday, 02 August 2017

Full update to come.

A trickle of Waders south over the sea today, but with them a Little-ringed Plover and Wood Sandpiperboth over the Warren and a Little Stint in/off. 

The Warren and triangle area were best again for returning and 1st time migrants with 3-4 juvenile Cuckoo, Wheatear, a fantastic very spotty juvenile Redstart, a Tree Pipit over, but fewer Willow warbler about.

25 Mediterranean Gull were on the beach at the north end of Easington lagoon.

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Tuesday, 01 August 2017

A fine sunny warm day, clouding up with some heavy rain, thunder and lightning and a F2- SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1400, 1700-2045.
The autumn is slowly approaching, while the breeding birds continue in to their 2nd or even 3rd broods. The pace of juvenile migrants on their first journey to Africa is increasing and bringing the expected early returners. Today saw 1 juvenile Cuckoo at the Warren, 1 Black Redstart sandy beaches, 3 Wheatear Point, 1 Whinchat sammys, 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler Warren, 1 Chiff-chaff, 14 Willow Warbler and 1 Siskin by the Riding school. 

Waders totals for the Humber and the Kilnsea wetlands area were 3 Little-ringed Plover, 1000 Golden Plover, 3 Curlew Sandpiper, 6000 Knot, 5000 Dunlin, 4 Snipe, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 400 Bar-tailed Godwit, 16 Whimbrel, 550 Redshank, 2 Greenshank, 1 Spotted Redshank and 3 Common Sandpiper.

Decent for Waders among other species on the move over sea with 260 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater, 35 Cormorant, 131 Oystercatcher, 152 Knot, 77 Sanderling, 70 Dunlin, 10 Black-tailed Godwit in, 3 Curlew, 30 Whimbrel, 5 Turnstone, 1 Common Sandpiper, 2 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie and 32 Kittiwake 
Overland a fine juvenile Red Kite went south along with 3 Marsh Harrier, 1 Hobby occasionally seen sitting on wires, 54 Swift, 52 Sand Martin, 37 Swallow, 6 House Martin, 1 Tree Pipit, 2 Grey Wagtail and 9 Alba Wagtail. 
The evening Tern movement saw 2 Little Tern (inc 1 new flying chick), 130 Sandwich Tern (though 250 during the day at Beacon ponds), 1 Black Tern, 1583 Common Tern and 80 Arctic Tern go to roost with flocks of Terns continuing unseen in the dark, but heard till around 11.30pm.

Other birds of note were 3 Wigeon, 5 Gadwall, 11 Teal, 10 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Peregrine, 1000 Black-headed Gull Humber, 66 Mediterranean Gull on the mud at Sammys and 1 Kingfisher.

A great count of 38 Grey Seal on the sea infront of the seawatch hut. 

Ringing: 1 Cuckoo, 1 Wren, 2 Sand Martin, 4 Swallow, 1 Whitethroat, 7 Willow Warbler (16 of 6 species).

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Sunday, 30 July 2017

Rain early morning and showers later in day with sunny spells in-between with a F2-4 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1100.

No sooner than the first juvenile Willow Warbler of the autumn yesterday along came a rather nice Wood Warbler gracing the garden of Mick Turton in Easington along with a Garden Warbler.
Other migrants/breeders in the Spurn area were 1 juvenile Cuckoo, 45 Whitethroat, 1 Blackcap, 6 Willow Warbler and a female Bullfinch which flew north from the Warren.

The continued arrival of northern breeding Waders with a good turnover of birds daily keeps everyone waiting for the next potential rare one, but in the mean time totals for the Humber and the Kilnsea wetlands area were 350 Golden Plover, 147 Sanderling and 30 Turnstone at Chalk bank, 1 Little Stint, 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 250 Redshank, 2 Greenshank, 1 Spotted Redshank and 1 Common Sandpiper among the large numbers of Knot and Dunlin.

On the move over sea were 14 Common Scoter, 24 Manx Shearwater, 45 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 6 Oystercatcher, 5 Knot, 11 Redshank, 1 Black-tailed Godwit in, 23 Whimbrel, 1 Little Stint and 2 Kittiwake while overland 8 Swift, 34 Sand Martin, 217 Swallow, 6 House Martin, 6 Flava wagtail and 3 Alba Wagtail went south. 
The evening Tern movement saw 1 Roseate Tern61 Sandwich Tern, 1 Black Tern, 431 Common Tern and 30 Arctic Tern go to roost.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Pintail, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker.

Ringing: 1 Sparrowhawk, 2 Swallow.

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Saturday, 29 July 2017

Sunny spells with variable amounts of cloud and a F3-2 WSW-SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0450-2050.

Its now officially starting to seem like autumn, and with it the first 6 Willow Warbler of the autumn were seen today along with a juvenile Whinchat in the triangle.

The adult American Golden Plover put in another appearance on the Humber today with a flock of 400 Golden Plover, then after a while it flew off north while the female Red-backed Shrike was still behind Rose cottage, best viewed from along the canal.

Another fantastic and varied movement of Wader passage saw another 183 Knot on the move plus 2 Ringed Plover, 5 Golden Plover, 66 Redshank, 13 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Ruff, 37 Dunlin, 10 Sanderling and 24 Turnstone plus great totals of 6 Curlew Sandpiper and 2 Little Stint.

The Tern roost movement this evening saw 81 Sandwich Tern, 3 Black Tern, 4015 Common Tern and 30 Arctic Tern go south past the seawatch hut.

Waders totals for the Humber and the Kilnsea wetlands area were 3 Little-ringed Plover, 1 Lapwing, 400 Golden Plover, 4 Avocet, 2 Little Stint, 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Ruff, 250 Redshank, 3 Greenshank, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 2 Wood Sandpiper, 1 Green Sandpiper and 1 Common Sandpiper.

Waders aside the sea was quiet with 4 Shelduck out, 3 Tufted Duck, 3 Common Scoter, 16 Manx Shearwater, 1 Fulmar, 9 Cormorant, 33 Kittiwake and 1 Arctic Skua while overland 3 Marsh Harrier, 144 Swift, 54 Sand Martin, 64 Swallow, 1 House Martin, 15 Flava wagtail and 18 Alba Wagtail went south. 

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Pintail, 1 Tufted Duck and 9 Mediterranean Gull.

Ringing: 2 Sand Martin, 1 Swallow, 1 Wren, 1 Robin, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Linnet.

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Friday, 28 July 2017

Generally dry but rain sometimes heavy late afternoon with a F3 SW wind.

Migration Watches: 0545-1030, 1300-1500, 1615-2030.

A fantastic movement of Wader passage saw the 3rd highest count of 965 Knot coming in/off or going south, while other totals were 59 Oystercatcher, 1 Little-ringed Plover, 5 Golden Plover, 45 Redshank, 44 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Bar-tailed Godwit, 22 Whimbrel, 8 Curlew, 53 Dunlin, 20 Sanderling, 36 Turnstone and a Purple Sandpiper (28th species of Wader in July).

It was also another good Tern movement this evening and saw 2 Roseate Tern, 146 Sandwich Tern, 2 Black Tern, 1782 Common Tern and 85 Arctic Tern go to roost.

After not being seen for a couple of days the White-rumped Sandpiper put in a brief appearance at Beacon ponds along with 4600 Dunlin and 1200 Knot.
Also in the area 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Little-ringed Plover, 4 Avocet, 1 Little Stint, 5 Greenshank, 10 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank and 2 Wood Sandpiper.

On the move over sea were 35 Common Scoter, 2 Manx Shearwater, 1 Fulmar, 50 Gannet, 5 Cormorant, 9 Kittiwake and 1 Arctic Skua while overland 1 Hobby, 105 Swift, 5 Sand Martin, 17 Swallow, 3 Flava wagtail and 1 Alba Wagtail. 

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Pintail, 9 Shoveler, 9 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Peregrine, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Barn Owl and 240 House Sparrow.

Ringing: Nil.

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Thursday, 27 July 2017

A changeable day with sunshine and showers a F3-4 W wind.
Sea Watches: 0530-1100, 1815-2030.

One of the highlights of the Spurn autumn (yes another one!) is the evening Tern movement when birds which have been feeding offshore make their way south past the seawatch hut to roost on the saltmarshes of the Lincolnshire coast. From late July onwards this can involve many thousand birds, with many also cutting across the triangle from the ponds across the Humber. The flocks have produced Red-necked Phalaropes, White-winged Black Tern and Sabine’s Gull caught up in the movement.

The first evening Tern roost produced 54 Sandwich Tern, 1145 Common Tern, 1 Arctic Tern and the first Roseate Tern which spent time on Kilnsea wetland before going south with it or another an hour or so later.

On the move over the sea were 1 Tufted Duck, 60 Common Scoter, 1 Great-crested Grebe, 1 Manx Shearwater, 117 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 37 Oystercatcher, 29 Knot, 3 Sanderling, 81 Dunlin, 3 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Curlew, 47 Whimbrel, 4 Redshank, 1 Green Sandpiper and 5 Turnstone.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Wigeon, 14 Teal, 1 Pintail, 7 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 28 Little Egret, 3 Grey Heron, 16 Mediterranean Gull while Waders on beacon ponds 120 Grey Plover, 800 Knot, 4000 Dunlin and 4 Greenshank and Kilnsea wetlands totals of 4 Avocet, 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Ruff and 2 Wood Sandpiper. 

Ringing: 5 Swallow pulli.

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Wednesday, 26 July 2017

Sunny spells and showers with a stiff F3-4 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1130, 1400-1645.

No sign so far of the White-rumped Sandpiper, but the juvenile White-winged Black Tern re-appeared on and off over the wetlands and Holderness field, so presumably spending most of its time over the sea or Humber.

A great day of Wader movement over the sea 134 Oystercatcher, 1 Golden Plover, 1 Grey Plover, 165 Knot, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit, 110 Dunlin, 44 Sanderling, 23 Redshank, 4 Curlew, 16 Whimbrel and 2 Green Sandpiper.

Grounded wader totals remained high with 6 Avocet, 600 Golden Plover, 120 Grey Plover, 600 Knot, 1 Ruff, 1 Spotted Redshank, 780 Redshank, 5 Greenshank, 1 Little Stint, 7000 Dunlin, 150 Curlew, 15 Whimbrel and 2 Wood Sandpiper.

Other species on the move over the sea were 20 Shelduck, 10 Teal, 318 Common Scoter, 1 Fulmar, 1 Manx Shearwater, 177 Gannet, 2 adult Pomarine Skua, 1 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 1 Kittiwake and 4 Auk sp.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Wigeon, 6 Teal, 1 Pintail, 1 Tufted Duck and 1 Mediterranean Gull on Kilnsea wetland.

Ringing: 2 Tree Sparrow pulli.

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Tuesday, 25 July 2017

A bright sunny start clouding up in the day with a F1-3 N wind.
Migration Watches: 0605-1115, 1500-1600.

With still 6 days to go in the month it has been a brilliant one for Waders in the whole area, but especialy so on Kilnsea wetlands. The number of species seen in July stands at around 27 (34 for the year so far), and has included some nice rare and scarce ones into the mix. We defintitely recommend visiting the wetlands and ponds area on any visit especially at high tide. 

A fantastic and interesting day saw a female Red-backed Shrike found behind Rose cottage, the first this year while the White-rumped Sandpiper remained on Kilnsea wetlands. The excitement continued with a juvenile WHITE-WINGED BLACK TERN gracing Kilnsea wetlands before heading off south (the 2nd this month). Late in the day the stunning adult AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER re-appeared, dropping in for a bathe, then flew off high north-west, as many of the 'resident' Golden Plover often do. 

Kilnsea wetlands and Beacon ponds area still held some good Wader totals with 12 Black-tailed Godwit, 130 Bar-tailed Godwit, 12 Whimbrel, 490 Knot, 1 Ruff, 1 Spotted Redshank, 780 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 1 Little Stint, 2900 Dunlin, 12 Sanderling and 3 Wood Sandpiper.

On the move over the sea were 1 Teal, 56 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 6 Fulmar, 16 Manx Shearwater, 151 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 9 Oystercatcher, 51 Dunlin, 10 Sanderling, Whimbrel, 2 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 9 Little Gull, 6 Kittiwake 30 Common Tern, 70 Sandwich Tern and 7 Auk sp.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 17 Teal, 1 Pintail, 1 Hobby, 18 little Egret and 1 Cuckoo all in the Beacon ponds area.

Ringing: 1 Robin, 1 Blue Tit.

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Monday, 24 July 2017

Rain all day sometimes light with a F3-2 N wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1130, 1500-1700.

The White-rumped Sandpiper is again on Kilnsea wetlands this morning. It seems to be in a pattern of being present in the mornings vanishing on to the Humber and re-appearing in the evenings.

Waders species in the same area were well represented with 1 Little Stint, 2 Greenshank, 12 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Spotted Redshank, 500 Redshank, 3 Wood Sandpiper, 1 Common Sandpiper while on the Humber 700 Knot.

On the move over sea were 343 Common Scoter, 16 Manx Shearwater, 3 Fulmar, 390 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 86 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 44 Knot, 40 Dunlin, 26 Sanderling, 1 Turnstone, 56 Little Gull, 13 Kittiwake, 6 Arctic Skua, 1 Guillemot, 30 Sandwich Tern and 32 Common Tern.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Wigeon, 13 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Shoveler, 1 Little Grebe and a Crossbill over Driftwood.

Just outside the recording area a male Crossbill was showing ridiculously well on the road at Skeffling.

Ringing: Nil.

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Sunday, 23 July 2017

A bright start with rain by late afternoon with a variable F1-2 SE-W-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0555-1130, 1415-1515.

The adult White-rumped Sandpiper was still present om Kilnsea wetlands in the morning, but like yesterday it disappeared, so may re-appear on the next high tide.

Kilnsea wetlands and Beacon ponds area also held some other interesting Waders with 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Little Stint, 1 Snipe, 4 Wood Sandpiper, 1 Green Sandpiper and 16 Common Sandpiper.
On the move over the sea were 2 Teal, 94 Common Scoter, 27 Manx Shearwater, 100 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 15 Whimbrel, 2 Arctic Skua, 14 Little Gull and 50 Sandwich Tern.

Still quiet overland with 208 Swift, 8 Sand Martin, 61 Swallow, 1 Alba Wagtail and 2 Flava Wagtail.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 3 Wigeon, 8 Teal, 1 Pintail, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Lapwing, a good count of 714 Golden Plover on the Humber, 7500 Dunlin, 156 Curlew, 10 Whimbrel, 3 Mediterranean Gull Kilnsea wetlands, 111 Little tern Beacon ponds and a Wheatear at the Point.

Ringing: 1 Sand Martin, 3 Swallow, 2 Meadow Pipit, 2 Dunnock pulli.

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Saturday, 22 July 2017

Early morning rain with the odd sunny spell, rain again later with a stiff F4-2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0545-1145.

An stunning adult AMERICAN GOLDEN PLOVER was on the Humber off the Warren, but flew off on the incoming tide while the adult White-rumped Sandpiper remains showing well on Kilnsea wetland.

Waders species in the same area were well represented with 2 Greenshank, 1 Spotted Redshank, 3 Wood Sandpiper, 3 Common Sandpiper while on the Humber 600 Knot, 7000 Dunlin, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 18 Whimbrel, 140 Curlew and 300 Redshank.

On the move over sea were 214 Common Scoter, 28 Manx Shearwater, 127 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 1 Red-throated Diver, 34 Oystercatcher, 1 Ringed Plover, 7 Knot, 4 Dunlin, 11 Sanderling, 2 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Curlew, 25 Whimbrel, 1 Common Sandpiper, 26 Little Gull, 1 Kittiwake, 2 Arctic Skua, 4 Auk sp, 2 Guillemot and 1 Puffin while the only birds overland on the move were 1 Swift, 40 Sand Martin and 2 Flava Wagtail.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Teal, 1 Short-eared Owl and 1 Cuckoo .

Ringing: Nil.

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Friday, 21 July 2017

Early morning rain with sunny spells and a stiff F4-2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0555-1030, 1600-1700.

An adult WHITE-RUMPED SANDPIPER is present on Kilnsea wetland with Dunlin showing well from the hide.

Other waders in the same area were 5 Avocet, 4 Sanderling, 1 Snipe, 2 Greenshank, 3 Wood Sandpiper, 1 Green Sandpiper and 2 Common Sandpiper while on the Humber 2000 Knot, 7500 Dunlin, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 20 Whimbrel, 130 Curlew, 250 Redshank and 13 Turnstone.

On the move over sea were 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 11 Common Scoter, 1 Manx Shearwater, 37 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 3 Knot, 9 Dunlin, 12 Redshank, 21 Whimbrel, 1 Green Sandpiper, 600 Little Gulloffshore from the seawatch hut, 3 Arctic Skua, 2 Kittiwake and 60 Sandwich Tern while the only birds overland on the move were 39 Swift and 3 Flava Wagtail.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 5 Teal, 1 Pintail, 18 Little Egret, 2 juvenile Yellow-legged Gulls at Chalk bank, 72 Little Tern Beacon ponds, 2 Cuckoo and 1 Chiffchaff.

Ringing: 1 Chiffchaff, 4 Tree Sparrow pulli.

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Thursday, 20 July 2017

A bright start with rain from 9am to mid-day brightening up again with a F1-3-1 N-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0500-1040.

Not much happening in terms of movement, but a fantastic list of varied species to keep the interest going, while there was a complete clearout of Waders after yesterdays 'fall'.

The most significant record of the day was a female Shoveler with 7 young on Beacon ponds, the 1st confirmed breeding record at Spurn.

Quiet over sea with 14 Teal, 2 Eider, 79 Common Scoter, 10 Manx Shearwater, 148 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 12 Oystercatcher, 8 Knot, 18 Dunlin, 1 Redshank, 26 Whimbrel, 5 Curlew, 6 Turnstone, 405 Little Gull, 14 Black-headed Gull, 16 Kittiwake, 60 Sandwich Tern while overland on the move were 1 Hobby, 173 Swift, 42 Sand Martin, 139 Swallow, 9 Flava Wagtail and 3 Alba Wagtail.

Other birds of note were 12 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 1 Pintail, 18 Little Egret, 2500 Dunlin Humber, 1 Ruff, 26 Sanderling, 1 Snipe, 190 Redshank, 15 Whimbrel, 130 Curlew, 1 Green Sandpiper, 1 Common Sandpiper, 2 Grey Partridge, juvenile Yellow-legged Gull, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 1 Cuckoo and 2 Corn Bunting.

Ringing: 8 Swallow, 1 Sedge Warbler, 1 Linnet.

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Wednesday, 19 July 2017

Early morning rain petered out leaving a mostly cloudy day with a F2-1 NNE wind.
Migration Watches: 

A fantastic day with a big overnight arrival of Waders, while there was also a decent movement over the sea.

Totals were particularly impressive on Kilnsea wetlands and Holderness field, but also on the Humber and retuned totals of 300 Grey Plover, 72 Sanderling, 10,000 Dunlin, 360 Knot, 1 Ruff, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Greenshank, 47 Whimbrel, 4 Wood Sandpiper, 2 Green Sandpiper, 37 Common Sandpiperand a summer plumaged Curlew Sandpiper while on the move over the sea were 216 Oystercatcher, 8 Dunlin, 78 Knot, 47 Redshank, 7 Curlew, 27 Whimbrel and 3 Turnstone.

Also moving over the sea were 3 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 2 Shoveler, 3 Tufted Duck, 2 Eider, 238 Common Scoter, 66 Manx Shearwater, 1 Fulmar, 288 Gannet, 15 Cormorant, 2 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 2 Little Gull, 8 Kittiwake, 170 Sandwich Tern, 23 Auk sp and 2 Guillemot.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 7 Teal, 1 Pintail, 1 Wigeon, 19 Little Egret, 3 little Gull, adult Yellow-legged Gull and 1 juvenile Cuckoo while 230 House Sparrow were counted, along with Tree Sparrow is still a common bird at Spurn.

Ringing: 2 Herring Gull pulli.

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Tuesday, 18 July 2017

Hazy sunshine, remaining hot with a F1-3 SE-E wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1015
A similar day to what we have been having the last few, but good numbers of Mediterranean Gulls on Kilnsea wetlands.

Quiet over sea and land with 30 Common Scoter, 17 Gannet, 1 Arctic Skua, 23 Swift, 10 Sand Martin, 26 Swallow, 2 Grey Wagtail and 7 Linnet the only birds of note.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 3 Teal, drake Common Scoter on Beacon ponds, 22 Little Egret, 1500 Dunlin Beacon ponds, 1 Greenshank, 18 Mediterranean Gull, 65 Little Tern Beacon ponds, 1 Short-eared Owl, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 7 Yellow Wagtail and 2 Cuckoo.

Ringing: 1 Cuckoo, 2 Swallow, 1 Dunnock.

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Monday, 17 July 2017

A hot day with just a light variable wind.

Migration Watches: 0540-1200, 1500-1630, 1800-2000.

Much the same as the last few days, but less movement over land and sea.

Moving were 164 Swift, 82 Sand Martin, 212 Swallow, 20 Flava Wagtail, 25 Alba Wagtail and 2 Grey Wagtail.

On the move over the sea were 68 Common Scoter, 42 Gannet, 2 Grey Plover, 7 Sanderling, 70 Dunlin, 1 Snipe in, 42 Redshank, 3 Whimbrel, 1 Turnstone and 30 Sandwich Tern.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 3 Teal, 1 Grey Partridge, 30 Little Egret and 4 Grey Heron on Kilnsea wetlands, 47 Knot, 3100 Dunlin, 1 Spotted Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 600 Starling and 2 Cuckoo.

Ringing: Nil

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Sunday, 16 July 2017

A cloudy damp start brightening up by the afternoon with a F2 SW-2-3 NE wind.
Migration Watches: 0450-1050.

Disappointing news that overnight a fox managed to get into the Tern colony and we are still assessing the damage that has been done.

A promising day for Swifts with 1585 logged, soon petered out with the wind changing direction, while also moving were 81 Sand Martin, 213 Swallow, 8 House Martin, 12 Flava Wagtail, 5 Alba Wagtail and 2 Grey Wagtail.
Moving over the sea were 3 Teal, 2 Wigeon, 2 Shoveler, 122 Common Scoter, 1 Velvet Scoter, 61 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 21 Oystercatcher, 10 Sanderling, 47 Dunlin, 1 Knot, 12 Redshank, 2 Curlew, 1 Common Sandpiper, 5 Arctic Skua, 22 Little Gull, 74 Kittiwake, 40 Sandwich Tern, 11 Auk sp and 1 Guillemot.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 16 Teal, 23 Little Egret, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 black-tailed Godwit, 140 Curlew Humber, 15 Whimbrel, 180 Redshank, 1 Spotted Redshank Kilnsea wetland, 1 Greenshank, 1 juvenile Cuckoo, Kingfisher at the warren and a Black Redstart at sammys.

Ringing: Nil.

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Saturday, 15 July 2017

Sunny spells with the odd light shower and a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0430-1935.

Another good day of Wader movement in particular the first big day of Whimbrel, while despite being poor overland an increase of Yellow Wagtail on the move heading south.

On the move were 29 Oystercatcher, 3 Golden Plover, 7 Sanderling, 135 Dunlin, 3 Knot, 30 Redshank, 3 Snipe, 13 Curlew, 118 Whimbrel and 1 Turnstone.
Also moving over the sea were 11 Shelduck, 2 Teal, 257 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 8 Manx Shearwater, 267 Gannet, 6 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 2 Arctic Skua, 108 Little Gull, 25 Sandwich Tern, 3 Common Tern, 2 Arctic Tern, 66 Auk sp, 17 Guillemot and 1 Puffin.

Quiet overland with 367 Swift, 78 Sand Martin, 7 Swallow, 31 Flava Wagtail, 18 Alba Wagtail, 5 Goldefinch and 38 Linnet. 

Other birds of note were 7 Teal and 1 Pintail on Kilnsea wetland, 3000 Dunlin, 120 Curlew Humber, 24 Whimbrel, 230 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 2 juvenile Cuckoo on the wing and the first ‘autumn’ Willow Warbler at the Warren.

Ringing: 1 Sand Martin, 1 Wren, 1 Blackbird, 1 Whitethroat.

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Friday, 14 July 2017

Mainly sunny with cloudy periods and a F3 NW-1 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0520-1200, 1050-1740, 1945-2010.

More Wader passage over the sea, but in lesser numbers than yesterday, while impressive numbers of Little Gull still graced the area.

On the move over the sea were 9 Teal, 1 Wigeon, 331 Common Scoter, 5 Red-throated Diver, 2 Manx Shearwater, 230 Gannet, 2 Fulmar, 7 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 89 Oystercatcher, 8 Dunlin, 4 Redshank, 4 Bar-tailed Godwit, 1 Black-tailed Godwit in, 9 Curlew in , 31 Whimbrel, 1 Green Sandpiper in, 266 Little Gull, 162 Black-headed Gull, 330 Kittiwake, 275 Auk sp, 1 razorbill and 6 Arctic Tern.

Overland were 2 Grey Heron, 1 Merlin, 1 Hobby, 253 Swift, 85 Sand Martin, 1 Alba Wagtail, 1 Grey wagtail, 6 Flava Wagtail, 1 Cuckoo and interestingly 5 Starling in/off the sea.

Other interesting sightings were 5 Teal, 1 Pintail, 1 Shoveler, 23 Little Egret, 1 Lapwing, 6 Black-tailed Godwit, 200 Redshank, 3000 Dunlin, 2 Greenshank, 7 Whimbrel and 1 Common Sandpiper. 

Ringing: 3 House Sparrow pulli.

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Thursday, 13 July 2017

Mainly sunny with variable amounts of cloud and a F2-4 W-SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0620-1530, 1700-1810.

The first real decent day of Wader movement over the sea brought totals of 112 Oystercatcher, 3 Avocet, 2 Knot, 4 Sanderling, 116 Dunlin, 65 Redshank, 22 Whimbrel, 5 Curlew and 1 Turnstone while the same conditions brought about a small movement of Duck with 60 Shelduck (32s, 28 out), 4 Wigeon in, 1 Tufted Duck and 171 Common Scoter. Wader passage should hopefully be a big feature of the next few weeks, but as always is weather dependent, but again can be quite an experience when big numbers and a lot of species are involved.

Also on the move over the sea were 1 Red-throated Diver, 8 Manx Shearwater, 1 Great-crested Grebe, 601 Gannet, 2 Fulmar, 18 Cormorant, 4 Arctic Skua, 2 Bonxie, 50 Little Gull, 200 Kittiwake, 21 Auk sp and 62 Sandwich Tern.

Overland were 786 Swift, 123 Sand Martin, 11 Flava Wagtail and 6 Grey Wagtail.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 5 Teal, 3 Gadwall, 1 Pintail, 23 Little Egret, male Marsh Harrier, 205 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 3 Mediterranean Gull all generally in the Kilnsea wetlands area, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker and a family party of 7 Long-tailed Tit at Sammys.

Ringing: 3 Swallow pulli.

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Wednesday, 12 July 2017

Plenty of warm sunshine after a cloudy start with a stiff F3 N-1 WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0450-1100, 1730-1830, 1900-2000.

The Buff-breasted Sandpiper was again present on Holderness field and Kilnsea wetland, after no sign yesterday, but at 8.55pm it flew off high NE.

Still good numbers of Little Gulls with 127 in the area and with ever increasing numbers of Waders with over 5200 Dunlin among other species now present plus 1 Little-ringed Plover and 2 Mediterranean Gull, Kilnsea wetlands and Beacon ponds is well worth a visit at the moment.

On the move over the sea were 4 Teal, 96 Common Scoter, 8 Red-throated Diver, 470 Gannet, 1 Fulmar, 47 Oystercatcher, 14 Sanderling, 6 Redshank, 3 Arctic Skua, 1 Skua sp, 6 Guillemot, 3 Razorbill, 1 Puffin and 7 Arctic Tern.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 3 Teal, 1 Pintail, 1 Tufted Duck, 19 Sanderling, 1 Greenshank, 16 Little Egret, 1 Marsh Harrier and juvenile Yellow-legged Gull on Easington lagoon.

Ringing: 1 Robin.

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Tuesday, 11 July 2017

Mainly cloudy with rain on and off with a light F1-2 W-NE wind.

Migration Watches: 0600-1515.

Despite seemingly being a less than ideal day, it didn’t deter 4875 Swift going south, the biggest count this summer. The same conditions no doubt dropped in the 17 Common Sandpiper on the Borrow pit, while the first juvenile Yellow-legged Gull of the summer flew south over the Humber.

Moving over the sea were 10 Common Scoter, 1 Eider, 1 Red-throated Diver, 45 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 7 Oystercatcher, 4 Knot in, 2 Redshank, 1 Arctic Skua, 5 Auk sp, 14 Guillemot and 1 Razorbill. 

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 14 Teal, 1 Pintail all on Kilnsea wetland, 1 Tufted duck, 22 Little Egret, 5 Grey Heron, 454 Golden Plover Humber, 3500 Dunlin, 156 Curlew Humber, 10 Whimbrel, 158 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 9 Black-tailed Godwit, 2 Mediterranean Gull, 85 Little Gull, 16 Common Tern and 3 Arctic Tern Beacon ponds.

Ringing: 1 Whitethroat.

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Monday, 10 July 2017

Sunny spells with plenty of cloud with heavy rain late evening and a stiff F1-2 NNW-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1140.

The Buff-breasted Sandpiper is still present on Holderness field.

On the move over the sea were 172 Common Scoter, 47 Gannet, 1 Fulmar, 8 Cormorant, 1 Oystercatcher, 1 Curlew in , 1 Whimbrel, 2 Arctic Skua and 9 Auk sp.

Overland were 411 Swift with another 400+ blogging around the area, 43 Sand Martin, 2 Alba Wagtail.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 18 Teal, 4 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 21 Little Egret, male Marsh Harrier, 2 Little-ringed Plover, 7 Avocet, 2 Black-tailed Godwit, 123 Redshank, 2000 Dunlin, 30 Knot, 1 Greenshank, 1 Green Sandpiper, 2 Common Sandpiper, 4 Mediterranean Gull all generally in the Kilnsea wetlands area and a mobile Great-spotted Woodpecker. 

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 1 Blackbird, 1 Blackcap, 1 Blue Tit, 7 Tree Sparrow.

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Sunday, 09 July 2017

The Buff-breasted Sandpiper was present all day. Early morning on Kilnsea wetland then mainly on Holderness field occasionally showing very well.

On the move over the sea were 2 Teal, 27 Shelduck, 3 Tufted Duck, 88 Common Scoter, 42 Gannet, 2 Oystercatcher, 16 Golden Plover, 19 Dunlin, 3 Sanderling, 8 Redshank, 2 Greenshank, 9 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Curlew, 7 Whimbrel, 21 Little Gull, 78 Kittiwake and 14 Auk.

On the move overland 311 Swift, 3 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 82 Sand Martin, 17 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 4 Grey Wagtail, 2 Alba wagtail, 3 Flava Wagtail, 1 Siskin and 1 Yellowhammer. 

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Wigeon, 2 Little-ringed Plover, 1300 Dunlin, 2 Greenshank, 14 Whimbrel Humber, 2 Mediterranean Gull, adult Yellow-legged Gull and a Kingfisher mobile around the triangle.

Ringing: 1 Herring Gull pulli, 1 Kingfisher, 1 Grey Wagtail, 1 Pied Wagtail, 2 Robin pulli, 3 Sedge Warbler (2 pulli), 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Whitethroat, 1 Blackcap, 2 Linnet (1 pulli), 6 Tree Sparrow pulli. (21 of 12 species).

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Saturday, 08 July 2017

A beautiful warm day with lots of sunshine and little cloud.

Late in the day a superb BUFF-BREASTED SANDPIPER was found on Kilnsea wetland with a juvenile Little-ringed Plover for company. It gave great views from the carpark in the evening.
Also here were the Spoonbill which flew off towards the Humber during the morning and did not return and 34 stunning Black-tailed Godwit.

Quiet overland with 50 Swift, 6 Sand Martin, 1 Flava Wagtail and 3 Alba Wagtail.

On the move over the sea were 35 Common Scoter, 1 Red throated Diver, 1 Fulmar, 1 Manx Shearwater, 102 Gannet, 6 Cormorant, 1 Golden Plover in, 4 Dunlin, 1 Snipe, 4 Whimbrel, 4 Curlew in, 133 Kittiwake, 11 Sandwich Tern, 61 Auk sp, 26 Guillemot and 1 Razorbill.

Other birds of note were 3 Gadwall, 3 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 4 Grey Partridge, 28 Little Egret and 7 Grey Heron on Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Marsh Harrier over Long bank, 60 Grey Plover, 300 Golden Plover, 40 Knot, 1500 Dunlin, 1 Greenshank, 10 Mediterranean Gull including the first 2 juveniles, adult Little Gull, an impressive 136 Little Tern on Beacon Ponds, 1 Short eared Owl still around Long bank and a food begging juvenile Cuckoo in Church field.

Ringing: 4 Ringed Plover pulli, 2 Avocet pulli, 27 Little Tern pulli.

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Friday, 07 July 2017

A nice sunny warm day with occasional cloud and a F1-2 WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1900.

A decent day of movement over land and sea began with an unexpected summer surprise with a vocal Hawfinch at Kew early morning, which then flew off north. The Spoonbill remained on Kilnsea wetland and Holderness field occasionally visiting the Humber.

Moving over the sea were 23 Shelduck, 13 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 236 Common Scoter, 1 Eider, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 76 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 3 Oystercatcher, 13 Dunlin, 1 Ruff in, 1 Snipe in, 12 Whimbrel, 19 Curlew, 4 Redshank, 73 Little Gull in/off, 23 Kittiwake, 5 Common Tern, 5 Arctic Tern, 45 Auk sp, 14 Guillemot and 1 Razorbill. 
Overland the sightings were 1 Hobby, 1500 Swift, 3 Grey Wagtail, 7 Alba Wagtail, 4 Flava Wagtail, 289 Sand Martin, 27 Swallow, 8 House Martin and 145 Starling.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 10 Greylag Geese, 6 Teal, 3 Shoveler, 26 Little Egret, 300 Golden Plover Humber, 1500 Dunlin, 116 Curlew Humber, 5 Whimbrel, 68 Redshank, 2 Greenshank, 6 adult Mediterranean Gull, 4 adult Little Gull and a Crossbill in the Westmere farm area.

Ringing: 1 Sedge Warbler pulli, 1 Whitethroat, 1 Blackcap, 1 Blue Tit, 1 House Sparrow.

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Thursday, 06 July 2017

A warm sunny sometimes humid day with occasional cloud, rain by late evening with thunder and lightning and a F2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1100.
A better day in general for movement over the sea, and further increases in Wader numbers on the Humber.

No sign of the White-winged Black Tern after its 7 day stay, but the Spoonbill remained showing well at Kilnsea wetland.

Moving over the sea were 11 Shelduck, 20 Teal, 3 Tufted Duck, 913 Common Scoter, 4 Eider, 104 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 5 Oystercatcher, 52 Dunlin, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 7 Bar-tailed Godwit, 9 Whimbrel, 1 curlew, 21 Redshank, 1 Pomarine Skua, 2 Arctic Skua, 1 Bonxie, 3 Little Gull, 104 Black-headed Gull, 10 Kittiwake, 14 sandwich tern, and 2 Mediterranean Gull. 
Overland the only sightings were 142 Swift, 2 Flava Wagtail, 11 Sand Martin and 2 House Martin.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Wigeon, 11 Teal, 1 Gadwall, 5 Shoveler, 29 Little Egret, 350 Golden Plover Humber, 1000+ Dunlin, 5 Whimbrel, 81 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 5 adult Mediterranean Gull and 4 adult Little Gull.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 1 Wren, 1 Sedge Warbler pulli, 4 Whitethroat, 6 Great Tit (5 pulli). (13 of 5 species).

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Wednesday, 05 July 2017

Mainly cloudy with some sunny periods and some late drizzle with a F2 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1200, 1515-1545.

The White-winged Black tern is still present for its 7th day, remaining faithful to the Kilnsea wetlands area, venturing to Beacon ponds and Holderness field on occasions.
Late in the day an adult Spoonbill dropped into Kilnsea wetlands joining the 10 Little Egret.

Nearby a male Marsh Harrier was patrolling the fields and a Short-eared Owl was still in the area.

On the move over the sea were 4 Teal, 386 Common Scoter, 88 Gannet, 1 Fulmar, 5 Cormorant, 4 Redshank, 1 Whimbrel, 13 Auk sp, 3 Guillemot.

Overland were 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 1672 Swift, 51 Sand Martin, 7 Swallow, 6 House Martin, 2 Flava Wagtail and 1 Grey Wagtail.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 1 Wigeon, Teal, 8 Shoveler, 9 Gadwall in the Kilnsea wetlands area, 200 Golden Plover, 850 Dunlin, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 200 Redshank, 1 Green Sandpiper, 3 Mediterranean Gull, 2 Little Gull Humber and 1 Corn Bunting in the Traingle . 

Ringing: 3 Dunnock pulli, 3 Great Tit.

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Tuesday, 04 July 2017

Another cloudy day with some drizzle and the odd glimpse of the sun with a F2-1 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0545-1200. 

The now long staying adult White-winged Black Tern is still gracing us with its presence mainly on Holderness field today.

Wader numbers on the Humber are still on the increase with 250 Golden Plover, 120 Bar-tailed Godwit, 450 Dunlin, 3 Whimbrel and 40 Curlew while more were on the move over the sea.

Moving over the sea were 7 Shelduck, 5 Teal, 149 Common Scoter, 2 Great-crested Grebe, 4 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Northern Diver, 1 Golden Plover, 5 Whimbrel, 16 Redshank, 22 Gannet, 22 Kittiwake and 2 Arctic Tern. 
Overland the only sightings were 440 Swift, 4 Flava Wagtail, 7 House Martin and 67 Sand Martin.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Geese, 2 Wigeon, 3 Shoveler, 6 Grey Heron, 1 Little-ringed Plover Kilnsea wetland, 1 Greenshank, the 1st juvenile Sandwich Tern, 1 Short-eared Owl and 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker.

Ringing: Nil

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Monday, 03 July 2017

Cloudy day with just the odd sunny spell or drizzle with a F2-1 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0555-1730. 

The day began like it was going to be a good Swift day, but it soon slowed. Over the sea Black-tailed Godwit were arriving and the first juvenile Golden Plover was seen.

The adult White-winged Black Tern was still floating about Kilnsea wetlands and Beacon ponds, with occasional viits to Holderness field.

Moving over the sea were 70 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Golden Plover, 5 Whimbrel, 41 Redshank in/off, 72 Black-tailed Godwit in/off, 1 Whimbrel in/off, 17 Gannet, 21 Cormorant and 2 Mediterranean Gull. 
Overland the only sightings were 1627 Swift, 2 Flava Wagtail, 3 Alba Wagtail, 2 Grey Wagtail, 1 Tree Pipit and 178 Sand Martin.

Other birds of note were 1 Brent Goose, 2 Wigeon, 3 Shoveler, 1 Coot Kilnsea wetland, 6 Grey Heron, 1 Marsh Harrier, juvenile Little-ringed Plover Kilnsea wetland, juvenile Golden Plover Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Ruff, 14 Black-tailed Godwit, 25 Redshank, 3 Greenshank, 101 Little Tern Beacon ponds, juvenile Wheatear Kilnsea wetland, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker and 2 Corn Bunting Long bank.

Ringing: Nil

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Sunday, 02 July 2017

Sunny spells with a cool F2 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1200.

The adult White-winged Black Tern was still present and showing well all day.

Also today a Black Redstart was at Sandy beaches and there was an interesting infux of juvenile Duck into the area.

Quiet for birds on the move over the sea were 52 Common Scoter, 22 Gannet, 2 Fulmar, 1 Cormorant, 1 Spotted Redshank and 1 Bonxie.

Overland was equally quiet with 58 Swift, 53 Sand Martin, 5 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 4 Alba Wagtail, 1 Jackdaw and 3 Siskin.

Other interesting sightings were 2 Wigeon, 8 Shoveler, 1 Pintail, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Peregrine, 300 Dunlin, 57 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 88 Curlew, 2 Whimbrel, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 4 Mediterranean Gull, 13 Little Gull on Beacon ponds, 1 Yellow-legged Gull by the Tank block and 2 Cuckoo around Kilnsea.

Ringing: Nil.

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Saturday, 01 July 2017

A much better day with plenty of sunshine and a F1-3 NW-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0545-1200.

The adult White-winged Black Tern continued to entertain on Kilnsea wetlands and Beacon ponds.

On the move over the sea were 7 Teal, 55 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Fulmar, 45 Gannet, 4 Golden Plover in, 18 Curlew, 1 Kittiwake, 3 Razorbill and 34 Auk.
Overland an Osprey flew north.

Decent numbers of waders on the Humber with 60 Golden Plover, 162 Grey Plover, 4 Whimbrel, 116 Bar-tailed Godwit, 7 Redshank and 210 Knot.
Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose, 4 Wigeon, adult Mediterranean Gull, 9 Little Gull, 1 Short-eared Owl, juvenile Stonechat in Clubleys, juvenile Wheatear at Kilnsea wetlands, 10 swift and 2 Cuckoo.

Good numbers of dragonfly on the wing with 3 Ruddy Darter and 1 Broad-bodied Chaser the best while 80 Red Admiral and 30 Ringlet were the best of large numbers of Butterfly.

Ringing: 1 Blue Tit.

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Friday, 30 June 2017

Mostly cloudy with the odd sunny spell, rain again late evening and a F1-3 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1130, 1445-1515, 1800-1900.

The adult White-winged Black Tern still present on Kilnsea wetlands and Beacon ponds showing well all day. The first that has been 'resident' more than a day.

On the move over the sea were 1 Gadwall, 4 Eider, 15 Common Scoter, 3 Fulmar, 53 Gannet, 16 Whimbrel, 4 Little Gull in, 1 Bonxie, 13 Sandwich Tern, 1 Common Tern and 2 Auk sp while 78 Swift, 6 Sand Martin, 5 Swallow, 5 House Martin and 1 Alba went south overland.

Other interesting sightings were 4 Wigeon, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Little-ringed Plover, 39 Golden Plover Humber, adult Curlew Sandpiper Beacon ponds, 2 Common Sandpiper, 5 Mediterranean Gull, 10 Little Gull, 1 Grey wagtail and 1 Siskin.

3 Hummingbird Hawkmoth were in Kilnsea.

Ringing: 1 Great Tit.

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Thursday, 29 June 2017

Low cloud all day with some light rain and drizzle with a light variable wind.
Sea Watches: 0555-1355, 1440-1600.
The calmer conditions brought about a big movement of species over the sea. 

A rather nice adult White-winged Black Tern flew north over the Humber settling on Kilnsea Wetlands for the afternoon, showing very well at times. Video below.

On the move over the sea were 36 Teal, 1336 Common Scoter, 3 Eider, 8 Tufted Duck, 280 Gannet, 11 Fulmar, 37 Kittiwake, 2 Arctic Skua, 1 Pomarine Skua, 1 Long-tailed Skua, 10 Sandwich Tern, 62 Auk sp, 2 Razorbill and 4 Guillemot.
It was also the first decent day for southerly wader movement with 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 40 Curlew, 17 Redshank and 1 Greenshank. 

Other interesting sightings were 5 Wigeon, 15 Teal and 1 Tufted Duck Kilnsea wetlands, 38 Common Scoter and 2 Eider on the Humber, 1 Grey Heron, 13 Little Egret, 2 Whimbrel, a male Ruff Kilnsea wetlands, 80 Black-tailed Godwit in the triangle, 1 Snipe, 43 Sanderling and 22 Turnstone at the point, 7 Little Gull, 140 black-headed Gull Beacon ponds, 20 Swift, 1 Cuckoo and a Crossbill flying north. 

Ringing: 2 Barn Owl pulli.

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Wednesday, 28 June 2017

An awful day with heavy rain and increasing a F3-6 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0830-1130.

The horrible wet and windy conditions led to water pouring in Beacon ponds and only time will tell as to what effect it has on the breeding Little Terns.
Very few observers about in the afternoon, having left to try see the Albatross at Bempton.

On the move over the sea were 58 Common Scoter, 3 Manx Shearwater, 1 Fulmar, 104 Gannet, 2 Arctic Skua, 10 sandwich Tern and 1 Guillemot.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose Kilnsea wetlands, 4 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 1 Eider Beacon ponds, 55 Black-tailed Godwit Holderness field, 1 Little Gull and a Crossbill at Kew.

Ringing: Nil

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Tuesday, 27 June 2017

Cloudy all day with rain from late evening and a stiff F2-3 WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0620-1115.

Carrying on from yesterday wader numbers remained high with 2 Little-ringed Plover, 300 Grey Plover, 94 Knot, 300 Dunlin, 150 Bar-tailed Godwit, 3 Whimbrel and 18 Curlew. A partial albino Sanderling was on Beacon ponds.

On the move over the sea were 452 Common Scoter, 1 Tufted Duck, 8 Oystercatcher, 4 Curlew, 1 Whimbrel, 105 Gannet, 1 Fulmar, 9 Cormorant, 15 Kittiwake, 3 Arctic Skua, 10 Sandwich Tern, 1 Arctic Tern, 25 Auk sp.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose Kilnsea wetlands, 4 Wigeon, 5 Grey Heron, 13 Little Egret, adult Mediterranean Gull Kilnsea wetlands and adult Yellow-legged Gull by the tank blocks. 

1 Hummingbird Hawkmoth in the Crown area.

Ringing: 1 Wren, 1 Tree Sparrow.

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Monday, 26 June 2017

Long sunny spells with a F1-2 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1100.

An interesting record was of a pair of White Wagtail on Kilnsea wetlands with a juvenile, while a juvenile Wheatear at Beacon ponds was the first returning migrant and a Crossbill was in Kilnsea.

The number of waders on the Humber and Beacon ponds at high tide are still slowly increasing with totals of 14 Golden Plover, 302 Grey Plover, 90 Knot, 330 Dunlin, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 1 Redshank and 18 Curlew. The next few weeks should see the numbers increasing into the thousands with some big days of movement offshore. Mid July onwards is a great time to find rare waders amongst the throng.
On the move over the sea were 90 Gannet, 1 Bonxie, 2 Kittiwake, 12 Sandwich Tern, 4 Auk sp and 1 Guillemot while overland only 5 Sand Martin were noted

Other interesting sightings were 1 Brent Goose Kilnsea wetlands, 4 Wigeon, 6 Grey Heron, 19 Little Egret, 1 Hobby mobile about the area (Blogging as we call it), the first juvenile Great-spotted Woodpecker and 3 Siskin in Churchfield.

2 Hummingbird Hawkmoth were in the area.

Ringing: 1 Great Tit, 2 House Sparrow.

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Sunday, 25 June 2017

Dry with sunny spells and a F3-4 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0510-1000, 1430-1500. 

The sea kept the interest going while Kilnsea wetlands, was still pulling in good numbers of waders.

Over the sea were 6 Teal, 54 Common Scoter, 18 Manx Shearwater, 4 Fulmar, 149 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 17 Curlew, 4 Redshank, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 24 Kittiwake, 97 Auk sp, 11 Puffin, 60 Guillemot, 10 Razorbill and 15 Sandwich Tern. 
On the move today were 12 Swift and 2 House Martin.

Other bits of interest were 1 Brent Goose, 3 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 16 Little Egret, 5 Grey Heron, 1 Hobby blogging, 4 Mediterranean Gull, 217 Grey Plover, 1 Lapwing, 2 Little-ringed Plover Easington lagoon, 1 Common Sandpiper, 170 Dunlin, 1 Snipe, 5 Black-tailed Godwit Kilnsea wetland, 2 Whimbrel, 1 Short-eared Owl, 2 Cuckoo and 1 Corn Bunting at Easington Lagoon.

Ringing: 1 Whitethroat, 1 Blue Tit.

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Saturday, 24 June 2017

Sunny spells and a stiff F3-4 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0425-1200. 

Decent again over the sea, but yet again poor overland. The highlight was stolen by a Dragonfly, the 2nd Hairy Hawker for Spurn, following on from the 1st in May.

Moving over the sea were 61 Common Scoter, 60 Manx Shearwater, 2 Fulmar, 240 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 1 Whimbrel, 1 Arctic Skua, 37 Kittiwake, 20 Sandwich Tern, 11 Guillemot, 6 Puffin and 252 Auk sp. 
Overland the only sightings were 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Hobby, 298 Swift and 1 Sand Martin.

Other birds of note were 5 Brent Geese, 4 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 16 Little Egret, 2 Little-ringed Plover Kilnsea wetland, 163 Grey plover, 200 Knot, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 48 Curlew, 4 Redshank and 5 Mediterranean Gull (3 ad, 2x 1stS) on Beacon Ponds and 3 Cuckoo in the area.

Also seen today were a Red-veined Darter and 25+ Azure Damselfly plus 4 Large Skipper, 6 Painted Lady, 30+ Red Admiral and good numbers of all the commoner species.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 2 Robin, 1 Blackbird, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Great Tit.

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Friday, 23 June 2017

Early rain petered out but remained cloudy with a F2-3 WSW wind.
Migration Watches: 0420-1200, 1345-1415, 1505-1740. 

A better selection of species on the move over the sea, but terrible overland, but included a Wood Sandpiper flying south singing as it went. Good numbers of Waders on Beacon ponds and the Humber.

Over the sea were 1 Greylag Goose, 6 Canada Geese, 7 Shelduck, 5 Teal in/off, 2 Tufted Duck, 16 Common Scoter, 1 Manx Shearwater, 1 Fulmar, 120 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 17 Curlew, 4 Redshank, 5 Mediterranean Gull, 118 Black-headed Gull, 1 Arctic Skua, 6 Kittiwake, 14 Auk sp, 7 Guillemot, 8 Razorbill, and 12 Sandwich Tern. 
On the move today were 1 Little-ringed Plover, 290 Swift and 2 House Martin.

Other bits of interest were 1 Brent Goose, 52 Mallard, 19 Little Egret, 2 Grey Heron, 2 Lapwing, 86 Grey Plover, 198 Dunlin, 250 Knot, 148 Curlew Humber, 12 Black-tailed Godwit and 1 Barn Owl while a (late?) Spotted Flycatcher was at the Warren. 

Ringing: 1 Avocet pulli, 1 Great Tit, 7 Tree Sparrow pulli.

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Thursday, 22 June 2017

Cloudy all morning with some rain mid afternoon clearing by the evening and a F3 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0545-1200, 1400-1620, 1700-1940. 

Some decent overland movement with an unseasonal Tree Pipit thrown in.

Moving over the sea were 10 Common Scoter, 6 Manx Shearwater, 1 Fulmar, 26 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 2 Mediterranean Gull, 4 Kittiwake, 29 Sandwich Tern and 21 Auk sp. 
Overland were 1 male Marsh Harrier, 1 Osprey, 2 Hobby, 2137 Swift, 4 Flava Wagtail, 1 Alba Wagtail, 1 Tree Pipit 16 Sand Martin, 18 Swallow and 18 House Martin.

Other birds of note were 3 Wigeon, 10 Teal, 42 Mallard, 1 Whimbrel, 1 Little Gull on Beacon Ponds and 1 Yellow-legged Gull Humber.

Good numbers of Butterfly about with lots of Red Admiral, Ringlet and Meadow Brown plus 2 Large Skipper.

Ringing: 1 Blackcap, 2 Whitethroat (1 pulli), 2 Great Tit, 1 House Sparrow, 17 Tree sparrow. (23 of 5 species).

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Wednesday, 21 June 2017

A cooler day with hazy sunshine and a F2 E wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1030, 1400-1500. 

A typically slow summertime day, with bits of everything, but no real movement or change.

Moving over the sea were 10 Eider, 36 Common Scoter, 8 Manx Shearwater, 1 Fulmar, 27 Gannet, 11 Cormorant, 10 Sandwich Tern, 2 Auk sp and 3 Guillemot. 
Overland were 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Hobby, 10 Swift and 3 Flava Wagtail.

Other birds of note were 3 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 2 Grey Partridge, 1 Little-ringed Plover, 135 Bar-tailed Godwit, 6 Avocet with 3 young, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 2 Little Gull, 1 Yellow-legged Gull, 2 ad and 4 juvenile Blackcap at Rose cottage.

Ringing: 5 Blackbird pulli, 1 Dunnock, 1 Blue Tit.

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Tuesday, 20 June 2017

A foggy start which never really cleared with a F2 ESE wind.
Migration Watches: 1030-1430. 
A poor day due to the weather, with little birding till late on the morning.

Quiet over the sea with 67 Common Scoter, 36 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 1 Arctic Tern and 22 Sandwich Tern and 1 Guillemot while overland 18 Swift, 1 Sand Martin, 14 Swallow and 3 House Martin.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, the first returning Green Sandpiper, 74 Dunlin, 1 Cuckoo while a pair of Chiffchaff were at Sammys with 1+ Juveniles.

A Broad-bodied chaser was in Churchfield.

Ringing: 1 Blackcap, 1 Blue Tit.

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Monday, 19 June 2017

Another hot sunny day without a cloud in the sky until late afternoon with a F1 variable wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1200. 

In line with other movements along the coast in the last week or so, plenty of Common Scoter on the move today. A colour ringed Little Egret was present on Kilnsea wetlands, red on left leg with letter F and Yellow on right with an N.

Moving over the sea were 4 Eider, 713 Common Scoter (with 313 over the sea and 400 over the Humber), 8 Manx Shearwater, 7 Cormorant, 1 Curlew in/off. 
Overland were 1 Common Buzzard, 325 Swift, 1 Flava wagtail, 1 Alba Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail, 13 Sand Martin, 25 Swallow, 4 House Martin, 2 Siskin and 3 Corn Bunting.

Other birds of note were 5 Wigeon, 59 Mallard, 235 Grey Plover, 74 Dunlin, 5 Redshank, 3x 1st summer Little Gull on Beacon ponds and 1 Cuckoo.

Good numbers of Meadow Brown were on the wing 30+ with also Ringlets and Speckled Woods in good numbers.

Ringing: 1 Song Thrush, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Whitethroat, 1 Chiffchaff.

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Sunday, 18 June 2017

Another bright sunny day with very little cloud and a F1 variable wind.
Migration Watches: 0410-1100, 1215-1345. 

While some Arctic bound wader species have only left to breed a few weeks ago, the numbers of returning waders are slowly increasing. Many people find it strange, being so early in the season, but some females of some species such as Curlew leave there chicks soon after hatching with the male, to guard over them while they return to wintering areas.

Quiet over the sea with 16 Common Scoter, 38 Shelduck, 1 Gannet, 2 Fulmar, 11 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 3 Cormorant and 53 Sandwich Tern and 1 Auk sp while also little on the move overland 170 Swift, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 4 House Martin and 1 Corn Bunting.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, 296 Grey Plover, 9 Golden Plover, 1 Snipe, 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 3 Redshank and 2 Whimbrel, 1 Short-eared Owl, 1 Barn Owl and 3 Cuckoo.

Fantastic numbers of Azure Damselfly on the wing with 50+ seen today, plus good numbers of other Dragonflies and Butterflies while a generally unwelcome visitor to the area, a Grey Squirrel was in Kilnsea.

Ringing: 1 Wren, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Great Tit.

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Saturday, 17 June 2017

The hottest day of the year, with plenty of sunshine and high wispy clouds with a F1 NW-SE wind..
Migration Watches: 0425-1030. 

Another quiet day, but the first beginnings of waders on the move south began. Finding out the origin of 10 Bar-headed Geese which included 2 juveniles mobile in the area today would be interesting.

On the move today were 3 Grey Heron, 1 Marsh Harrier, 54 Swift, 13 Sand Martin, 7 Swallow.

Over the sea were 3 Tufted Duck, 8 Shelduck, 60 Common Scoter, 1 Fulmar, 27 Gannet, 8 Cormorant, 2 Dunlin, 15 Knot, 1 Snipe on/off, 2 Whimbrel, 1 Curlew, adult Mediterranean Gull, 11 Black-headed Gull, 1 Kittiwake and 20 Sandwich Tern. 

Other bits of interest were 2 Wigeon, 62 Mallard, 5 Grey Heron, 1 Little-ringed Plover and 1 Short-eared Owl. 

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 2 Great Tit, 2 House Sparrow (1 pulli).

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Friday, 16 June 2017

Another hot sunny day with sporadic cloudy periods.
Migration Watches: 0520-1500. 

A steady day, but good numbers of Waders remain in the area.

On the move today were 3 Grey Heron, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Red Kite, 1 Common Buzzard, 215 Swift, 15 Sand Martin, 20 Swallow and 17 House Martin.
Over the sea were 5 Tufted Duck, 242 Common Scoter, 10 Manx Shearwater, 2 Fulmar, 61 Gannet, 8 Cormorant, 1 Kittiwake, 30 Sandwich Tern, 1 Arctic Tern, 23 Auk sp and 6 Guillemot. 

Other bits of interest were 3 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 18 Little Egret, 162 Oystercatcher, 88 Bar tailed Godwit, 4 Lapwing, 200 Grey Plover, 3 Golden Plover, 8 Sanderling, 3 Curlew, 1 Whimbrel, 4 Redshank, 1 Short-eared Owl, 2 Cuckoo and a Mistle Thrush in the Triangle. 

Ringing: 2 Blue Tit.

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Thursday, 15 June 2017

Warm sunny day with an increasing F1-3 W-WSW wind.

Migration Watches: 0520-1700.

The highlight of viz-migging was a Great-white Egret which flew south at noon. The 3rd this spring.

Also moving overland were 3 Hobby, 3012 Swift, 53 Sand Martin, 53 Swallow, 17 House Martin, 16 Goldfinch, 14 Linnet, 3 Siskin and a male Bullfinch,.

On the move over the sea were 112 Common Scoter, 2 Fulmar, 29 Gannet, 1 Auk sp and 32 Sandwich Tern.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 48 Mallard, 7 Gadwall, 1 Tufted Duck Kilnsea wetlands, 5 Grey Partridge, 70 Oystercatcher, 1 Lapwing, 4 Golden Plover, 45 Grey Plover, 123 Bar tailed Godwit, 50 Knot, 150 Dunlin, 1 Greenshank and 1 Short eared Owl.

Ringing: 5 Tree Sparrow pulli.

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Wednesday, 14 June 2017

Hot and sunny most of the day with an increasing F1-3 SSE wind.

Migration Watches: 0515-1530.

Moving overland were 1 Hobby, 1 Lapwing, 506 Swift, 51 Sand Martin, 11 Swallow, 37 House Martin, 12 Linnet and 1 Yellowhammer.

On the move over the sea were 144 Common Scoter, 2 Fulmar, 37 Gannet, 16 Cormorant and 36 Sandwich Tern.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, 12 Teal, 4 Gadwall, 4 Tufted Duck Kilnsea wetlands, 4 Grey Heron, 1 Peregrine, 98 Oystercatcher, 71 Grey Plover, 93 Bar tailed Godwit, 12 Knot, 40 Dunlin, 2 Curlew, 2 Whimbrel, 1 Short eared Owl, 1 Mistle Thrush triangle and 1 Corn Bunting by Easington lagoon while late? migrants were seen with a Chiffchaff at Sammys and a Spotted Flycatcher at the Warren.

Ringing: 1 Wren

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Tuesday, 13 June 2017

A hot humid day with plenty of early sunshine clouding up later with a F1 W-WNW wind.

Migration Watches: 0510-1040.

A few decent bits about today with 10 Crossbill mobile around the area, while a male Blue-headed Wagtail was on Holderness field then flew off north.
The ongoing breeding census continued producing some good results with 1 Cuckoo, a juvenile Pied Wagtail in Easington, 21 singing Reed Warbler, 2 Blackcap with juveniles at Rose cottage, 3 Long tailed Tit inc 1 juvenile in canal hedge and 400+ Starling in the area.

Moving overland were 3 Swift, 2 Sand Martin and 13 House Martin.

On the move over the sea were 35 Common Scoter, 26 Manx Shearwater, 4 Fulmar, 96 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 50 Kittiwake, 448 Auk sp and 6 Sandwich Tern.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 4 Tufted Duck, 162 Oystercatcher, 60 Grey Plover, 43 Bar tailed Godwit, 2 Whimbrel, 12 Knot, 85 Dunlin, 11 Sanderling,1st summer Mediterranean Gull, Short eared Owl

Ringing: 1 Wood Pigeon, 2 Barn Owl pulli, 1 Dunnock pulli, 1 Robin, 1 Blue Tit, 1 House Sparrow, 1 Tree Sparrow pulli.

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Monday, 12 June 2017

The Red-necked Phalarope is still in the Beacon Ponds area this morning while upto 0730 over 2000 Swift had flown south.

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Sunday, 11 June 2017

Sunny spells with a stiffening F2-4 SW wind.

Migration Waltches: 0435-1330, 1430-1935

A female Red-necked Phalarope was the highlight of the day, first found on Easington Lagoons it flew to Holderness Field where it showed well for the rest of the afternoon. Also a Quail (first of the year) was flushed from the path around Beacon Ponds.

Viz-migging was productive with the first decent Swift movement plus a few other bits to keep some interest going. Moving were 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Red Kite, 1 Hobby, 5 Collared Dove, 1 Stock Dove, 6 Sand Martin, 1170 Swift, 20 Swallow, 3 House Martin, 1 Grey Wagtail, 7 Goldfinch, 78 Linnet and 3 Siskin.

On the move over the sea were 7 Canada Geese, 4 Tufted Duck, 8 Common Scoter, 2 Manx Shearwater, 2 Fulmar, 4 Gannet, 24 Black headed Gull, 30 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 12 Common Gull, 1 Common Tern, 15 Sandwich Tern, 10 Auk sp and 2 Guillemot.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, 5 Gadwall, 4 Teal and 2 Tufted Duck Kilnsea wetlands, 3 Golden Plover, 57 Grey Plover, 50 Oystercatcher and 150 Bar tailed Godwit at Chalk Bank while a Corn Bunting is still in the Easington lagoon area.

Ringing: 3 Little Owl pulli

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Saturday, 10 June 2017

Heavy rain till mid morning then drizzle, dry after mid-day with a F3-4 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0520-1230. 

Moving over the sea were 4 Teal, 39 Common Scoter, 2 Fulmar, 8 Manx Shearwater, 60 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 16 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 2 Arctic Tern, 9 Sandwich Tern, 101 Auk sp, 81 Guillemot, 32 Razorbill and 1 Puffin, while the few bits overland were 62 Swift, 1 Sand Martin, 44 Linnet and 8 Goldfinch.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 2 Teal, 2 Tufted Duck Kilnsea wetlands, 10 Common Scoter Humber, 11 Little Egret, 142 Bar-tailed Godwit, 178 Oystercatcher, 49 Grey Plover, 119 Little Tern Beacon ponds and 2 Cuckoo.

1 Red-veined Darter was on Clubleys.

Ringing: Nil

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Friday, 09 June 2017

A much better day with plenty of sunshine and a F2-1 SW wind.

Migration Watches: 0515-1715.

The 1st Common Crane of the year flew north, circling over the Obs, having been tracked up the Lincolnshire coast, then further up to Bempton. Also today a Spoonbill circled over the campsite, then headed out to sea, while an Iceland Gull flew south over the sea in the morning, then back up the Humber towards Sammys. Late evening a male Garganey was on Holderness field and Kilnsea wetlands.

Other bits moving overland were 1 Marsh Harrier, 25 Swift, 2 Sand Martin, 25 Swallow, 36 House Martin, 1 Grey Wagtail, 5 Jackdaw, 2 Siskin, 15 Goldfinch, 18 Linnet and 2 Siskin.

On the move over the sea were 9 Greylag Geese, 4 Common Scoter, 2 Fulmar, 9 Gannet, 24 Black headed Gull, 36 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 15 Kittiwake, 13 Common Tern, 1 Arctic Tern and 4 Sandwich Tern.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 5 Tufted Duck Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Grey Partridge, 1 Peregrine, 68 Grey Plover, 196 Oystercatcher, 140 Bar tailed Godwit, 20 Knot, 60 Dunlin, 21 Sanderling, 2 Cuckoo and 1 Short eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Whitethroat, 5 Blue Tit pulli, 5 Tree Sparrow pulli.

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Thursday, 08 June 2017

Overnight rain petered out by mid morning with some sunny spells and a decreasing F6-3 W wind.
Sea Watches: 0525-1100, 1115-1440, 1500-1645. 

Most coverage was limited to the the sea with 2 Eider, 34 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 4 Fulmar, 8 Manx Shearwater, 122 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 8 Kittiwake and 6 Sandwich Tern while the few bits overland were 1 Grey Wagtail, 27 Swallow, 4 House martin and 1 Swift.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 3 Tufted Duck Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Short-eared Owl

Ringing: Nil

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Wednesday, 07 June 2017

Another wild day with overnight rain petering out, remaining cloudy and a strong F6-4 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1030, 1250-1630. 

The less than ideal conditions meant that little was on the move today, but that didn't stop yet another Red-footed Falcon from going south. A nice 1st summer male and the 6th this spring. 
The Nightingale was still occasionally singing by Rose cottage in the morning.

Most coverage was limited to the the sea with 8 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 9 Fulmar, 4 Manx Shearwater, 170 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 67 Auk sp, 12 Guillemot, 15 Razorbill, 5 Kittiwake and 6 Sandwich Tern while the few bits overland were 49 Swift.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 2 Tufted Duck Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Lapwing, 3 Whimbrel, 1 Cuckoo and 1 Barn Owl.

Ringing: Nil

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Tuesday, 06 June 2017

A dry start but soon developed into a very wet and windy day with a F6+ W-WNW wind.
Sea Watches: 0530-1100, 1150-1440, 1550-1700. 

Despite the continuing poor weather the Nightingale was still occasionally singing from thick cover by rose cottage and on the odd occasion even showing. This is only the 2nd ever record for June, for a species which is normally recorded in mid April to mid May. 
The only other migrant was a Spotted Flycatcher by Easington gas terminal while the 21 Barnacle Geese on the Humber continued the late spring movement.

There was a bit more interest over the sea with 80 Common Scoter, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Great Northern Diver, 16 Manx Shearwater, 101 Gannet, 47 Kittiwake, 5 Sandwich Tern, 77 Auk sp, 2 Guillemot and 10 Razorbill while the few bits overland were 5 Swallow, 11 House martin and 68 Swift.

Other birds of note were 2 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 5 Teal, 1 Grey Partridge, 45 Grey Plover, 5 Curlew and 1 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 2 Tree sparrow pulli.

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Monday, 05 June 2017

A very windy day with frequent showers and a F3-6 S-SSE wind.
Migration Watches: 0505-1125, 1330-1630. 

Despite the poor weather a Nightingale was heard singing from thick cover by rose cottage. The song seemed to rule out Thrush Nightingale, but hopefully will be around tomorrow, but again the weather does not look too good.
Viz-migging produced 52 Canada Geese, 1 Greylag Goose,1 Bar-headed Goose, 1 Hobby, 825 Swift, 23 Wood Pigeon, 2 Sand Martin, 26 Swallow, 21 House Martin, 1 Chaffinch and 2 Goldfinch.
Over a poor sea were 2 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 16 Gannet, 9 Auk sp, 3 Guillemot and 30 Razorbill.

Other birds of note were 42 Shelduck Humber, 3 Gadwall, 2 Teal, 1 Grey Partridge, 1 Short-eared Owl

Ringing: Nil.

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Sunday, 04 June 2017

A day or two ago, I was thinking of writing about the lack of late spring Scandinavian breeders which we are lucky enough at Spurn to record on an almost annual basis. Of course with the thought fresh in my mind, it happened and both Rosefinch and Icterine Warbler were seen yesterday. Looking back through the website from 2011, of the 5 usuals, Red backed Shrike have occurred in 5 years excl 2015, (2017 so far), Rosefinch every year except 2015, Icterine every year except 2012, 2015, Marsh Warbler every year bar 2017 (so far) and Golden Oriole every spring except 2013. Other species have been recorded as thus- Bluethroat 2013, 2014, 2016, Ortolan 2011, 2013, Red-breasted Flycatcher 2013, 2014, 2016, Thrush Nightingale 2013, 2016 while in the same period from the Mediterranean Bee-eater has been recorded every spring

Sunny spells and largely cloudy with a F1-3 SW-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0445-1600. 

A slow day, with no sign of any of yesterdays good birds, but a few new migrants in to keep interest going. An unseasonal Redstart at Sammys, the Redwing still at the Warren , Grasshopper Warbler by Easington gas terminal, 3 Spotted Flycatcher and a male Bullfinch.
Viz-migging produced 70 Canada Geese out east, 2 Marsh Harrier, 1 Curlew out east, 163 Swift, 13 Wood Pigeon, 8 Swallow, 34 House Martin, 1 Flava Wagtail, 16 Jackdaw, 5 Carrion Crow, 17 Chafficnh, 11 Goldfinch and 63 Linnet.
Over the sea were 18 Shelduck, 14 Common Scoter, 20 Cormorant, 6 Gannet, 3 Sandwich Tern, 6 Common Tern, 1 Arctic Tern and 2 Auk sp.

Other birds of note were 3 Gadwall, 4 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 6 Grey Partridge, 1 Peregrine, 1 Little-ringed Plover and 1 Little Gull Beacon ponds. 

11 Red-veined Darter were on the wing today while 30+ Azure Damselfly were in Churchfield plus 2 Broad-bodied Chaser and the 1st Brown Argus at sammys.

Ringing: 1 Avocet pulli, 1 Dunnock, 4 House Sparrow (3 Pulli).

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Saturday, 03 June 2017

Heavy rain and showers cleared with sunny spells becoming hot and humid.
Migration Watches: 0600-1720. 

An interesting late spring arrival brought a singing ‘brown’ Rosefinch mobile between Kew and Beacon Lane plus a singing Icterine Warbler to the Obs garden. Other obvious migrants were a Garden Warbler at the Warren where the Redwing remained.

Some good counts of breeding birds continue with 3 Cuckoo, 62 Whitethroat along the peninsula with the 1st young out on Beacon Lane, 8 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Blackcap and a juvenile Siskin in Easington.

Viz-migging was slow but produced a fine Honey Buzzard meandering its way south towards Lincolnshire, 2 Marsh Harrier, 1 Grey Heron in/off, an immature Spoonbill, 259 Swift, 2 Sand Martin, 94 Swallow, 51 House Martin, 1 Flava Wagtail and 1 Grey wagtail.
Over the sea were 347 Common Scoter, 2 Fulmar, 36 Gannet, 2 Red-throated Diver, 16 Sandwich Tern, 6 Common Tern, 2 Arctic Tern and 20 Auk sp.

Other birds of note were 2 Teal Kilnsea wetland, 1 Gadwall, 2 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Grey Partridge, 1 Peregrine, 50 Knot, 150 Dunlin, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Whimbrel, 1 Short-eared Owl, 1 Barn Owl and the Ring necked Parakeet in Easington. 

Good numbers of dragonflies on the wing with 8 Red-veined Darter the highlight while 1 Green Hairstreak, 200+ Painted Lady, 2 Large Skipper and a Hummingbird Hawkmoth. 
Offshore 1 Porpoise and 3 Grey Seal were seen.

Ringing: Nil.

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Friday, 02 June 2017

A sunny start with some showers in the afternoon and a F1 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1345, 1500-1600. 

A quieter day all round, but it’s good to see great numbers of summering non-breeding waders on the Humber and Beacon ponds, after very few around last summer.

Viz-migging produced 1 Osprey north while going south were 1 Marsh Harrier, 3 Lapwing, 2 Stock Dove, 268 Swift, 6 Sand Martin, 84 Swallow, 58 House Martin, 1 Grey Wagtail and 4 Jackdaw.
Over the sea were 2 Teal, 68 Common Scoter, 5 Fulmar, 19 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 1 Red-throated Diver and 27 Auk sp.

Other birds of note were 2 Teal Kilnsea wetland, 4 Grey Partridge, 1 Common Buzzard, 103 Grey Plover, 200 Knot, 60 Dunlin, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 210 Bar-tailed Godwit, 2 Whimbrel, 1 Greenshank, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 1 Little Gull, adult Kittiwake Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Common Tern, 1 Arctic Tern, 5 Sandwich tern and 66 Little Tern Beacon ponds, 2 Cuckoo. 

Good numbers of dragonflies on the wing with 9 Red-veined Darter the highlight while 4 Painted Lady were seen and the first Large Skipper of the year was at Beacon ponds. 
Offshore 3 Porpoise and 3 Grey Seal were seen.

Ringing: 1 Whitethroat.

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Thursday, 01 June 2017

Warm and sunny, sometimes a bit hazy with a F2-1 S-SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0535-1130, 1430-1710, 1800-1840.

A trickle of birds on the move south today with a Great-white Egret and 2 immature Spoonbill the highlights. Also on the move were 6 Canada Goose north, 2 Hobby in/off and NW, 1 Grey Plover out east, 3 Lapwing, 89 Swift, 1 Flava Wagtail, 2 Sand Martin, 79 Swallow, 107 House Martin, 4 Jackdaw and 1 Corn Bunting. 

Over the sea were 6 Eider, 33 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 18 Gannet, 2 Fulmar, 1 Cormorant out east, 2x 2nd summer Mediterranean Gull, 12 Black-headed Gull, 3 Kittiwake, 3 Sandwich Tern, 225 Auk sp, 21 Razorbill and 87 Guillemot.

Migrants numbers were still low with 3 Cuckoo, 1 Wheatear, the Redwing still at the Warren, 1 Grasshopper Warbler by the gas terminal and 3 Chiffchaff.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Wigeon, 12 Little Egret, 1 Lapwing, 1 Whimbrel, 34 Curlew Humber, 2 Little Stint and 1 Curlew Sandpiper Beacon ponds, 1 Greenshank, 1st summer Mediterranean Gull on the Humber while the resident adult Kittiwake remains on Kilnsea wetlands.

3 Red-veined Darter were on Clubleys scrape plus 2 Broad-bodied Chaser, 1 Emperor, 8 four spotted Chaser and 5 Black tailed Skimmer while there was also good numbers of butterfly on the wing including 1 Green Hairstreak.

Ringing: 1 Chiffchaff.

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Wednesday, 31 May 2017

A glorious sunny day with a light variable wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1030, 1700-1815.

The last few days of the month have been a bit quiet for viz-migging, but given favourable winds the next 2 months should (hopefully!) see big numbers of Swifts on the move. The systems to look for are days of south westerly winds with sun and patchy cloud (with maybe the threat of rain). A big Swift day stood at Numpties, when thousands are almost whistling past your ears is a truly unforgettable experience. 

On the move today were 2 Whimbrel, 3 Swift, 3 Sand Martin, 39 Swallow, 23 House Martin, 4 Flava and 2 Jackdaw. 

Migrants numbers were typically low for this time of year with 1 Whinchat, 1 Wheatear, 1 Reed Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler and 1 Spotted Flycatcher.
On the move over the sea were 39 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 2 Great crested Grebe, 14 Gannet, 3 Fulmar, 3 Cormorant, 2 Razorbill and 1 Guillemot.

Other interesting sightings were 7 Brent Geese, 1 Wigeon, 11 Little Egret, 3 Whimbrel and 1st summer Mediterranean Gull on the Humber while the resident adult Kittiwake remains on Kilnsea wetlands.

5 Red-veined Darter were on Clubleys scrape.

Ringing: 1 Robin, 1 Chiffchaff.

Use the archive navigation to see more sightings.

Tuesday, 30 May 2017

Some sunny spells with occasional showers and an increasing F1-3 SW-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0500-0730, 1400-1630.

Breeding is fully underway and this year we are undertaking a full census of breeding birds in the area including up to Easington and Sammy’s. Initial results are showing better numbers of species like House Martin and Sedge Warbler, while ringing of pullus Blue and Great Tit are producing encouraging large broods. 
The Little Tern project is well underway and if visiting please only access the colony from Kilnsea wetlands carpark and view from the banking on the west side of Beacon ponds.

Viz migging was surprisingly very slow, but produced a Spoonbill south plus 2 Marsh Harrier, 69 Swift, 38 Swallow, 38 House Martin and 2 Tree Pipit. 
On the move over the sea were 1 Gannet, 3 Fulmar and 1 Cormorant.

A slight increase in some migrants with 1 Little-ringed Plover, 3 Cuckoo, 2 Wheatear, 1 Grasshopper Warbler by the gas terminal, 1 willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff and 7 Spotted Flycatcher.

Other interesting sightings were 1 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 15 Little Egret, 2 Grey Partridge, 1 Peregrine over the Humber, 1 Water Rail along the canal, an unseasonal Snipe and 1 Barn Owl.

1 Red-veined Darter was in churchfield and 1 Broad-bodied Chaser were seen while a good count of 16 Roe Deer was made.

Ringing: 1 Blackcap, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Chiffchaff, 2 Spotted Flycatcher.

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Monday, 29 May 2017

Light showers with misty conditions sometimes thicker with heavy rain late pm and a F1 ENE wind.
Migration Waltches: 0425-0645, 1200-1300.

If two days could be more contrasting then today and the previous epic day are proof. After the sun and blue sky with a warm wind full of birds, today brought many observers back to reality with poor visibility and little seen. 

The few migrants seen were 1 Hobby green lane, 2 Cuckoo, 1 Wheatear, 6 Chiffchaff and 2 Spotted Flycatcher.

Over the sea were 3 Manx Shearwater, 4 Fulmar, 22 Gannet and 3 Kittiwake while moving were 2 Common Tern out east, 7 Swift and 2 Flava Wagtail.

Other birds of note were 5 Brent Geese, 1 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 1 Little ringed Plover, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Ruff, 1st summer Mediterranean Gull, adult Yellow legged Gull Humber and 2 Grey Partridge and breeding wise 18 Reed Warbler.

Ringing: 1 Wood Pigeon, 1 Swallow, 1 Meadow Pipit, 1 Robin pulli, 1 Dunnock pulli, 3 Chiffchaff, 2 Tree Sparrow (1 pulli), 1 Linnet. (11 of 8 species).

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Sunday, 28 May 2017

An awesome day of classic Spurn vis-migging action saw an incredible 4 RED-FOOTED FALCON fly south past the Numpties watchpoint at the Warren, along with incredible views of an ALPINE SWIFT as it flew inches over the heads of the assembled crowd with other noteworthy species of a RED-RUMPED SWALLOW, Spoonbill and Red Kite.

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Saturday, 27 May 2017

A hot sunny with a light SE wind , clouding over with thunder and lightning, remaining warm and a changed F3-6 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0430-2010.

A sad day for the warden Paul Collins when his team Chelsea, were beaten 2-1 in the FA cup, which was watched by most of the birders in the crown pub.

Late evening while most observers were watching the football, one eagle eyed observer spotted a female Red-footed Falcon over the Observatory garden, which headed south turning back at the Warren, (which then emptied the pub) and last seen going into the garden of Rose Cottage.

Otherwise viz-migging produced 1 Hobby, 3 Lapwing blogging, 13 Black-headed Gull, 346 Swift, 8 Sand Martin, 264 Swallow, 207 House Martin, 1 Flava Wagtail, 1 Jackdaw, 6 Carrion Crow, 9 Goldfinch, 10 Linnet and 1 Yellowhammer.

Heading out east were 22 Brent Geese, 51 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 25 Little Tern, 5 Sandwich Tern, 18 Common Tern and 9 Arctic Tern.
Over the sea (south unless stated) were 4 Teal, 15 Common Scoter, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Fulmar and 3 Manx Shearwater.

Migrant numbers were 6 Whimbrel, 1 Cuckoo, 1 Wheatear, 1 Redstart, 1 Redwing, 2 Willow Warbler and 2 Spotted Flycatcher.

Other birds of note were 1 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 10 Common Scoter on the Humber, 2 Great-crested Grebe on the Humber, 276 Oystercatcher, 1 Little Stint Beacon ponds, 2 Curlew Sandpiper Humber, 1 Ruff, 1000 Dunlin, 27 Turnstone and 67 Little Tern Beacon ponds. 

The 1st Hairy Dragonfly for Spurn was at Sammys point, 7 Red veined Darter were in the area, 1 Broad bodied Chaser while 4 Green Hairstreak still at the point. A Mink was seen along the canal.

Ringing: Nil

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Friday, 26 May 2017

Another warm sunny blue sky day, but cooler in the increasing F1-3 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0520-1930. 

While little else was moving overland it was a surprise to see a Pallid Swift flying south past the Warren in the company of 2 Common Swift and then past middle camp.
Otherwise viz-migging produced 1 Marsh Harrier, 7 Oystercatcher out east, 3 Black Tern out east, 40 Swift, 4 Sand Martin, 245 Swallow, 161 House Martin, 1 Chaffinch, 3 Goldfinch and 1 Corn Bunting.

Over the sea were a summer plumage Great Northern Diver, 2 Gannet, 5 Fulmar, 6 Cormorant, 1 Shag, 4 Kittiwake and 14 Sandwich Tern.

Migrant numbers were 6 Whimbrel in the Triangle, 1 Cuckoo, 1 Whinchat, 1 Wheatear, 1 Ring Ouzel still showing well at the Warren and 1 Spotted Flycatcher.
Other birds of note were the 19 Brent Geese, 2 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 20 Common Scoter on the Humber, 2 Peregrine, 2 Water Rail along the canal, 1 Greenshank, Yellow-legged Gull at the Warren, . 

4 Green Hairstreak were at the Point, a male Red veined Darter was in churchfield and the first Broad bodied Chaser also in Churchfield.

Ringing: 1 Whinchat, 2 Sedge Warbler, 1 Whitethroat, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Starling, 4 House Sparrow (pulli), 1 Reed Bunting.

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Thursday, 25 May 2017

A fine sunny warm day with blue sky, but hazy visibility and a light F1 NW-SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0520-1200. 

In what has been a poor spring for visible migration especially for Finches and Hirundines which have rarely troubled the counters, mainly due to the lack of south westerly winds, it is still a surprise to have another 2 Red-rumped Swallows past numpties. The first paused preening for several minutes on the wires at 7am, then headed off high south with a Swallow, the second rapidly through at 10.45 on its own. (5th and 6th this year).
Otherwise viz-migging produced 1 Greenshank, 11 Swift, 6 Sand Martin, 127 Swallow, 30 House Martin, 3 Flava Wagtail, 15 Jackdaw, 3 Rook, 5 Carrion Crow, 1 Chaffinch, 3 Goldfinch and 3 Linnet.

Waders heading out north-east were 3 Ringed Plover, 50 Grey Plover, 19 Sanderling, 30 Dunlin and 1 Whimbrel.

Over the sea were 2 Teal, 30 Common Scoter, 1 Red throated Diver, 35 Gannet, 4 Fulmar, 6 Cormorant, 38 Kittiwake, 15 Sandwich Tern, and 54 Auk sp.

Migrant numbers were 12 Whimbrel in the Triangle, 1 Cuckoo, 2 Whinchat, 3 Wheatear, 1 Ring Ouzel still showing well at the Warren.
Other birds of note were the 10 Brent Geese, 2 Gadwall, 70 Common Scoter on the Humber, 160 Sanderling and 2 Grey Partridge, while a Corn Bunting still singing near Easington. 

A male Red veined Darter was in churchfield.

Ringing: 10 Great Tit (pulli), 1 Whitethroat, 1 Linnet, 1 Chaffinch.

Use the archive navigation to see more sightings.

Wednesday, 24 May 2017

A warm, sunny day with a light F1 NW- 2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1030, 1300-1500. 

A totally unexpected vocal Cetti’s Warbler along the Canal which then flew to behind the canal scrape hide, and then vanished not to be seen again.

Migrant numbers again low with 1 Little Stint Beacon ponds, 2 Cuckoo, female Ring Ouzel still at the Warren, 3 Redwing with 2 at the Obs and 1 Canal hedge, 2 Blackcap and 6 Spotted Flycatcher.

Viz-migging produced 83 Brent Geese and 200 Grey Plover out east, 2 Marsh Harrier, 1 Hobby, 3 Flava Wagtail, 10 Sand Martin, 190 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 20 Jackdaw, 3 Rook, 2 Chaffinch, 7 Goldfinch and 18 Linnet.
Over the equally quiet sea were 7 Gannet, 54 Kittiwake, 4 Sandwich Tern, .

Other birds of note were the 30 Brent Geese, the male Red-crested Pochard remained on Canal scrape, immature Peregrine over the Obs, 9 Whimbrel triangle and 1 Little Gull. 

A Red-veined Darter was in Churchfield.

Ringing: 3 Blue Tit (pulli).

Use the archive navigation to see more sightings.

Tuesday, 23 May 2017

A warm, sunny day with a light F1 NW- 2 S wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1100, 1300-1530.

The beginnings of the high arctic waders exodus began in earnest today and one of the great flock calls as groups of Grey Plover headed off north-east.

After the adult the previous day an immature Spoonbill was over Beacon ponds then drifted off north.

Migrant numbers stayed low with 1 Common Sandpiper, 2 Cuckoo, 2 Wheatear, 1 Ring Ouzel still at the Warren, 1 Mistle Thrush, 3 Blackcap and 2 Spotted Flycatcher.

Viz-migging produced only 150 Grey Plover out east, 2 Marsh Harrier, 4 Flava Wagtail, 5 Sand Martin, 130 Swallow, 6 House Martin, 6 Jackdaw, 3 Chaffinch, 7 Goldfinch and 9 Linnet.

Over the equally quiet sea were 1 Tufted Duck, 30 Common Scoter, 3 Great-crested Grebe, 3 Cormorant and 6 Sandwich Tern.

Other birds of note were the 75 Brent Geese, 2 Wigeon, male Red-crested Pochard on Canal scrape (6th record), 1 Gadwall, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Grey Partridge, 1300 Grey Plover, 3 Whimbrel, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Hen Harrier long bank, 1 Barn Owl and 1 Short-eared Owl. 

A Red-veined Darter was in Churchfield.

Ringing: 1 Blackcap, 5 Great Tit (pulli), 7 Tree Sparrow pulli, 1 Chaffinch. (14 of 4 species)

Use the archive navigation to see more sightings.

Monday, 22 May 2017

A hazy sunny day feeling warm with a F1-3 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1200, 1315-1500. 

A quiet day overall for birds on the move south and in the bushes, but the 1st Spoonbill of the year was present and showing well on Kilnsea wetlands.

Migrant numbers again low with 2 Cuckoo, 1 White Wagtail, 2 Wheatear, 1 Black Redstart at the Warren, 1 Ring Ouzel still at the Warren, 1 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 5 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler and 2 Spotted Flycatcher.

Viz-migging produced only 22 Oystercatcher out east, 1 Swift, 2 Flava Wagtail, 7 Sand Martin, 278 Swallow, 88 House Martin, 11 Goldfinch and 26 Linnet.
Over the equally quiet sea were 2 Eider, 11 Common Scoter, 2 Red-throated Diver, 1 Fulmar, 25 Gannet, 22 Kittiwake and 50 Auk sp.

Other birds of note were the 116 Brent Geese, 1 Wigeon, 3 Tufted Duck on the Humber, 3 Grey Partridge, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Lapwing, 2 Curlew Sandpiper Humber, 1 Greenshank Point, 1 Whimbrel, and Short-eared Owl. 

Ringing: 1 Wren, 1 Redwing, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Linnet (pulli).

Use the archive navigation to see more sightings.

Sunday, 21 May 2017

Mostly sunny with some cloudy periods and a light F1 SW-SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1100. 

Migrant numbers were 1 Little Stint on the Humber, 3 Whinchat Triangle, 2 Ring Ouzel at the Warren, 1 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff and 2 Spotted Flycatcher.
Viz-migging produced 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Red Kite, 45 Grey Plover out east, 2 Arctic Tern, 2 Turtle Dove back north, Flava Wagtail, 13 Sand Martin, 317 Swallow, 127 House Martin, 1 Tree Pipit, 1 Alba Wagtail, 3 Swift, 1 Chaffinch, 31 Goldfinch and 46 Linnet.

The sea was awful with 1 Great Northern Diver and 4 Cormorant the only birds of note.

Other birds of note were the 64 Brent Geese, 1 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 2 Short-eared Owl while the Ring-necked Parakeet remained in Easington. 

Ringing: 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Chiffchaff, 4 Tree Sparrow (pulli), 1 Goldfinch.

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Saturday, 20 May 2017

Bright start with showers in the late afternoon with a F2 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1540.

Overnight recording to see what species are passing overhead unseen and generally unheard has recently become quite popular and a useful way of recording what happens while most of us are asleep. In particular Tim Jones has been pushing this interesting concept at the Observatory, and has been getting some amazing results which no doubt will get a proper write up in the near future.
Recordings from last night included Little Grebe, Spotted Redshank and Water Rail along with the usual species like Oystercatcher and the resident amorous Foxes which make for fascinating listening!

Interest in the morning at the Warren came in the form of an apparent Iberian Chiffchaff trapped and ringed. Potentially the 3rd this spring, a loose feather was obtained, but unfortunately no calls were heard. Features seemed consistent with this species, but it seems we may have to rely on DNA this time.

It was a great day for viz-migging, with the 4th Red-rumped Swallow of the spring south late morning. 
Also on the move today were a nice diverse selection of species so late in the month with 5 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, 2 Hobby, 1 Little-ringed Plover, 27 Grey Plover, 2 Bar-tailed Godwit and 24 Curlew all out east (which should be a big feature of the next week or so as the high arctic waders head off to breed), 6 Swift, 22 Sand Martin, 841 Swallow, 180 House Martin, 1 Tree Pipit, 3 Flava, 20 Jackdaw, 2 Rook, 4 Carrion Crow, 9 Chaffinch, 18 Goldfinch, 2 Siskin, 18 Linnet and 3 Corn Bunting. 

Migrants numbers were 8 Whimbrel, 1 Snipe, 1 Common Sandpiper, 2 Ring Ouzel, 1 Mistle Thrush, 1 Whinchat, 2 Wheatear, 2 Reed Warbler, 10 Sedge Warbler, 1 Chiffchaff, 3 Willow Warbler and 4 Spotted Flycatcher.
On the move over a generally quiet sea were 2 Tufted Duck, 3 Common Scoter, 6 Eider, 2 Red-throated Diver, 2 Fulmar, 11 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 1 Common Tern and 7 Auk sp.

Other interesting sightings were 2 Barnacle Geese, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Wigeon and 50 Common Scoter on the Humber.

Ringing: 1 Tree Pipit, 1 Ring Ouzel, 1 (Iberian) Chiffchaff, 1 Linnet (pulli).

Use the archive navigation to see more sightings.

Friday, 19 May 2017

Overcast with rain most of the day and a F2-1 N-SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1100, 1430-1630. 

Quiet again migrant wise due to the weather with only 2 Cuckoo, 8 Yellow Wagtail, 1 White Wagtail, 1 Redstart, 1 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff and 3 Spotted Flycatcher of note.

Over the sea were 3 Grey Heron, 4 Red-breasted Merganser, 171 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 3 Fulmar, 94 Gannet, 1 Great-crested Grebe, 4 Sandwich Tern, 11 Guillemot and 1 Puffin.

Other birds of note were the 3 Wigeon 1 Gadwall, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Golden Plover Kilnsea wetland, immature male Hen Harrier, 1 Barn Owl and 2 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: Nil.

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Thursday, 18 May 2017

Bright, sunny start and warm with a F2-1 WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1630.

One of the projects that the Observatory takes a lead on (along with partners the RSPB and YWT), is the protection of Little Terns at Beacon ponds. We employ 2 wardens to protect this beach nesting species in a challenging and busy area which has popular caravan sites either side, is popular with dog walkers from nearby Easington, Foxes are a regular problem and suffers from motorbikes disturbance. Today staff from the RSPB undertook the instillation of the electric fencing which will hopefully keep all these factors at bay. If visiting the colony please view only from Long bank, which is accessed from Kilnsea wetlands carpark.

On the move today were 5 Cormorant, 2 Gannet, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Red Kite, 2 Common Buzzard, 4 Whimbrel out east, 25 Black-headed Gull, 2 Turtle Dove, 3 Swift, 2 Skylark, 48 Sand Martin, 795 Swallow, 270 House Martin, 6 Flava, 18 Jackdaw, 5 Rook, 12 Carrion Crow, 1 Chaffinch, 5 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin and 39 Linnet.

Migrants numbers were 2 Common Sandpiper, 4 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Ring Ouzel, 1 Wheatear, 9 Reed Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler and 2 Spotted Flycatcher.

Other interesting sightings were 3 Barnacle Geese, which are maybe the birds that flew out east a few days ago?, 4 Tufted Duck, 7 Common Scoter, 2 Kittiwake and 1 Short eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Chiffchaff, 1 House Sparrow.

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Wednesday, 17 May 2017

Showers early morning, but rain from late morning with a light variable wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1130. 

Some movement early on before the rain set in for the day with 24 Sand Martin, 572 Swallow, 152 House Martin, 5 Flava Wagtail, 3 Alba Wagtail, 1 Greenfinch, 32 Goldfinch and 23 Linnet.

Migrant wise little was seen with only 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Cuckoo, 1 Ring Ouzel and 1 Spotted Flycatcher of note.
Over the sea were 53 Common Scoter, 1 Cormorant, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Fulmar, 8 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 25 Kittiwake, 5 Arctic Tern out east and 2 Sandwich Tern.

Other birds of note were the 1 Mediterranean Gull on Kilnsea wetlands, 

Ringing: Nil.

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Tuesday, 16 May 2017

Bright and sunny start clouding over with rain showers and a F3-2 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1200, 1340-1700, 1800-1900.

The full breeding bird survey is well under way and already getting some interesting results in areas which generally have little coverage. 

A fine ‘green’ Golden Oriole flew south in the morning past numpties watchpoint. A great viz-mig bird and a bit of a Spurn speciality on the east coast, being almost annual, with 2-3 each spring. Autumn records though are almost unheard of, being much rarer in that period.
Also on the move were 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Hobby, 1 Whimbrel and 2 Curlew out east, 7 Swift, 16 Sand Martin, 620 Swallow, 73 House Martin, 8 Flava, 3 Jackdaw, 8 Carrion Crow, 9 Chaffinch, 23 Goldfinch and 42 Linnet.

Migrants were 1 Little Stint, 2 Cuckoo, 8 Yellow Wagtail, 1 White Wagtail, 7 Wheatear, 3 Song Thrush, 14 Sedge Warbler with 5 holding territories along the peninsula for the last 2 weeks, which is very unusual, 63 Whitethroat, 2 Spotted Flycatcher and the male Snow Bunting still at Middle camp.

Other interesting sightings were 92 Brent Geese, 2 Wigeon, 1 Eider and 4 Common Scoter on the Humber, 25 Tundra Ringed Plover, 190 Sanderling Chalk bank, 41 Turnstone, 2 Little Owl on Peter lane, a singing Goldcrest in Easington, 1 Corn Bunting and 5 Yellowhammer.

Ringing: 9 BlueTit (pulli).

Use the archive navigation to see more sightings.

Monday, 15 May 2017

A bright start soon clouded over with frequent showers and prolonged rain with a F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0500-1000, 1600-1700.

The highlight of the day was a Turtle Dove flying south, a species that we wait for with baited breath each spring, hoping that it will not be the last year we record this rapidly declining species. Habitat loss and changing farming practices in the UK and unregulated shooting in Mediterranean countries taking a toll.

Other species on the move today were 4 Swift, 2 Skylark, 12 Sand Martin, 343 Swallow, 89 House Martin, 1 Meadow Pipit, 2 Flava Wagtail, 1 Alba Wagtail, 7 Jackdaw, 3 Carrion Crow, 8 Chaffinch, 11 Goldfinch, 22 Linnet and 1 Corn Bunting.

Migrant numbers were reduced further still with 2 Common Sandpiper, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 1 Little Stinton Beacon ponds, 2 Cuckoo, 1 Wheatear, 1 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler and 1 Pied Flycatcher.
Over the sea were 41 Common Scoter, 1 Cormorant, 10 Gannet, 1 Razorbill and 50 Auk sp.

Other birds of note were the 45 Brent Geese Humber, 1 Wigeon, 1 Gadwall, 1 Tufted Duck Kilnsea wetland, 220 Oystercatcher and a Corn Bunting singing by Easington lagoon, while the Ring-necked Parakeet is still in Easington.

Ringing: 5 Peregrine (pulli), 1 Sedge Warbler, 1 Whitethroat, 6 Great Tit (pulli), 1 Linnet. (14 of 5 species).

Use the archive navigation to see more sightings.

Sunday, 14 May 2017

Showers early morning clearing leaving a warm sunny day with a F2-1 WSW-SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0520-1615.

The day was almost disappointing after yesterday’s excellent vizmig, early morning rain, all but scuppering any decent movement. 

Viz-migging produced 1 Marsh Harrier, 2 ringtail Hen Harrier, 2 Sparrowhawk, 2 Kestrel, 1 Hobby, 2 Whimbrel out east, 4 Swift, 2 Skylark, 67 Sand Martin, 941 Swallow, 218 House Martin, 1 Tree Pipit, 8 Flava Wagtail, 1 Grey Wagtail, 1 Alba Wagtail, 13 Jackdaw, 7 Rook, 8 Carrion Crow, 4 Chaffinch, 17 Goldfinch, 41 Linnet and 1 Corn Bunting.

Migrant numbers were again low with 4 Common Sandpiper, 2 Curlew Sandpiper, 1+ Little Stint (1st of year) on Holderness field, visiting the Humber as the tide dropped, 2 Cuckoo, 1 Tree Pipit, 1 Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 10 Wheatear, 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler, 3 Spotted Flycatcher and 1 Pied Flycatcher.

Over the sea were 2 Fulmar, 30 Gannet, 7 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 23 Black-headed Gull, 3 Kittiwake, 4 Arctic Tern, 1 Razorbill and 1 Puffin.

Other birds of note were the 68 Brent Geese Humber, 1 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Peregrine, Short-eared Owl and a Corn Bunting singing on Peter Lane. 
The 1st Blue Tailed Damselfly of the year were in Churchfield.

Ringing: 1 Sparrowhawk, 11 Starling pulli, 1 Chiffchaff.

Use the archive navigation to see more sightings.

Saturday, 13 May 2017

Mainly sunny all day, with a warm F2-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0510-1845.
An all day count with the 1st decent SW winds for a long time which brought some good totals.

The highlight of the 1st proper viz-mig of the spring was a stunning Bee-eater which flew past Numpties at close range giving everyone fantastic views. The Grey-headed Wagtail remained at Southfield farm while a Spotted Redshank was seen on the Humber (1st of year).

Migrant numbers again were much reduced with 3 Cuckoo, 1 Tree Pipit, 1 Redstart, 3 Whinchat, 5 Wheatear, 1 Fieldfare, 1 Song Thrush, 5 Reed Warbler, 7 Chiffchaff and 5 Spotted Flycatcher.

Vizmigging produced 12 Tufted Duck, 8 Common Scoter, 2 Great-crested Grebe, 10 Cormorant, 2 Marsh Harrier, an Osprey North-west, 1 Hobby, 9 Whimbrel out east, 1 Greenshank, 2 Arctic Skua out east, 1st summer Mediterranean Gull, 21 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 1 Black Tern, 10 Sandwich Tern 3 Common Tern and 4 Arctic Tern.
Overland were 15 Swift, 9 Skylark, 232 Sand Martin, 2722 Swallow, 562 House Martin, 1 Tree Pipit, 11 Flava Wagtail (of which at least 3 were Blue-headed Wagtail from pics taken at time), 2 Alba Wagtail, 3 White Wagtail, 21 Jackdaw, 13 Carrion Crow, 6 Rook, 36 Chaffinch (all females), 1 Greenfinch, 16 Goldfinch, 2 Siskin, 53 Linnet and 3 Corn Bunting.

Other birds of note were the 34 Greylag Geese plus 4 young, 3 Barnacle Goose Kilnsea wetlands then flew out east, 2 Grey Partridge, 1 Wigeon, 2 Common Buzzard, 1 Peregrine and3 Short-eared Owl. The Holderness field area still held a good selection of waders among the commoner birds with 1 Golden Plover 3 Lapwing, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 3 Ruff and 3 Common Sandpiper.


Ringing: 5 Starling pulli.

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Friday, 12 May 2017

Most of you will have heard the news that Spurn legend Andy Roadhouse lost his long, but always highly spirited, battle with cancer on the night of Saturday 29th April.

He's funeral took place at a well attended Ardsley Crematorium, Barnsley on Friday 12th May at 11:30am, and followed by a celebration of Andy's life at the Old Moor Tavern, Broomhill.

He requested that anyone who wanted to send flowers; could they donate instead to Spurn Bird Observatory his favourite charity, he also wanted people to dress lively. But just be comfortable and to come in whatever they felt appropriate.

You can donate to the Obs, either at the funeral or via the PayPal button below. All donations gratefully received.

Migration Watches: 0520-0800. 
A quiet day with few observers about, as everyone involved with the Observatory was at Andy Roadhouses funeral.

Migrant totals were 3 Cuckoo, 2 White Wagtail, a Grey-headed Wagtail Southfield farm, 7 Wheatear, Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 2 Mistle Thrush, 1 Ring Ouzel, 1 Chiffchaff and 2 Spotted Flycatcher. 
On the move were 1 Marsh Harrier, an Osprey north, 340 Swallow and 2 Flava Wagtail went south.

Other bits of interest were 3 Barnacle Goose, 2 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 1 Curlew Sandpiper and 2 Ruff Holderness field , 4 Grey Partridge and 2 Short-eared Owl. 
Ringing: Nil

Use the archive navigation to see more sightings.

Thursday, 11 May 2017

Bright and sunny all day, with distant haze and a F2 E wind.
Migration Watches: 0525-1015, 1100-1230.

A clear out of migrants, with mainly just local breeders present. 
There may be limited sightings for Friday due to all observers leaving to attend the funeral of Andy Roadhouse.

An interesting Flava at Southfield Farm showed some features consistent with Iberian (Spanish) Wagtail, but with so many intergrades and no proper calls heard, it may go no further than this report. Interestingly a female Blue-headed (type) Wagtail was also present in the same field.

Migrant numbers were much reduced with 2 Cuckoo, 1 White Wagtail, 1 Tree Pipit, 2 Redstart, 2 Whinchat, 9 Wheatear, 1 Song Thrush, 7 Reed Warbler, 1 Garden Warbler, 7 Chiffchaff, 4 Willow Warbler and 2 Spotted Flycatcher.
Vizmigging produced 2 Marsh Harrier, imm male Hen Harrier, 7 Swift, 3 Shorelark north, 11 Sand Martin, 316 Swallow, 17 House Martin, 5 Flava Wagtail, 3 Jackdaw, 6 Carrion Crow and 3 Yellowhammer.

Other birds of note were the 28 Greylag Geese plus 4 young, 3 Barnacle Goose Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Grey Partridge, 3 Wigeon, 2 Shoveler, 8 Little Egret and 1 Short-eared Owl. The Holderness field area held a good selection of waders with 1 Golden Plover, 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Ruff while also seen were 2 Snipe and 1 Common Sandpiper.

Ringing: 2 Swallow, 1 Blackbird, 6 Starling pulli, 1 Dunnock, 2 Whitethroat, 1 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff. (17 of 7 species).

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Wednesday, 10 May 2017

A cold frosty start, after which it was a sunny warm day with a F3-2 W-F2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1515.

The change in the wind to the west brought about the 1st decent visible migration for a long time. 
An Osprey, (1st of year) north following the coastline was tracked further up the coast and a Shorelarkflew south, while decent Hirundine passage brought about some ggod counts which should increase in the next week or so. 
The male Snow Bunting remained at middle camp, while 2 Wood Warbler, (Churchyard and wiredump) were still present.

Migrant numbers were much reduced with 1 Cuckoo, 1 White Wagtail, 1 Tree Pipit, 4 Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 17 Wheatear, 1 Fieldfare, 1 Ring Ouzel, 2 Song Thrush, a Redwing singing at the Point, 3 Blackcap, 13 Chiffchaff and 21 Willow Warbler.

Viz-migging produced 4 Mute Swan, 16 Cormorant, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Marsh Harrier north, 1 Common Buzzard back NW, 1 Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrel and 1 Curlew out east, 3 Collared Dove, 3 Swift, 88 Sand Martin, 1271 Swallow, 76 House Martin, 37 Flava Wagtail, 3 Alba Wagtail, 7 Jackdaw, 7 Rook, 10 Carrion Crow 1 Siskin and 1 Yellowhammer.

Other birds of note were the 3 Barnacle Goose Kilnsea wetlands, ringtail Hen Harrier hunting fields at Long bank, 2 Grey Partridge, 3 Wigeon and 1 Short-eared Owl. 

The first 4 Green Hairstreak were at the Point and Chalk bank. 

Ringing: 1 Wheatear, 1 Redstart, 1 Blackcap, 1 Whitethroat, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 12 Willow Warbler, 6 Chiffchaff. (24 of 6 species).

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Tuesday, 09 May 2017

A cloudy start clearing to leave a sunny warm day with a F3-1 NE-E wind.
Migration Watches: 0610-1100.

A welcome increase in migrant numbers brought a stunning adult male Snow Bunting to middle camp, while there are now 3 Wood Warbler with a new bird at wire dump, one still in Canal hedge and the ringed bird still at Kew and the Wryneck still present near the Bluebell. Of interest a male Redstart bearing a Belgian ring was controlled at the Warren.

Migrant numbers were 1 White Wagtail, 7 Tree Pipit, 1 Black Redstart, 8 Redstart, 5 Whinchat, 12 Wheatear, 9 Fieldfare, 2 Ring Ouzel, 5 Song Thrush, 1 Grasshopper Warbler at the Warren, 8 Blackcap, 3 Garden Warbler, 18 Lesser Whitethroat, 34 Chiffchaff, 13 Willow Warbler, 1m Pied Flycatcher Sammy’s, 2 Brambling including a singing male at the Point and 1 Siskin.

Viz-migging produced 1 Grey Heron, 1 Swift, 11 Sand Martin, 57 Swallow, 2 Flava Wagtail, 2 Jackdaw and 6 Rook while over the sea 11 Eider, 3 Common Scoter, 7 Fulmar, 82 Gannet, 14 Cormorant, 40 Kittwake, 208 Auk sp, 12 Guillemot and 32 Razorbill. 
Heading out east were 11 Whimbrel, 47 Black-headed Gull and 1 Arctic Tern..

Other birds of note were the 1 Barnacle Goose Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Grey Partridge, 9 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 32 Whimbrel, 2500 Dunlin, 1 Greenshank on Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Common Sandpiper and 1 Short-eared Owl. 

Ringing: 1 Tree Pipit, 1 Blackbird, 1 Redstart, 1 Whinchat, 1 Robin, 1 Wren, 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 4 Whitethroat, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 6 Willow Warbler, 7 Chiffchaff, 1 Chaffinch. (30 of 12 species).

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Monday, 08 May 2017

Overcast with a cold F2-3 N wind.
Migration Watches: 0610-0900.

Little change, but a further reduction in migrant numbers with the 1 Wood Warbler still in Canal hedge and the Wryneck still along Kilnsea road, opposite Rose cottage.

Migrant numbers were 2 Snipe, 1 White Wagtail, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Black Redstart, 6 Redstart, 4 Whinchat, 24 Robin, 4 Wheatear, 7 Fieldfare, 1 Ring Ouzel at Sammys, 5 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 4 Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, 5 Chiffchaff, 1 Pied Flycatcher and 2 Brambling.

Viz-migging produced 1 Marsh Harrier and 1 Swift while over the sea 109 Gannet, 2 Fulmar, 103 Auk sp, 5 Kittiwake, 2 Common Tern, 2 Shelduck, 1 Eider and 3 Common Scoter.

Other birds of note were the 1 Barnacle Goose in the Triangle, 2 Grey Partridge, 8 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 1 Peregrine, 2 Snipe, 18 Whimbrel, 1500 Dunlin, 1 Greenshank on Kilnsea wetlands and 2 Common Sandpiper. 

Ringing: Nil.

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Sunday, 07 May 2017

Remaining cold and overcast with a F1-3 NE wind.
Migration Watches: 0625-1205, 1600-1700. 

A slight decrease in some migrants, but the Wood Warbler remained in the Crown carpark, and wandered as far as Churchfield, while the Wryneck was still showing occasionally well along the road outside Rose Cottage.

Migrant totals were 12 Whimbrel, 1 Cuckoo, 2 Tree Pipit, 16 Wheatear, 2 Black Redstart, 7 Redstart, 8 Whinchat, 1 Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Redwing, 1 Ring Ouzel, 5 Blackcap, 1 Grasshopper Warbler along the canal, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Chiffchaff, 3 Willow Warbler and 1 Mealy Redpoll by the Lighthouse.. 

On the move over the sea were 90 Gannet, 1 Manx Shearwater, 15 Common Scoter, 1 Golden Plover, 1 Whimbrel out east, 1 Bonxie, 1 Sandwich Tern, 1 Arctic Tern, 133 Auk sp and 1 Guillemot while overland 2 Marsh Harrier and 2 Flava Wagtail went south.

Other bits of interest were 1 Barnacle Goose, 4 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 2 Red-legged Partridge and 1 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Wood Warbler.

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Saturday, 06 May 2017

Overcast with a cold F2-3 E wind.
Migration Watches: 0540-0900.

A good arrival of common migrants, also brought a late flush of winter Thrushes and Brambling. 
The highlights were 2 Wood Warbler with one still the Crown carpark, and a new bird in Canal hedge. The Wryneck was still along Kilnsea road and Wood Sandpiper on Canal Scrape.

Migrant numbers were 1 Little-ringed Plover, 2 Snipe, 34 Little Tern at Beacon Ponds, 15 Yellow Wagtail, 6 Redstart, 7 Whinchat, 1 Stonechat, 25 Wheatear, 13 Fieldfare, 3 Ring Ouzel at Sammys, 1 Redwing, 5 Song Thrush, 1 Mistle Thrush, 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 4 Reed Warbler, 18 Sedge Warbler, 11 Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, 16 Lesser Whitethroat, 26 Whitethroat, 12 Chiffchaff including 1 Siberian type in Church field, 3 Willow Warbler, 4 Pied Flycatcher and 2 Brambling.

Viz-migging produced 1 Goosander out east, 1 Common Buzzard, 3 Ringed Plover out east, 4 Little and 3 Arctic Tern out east, 14 Swift, 5 Sand Martin, 120 Swallow, 1 House Martin, 1 Flava Wagtail and 1 Jackdaw.

Other birds of note were the 1 Barnacle Goose in the Triangle, 2 Grey Partridge, 2 Gadwall, 2 Peregrine, 1 Lapwing, 20 Whimbrel, 2 Greenshank on Kilnsea wetlands, 9 Common Sandpiper, 3 Short-eared Owl and 1 Corn Bunting. 

Ringing: 1 Blackcap, 1 Whitethroat, 4 Chiffchaff (inc 1 Siberian type).

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Friday, 05 May 2017

Clear and sunny with a cold F3-4 NE wind.
Migration Watches: 0540-0845.

A few new bits in today with the highlight being a Wood Warbler showing well in the Crown carpark. The Wryneck still along the road by Bluebell caravan site and the Wood Sandpiper on Holderness field.

Migrant numbers were 32 Little Tern at Beacon Ponds, 1 Cuckoo, 3 Yellow Wagtail, 3 White Wagtail, 1 Black Redstart, 4 Wheatear, 2 Fieldfare, 1 Ring Ouzel at Sammys, 1 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Mistle Thrush, 2 Blackcap, 5 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler and a male Pied Flycatcher at Sammys.

Viz-migging produced ringtail Hen Harrier, 1 Swift, 1 Great-spotted Woodpecker, 75 Swallow, 3 Flava Wagtail and 3 Jackdaw.

Other birds of note were the 1 Teal, 2 Gadwall, 2 Pochard, 16 Whimbrel, 1 Greenshank and 1 Green Sandpiper on Kilnsea wetlands, 7 Common Sandpiper and 1 Short-eared Owl. 

Ringing: 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff.

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Thursday, 04 May 2017

Mostly sunny with a cool F3-4 NNE wind.
Migration Watches: 0550-1045, 1345-1500.

The cold northerly winds continue, but still the 1st Wryneck of the year appeared today, along the canal moving down to the warren before eventually settling in the Bluebell pond caravan site area. Also new for the year was a Wood Sandpiper on Holderness field.

Migrant numbers were reduced with 4 Common Sandpiper, 1 Cuckoo, 1 Tree Pipit, 4 White Wagtail, 1 Redstart, male rubicola Stonechat triangle, 6 Wheatear, 6 Fieldfare, 1 Ring Ouzel, 1 Grasshopper warbler along Canal, 6 Blackcap, 2 Garden Warbler, 6 Chiffchaff, 7 Willow Warbler.

The sea was poor with 6 Gannet and 2 Cormorant.
Birds heading out east were 4 Whimbrel, 1 adult Little Gull, 11 Little Tern and 4 Arctic Tern.
Viz-migging produced 3 Marsh Harrier, ringtail Hen Harrier, 7 Sand Martin, 167 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 3 Flava Wagtail, 5 Linnet and 5 Goldfinch.

Other birds of note were the 24 Greylag Geese, 200 Brent Geese, 1 Pale-bellied Brent, 16 Wigeon, 2 Teal, 2 Gadwall, 1 Common Scoter Beacon ponds and 18 Whimbrel. 

Ringing: 2 Robin, 1 Blackcap, 3 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff. (8 of 4 species).

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Wednesday, 03 May 2017

A cold and breezy, but sunny start clouding over and feeling rather raw with a cool F3-4 NE wind.
Migration Watches: 0550-1130. Seawatch: 0530-0600, 1500-1600.

A difficult day for birding with the strong cold wind making life difficult, and with seemingly very few sheltered spots to look for migrants. Saying that a male Serin turned up at Kew singing, doing a tour of Kilnsea for an hour or so then vanished.

Migrant numbers were a nice red Curlew Sandpiper in the Humber at the Warren, 2 Common Sandpiper, 1 Tree Pipit, 3 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Black Redstart with a new bird at Cliffe farm and the male still at the Point, 1 Redstart, 1m Whinchat Point, male rubicola Stonechat triangle, 10 Wheatear, 5 Fieldfare, 4 Redwing, 4 Blackcap, 5 Garden Warbler, 9 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, male Pied Flycatcher Point, female Hawfinch still at Kew.

The sea was maybe a bit better, but received little cover with 22 Common Scoter, male Long-tailed Duck, 94 Herring Gull, 3 Guillemot, 2 Razorbill and 1 Puffin lost on the Humber.
Birds heading out east were 1 Kittiwake, 1 Little Tern and 5 Arctic Tern.

Viz-migging produced 2 Marsh Harrier, 2 Hobby, 11 Sand Martin, 259 Swallow, 3 House Martin, 3 Flava Wagtail, 2 Chaffinch, 17 Linnet, 9 Goldfinch and 2 Corn Bunting.

Other birds of note were the 10 Wigeon, 7 Teal, 1 Common Scoter Beacon ponds, 7 Little Egret, 1 Merlin, 2 Peregrine, 2 Grey Partridge and 2 Short-eared Owl. 

Ringing: 1 Stonechat, 1 Whitethroat, 1 Blackcap, 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Chiffchaff. (6 of 4 species).

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Tuesday, 02 May 2017

A calm sunny start clouded over later morning with an increasing cool F1-3 NE wind.
Migration Watches: 0550-1200.

A very noticeable increase in waders on the Humber especially summer plumage birds in the last 2 days, was no doubt responsible for bringing a cracking BROAD-BILLED SANDPIPER along with them. Initially found just south of the warren roosting, it was watched for around 2 hours then moved out with the receding tide. If looking tomorrow sometime after 9.30am as the tide rises will hopefully pay dividends.

Migrant numbers were 3 Common Sandpiper, 5 Tree Pipit, 7 Yellow Wagtail, male Black Redstart at the Point, 2 Redstart, 1m Whinchat Point, male rubicola Stonechat triangle, 31 Wheatear, 1 Fieldfare, 1m Grasshopper Warbler, 14 Sedge Warbler, 3 Reed Warbler, 8 Blackcap, 4 Garden Warbler, 18 Lesser Whitethroat, 43 Whitethroat, 13 Chiffchaff, 7 Willow Warbler, 1 Brambling, 2 Siskin, female Hawfinch still at Kew early morning and 2 Lesser Redpoll.

Birds heading out east were 1 Kittiwake, 12 Black Tern, 2 Common Tern and 187 Arctic Tern.
Viz-migging produced 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Red Kite over Sammys, 4 Avocet, 19 Sand Martin, 138 Swallow, 5 House Martin, 5 Flava Wagtail, 5 Jack daw, 4 Rook, 23 Carrion Crow, 11 Goldfinch and 3 Corn Bunting.

Other birds of note were the 1 Pale-bellied Brent with 228 Brent Geese, 12 Wigeon, 7 Teal, 1 Common Scoter Beacon ponds, 4 Grey Partridge, 1 Lapwing, 400 Grey Plover, 2000 Knot, 4000 Dunlin, 1 Black-tailed Godwit, 31 Whimbrel and 1 Short-eared Owl. 

Ringing: 1 Meadow Pipit, 2 Robin, 1 Wren, 1 Redstart, 1 Grasshopper Warbler, 7 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Whitethroat, 2 Blackcap, 4 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 1 Linnet, 1 Reed Bunting. (26 of 12 species).

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Monday, 01 May 2017

A windy overcast start with light drizzle clearing to leave a sunny warm day out of the coolish F 3-1-2 SE-S-E wind.
Migration Watches: 0540-1500.

The nicer conditions overall brought a decent arrival of migrants, plus returning breeders, The Tern movement continued albeit in lesser numbers, while Hirundine numbers picked up.

Migrant numbers were male Garganey Kilnsea wetlands, 47 Whimbrel, 2 Common Sandpiper, 5 Cuckoo, Long-eared Owl at Sammys, 2 Tree Pipit, 4 Yellow Wagtail, 3 Redstart, 2 Whinchat, male rubicola Stonechat triangle, 46 Wheatear, 1 Fieldfare, 1 Redwing, 2 Grasshopper Warbler including a very showy bird at Sammys, 8 Blackcap, 4 Garden Warbler, 11 Lesser Whitethroat, 36 Whitethroat, 14 Chiffchaff, 9 Willow Warbler, female Hawfinch at Kew and 2 Lesser Redpoll.

Birds heading out east were 2 Pintail, 6 Curlew, 1 adult little Gull, 5 Kittiwake, 9 Black-headed Gull, 21 Black Tern, 2 Sandwich Tern, 22 Common Tern and 224 Arctic Tern.
Viz-mig produced 2 Hobby (1st of year), 47 Sand Martin, 457 Swallow, 12 House Martin, 17 Flava Wagtail, 1 Alba Wagtail, 54 Linnet and 19 Goldfinch.
Over the sea were 7 Common Scoter, 1 Fulmar, 27 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 48 Kittiwake and 20 Auk sp.

Other birds of note were the 36 Brent Geese, 11 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 6 Teal, 1 Pochard Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Common Scoter Beacon ponds, 2 Grey Partridge, 1 Merlin, 1 Peregrine, 1 Lapwing, 21 Avocet and 2 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Magpie, 1 Swallow, 1 Tree Pipit, 1 Blackbird, 1 Robin, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 1 Whitethroat, 5 Blackcap, 1 Garden Warbler, 6 Willow Warbler, 4 Chiffchaff, 1 Hawfinch, 2 Linnet. (26 of 12 species).

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Sunday, 30 April 2017

A cold sunny day with a strong F4 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 05500-1100, 1730-1930.
Strong onshore winds at the right time of the spring often induce large numbers of Arctic Terns to move east of the Humber towards the continent. A strong overnight SE wind had the desired effect with the 3rd highest count. Totals were 6 Arctic Skua, 2 Kittiwake, 1 Little Tern, 57 Black Tern, 20 Common Tern and 861 Arctic Tern. (Interestingly one photo from Paull Holme Stray, which is west of us, showed one group of about 30 Common Tern, which we could easily have been missed over the vast distance of the Humber).

There was no sign of the Savi's warbler all day. Migrant numbers were 1 Jack Snipe, 1 Cuckoo, 4 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Tree Pipit, 2 Whinchat, 24 Wheatear, 1 Reed Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 6 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler and 1 Redpoll.

Viz-migging produced 5 Barnacle Geese, 11 Sand Martin, 30 Swallow, 9 House Martin, 2 Flava Wagtail, 4 Siskin and 1 Yellowhammer.
Over the sea were 17 Common Scoter, 1 Goosander, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 19 Fulmar, 9 Gannet, 51 Kittiwake, 1 Guillemot, 2 Razorbill and 9 Auk sp.

Other birds of note were the 11 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 12 Teal, 2 Pochard Kilnsea wetlands, 1 Common Scoter Beacon ponds, 21 Avocet and 2 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Sedge Warbler, 1 Blackcap.

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Saturday, 29 April 2017

A sunny calm start to the day, clouding up with an increasing cool F1 SE-SW-SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0540-1400.
The change in the weather had the predicted effect and along with good numbers of Terns.

A great start to the day with good numbers of birds heading east out of the Humber. Totals were 1 Arctic Skua, 29 Black-headed Gull, 2 Kittiwake, 6 Little Tern, 2 Black Tern, 3 Common Tern and 167 Arctic Tern. 
While all this was happening news broke of a SAVI’S WARBLER singing at the eastern end of the canal which occasionally showed among its brief bursts of song. Even briefer was a Nightingale singing in a private Kilnsea garden before going quiet for the rest of the day. Late afternoon a stunning female Dotterel graced Kilnsea wetlands.

Migrant numbers were 52 Whimbrel, 3 Common Sandpiper, 2 Cuckoo, 3 Yellow Wagtail, 1 White Wagtail, 16 Wheatear, 5 Fieldfare, 1 Redwing, 1 Ring Ouzel at 2am from night recording, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Grasshopper Warbler canal area, 9 Sedge Warbler, 5 Blackcap, 7 Lesser Whitethroat, 12 Whitethroat, 10 Chiffchaff and 3 Willow Warbler.

Viz-migging produced 2 Wigeon, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, 2 Lapwing, 7 Black-tailed Godwit, 16 Curlew out east, 28 Sand Martin, 35 Swallow, 5 House Martin, 1 Tree Pipit, 19 Flava Wagtail, 3 Alba Wagtail, 36 Carrion Crow, 2 Rook, 17 Goldfinch, 68 Linnet and 3 Corn Bunting.
Over the sea were 2 Wigeon, male Mandarin, a Glaucous Gull north, 6 Teal, 41 Common Scoter, 3 Fulmar and 8 Cormorant.

Other birds of note were the 20 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 6 Teal, 1 Common Scoter Beacon ponds, 2 Grey Partridge, 2 Greenshank, 21 Avocet and 1 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Blackbird, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 4 Blackcap, 5 Chiffchaff, 3 Willow Warbler, 1 Goldfinch. (15 of 6 species).

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Friday, 28 April 2017

Early showers petered out with a cold F3-1 N-SE. 
Migration Watches: 0630-0930.

Migrant numbers were 52 Whimbrel, 1 Cuckoo, 7 Yellow Wagtail, 1 Mistle Thrush, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Sedge Warbler, 1 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 7 Whitethroat and 2 Chiffchaff.

Viz-migging produced 6 Swallow, 3 Flava Wagtail and 1 Hooded Crow.
Over the sea were 6 Fulmar, 21 Gannet, 1 Red throated Diver, 1 Cormorant, 2 Kittiwake, 2 Little Tern and 26 Auk sp while 52 Arctic Tern flew out north-east (1st of year).

Other birds of note were the 1 Barnacle Goose, 21 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 3 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 1 Common Scoter Beacon ponds, 2 Grey Partridge, 21 Avocet, 200 Grey Plover and 2 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: Nil

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Thursday, 27 April 2017

Cold wintery showers all day, with occasional sunny periods in a F3 NW-N wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1000.

Pretty much the same as the previous day. Change is on the way for the weekend!

Migrant numbers were 1 Marsh Harrier, 6 Whimbrel, 5 Swallow, 2 Sand Martin, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 2 Wheatear, 1 Grasshopper Warbler canal area, 2 Sedge Warbler, 1 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff and 2 Brambling.

Over the sea were 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 4 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 1 Little Tern, 8 Guillemot, 1 Puffin and 154 Auk sp.

Other birds of note were the 1 Barnacle Goose, 19 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 9 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck,1 Common Scoter Beacon ponds, 126 Grey Plover, 3700 Dunlin, 23 Avocet and 2 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 2 Brambling

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Wednesday, 26 April 2017

Cold wintery showers all day, with occasional sunny periods in a F3-4 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-0930, 1730-1930.

A very poor day, what with the awful weather making it difficult for migrants, especially Hirundines. There was some movement over the sea, but in general little birding was done. 

Migrant numbers were 16 Whimbrel, 5 Swallow, 1 House Martin, 3 Yellow Wagtail, 24 Wheatear, 1 Song Thrush, 3 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 11 Whitethroat, 3 Chiffchaff and 1 Willow Warbler.

Over the sea were 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Eider, 3 Common Scoter, 14 Fulmar,1 Manx Shearwater, 62 Gannet, 1 Arctic Skua, 57 Kittiwake, 14 Sandwich Tern, 9 Guillemot, 1 Puffin and 154 Auk sp.

Other birds of note were the 1 Barnacle Goose, 20 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck,1 Common Scoter Beacon ponds, 5 Little Egret and 21 Avocet.

Ringing: Nil

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Tuesday, 25 April 2017

A dusting of snow early morning with occasional wintery showers all day, long sunny periods but cold in a F3 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1130, 1700-1830.
A difficult days birding with the strong cold northerly keeping birds low, but it did produce the rather surreal experience at Sammys point of Whitethroats and Lesser Whitethroats singing from snow covered bushes. 

Migrant numbers were 44 Whimbrel, 2 Jack Snipe Beacon ponds, 30 Swallow, 5 Yellow Wagtail, 2 White Wagtail, 10 Wheatear, 3 Sedge Warbler, 1 Reed Warbler, 1 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Whitethroat, 3 Chiffchaff and 5 Willow Warbler.

Over the sea were 7 Common Scoter, 3 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Fulmar, 33 Gannet, 8 Kittiwake, 3 Sandwich Tern, 4 Guillemot and 6 Auk sp.
Viz-mig was understandably poor and only produced 1 House Martin, 3 Flava Wagtail and 2 Rook.

Other birds of note were the 43 Greylag Geese, 1 Barnacle Goose, 20 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 9 Little Egret, 1 Marsh Harrier, 1 Peregrine, 428 Oystercatcher and 1 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 1 Wheatear, 1 Blackcap.

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Monday, 24 April 2017

A cold cloudy start with the odd, occasionally heavy shower, clearing to leave a nice sunny, but still cool afternoon F3 SW-W-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1030, 1300-1615.

The highlight was the 3rd Red-rumped Swallow of the spring which flew past Numpties having being seen at Hunmanby gap earlier in the morning.

Migrant numbers were 22 Whimbrel, 1 Cuckoo in the triangle, 22 Swallow, 6 Yellow Wagtail, 1 White Wagtail, 46 Wheatear, 2 Song Thrush, 3 Redwing, 2 Sedge Warbler, Reed warbler singing on Beacon Lane (1st of year), 1 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 11 Whitethroat, 1 Chiffchaff, 5 Willow Warbler, 1 Brambling and 2 female Bullfinch at the Obs.

Viz-mig produced 1 Marsh Harrier, 6 Turnstone in/off, 14 Wood Pigeon, 14 Sand Martin, 49 Swallow, 2 House Martin, 6 Flava Wagtail, 4 Alba Wagtail, 6 Jackdaw, 14 Rook, 17 Carrion Crow, 1 Chaffinch, 1 Greenfinch, 51 Goldfinch, 91 Linnet, 7 Redpoll and 2 Reed Bunting.
Over the sea 1 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 2 Curlew and 1 Whimbrel.

Other birds of note were the 1 Black Brant with 1 Pale-bellied Brent with the Brent Geese on the Humber, 4 Common Buzzard over Easington and 2 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Wren, 1 Blackcap, 1 Willow Warbler.

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Saturday, 22 April 2017

Another raw dull day for the time of year with a 1-2 WWW-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0700-1100.

Migrant numbers were 22 Whimbrel, 7 Snipe, 4 Yellow Wagtail, 1 White Wagtail, 26 Wheatear, 1 Ring Ouzel, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Sedge Warbler, 5 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Whitethroat, 9 Chiffchaff, 7 Willow Warbler and 2 Brambling.

Viz-mig produced 1 Marsh Harrier, 6 Turnstone in/off, 2 Swallow, 1 House Martin, 2 Flava Wagtail, 4 Alba Wagtail, 3 Rook, 9 Carrion Crow and 3 Linnet.
Over the sea 3 Common Scoter, 3 Red-throated Diver and 4 Fulmar.

Other birds of note were the 1 Canada Goose, 1 Pale-bellied Brent 1 Black Brant with the Brent Geese on the Humber, 19 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 11 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Grey Partridge, 1 Merlin, 2 Golden Plover, 370 Grey Plover, 36 Turnstone and 2 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 3 Dunnock, 3 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Reed Bunting. (11 of 5 sp).

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Saturday, 22 April 2017

Bright and sunny all day with a cool F1-2 WNW wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1230.

A Great-white Egret spent much of the day on Kilnsea wetland, then flew out to sea in the evening.

Migrant numbers were 32 Whimbrel, 3 Snipe, 1 Common Sandpiper from a overnight recording (1st of year), 1 Cuckoo and 2 Tree pipit Sammys (both 1st of year), 1 Yellow Wagtail, 13 Wheatear, 1 Ring Ouzel, 5 Fieldfare, 1 Sedge Warbler, 2 Blackcap, 1 Lesser Whitethroat, 5 Whitethroat, 7 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler and 1 Brambling.

Viz-mig produced 14 Curlew out east, 35 sand Martin, 39 Swallow, 5 Flava Wagtail, 15 Magpie u-turned, 4 Jackdaw, 6 Rook, 47 Carrion Crow, 12 Goldfinch, 29 Linnet and 1 Yellowhammer.

Other birds of note were the 19 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 16 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 6 Little Egret, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Peregrine, 1 Merlin, 18 Avocet and 2 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 3 Linnet.

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Friday, 21 April 2017

A mainly cloudy day with the odd sunny spell, but cold in the F2-3 W-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0550-1100, 1430-1500.
The generally cool weather continues and set to go into May.

Migrant numbers were 20 Whimbrel, 4 Snipe, 2 Little Tern, 10 Swallow, 2 Yellow Wagtail, 21 Wheatear, 1 Fieldfare, 4 Song Thrush, 2 Sedge Warbler, 3 Blackcap, 2 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Whitethroat, 4 Chiffchaff, 5 Willow Warbler, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Pied Flycatcher (1st of year) and 1 Brambling.

Viz-mig produced 6 Curlew out east, 1 Skylark, 2 Sand Martin, 2 House Martin, 9 Flava Wagtail, 1 Alba Wagtail, 7 Jackdaw, 5 Rook, 45 Carrion Crow, 13 Starling, 3 Chaffinch, 3 Goldfinch and 10 Linnet.
Over the sea 4 Shelduck, 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Common Scoter, 2 Red-throated Diver and 4 Gannet.

Other birds of note were the 2 Black Brant with 1 Pale-bellied Brent and 400 Brent Geese on the Humber, 22 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 5 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 2 Little Grebe, 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Peregrine, 21 Avocet, 4 Snipe, 1 Greenshank and 1 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Goldfinch.

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Thursday, 20 April 2017

Sunny spells with varying cloud cover and the odd light shower with a F1-2 WNW-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0625-1205, 1600-1700. 

Migrant totals were 1 Little-ringed Plover, 34 Whimbrel, 4 Yellow Wagtail, 15 Wheatear, RedstartSammys (1st of year), 1 Stonechat, 2 Fieldfare, 1 Sedge Warbler, 5 Blackcap, 3 Lesser Whitethroat, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler and 2 Brambling.

On the move were a male Mandarin on Kilnsea wetland that flew off south, 1 Marsh Harrier, 7 Whimbrel and 144 Curlew out east, 50 Black-headed Gull in/off, 15 Sand Martin, 38 Swallow, 8 Flava Wagtail, 2 Alba Wagtail, 6 Rook, 18 Carrion Crow, 1 Chaffinch, 8 Goldfinch and 40 Linnet.
On the move over a very quiet sea were 2 Shoveler, 1 Common Scoter, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 3 Cormorant and 5 Sandwich Tern.

Other bits of interest were 1 Barnacle Goose, 1 Black Brant. 1 Pale-bellied Brent and 500 Brent Geese al on Easington straight, 27 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 9 Teal, 1 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck and 2 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 3 Goldfinch (7 of 4 species).

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Wednesday, 19 April 2017

A milder day, mostly cloudy with some light showers with a F1 NE-SE wind.
Migration Watches: 
A better day, the lighter wind maybe enabling more migrants to be recorded.

Migrant numbers were 2 Little-ringed Plover, 22 Whimbrel, 3 Snipe, 23 Swallow, 2 Yellow Wagtail, 7 Wheatear, 2 Blackcap, 1 Whitethroat, 10 Chiffchaff, 5 Willow Warbler, 1 Firecrest Canal hedge, 1 Bullfinch and 2 Brambling.

Viz-mig produced 2 Marsh Harrier, 2 Common Buzzard, 86 Curlew out east, 1 Sand Martin, 1 House Martin, 1 Flava Wagtail, 2 Alba Wagtail, 4 Jackdaw, 1 Rook, 4 Carrion Crow, 9 Chaffinch, 1 Greenfinch, 22 Goldfinch, 59 Linnet, 3 Reed Bunting, 1 Yellowhammer and 1 Corn Bunting.
Over the sea 1 Fulmar, 1 Gannet and 3 Cormorant.

Other birds of note were the 2 Black Brant with 1 Pale-bellied Brent and 400 Brent Geese on the Humber, 28 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 13 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 2 Grey Partridge, 4 Little Grebe, 8 Little Egret, 430 Oystercatcher, 18 Avocet, 1 Barn Owl and 2 Short-eared Owl over Clubleys.

Ringing: 1 Blackbird, 1 Blackcap, 2 Goldfinch.

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Tuesday, 18 April 2017

A cold day with plenty of sunshine, but a raw wind with a F1-3 NNE wind.
Migration Watches: 0610-1050.

No sign of the Subalpine Warbler today despite looking in the less than ideal cold wind, though it did bring a few bits extra over the sea. No significant counts were made either.

Over the sea 15 Common Scoter, 7 Red-throated Diver, 23 Fulmar, 69 Gannet, 1 Kittiwake, 1 Sandwich Tern, 25 Auk sp, went south.

Migrant numbers were poor with 8 Whimbrel and 2 Chiffchaff.

Other birds of note were the Black Brant with 340 Brent Geese on the Humber, 1 Peregrine, 14 Avocet and 2 Short-eared Owl over Clubleys

Ringing: 1 Goldfinch.

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Monday, 17 April 2017

A cool day with sunny spells, warm out of the wind then heavy rain overnight with a F1-2 NE wind.
Migrations watches: 0605-1105, 1500-1545.

The male Western Subalpine Warbler still present at south end of the canal singing and calling.

Other migrants today were male Ruff Kilnsea wetlands, 6 Whimbrel, 2 Little Tern north, 11 Wheatear, 1 Stonechat, 2 Blackcap, 1 Whitethroat (1st of year), 2 Chiffchaff, 3 Willow Warbler, 1 Brambling and 1 Siskin.

Over the sea were 6 Common Scoter, male Red-breasted Merganser on the Humber, 2 red-throated Diver, 1 Fulmar, 2 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 59 Curlew out east, 
Viz-migging produced 11 Wood Pigeon, 2 Sand Martin, 13 Swallow, 1 Flava Wagtail, 1 Rook, 4 Carrion Crow and 14 Goldfinch. 

Other birds of note were 2 adult Black Brant on the Humber with 1 Pale-bellied Brent and 430 Brent Geese, 24 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 17 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 5 Little Egret, 1 Peregrine, 18 Avocet Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Lapwing and 2 Short-eared Owl. 

A few Butterflies on the wing with Small White, Speckled Wood, Orange Tip and Holly Blue being seen.

Ringing: 2 Wood Pigeon, 2 Blackbird, 2 Wren, 1 Chaffinch (7 of 4 species).

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Sunday, 16 April 2017

A mostly overcast day with sunny spells then showers from mid-day heavier by dark with a F1-2 variable wind.
Migration Watches: 0610-1050, 1530-1630.

A small increase in migrant numbers brought the 2nd IBERIAN CHIFFCHAFF of the spring, found calling along the canal by Tim Jones (his 2nd of the spring!), while nearby the male Western Subalpine Warbler made a re-appearance having not been seen since the 7th! 

Migrant numbers picked up a little with 8 Whimbrel, 12 Wheatear, 1 Stonechat, 1 Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Grasshopper Warbler at Chalk bank, 1 Lesser Whitethroat on Vicars Lane (1st of year), 6 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 10 Willow Warbler and 1 Brambling.

Totals for viz-migging were 1 Bar-tailed Godwit and 124 Curlew out east, 12 Swallow, 2 Jackdaw, 6 Rook, 1 Hooded Crow and 13 Carrion Crow, 19 Goldfinch, 18 Linnet and 1 Reed Bunting. 
Over the sea 2 Common Scoter went south.

Other birds of note were the Black Brant with 1 Pale-bellied Brent and 140 Brent Geese on the Humber, 23 Wigeon Kilnsea wetlands, 4 Gadwall, 6 Teal, 1 male Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 3 Little Egret, 2 Common Buzzard Easington, 2 Peregrine, 14 Avocet and 1 Short-eared Owl canal area.

Ringing: 1 Great Black-backed Gull, 1 Wren, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Iberian Chiffchaff, 3 Goldfinch. (7 of 5 species).

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Saturday, 15 April 2017

Migration Watches: 0610-1130.

An increase in migrant numbers, but poor for visible migration while the Black Brant re-appeared.

Totals for viz-migging were 1 Canada Goose, 2 Red Kite, 1 Bar-tailed Godwit and 67 Curlew out east, 2 Swallow, 1 Flava Wagtail, 1 Alba wagtail, 1 Jackdaw, 2 Rook, 3 Hooded Crow blogging and 35 Carrion Crow. 
Over the sea 1 Common Scoter, 1 Fulmar, 4 Gannet, 4 Cormorant, 5 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 79 Herring Gull and 1 Puffin.

Migrant numbers picked up a little with 1 Little-ringed Plover on Kilnsea wetland, 1 Whimbrel, 1 White Wagtail, 1 Yellow Wagtail, 10 Wheatear, 1 Whinchat on Clubleys (1st of year), 1 Stonechat, 1 Redwing, 1 Grasshopper Warbler on Beacon Lane (1st of year), 1 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler and 1 Siskin.

Other birds of note were the Black Brant with 1 Pale-bellied Brent and 112 Brent Geese on the Humber, 18 Wigeon Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Gadwall, 16 Teal, 2 male Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck, 6 Little Egret, 2 Lapwing, 14 Avocet, 1 Short-eared Owl and 66 Linnet while an escaped Harris Hawk was mobile about the area.

Ringing: Nil.

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Friday, 14 April 2017

Overcast day with rain showers in the afternoon becoming heavier and constant by dark and a F2 SW-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1030.

Despite favourable winds the poor overland movement continued. The day was more of a recovery from the previous day’s exertions.

Totals were 3 Marsh Harrier, 21 Curlew out east, 36 Wood Pigeon, 4 Swallow, 4 Meadow Pipit, 2 Alba wagtail, 4 Jackdaw, 6 Rook, 2 Hooded Crow blogging, 60 Carrion Crow, 4 Starling, 2 Chaffinch, 48 Goldfinch, Siskin, 77 Linnet and 1 yellowhammer. 
Over the sea 2 male Velvet Scoter went north.

Migrant numbers were still poor with 6 Whimbrel, 1 White Wagtail, 5 Wheatear, 1 Ring Ouzel on Beacon Lane, 1 Redwing, 1 Blackcap, 3 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Brambling and 1 Siskin.

Other birds of note were 23 Wigeon Kilnsea wetlands, 4 Gadwall, 11 Teal, 2 male Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck Kilnsea Wetlands, 2 Grey Partridge Churchfield,1 Kestrel, 14 Avocet and 1 Short-eared Owl.

Ringing: 1 Goldfinch.

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Thursday, 13 April 2017

Overcast most of the day with sunny spells and a F2-3 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0615-1030. 
A quiet day overall, so time to prepare for the Welwick Charity Bike Ride on Good Friday (no doubt some good photos to follow!), some overdue repairs to the Heligolandtrap at the Warren and sorting the huge delivery of the 2016 Spurn Wildlife.

Very little on the move. Totals were 6 Curlew out east, 42 Wood Pigeon, 6 Sand Martin, 1 Swallow, 1 House Martin, 6 Meadow Pipit in/off plus 4 south, 2 Jackdaw, 15 Rook, 1 Hooded Crow blogging, 31 Carrion Crow, 8 Linnet and 1 Siskin.

Migrant numbers were well down with 6 Whimbrel, 1 Fieldfare, 1’Icelandic’ Redwing at the Warren, 7 Wheatear, 2 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Brambling and 1 Siskin.

Other birds of note were 3 Canada Goose triangle, 374 Brent plus 1 Pale-bellied Brent, 19 Wigeon Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Gadwall, 14 Teal, 2 Shoveler, 1 Tufted Duck Kilnsea Wetlands, 6 Little Egret, 1 Common Buzzard Easington and 13 Avocet.

Ringing: 1 Fieldfare, 2 Wheatear, 2 Blackcap, 2 Goldfinch. (7 of 4 species).

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Wednesday, 12 April 2017

A sunny spells with patchy cloud and a strong F4-5 W-NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0615-1200. 
Difficult in the strong winds, but for once the sea delivered some good birds.

Over the sea 2 Shelduck, 6 Teal, 3 Long-tailed Duck, 25 Common Scoter, 1 Velvet Scoter, 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 1 Red-throated Diver, 2 Cormorant, 48 Curlew out east, 2 Snipe west, 4 Gannet, 4 Lesser Black-backed Gull, 57 Black-headed Gull, 7 Auk sp and 1 Razorbill.
Very little on the move over the land. Totals were 4 Sand Martin, 1 Alba Wagtail, 8 Meadow Pipit in/off, 5 Carrion Crow, 12 Linnet and 1 Siskin. 
Migrant were 1 Little-ringed Plover on Clubleys, 5 Whimbrel, 1 White Wagtail, 1 Redwing, 4 Wheatear, 1 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest and 1 Siskin.

Other birds of note were 1 Canada Goose, 17 Wigeon Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Gadwall, 2 Pintail, 1 Shoveler, 6 Little Egret, 1 Peregrine and 1 Black-tailed Godwit.

Ringing: 2 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin. (3 of 2 species).

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Tuesday, 11 April 2017

A sunny mild day with patchy cloud and an increasing a F2-4 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0610-1100. 

The spring so far been noticeable for its lack of visible migration, with only a few days of decent numbers of birds moving south. A run of good south westerlies may have the desired effect but, we will have to wait and see.
Difficult conditions made looking for migrants difficult with very little seen. 

No sign of the Iberian Chiffchaff today, but a brief Red-rumped Swallow feeding over Kilnsea wetlands was welcome. It soon moved off north-west towards Easington.
Other migrant were the male Garganey on Holderness Field, 1 White Wagtail and 2 Wheatear.

Over the sea a Great Northern Diver flew north while 5 Gannet went south.

Other birds of note were 17 Wigeon Kilnsea wetlands, 2 Gadwall, 1 Shoveler, 6 Little Egret, 2 Peregrine.

Ringing: 1 Redwing, 2 Goldfinch, 1 Linnet (4 of 3 species).

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Monday, 10 April 2017

A sunny but cool start soon clouded over with an increasing a F2-3 NW-N wind.
Migration Watches: 0610-1100. 

The Iberian Chiffchaff was still showing, singing and calling in the Crown to churchyard area, attracting a steady trickle of birders all day.

Other migrant totals were the male Garganey on Holderness Field, 4 White Wagtail, 2 Yellow Wagtail Sammys, 6 Wheatear, 1 Black Redstart, 2 Chiffchaff and 1 Willow Warbler while 3+ Short-eared Owl still in the Long bank area.

Moving overland were 1 Common Buzzard, Marsh Harrier Sammys, 5 Alba Wagtail plus a good movement of Rook and Jackdaws.

Full update to come.

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Sunday, 09 April 2017

A warm day with scattered cloud and an increasing a F1-4 SE-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0610-1100. 

A male IBERIAN CHIFFCHAFF was found singing and calling in the Crown and Anchor car park at 07:00 this morning and continued to sing and show well at times throughout the day, it was trapped and ringed at Kew and is the 2nd Spurn record following one in 2004.

The Iberian Chiffchaff aside it was just about ticking over. Migrant totals were 5 Swallow, 5 Sand Martin, 3 Wheatear, 1 Fieldfare, 2 Redwing, 1 Blackcap, 12 Chiffchaff, 4 Willow Warbler, 1 Goldcrest, 2 Firecrestin the crown carpark, 1 Brambling, 2 Siskin and 2 Redpoll. 

Moving overland were 1 Marsh Harrier, 16 Curlew out east, 1 Sand Martin, 5 Swallow, 1 Alba Wagtail, 13 Jackdaw, 3 Rook, 32 Carrion Crow, 6 Chaffinch, 42 Goldfinch, 48 Linnet and 3 Reed Bunting. 

Other bits of interest were the 11 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 14 Teal with the male Garganey on Holderness Field, 3 Little Egret, 22 Avocet on Kilnsea Wetlands and 1 Short-eared Owl on Clubley’s while the Ring-necked Parakeet was still in Easington.

Ringing: 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Iberian Chiffchaff. (2 of 2 species).

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Saturday, 08 April 2017

A clear sunny day with a F1-3 S wind.
Migration Watches: 0600-1045. 

Pretty much the same as the previous few days, but with slight increases in migrants.

The first Little Tern of the year flew out east over the triangle and a Woodlark was at Sammys Point, a Yellow Wagtail at the Riding School, 1 Black Redstart at the Point, 3 Wheatear, 1 Fieldfare, 8 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 2 Blackcap, 13 Chiffchaff, 4 Willow Warbler, 3 Goldcrest, 2 Siskin and 2 Redpoll. 

Moving overland were 1 Common Buzzard, 9 Sand Martin, 3 Alba Wagtail, 5 Jackdaw, 17 Rook, 13 Carrion Crow, 4 Chaffinch, 6 Goldfinch, 2 Siskin, 20 Linnet, 2 Reed Bunting and 1 Yellowhammer. 
Over the sea 2 Eider, 2 Common Scoter, 1 Common Buzzard, 9 Sand Martin and 3 Alba Wagtail. 

Other bits of interest were the 23 Greylag Geese in the triangle, 1 Pale-bellied Brent with 150 Brent Goose on the Humber, 15 Wigeon, 2 Pintail, 4 Gadwall, 9 Teal, 1 Shoveler mainly on Kilnsea Wetlands with the male Garganey on Holderness Field, 2 Grey Partridge, 5 Little Egret, 350 Oystercatcher, 10 Avocet on Kilnsea Wetlands, 4 Short-eared Owl, 15 Magpie triangle while the Ring-necked Parakeet was still in Easington.

Ringing: 1 Song Thrush, 1 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 9 Goldfinch. (12 of 4 species).

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Friday, 07 April 2017

A cloudy day with a light variable wind.
Migrations watches: 0625-1045, 1330-1400.

Rather out of the blue a male Western Subalpine Warbler appeared in the morning by the Numpties watchpoint at the Warren, then rapidly moved off north, being trapped in Churchfield soon after. It then skulked around Kilnsea before settling in a hedge behind Driftwood. A Great-grey Shrike also at the warren on the wires, moved to the Riding school area.
Other migrants today were the male Garganey on Holdernes Field, the first Swift of the spring on Beacon Lane, 1 White Wagtail at sammys, 1 Wheatear, 1 Fieldfare, 68 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush, 2 Blackcap, 7 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow Warbler, 1 Goldcrest and 1 Brambling.

On the move were 1 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 1 Marsh Harrier, 2 Swallow, 13 Magpie back north, 1 Rook, 10 Carrion Crow and 14 Goldfinch. 

Other birds of note were 1 Pink-footed Goose, 4 Gadwall, 25 Teal and 1 Shoveler. 

Ringing: 1 Blackbird, 1 Redwing, 1 Subalpine Warbler, 1 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Great Tit, 1 Brambling, 4 Goldfinch (11 of 8 species).

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Thursday, 06 April 2017

A nice sunny day with a F1 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0616-1115, 1515-1615. 
Pretty much the same as the last few days, but the first decent flock of Curlew headed out east. This is a fantastic sight and sound if you are out and about at Spurn over the next couple of weeks, which can sometimes involve hundreds of birds. 

Migrant totals were the long staying male Garganey still on Holderness field, 1 Black Redstart, 1 Wheatear, 1 Stonechat, 2 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Blackcap, 6 Chiffchaff and 2 Willow Warbler. 

Moving overland were 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Skylark, 2 Sand Martin, 1 Swallow, 1 Alba Wagtail, 6 Jackdaw, 8 Rook, 28 Carrion Crow, 2 Chaffinch, 21 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin and 9 Linnet. 2 Egyptian Geesealso went south, an almost annual species in recent years, while a Ring-necked Parakeet u-turned back north at the Warren.
Over the sea 1 Cormorant, 20 Curlew out east, 2 Lesser Black-backed Gull.

Other bits of interest were the 21 Greylag Geese in the triangle, Brent Goose flock on the Humber, 18 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 29 Teal, 16 Mallard, 2 Shoveler mainly on Kilnsea Wetlands, 2 Grey Partridge, 1 Merlin, 2 Little Egret, 21 Avocet on Kilnsea Wetlands, 16 Magpie triangle, 23 Tree Sparrow Churchfield.

Ringing: 1 Wren, 1 Willow Warbler, 1 Reed Bunting. (3 of 3 species).

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Wednesday, 05 April 2017

Generally cloudy, but sunny spells in the afternoon and a F1-2 NW wind.
Migration Watches: 0610-1015. 
The annual spring increase of Brent Geese, which seems to be a staging gathering began and brought a new Black Brant to the Humber. Last spring the flock suddenly and spectacularly all departed out east early May in the morning.

Migrant totals were the male Garganey still on Holderness field, a Long-eared Owl trapped in Churchfield, 1 Wheatear, 2 Redwing, 2 Song Thrush, 1 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow warbler, 3 Goldcrest and 1 Siskin. 

Moving overland were 1 Common Buzzard, 1 Sand Martin, 1 Swallow, 1 Alba Wagtail, 4 Jackdaw, 3 Rook, 38 Carrion Crow, 2 Starling and 10 Linnet.
Over the sea 1 Red-throated Diver was the only bird of note.

Other bits of interest were the 20 Greylag Geese in the triangle, 2 Black Brant with a Pale-bellied Brent and 620 Brent Geese on the Humber, 34 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 28 Teal, 4 Shoveler, 4 Little Egret, 450 Oystercatcher, 22 Avocet on Kilnsea Wetlands, 1500 Dunlin on the Humber, 1 Peregrine, 2 Short-eared Owl at Beacon Ponds and 17 Magpie.

A Ring-necked Parakeet was in the garden of Willow Cottage in Easington.

Ringing: 1 Long-eared Owl, 1 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldfinch. (4 of 3 species).

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Tuesday, 04 April 2017

Cooler and overcast with sunny spells in the afternoon and a F1-3 N wind.
Migration Watches: 0620-1100, 1400-1515. 
No sightings of any Wheatear or Black Redstarts and big reductions in migrants, but still the first Yellow Wagtail and Willow Warbler of the spring arrived, while viz-migging was poorer in the northerly wind, though Corvids were still moving.

Migrant totals were the male Garganey still on Holderness field, a male Yellow Wagtail at Sammy’s Point (1st of year), 2 Stonechat, 2 Fieldfare, 8 Redwing, 1 Song Thrush, 2 Blackcap, 11 Chiffchaff, 2 Willow warbler (1st of year), 1 Goldcrest and 1 Siskin.

Moving overland were 2 Swallow, 33 Jackdaw, 13 Rook, 58 Carrion Crow, 1 Hooded Crow, 6 Starling, 1 Chaffinch and 9 Linnet.

Other bits of interest were the Black Brant with 200 Brent Geese on the Humber, 27 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 26 Teal, 5 Shoveler, 2 Grey Partridge, 4 Little Egret, 16 Avocet, 1 Greenshank, 1 Short-eared Owl on Clubley's and 12 Magpie. 

Ringing: 3 Chiffchaff, 1 Willow Warbler, 3 Goldfinch. (7 of 3 species).

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Monday, 03 April 2017

A foggy start cleared by late morning with sunny spells and light winds.
Migrations watches: 0700-1205, 1430-1605.

The male Garganey was still on Holderness field while migrant totals were 2 Black Redstart, 1 Wheatear, 1 Stonechat, 7 Fieldfare, 6 Redwing, 3 Song Thrush, 2 Blackcap, 6 Chiffchaff and 13 Goldcrest. 

Viz-migging produced 1 Red Kite, 1 Marsh Harrier, 5 Wood Pigeon, 3 Sand Martin, 3 Swallow, 3 alba Wagtail, 5 Jackdaw, 4 Rook, 18 Carrion Crow, 12 Starling, 12 Chaffinch, 42 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin, 74 Linnet, 1 Reed Bunting and 1 Yellowhammer.

On the move over the sea were 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Goosander west and a 2nd Calendar year Glaucous Gull. 
Other birds of note were the Black Brant on the Humber with 148 Brent Geese, 2 Gadwall, 24 Teal, 5 Little Egret, 1 Merlin, 1 Greenshank on Beacon Ponds, Little Owl in Easington and Short-eared Owl at Long Bank, .

Ringing: 2 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Tree Sparrow, 4 Goldfinch. (8 of 4 species).

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Sunday, 02 April 2017

A pleasant day overcast in the morning, sunny spells in the afternoon with a F1 E wind.
Migration Watches: 0625-0925. 
Quieter overall today with few birds moving in the light winds.

Migrant totals were much reduced again with the male Garganey still on Holderness field, 1 Rock Pipit, 4 Wheatear, 5 Black Redstart, 1 Song Thrush, 42 Redwing, 1 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff and the 1 Firecreststill at the Warren. 
Moving overland were 4 Meadow Pipit, 12 Jackdaw, 3 Rook, 35 Carrion Crow and 3 Chaffinch.

Other bits of interest were 20 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 28 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 5 Teal, 3 Shoveler, 6 Little Egret, 13 Moorhen, 11 Avocet and 2 Short-eared Owl Long Bank. 

Ringing: 1 Wren , 1 Blackcap, 1 Great Tit, 3 Goldfinch. (6 of 4 species).

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Saturday, 01 April 2017

Sunny spells but mostly overcast, light showers in the morning with a F1-2 SW-W wind.
Migration Watches: 0610-1200, 1530-1640.
Overland movement is slowly picking up with decent numbers of Finches.

Migrant totals were a Male Garganey on Holderness field, 1 Woodcock, 2 Rock Pipit, 2 Wheatear, 80 Redwing, 3 Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrest and 1 Firecrest at the Warren.

Viz-migging produced 3 Marsh Harrier, 1 Common Buzzard, 25 Wood Pigeon, 1 Skylark, 4 Meadow Pipit, 16 Alba Wagtail, 3 Dunnock, 2 Bearded Tit, 15 Jackdaw, 15 Rook, 19 Carrion Crow, 43 Starling, 423 Chaffinch, 1 Brambling, 170 Goldfinch, 5 siskin, 328 Linnet, 12 Reed Bunting, 4 Yellowhammer and 1 Corn Bunting.

On the move over the sea were 50 Pink footed Geese, 7 Common Scoter, 1 Goosander, 1 Red throated Diver, 8 Cormorant, 151 Black-headed Gull and 27 Common Gull.

Other bits of interest were 1 Pale-bellied Brent Geese with 200 Brent Geese, 50 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 6 Shoveler, 7 Little Egret, 1 Peregrine, 7 Avocet, 2 Greenshank and 1 Short-eared Owl, .

Ringing: 1 Chiff chaff, 1 Tree Sparrow, 4 Chaffinch, 8 Goldfinch (14 of 4 species).

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Friday, 31 March 2017

A dull overcast start, becoming brighter and breezier in the afternoon with a F1-3 SW wind.
Migration Watches: 0620-1115, 1315-1715. 

The highlight was a welcome Red-rumped Swallow south in the evening. A species which has become annual in varying numbers, and become a bit of a Spurn specialty, but suprisingly none were seen last year.
Also today an Egyptian Goose also flew south, a species which has also been occurring annually in recent times.

Migrant totals were male Garganey still on Holderness field, a Little-ringed Plover south, 1 Rock Pipit, 2 White Wagtail, 2 Wheatear, 1 Black Redstart, 9 Fieldfare, 1 Song Thrush, 121 Redwing, 19 Chiffchaff, 26 Goldcrest and the 1 Firecrest still in Churchfield. 

Moving overland were 5 Sand Martin, 2 Swallow, 13 Meadow Pipit, 7 Alba wagtail, 10 Jackdaw, 5 Rook, 10 Carrion Crow, 105 Starling, 42 Chaffinch, 3 Brambling, 2 Greenfinch, 45 Goldfinch, 5 siskin, 151 Linnet, 3 reed Bunting and 1 Corn Bunting.
Over the sea 1 Whooper Swan, 1 Common Scoter, 2 Red breasted Merganser, 2 Goosander, 1 Red throated Diver, 24 Cormorant, 1 Arctic Skua out east, 149 Black-headed Gull and 1 Sandwich Tern.

Other bits of interest were 1 Pink-footed Goose triangle, 80 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 29 Teal, 5 Shoveler, 3 Little Egret, 1 Peregrine, 2 Merlin, 420 Oystercatcher, 11 Avocet, 4 Snipe and 3 Short-eared Owl Long Bank. 

Ringing: 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest, 1 House Sparrow, 3 Chaffinch, 2 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin. (11 of 6 species).

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Thursday, 30 March 2017

A relatively warm day with a southerly breeze and light showeres in the afternoon and a F3-2 SW-S wind.
Migration Watches: 0625-1130, 1615-1715. 

Migrant totals were the 1st Sandwich Tern of the year at the Point, 5 Wheatear, 5 Black Redstart, 2 Stonechat, 1 Song Thrush, 1 Fieldfare, 8 Redwing, 21 Chiffchaff, 38 Goldcrest and the 1 Firecrest still in Churchfield.

Moving overland were 1 Red Kite, 1 Marsh Harrier, 4 Skylark, 1 Sand Martin, 1 Swallow, 29 Meadow Pipit,5 Alba wagtail, 24 Jackdaw, 28 Rook, 16 Carrion Crow, 207 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 6 Greenfinch, 75 Goldfinch, 7 Siskin, 126 Linnet, 1 Bullfinch, 3 Reed Bunting and 1 Yellowhammer.
Not much movement over the sea with 4 Shoveler and 4 Curlew out east, 7 Common Scoter, 1 Red throated Diver, 6 Cormorant and 1 Mediterranean Gull the best of it. 

Other bits of interest were 3 Little Grebe and 4 Coot on Canal Scrape, 2 Short-eared Owl Long Bank and 17 Magpie. 

Ringing: 1 Stonechat, 2 Goldcrest, 1 Chaffinch, 1 Goldfinch. (5 of 4 species).

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Wednesday, 29 March 2017

A wet start then overcast with rain again in the afternoon and a F1-2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1130. 

Migrant totals were a 2 Wheatear, 6 Black Redstart, 2 Stonechat, Ring Ouzel by the VTS tower, 2 Song Thrush, 233 Redwing, 1 Blackcap, 21 Chiffchaff, 37 Goldcrest, the 1 Firecrest still in Churchfield and 1 Brambling. 

A better day for viz-migging with a Common Buzzard back north, 1 Woodlark, 2 Skylark, 4 Meadow Pipit,3 Alba wagtail, 17 Jackdaw, 37 Rook, 29 Carrion Crow, 13 Starling, 58 Chaffinch, 2 Brambling, 1 Greenfinch, 21 Goldfinch and 22 Linnet.
Other bits of interest were 2 Shoveler, 2 Little Grebe on Canal Scrape, 1 Merlin, 425 Oystercatcher, 2 Grey Partridge, 1 Greenshank, 1 Short-eared Owl Long Bank and a Snow Bunting at the Breach. 

Ringing: 1 Blackcap, 1 Chiffchaff, 4 Goldcrest. (6 of 3 species).

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Tuesday, 28 March 2017

Calm cool and overcast with light shower afternoon and a F1-2 SE wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-0930, 1500-1600. 

Migrant totals were a Jack Snipe on Church field, 6 Snipe, 1 ‘Littoralis’ Rock Pipit, 1 Wheatear, 4 Black Redstart, 3 Song Thrush, 1 Redwing, 11 Chiffchaff, 22 Goldcrest, 1 Firecrest trapped in Churchfield and 1 Brambling. 
Other bits of interest were Black Brant Holderness Field, 140 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 7 Teal, 2 Grey Partridge, 1 Greenshank, 1 Short-eared Owl Long Bank, while on the move were 7 Rook and 1 Carrion Crow.

Ringing: 1 Blackbird, 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Firecrest, 7 Goldcrest. (10 of 4 species).

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Monday, 27 March 2017

Cool, overcast all day and a F1 NE wind.
Migration Watches: 0640-1040.

A slight increase in migrant numbers.

Mirant totals were 1 Woodcock, 1 Wheatear, 3 Black Redstart with 1 Riverside and 2 Canal Scrape, 2 Stonechat with a male showing characters of Rubicola, 1 Fieldfare, 1 Mistle Thrush, 2 Redwing, 12 Chiffchaff and 32 Goldcrest. 

Other bits of interest were 96 Shelduck, 1 Peregrine, 1 Merlin, 439 Oystercatcher, 2nd cal year Glaucous Gull at the Warren, 1 Short-eared Owl while on the south were 2 Grey Heron, 7 Meadow Pipit, 1 Alba wagtail, 6 Jackdaw, 8 Rook, 2 Carrion Crow, 80 Starling and 1 Chaffinch.
On the move over a quiet sea were 11 Common Scoter, 2 Velvet Scoter and 4 Red-throated Diver.

Ringing: 1 Goldcrest, 1 House Sparrow (2 of 1 species).

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Sunday, 26 March 2017

Bright and sunny with some thin high clouds and a F1 NE wind.
Migration Watches: 0530-1015.

Migrant totals were a Jack Snipe on Clubleys, 1 Rock Pipit, 1 Wheatear, 1 Stonechat, 1 Song Thrush, 4 Chiffchaff, 24 Goldcrest and 1 Firecrest.

Other bits of interest were Black Brant on the Humber, 72 Wigeon, 33 Teal, 1 Merlin, 12 Avocet Kilnsea Wetlands, 1 Short-eared Owl Long Bank, while on the move south were 1 Grey Wagtail, 7 Jackdaw, 23 Rook, 11 Carrion Crow, 140 Starling, 4 Chaffinch, 3 Goldfinch and 4 Linnet.
The only sightings on the move over the sea were 1 Red-throated Diver and an adult Mediterranean Gull.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 1 Blackbird, 3 Goldcrest, 1 Chaffinch (6 of 4 species).

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Saturday, 25 March 2017

A foggy start cleared leaving a lovelt bright spring day with a F1 NE wind.
Sea Watches: 0640-1115.

Migrant totals were reduced with 1 Jack Snipe, 3 Short-eared Owl, a Swallow south, 4 Wheatear, 3 Black Redstart, 3 Stonechat, 19 Chiffchaff, 35 Goldcrest, Firecrest at the point, 1 Brambling and 2 Siskin while on the move were 30 Jackdaw, 13 Rook, 6 Carrion Crow, 225 Starling, 1 Chaffinch and 2 Linnet.

Other bits of interest were the Black Brant with Brent Geese, 2 Gadwall, 33 Teal and 1 Merlin.

Ringing: 6 Goldcrest, 1 Great Tit, 1 Tree Sparrow, 1 Chaffinch, 1 Goldfinch (10 of 5 species).

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Friday, 24 March 2017

Bright and sunny with light high clouds and a F2-3 ENE wind.
Sea Watches: 0620-1100. 

A good day with a decent arrival of migrants.

Totals were 1 White Wagtail, 17 Robin, 6 Wheatear, 3 Black Redstart, 2 Stonechat, 1 Song Thrush, 3 Redwing, 17 Chiffchaff, 38 Goldcrest, 1 Firecrest and 2 Snow Bunting at the Breach. 
Other bits of interest were 2 Peregrine, 1st winter Mediterranean Gull at the point, 2 Short-eared Owl while on the south were 47 Jackdaw, 7 Rook, 5 Carrion Crow, 35 Starling, 15 Chaffinch, 5 Goldfinch and 4 Linnet.
On the move over a quiet sea were 2 Eider, 4 Red-throated Diver and 1 Cormorant.

Ringing: 3 Robin, 9 Goldcrest, 1 Chaffinch, 2 Goldfinch, 2 Siskin (17 of 5 species).

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Thursday, 23 March 2017

A clear day with a cool F2-3 NE wind.
Migration Watches: 0630-1100. 
A small arrival of early migrants in the afternoon.

Mirant totals were 1 Wheatear Kilnsea wetlands, 4 Song Thrush, 12 Chiffchaff, 19 Goldcrest and 1 Firecrest Vicars Lane, Easington. 
Other bits of interest were 166 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 19 Teal while on the move south were 1 Stock Dove, 5 Meadow Pipit, 7 Jackdaw, 4 Rook, 1 Carrion Crow, 285 Starling, 4 Chaffinch, 3 Goldfinch and 4 Linnet.
On the move over the sea were 6 Red-throated Diver, 1 Fulmar, 3 Gannet, 84 Herring Gull, 2nd cal year Glaucous Gull and 1 Cormorant.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 2 Robin, 3 Chiffchaff, 12 Goldcrest, 5 Goldfinch (23 of 5 species).

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Wednesday, 22 March 2017

Clear in the morning then heavy rain in the afternoon. F3-4 SE wind.

Sea-watch/Migration Watch- 0620-0940

Birds present were 2 Pink-footed Goose, 1 Canada Goose, 1 Black Brant with 300 Dark-bellied Brent Geese on Long Bank Marsh, 90 Wigeon, 5 Gadwall, 8 Teal, 2 Grey Partridge, 2 Short-eared Owl at Sammy’s Point, 

On the move were 10 Common Scoter, 3 Red-throated Diver, 1 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 9 Herring Gull, 5 Great Tit, 5 Rook, 6 Chaffinch, 8 Goldfinch and 2 Linnet.

Ringing- 1 Redwing.

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Tuesday, 21 March 2017

Rain first thing then clear skies and a stiff, cold westerly wind. F2-4 SW-W.

Sea-watch/Migration Watch-0600-0715.
Birds present were 3 Gadwall, 40 Teal, 9 Avocet, 1 Redwing, 1 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest.

On the move were 1+ Whooper Swan (heard moving north in the dark), 9 Meadow Pipit, 1 Grey Wagtail, 7 Jackdaw, 2 Rook, 102 Chaffinch, 6 Goldfinch and 26 Linnet.

Ringing- 1 Chiffchaff, 1 Goldcrest, 8 Chaffinch. 10/3.

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Monday, 20 March 2017

A wet day clearing in the afternoon and much cooler. F3-5 W.

Sea-watch/Migration Watch- 0630-1200

Birds present were 2 Pink-footed Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 110 Wigeon, 3 Gadwall, 30 Teal, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Merlin, 4 Coot, 8 Avocet, 84 Curlew, 1 Short-eared Owl, 12 Pied Wagtail, 3 Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrush, 3 Redwing, 1 Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrest, 

On the move were 2 Eider, 37 Common Scoter, 15 Red-throated Diver, 3 Gannet, 29 Black-headed Gull, 8 Herring Gull, 3 Great BB Gull, 1 Meadow Pipit, 8 alba Wagtail, 9 Jackdaw, 3 Rook, 2 Carrion Crow, 115 Chaffinch, 4 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin and 1 Corn Bunting

Ringing- 1 Coal Tit, 1 Greenfinch, 2 Goldfinch,6 Chaffinch. 10/4.

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Sunday, 19 March 2017

Showers on and off through the day with heavy rain late afternoon. F3-1 W.

Sea-watch/Migration Watch- 0630-1100

Birds present were 2 Pink-footed Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 1Black Brant with 700 Dark-bellied Brent Geese on the Humber, 1 Peregrine, 1 Merlin, 346 Curlew and 1 Chiffchaff.

On the move were 1 Common Scoter, 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Cormorant, 9 Herring Gull, 13 Great BB Gull, 3 alba Wagtail, 2 Jackdaw, 14 Rook, 93 Chaffinch and 31 Lesser Redpoll.

Ringing- 2 Chaffinch, 1 Goldfinch. 3/2.

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Saturday, 18 March 2017

A miserable day with rain throughout becoming heavier in the afternoon. F1-2 W.

Sea-watch/Migration Watch- 0630-1030

Birds present were 2 Pink-footed Geese, 72 Wigeon, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Great Northern Diver on the sea, 1 Merlin, 1 White Wagtail at Sammy’s Point, 1 Chiffchaff, 6 Goldcrest and 1 Siskin.

On the move were 4 Common Scoter, 29 Red-throated Diver, 3 Gannet, 3 Common Gull, 10 Herring Gull, 3 Great BB Gull, 2 Meadow Pipit, 2 Great Tit, 10 Rook, 2 Carrion Crow, 225 Starling, 3 Chaffinch, 3 Goldfinch and 4 Linnet.

Ringing- 5 Goldcrest, 1 Robin, 3 Chaffinch. 9/3

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Friday, 17 March 2017

A dull day with an increasing westerly wind throughout. F4-6 W.

Sea-watch/Migration Watch- 0645-1045, 1400-1430

Birds present were 1 Goldcrest.

On the move were 3 Shelduck, 5 Eider, 44 Red-throated Diver, 1 Great Crested Grebe, 9 Gannet, 10 Black-headed Gull, 11 Common Gull, 26 Herring Gull, 3 Great BB Gull, 3 Kittiwake, 14 Guillemot, 65 auk sp.

Ringing- 2 Chaffinch. 2/1.

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Thursday, 16 March 2017

F1-3 SW.

Sea-watch/Migration Watch- 0630-1130, 1415 - 1545

The first Wheatear arrived along with a small fall of Chiffchaff and another Firecrest.

Birds present were 1 Black Brant with 700 dark-bellied Brent Geese, 152 Wigeon, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Grey Heron, 2 Sparrowhawk, 1 Kestrel, 1 Merlin, 2 Avocet, 275 Curlew, 2 Lesser BB Gull, 1 Guillemot, 2 Wheatear on Kilnsea Wetlands, 1 Song Thrush, 5 Redwing, 13 Chiffchaff, 11 Goldcrest, 1 Firecrest at Kew, 17 Magpie, 15 Chaffinch, 

On the move were 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Gannet, 5 Cormorant, 1 Lapwing, 29 Black-headed Gull, 1 Lesser BB Gull, 6 Herring Gull, 2 Stock Dove, 7 Woodpigeon, 1 Skylark, 2 alba Wagtail, 26 Jackdaw, 13 Rook, 21 Goldfinch, 16 Linnet, 1 Reed Bunting, 

Ringing- 4 Redwing, 3 Chiffchaff, 1 Firecrest, 3 Goldcrest, 3 Great Tit, 4 Chaffinch, 1 Goldfinch. 19/7.

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Wednesday, 15 March 2017

Sea-watch/Migration Watch- 

A male Bearded Tit along the Canal was an unusual March record.

Birds present were 2 Pink-footed Geese, 10 Teal, 1 male Bearded Tit along the Canal and 1 Yellowhammer.

On the move were 1 Swallow.

Ringing-

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Tuesday, 14 March 2017

A nice bright day, with little wind to start increasing as cloud came in from the west midday. F1-3 W wind.

Sea-watch/Migration Watch- 0630-1030.

Another Woodlark and quite a few passerines moving south including a good count of Great Tit.

Birds present were 1 Black Brant and 920 Dark-bellied Brent Geese on Kilnsea Wetlands, 10 Teal, 2 Little Egret, 2 Grey Heron, 1 Water Rail, 1 Greenshank, 1 Long-eared Owl at Sammy’s Point, 1 Woodlark on footpath north of the Lighthouse, 1 Rock Pipit, 2 Grey Wagtail, 3 Pied Wagtail, 18 Blackbird, 2 Fieldfare, 11 Redwing, 4 Goldcrest, 6 Long-tailed Tit and 1 Corn Bunting.

On the move were 2 Red-breasted Merganser, 4 Lapwing (in), 3 Curlew, 10 Black-headed Gull, 9 Herring Gull, 7 Great BB Gull, 6 Guillemot, 6 auk sp., 1 Skylark, 6 Meadow Pipit, 3 alba Wagtail, 1 Mistle Thrush, 4 Blue Tit, 12 Great Tit, 16 Jackdaw, 7 Rook, 2 Carrion Crow, 2 Greenfinch, 31 Goldfinch and 57 Linnet.


Ringing- 1 Robin, 2 Blackbird, 4 Great Tit, 5 Chaffinch. 12/4.

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Monday, 13 March 2017

A dull day with constant drizzle. F1-2 W

Sea-watch/Migration Watch- 0630-1130, 1245-1400. 

The first Swallow and House Martin of the year were both the earliest ever records for the species, being the earliest by 9 and 7 days respectively. A small influx of Blackbirds and a few passerines on the move.

Birds present were 1 Canada Goose, 38 Teal, 1 Greenshank, 1 Stock Dove, 1 Short-eared Owl, 1 Swallow over Beacon Ponds, 1 House Martin over Southfield Farm, 40 Blackbird, 3 Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrush and 5 Goldcrest.

On the move were 4 Pink-footed Geese, 8 Common Scoter, 1 Grey Heron, 1 Kestrel, 1 Common Buzzard, 2 Merlin, 37 Oystercatcher (out), 20 Golden Plover (in), 12 Curlew (out), 27 Black-headed Gull, 8 Herring Gull, 4 Skylark, 10 Meadow Pipit, 41 Jackdaw, 33 Rook, 10 Carrion Crow, 12 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin, 12 Linnet, 2 Reed Bunting and 2 Yellowhammer.


Ringing- 4 Chaffinch,1 Goldfinch, 4 Great Tit, 1 Tree Sparrow, 2 Robin, 2 Goldcrest, 1 Blackbird. 15/7.

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Sunday, 12 March 2017

A dull day with constant drizzle. F1 S.

Sea-watches- 0715-0930

The drake hybrid Gadwall x Wigeon from 2016 returned, an overnight sound recording session produced plenty of Redwing moving out east.

Birds present were 4 Pink-footed Geese, 25 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 1 drake hybrid Gadwall x Wigeon on Kilnsea Wetlands, 44 Teal, 2 Tufted Duck, 3 Little Egret, 9 Avocet, 2 Short-eared Owl, 1 Stonechat, 40 Blackbird, 1 Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrush, 21 Redwing, 9 Goldcrest, 2 Jackdaw, 1 Rook and 8 Chaffinch. 

On the move were 1 Red-throated Diver, 1 Grey Heron, 6 Black-headed Gull, 46 Common Gull, 9 Herring Gull, 3 Great BB Gull, 13 Meadow Pipit and 106 Redwing sound recorded passing east overnight. 

Ringing- 4 Blackbird, 1 Goldcrest, 6 Chaffinch. 11/3.

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Saturday, 11 March 2017

Sunny spells in the morning clouding over in the afternoon. F1-2 SSE.

Sea-watches- 0700-1045
The first real arrival of the spring, with a scattering of Chiffchaff and the first Firecrest of the year. The Brent Goose count is the 2nd highest ever.

Birds present were 1 Canada Goose, 1100 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 1 Black Brant on the Humber, 1 Peregrine, 31 Snipe, 3 Fieldfare, 1 Song Thrush, 30 Redwing, 16 Chiffchaff, 2 Goldcrest, 1 male Firecrest by Bluebell Pond Caravan Site and 6 Yellowhammer.

On the move were 4 Teal, 1 Tufted Duck, 4 Eider, 3 Red-throated Diver, 1 Cormorant, 15 Herring Gull, 7 Great BB Gull, 1 Skylark (in), 12 Meadow Pipit, 1 Grey Wagtail, 1 alba Wagtail, 116 Starling, 4 Chaffinch, 28 Siskin, 9 Linnet and 2 Reed Bunting. 

Ringing- 2 Blackbird, 1 House Sparrow, 1 Reed Bunting, 1 Chiffchaff. 5/4.

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Friday, 10 March 2017

A nice day with blue skies. F2-3 SSW.

Sea-watches- 0650-1000, 1500-1600

Birds present were 29 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 2 Tufted Duck, 2 Grey Partridge, 6 Coot, 140 Redshank, 7 Goldfinch, 1 Siskin and 13 Linnet.

On the move were 1 Teal, 5 Eider, 13 Common Scoter, 19 Red-throated Diver, 3 Cormorant, 9 Black-headed Gull, 7 Common Gull, 91 Herring Gull, 8 Great BB Gull, 24 auk sp. and 1 Chaffinch.

Ringing- 1 Dunnock, 1 Blackbird, 5 Goldcrest, 1 Tree Sparrow, 1 Goldfinch. 9/5

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Thursday, 09 March 2017

A bright day with little win in the morning increasing though the day. F1-5 NW.

Birds present were 21 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 200 Wigeon, 2 Gadwall, 4 Shoveler, 2 Tufted Duck, 1 Goldeneye, 1 Peregrine, 1 Woodcock, 1 Short-eared Owl, 2 Rock Pipit, 1 Fieldfare, 1 Song Thrush, 10 Redwing, 1 Goldcrest, 6 Chaffinch and 13 Reed Bunting.


On the move were 3 Meadow Pipit (north), 7 Jackdaw, 15 Carrion Crow, 2 Siskin and 37 Linnet. 


Ringing- 1 Blackbird, 1 Great Tit, 1 Chaffinch. 3/3.

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Wednesday, 08 March 2017

Heavy rain overnight gave way to a nice day with blue skies. F1-2 SW.

Sea-watches- 0640-1100, 1415-1530

Birds present were 27 Greylag Geese, 1 Canada Goose, 1 Black Brant on Easington Straight, 305 Wigeon, 6 Teal, 3 Tufted Duck, 2 Goldeneye, 5 Little Grebe, 3 Little Egret, 1 Peregrine, 5 Avocet, 13 Lapwing, 2 Snipe, 1 Woodcock, 53 Curlew, 1 Short-eared Owl, 1 Song Thrush, 2 Redwing, 2 Jackdaw, 6 Chaffinch, 6 Goldfinch and 12 Linnet.

On the move were 3 Teal, 8 Common Scoter, 79 Red-throated Diver, 1 Fulmar, 3 Gannet, 5 Cormorant, 1 Mediterranean Gull, 46 Black-headed Gull, 53 Common Gull, 35 Herring Gull, 3 Great BB Gull and 3 Rook.

Ringing- 1 Blackbird, 1 Great Tit, 1 Chaffinch, 2 Greenfinch. 5/4.

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Tuesday, 07 March 2017

F1-2 W wind good visibility with some broken cloud.

Sea-watches- 0650-1130,1430-1515

Birds present were 17 Greylag Geese, 1 Sparrowhawk, 1 Snipe, 1 Woodcock, 2 Barn Owl, 1 Stonechat, 1 Song Thrush, 600 Starling, 6 Chaffinch, 2 Linnet and 4 Reed Bunting.

On the move were 1 Eider, 6 Common Scoter, 267 Red-throated Diver, 1 Sooty Shearwater, 2 Gannet, 5 Cormorant, 22 Black-headed Gull, 6 Common Gull, 8 Herring Gull, 3 Great BB Gull, 5 auk sp., 1 Woodlark south, 5 Jackdaw, 4 Rook, 1 Siskin and 1 Yellowhammer.

Ringing- 3 Dunnock,1 Blackbird, 2 House Sparrow, 1 Tree Sparrow, 2 Chaffinch, 1 Goldfinch. 10/6.

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Monday, 06 March 2017

Heavily overcast with a north-westerly breeze and a few light showers from midday. F2 NW.

Sea-watch- 0645-1115

Birds present were 1 Canada Goose in Well Field, 8 Teal, 12 Scaup on the Humber, 10 Snipe, 2 Woodcock, 2 Song Thrush and 1 Redwing.

On the move were 1 Eider, 7 Common Scoter, 264 Red-throated Diver, 1 Sooty Shearwater south (the 2nd ever March record following on one on 21st March 2016), 31 Gannet, 1 Curlew (out), 34 Black-headed Gull, 32 Common Gull, 3 Herring Gull, 3 Great BB Gull, 2 Guillemot, 3 auk sp., 5 Jackdaw, 3 Rook, 1 Hooded Crow u-turned, 1 Carrion Crow and 1 Bullfinch.

Ringing- 4 Great Tit, 1 Greenfinch, 1 Chaffinch. 6/3

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Sunday, 05 March 2017

An overcast morning with occasional broken cloud the heavy showers from midday. F1-3 E-SSE.

Present were 1 Canada Goose in Well Field, 5 Gadwall, 1 Water Rail, 6 Avocet the first back on Kilnsea Wetlands, 1 Mediterranean Gull on Holderness Field, 1 Short-eared Owl at Kilnsea Wetlands, 1 Goldcrest and 1 male Brambling singing in the Obs garden.

On the move were 1 Eider, 2 Common Scoter, 3 Velvet Scoter south, 52 Red-throated Diver, 1 Gannet, 31 Black-headed Gull, 60 Common Gull, 15 Herring Gull,16 Great BB Gull, 1 juv Glaucous Gull south and 3 Guillemot. 

Ringing- 1 Robin. 1/1.

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Saturday, 04 March 2017

Overcast all day and mild. F2-3 SE.

Sea-watch: 0710-1200, 1500-1530.

Present were 1 Black Brant, 1 Pale-bellied and 500 Dark-bellied Brent Geese on Easington Straight, 8 Black-tailed Godwit, 28 Curlew, 1 Barn Owl, 2 Short-eared Owl at Sammy’s and the Triangle, 1 Rock Pipit, 6 Stonechat, 1 Song Thrush, 3 Chiffchaff and 2 Goldcrest. 

On the move were 1 Tufted Duck, 1 Scaup, 2 Eider, 19 Common Scoter, 335 Red-throated Diver, 1 Fulmar, 8 Gannet, 1 Lesser BB Gull, 5 Herring Gull, 12 Great BB Gull, 1 Kittiwake, 49 Guillemot, 6 Razorbill and 1 Grey Wagtail.

Ringing- NIL.

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Friday, 03 March 2017

Overcast most of the day turning wet in the afternoon. F3-4 SE.

Sea-watch: 07:00-11:00

On the move were 1 Eider, 6 Common Scoter, 135 Red-throated Diver, 7 Gannet, 23 Black-headed Gull, 18 Common Gull, 44 Herring Gull, 3 Great BB Gull, 7 Guillemot, 20 Razorbill and 23 auk sp.

1 Black Brant with 266 Dark-bellied Brent Geese on Kilnsea Wetlands, 640 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall, 12 Scaup on the Humber and 1 Little Egret.


Ringing- NIL.

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Thursday, 02 March 2017

Rain overnight cleared in the morning with sunny spells in the afternoon. F3-4 SW.

On the move were 3 Common Scoter, 127 Red-throated Diver, 1 Fulmar, 20 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 41 Black-headed Gull, 43 Common Gull, 65 Herring Gull, 4 Great Black-backed Gull, 5 Guillemot, 3 Razorbill, 251 auk sp., 2 Skylark (in), 120 Starling (out), 1 Linnet and 1 Snow Bunting (in).

Only bird seen of note was 1 Peregrine.

Ringing- 1 Coot. 1/1.

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Wednesday, 01 March 2017

A fine day with sunshine gave way to rain showers in the afternoon. F2-4 SW.

Sea-watch: 0650-1030, 1430-1530

Present were the Black Brant and 3 Pale-bellied Brent Geese in with the Dark-bellied, 420 Wigeon, 4 Teal, 5 Goldeneye, 2 Grey Partridge, 8 Little Grebe, 2 Peregrine, 1 Merlin, 11 Moorhen, 4 Coot, 2 Lapwing, 600 Dunlin, 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 160 Curlew, 2 Stock Dove, 1 Barn Owl, 1 Short-eared Owl, 3 Stonechat, 2 Song Thrush and 1 Lesser Redpoll.

On the move were 3 Eider, 6 Common Scoter, 214 Red-throated Diver, 3 Fulmar, 1 Gannet, 20 Black-headed Gull, 12 Common Gull, 87 Herring Gull, 8 Great Black-backed Gull, 1 Guillemot, 1 Razorbill, 3 auk sp., 2 Skylark, 2 Meadow Pipit, 1 Jackdaw, 8 Chaffinch and 1 Brambling. 

Ringing- 1 Dunnock, 3 Tree Sparrow, 5 House Sparrow, 2 Great Tit, 1 Chaffinch, 3 Greenfinch, 1 Goldfinch, 1 Blackbird. 15/8.

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Tuesday, 28 February 2017

As per yesterday a bright start with cloud building and heavy showers in the afternoon.
Sea-watches: 0715-1045, 1420-1520

Present were the Black Brant was at Long Bank with the Brent flock, 262 Wigeon, 1 Merlin, 4 Coot, 200 Grey Plover, 1 Kingfisher along Peter Lane and 1 Song Thrush.

On the move were 2 Eider, 8 Common Scoter, 214 Red-throated Diver, 2 Gannet, 3 Cormorant, 22 Common Gull, 137 Herring Gull, 12 Great Black-backed Gull and 1 Razorbill.

Ringing: 1 Dunnock, 1 Blue Tit, 1 Tree Sparrow

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Monday, 27 February 2017

Sunny spells with heavy showers occasionally prolonged and a strong F4-6 SSW wind.
Sea Watches: 0715-1045, 1400-1530.

The Black Brant was still with 1 Pale-bellied Brent Goose and 750 Brents in the long bank area, while the Kilnsea Wetlands area held 400 Wigeon, 4 Gadwall , male Pintail and 6 Teal. Other bits of interest were 1 Short-eared Owl, 1 Barn Owl and 3 Stonechat.

The sea was poor after a good few days with 4 Common Scoter, 1 Goosander, 153 Red-throated Diver, 1 Gannet and Auk sp.

Ringing: 1 Blue Tit, 2 Great Tit.

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Sunday, 26 February 2017

The odd shower with sunny spells and a strong F4-6 SW wind.
Sea Watches: 0700-1015.

Another 140 Pink-footed Geese went NW, 2 Common Scoter, 1 Goosander, a Red-necked Grebe, 75 Red-throated Diver, 5 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, adult Mediterranean Gull, 110 Common Gull, 150 Herring Gull with many appearing to come in from the east, 10 Auk sp, 4 Guillemot and 3 Razorbill.
Other bits of interest were 8 Greylags in the triangle, 400 Brent Geese with 2 Pale-bellied Brent, 220 Shelduck, a ringtail Hen Harrier, 350 Wood Pigeon, 1 Short-eared Owl, 4 Coot back on canal scrape, 8 Robin and 1 Stonechat.

The Pallid Harrier continued to perform at Welwick.

Ringing: 1 House Sparrow.

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Saturday, 25 February 2017

Windy with heavy showers all day F5-6 WNW wind.
Sea Watches: 0710-1110, 1400-1630.
The start of the big European fishing match. 

On the move over the sea were 108 Pink-footed Geese heading NW, 1 Eider, 14 Common Scoter, 1 Red-breasted Merganser, 347 Red-throated Diver, 2 Fulmar, 27 Gannet, 2 Cormorant, 1 Shag, Lesser Black-backed Gull, 1st winter Glaucous Gull, 2 Kittiwake and 111 Auk sp.

Other bits of interest were the Black Brant with 1 Pale-bellied Brent and 750 Brents at Long Bank and 3 Stonechat.

Ringing: Nil.

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Friday, 24 February 2017

Sunny spells with occasional cloud less windy with a F3-2 W wind.
Migration Watches: 0730-1105.

Moving were 1 Long-tailed Duck, 2 Common Scoter, 2 Goldeneye, 46 Red-throated Diver, 14 Gannet, 1 Cormorant, 9 Auk sp and 3 Guillemot.

Other interesting sightings were 31 Greylag Goose, 660 Brent Geese plus the usual Black Brant, 850 Knot on the Humber, 14 Black-tailed Godwit, a 1st winter Iceland Gull on the Humber by the tank blocks, 2 Stonechat in Clubleys while Reed Bunting are starting to move with 16 near long bank.