Lots of birds on the move this morning, despite the spitting rain - 650 Chaffinches, 20 Siskins, 8 Bramblings & 2 Lapland Buntings
More birds around the valleys as well - 35 Song Thrushes, 35 Blackbirds, 7 Blackcaps, 8 Chiffchaffs, including 1 that came from a lot further east than Lowestoft (which is the furthest easterly point in Britain according to google!) and 6 Long-tailed Tits (our first of the autumn)
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Lapland Buntings - - Strumble
Early afternoon,
In the stubble field behind Strumble, 2/3 Lapland Buntings, 1 Yellowhammer, several Reed Buntings, c40 Skylark.
On the way North, the Cattle Egret on the airfield.
(Paddy)
In the stubble field behind Strumble, 2/3 Lapland Buntings, 1 Yellowhammer, several Reed Buntings, c40 Skylark.
On the way North, the Cattle Egret on the airfield.
(Paddy)
Teifi, Ty rhyg, Rosebush
Teifi;-
Quiet early this morning, few Skylarks, and a few small parties of Siskins over.
Ringing quiet, but retrapping Cetti's, & Sparrowhawk. New Kingfisher, and numbers of Goldcrests, Redwings, Song Thrushes ringed, signs of autumn passage.
1 Bar-tailed Godwit with c80 Oystercatchers at The Webley, 2 Dunlin, c10 Ringed Plover around Patch. Also 14 Redshank.
Good numbers of Goldcrests ringed at Ty rhyg this pm too.
(Paddy & Rich D)
A quick look at Rosebush, 1 Goldeneye.
Quiet early this morning, few Skylarks, and a few small parties of Siskins over.
Ringing quiet, but retrapping Cetti's, & Sparrowhawk. New Kingfisher, and numbers of Goldcrests, Redwings, Song Thrushes ringed, signs of autumn passage.
1 Bar-tailed Godwit with c80 Oystercatchers at The Webley, 2 Dunlin, c10 Ringed Plover around Patch. Also 14 Redshank.
Good numbers of Goldcrests ringed at Ty rhyg this pm too.
(Paddy & Rich D)
A quick look at Rosebush, 1 Goldeneye.
Dale Airfield
A humble addition to Dave Astin's tally - two Snow Buntings (just the Dale side of The Hookses) and two Chough on the airfield at 3-30pm.
Yellow-browed Warbler - Dale
Another excellent October Sunday with Paul G:
Martin's Haven - 5 Brambling, 100+ Chaffinch, 14 Siskin, few Skylarks, female Blackcap. A Black Redstart on the Deer Park near Wooltack Point.
Dale Fort - good views of 3 Brambling in a large Chaffinch flock (300+) working their way along the trees towards the Fort, 4 Siskin over, 1 Woodcock.
Dale - a lovely Yellow-browed Warbler in sycamores in the car park (seen at midday and then again at 3pm, though could be elusive). Also in the area at least 2 Chiffchaff, 3 Blackcap, and 12 Siskin over. A Razorbill close inshore (about 10 feet from beach!).
Dale Airfield - 6 Lapland Bunting, 13 Ringed Plover, 20+ Skylark, few Mippits, 30 Linnet.
Gann - 1 Brent Goose, 5 Mute Swan, 2 Grey Plover, 5 Bar-tailed Godwit, 4 Dunlin, 13 Turnstone, 1 Ringed Plover, 12 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 6 Little Egret, 2 Goldeneye, 12 Little Grebe.
St. Bride's - Chiffchaff, 15 Siskin over.
Martin's Haven - 5 Brambling, 100+ Chaffinch, 14 Siskin, few Skylarks, female Blackcap. A Black Redstart on the Deer Park near Wooltack Point.
Dale Fort - good views of 3 Brambling in a large Chaffinch flock (300+) working their way along the trees towards the Fort, 4 Siskin over, 1 Woodcock.
Dale - a lovely Yellow-browed Warbler in sycamores in the car park (seen at midday and then again at 3pm, though could be elusive). Also in the area at least 2 Chiffchaff, 3 Blackcap, and 12 Siskin over. A Razorbill close inshore (about 10 feet from beach!).
Dale Airfield - 6 Lapland Bunting, 13 Ringed Plover, 20+ Skylark, few Mippits, 30 Linnet.
Gann - 1 Brent Goose, 5 Mute Swan, 2 Grey Plover, 5 Bar-tailed Godwit, 4 Dunlin, 13 Turnstone, 1 Ringed Plover, 12 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 6 Little Egret, 2 Goldeneye, 12 Little Grebe.
St. Bride's - Chiffchaff, 15 Siskin over.
Black Redstart
A single Black Redstart still in St Florence this afternoon - briefly on my shed roof!
The Gann
Again fairly quiet around high tide
, the highlight being a feeding Water Rail on the far side of the lagoon. 8 Turnstone, 3 Dunlin, 1 Brent, 6 Little Grebes, 2 female Goldeneye, 4 Redshank & 2 Bartail Godwit.At the W.I. hut - 1 male Blackcap.
Angle Bay (30 Oct 10)
No sign of Squacco between 1030 and 1200 but then as tide started to drop it appeared and then showed well for the rest of the day largely between the road bridge and the Sea Squaw boat. Also Great Crested Grebe in harbour over high tide and circa 9 Little Egrets in area.
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Saturday, October 30, 2010
Black Redstart -- Milford
First Black Redstart of the autumn seen on rooftops in Skomer Drive, Milford Haven today.
I have seen these birds each November for a few weeks during the past five years and later in the winter I see them more regularly close to the estuary foreshore.
(Lionel Self)
I have seen these birds each November for a few weeks during the past five years and later in the winter I see them more regularly close to the estuary foreshore.
(Lionel Self)
A trip round the Presellis
In between pretty heavy rain showers, a drive round the Presellis found large numbers of Fieldfares in almost any tree or hedgerow with berries. A field near Crymych produced a very tight flock of c.60 Golden Plover. On the river at Nevern a Kingfisher.
Martin's Haven and Marloes Mere
A very clear, but windy, morning with large numbers of finches, pipits and buntings in the hedgerows, fields and moving across the peninsular. Highlights were multiple flocks of 20-30 Skylarks, and a flock of 100+ Chaffinches with a few Greenfinches. There are also increasing numbers of Starlings, with several flocks of 1000+ feeding in the fields. yesterday afternoon saw even larger numbers balling up near Marloes Mere and being harrassed by a Sparrowhawk.
On Marloes Mere numbers of Wigeon, Teal, Shoveller are building up, along with a couple of pairs of Gadwall and Dabchicks. A Harrier flew off, but I could not identify it.
Snipe seem to have come in good numbers for so early in the Autumn: 4 flushed in a matter of minutes in the large fallow Trehill Farm field on the South side by the Car Park.
On Marloes Mere numbers of Wigeon, Teal, Shoveller are building up, along with a couple of pairs of Gadwall and Dabchicks. A Harrier flew off, but I could not identify it.
Snipe seem to have come in good numbers for so early in the Autumn: 4 flushed in a matter of minutes in the large fallow Trehill Farm field on the South side by the Car Park.
St Davids Hd etc
An ad male Hen Harrier at Heathfield first thing, Larks and a Reed Bunting were going over too. Arrived a bit late at coast where a trickle of Larks and Chaffinches with a flock of 30 Siskin and another Reed Bunting. A Sabine's Gull the highlight, at Yr Gesail.
Cattle Egret etc
The Cattle Egret was still on Withybush Airfield at midday today, east of the main runway viewable from beyond the Showground buildings. Plenty of Black-headed Gulls there too.
At Dale late afternoon, a Brambling with a good sized Chaffinch flock at Point House, and a decent mixed tit flock with a few crests calling - hard to pick birds up in the windy conditions.
A single Lapland Bunting flew over Porthclais this afternoon (P Grennard).
At Dale late afternoon, a Brambling with a good sized Chaffinch flock at Point House, and a decent mixed tit flock with a few crests calling - hard to pick birds up in the windy conditions.
A single Lapland Bunting flew over Porthclais this afternoon (P Grennard).
Brambling
Midway between Treginnis Lodge and Treginnis Beach today on a stubble field was a lrge flock of Chaffinch containing the odd Greenfinch, Linnet and at least one male Brambling. Also there a small flock of Skylark
Good movements today along the length from St Justinians to Porth Lygsky of Meadow Pipit, Greenfinch and Chaffinch
Good movements today along the length from St Justinians to Porth Lygsky of Meadow Pipit, Greenfinch and Chaffinch
Angle Bay
Bosherston midday 3 Goosander.
At Kilpaison early afternoon with the tide dropping - Dunlin 60+, Ringed Plover 40+, Knot 10, Barwit 25+, Brent Goose 4, Wigeon 500+.
Friday, October 29, 2010
The Gann
Spent an hour or so there this evening - nothing much, cold & windswept. 3 Meds, 1 Brent & about 1,000 Jackdaws feeding on the low tide mark.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
More Laps
3 Lapland Buntings flew SW with Skylarks towards St. Govan's Head from Bosherston direction late morning. Mere Valley & the bottom end of Bosherston pretty quiet otherwise.
Dale Area
From Mike Jones - Just off Musselwick today a Great Northern Diver very close to the shore, also 3 Snow Buntings on Dale Airfield behind the Hookses, 6 seal pups on the beach just south of the coastguard station on the Deer Park.
Angle Bay
Round at Angle Harbour the Squacco still present (Sue Lamb) and on the shingle spit 7 Med Gulls - 1 ist W, 2 2nd W, 4 ad.
St Davids Hd am
A Lapland Bunting and 3 Bramblings. Chaffinches and Starlings moving but very few Skylarks. 2 Merlins present the last few days. Today a Raven carrying a golf ball, the second time I've seen this here.
Pembrokeshire Bird Group
Pembrokeshire Bird Group a section of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales
The next indoor meeting of the Group is on Monday the 1st November 2010 at The Patch, Furzy Park, Haverfordwest starting at 7.30pm. There will be a presentation by Sash Tusa entitled ‘What to do when the Dale princess does not sale’ There is no charge for admission and members and not members are welcome to join us. For further information please phone O1834 860175
Lyndon
The next indoor meeting of the Group is on Monday the 1st November 2010 at The Patch, Furzy Park, Haverfordwest starting at 7.30pm. There will be a presentation by Sash Tusa entitled ‘What to do when the Dale princess does not sale’ There is no charge for admission and members and not members are welcome to join us. For further information please phone O1834 860175
Lyndon
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Withybush Egret
Cattle Egret in full view at 1515 hr. It seems to like the SE "corner" but although it has wandered up to the northern end it seems to have ignored the cattle easily accessible nearby.
Although there have been larger numbers of Lapland Buntings in the past, max 34 on Ramsey in 1993, cannot remember them being around for as long as this autumn.
Although there have been larger numbers of Lapland Buntings in the past, max 34 on Ramsey in 1993, cannot remember them being around for as long as this autumn.
St Davids Hd etc
2 Lapland Buntings over. Lots of Skylarks moving S/SW, 165 in 20 minutes at 10am, fewer later , don't know how many before. A report of a YB Warbler at the Youth Hostel but I couldn't find it.
No sign of Cattle Egret at Withybush pm but the Squacco Heron showing well at Angle, in the small creek above the bridge.
No sign of Cattle Egret at Withybush pm but the Squacco Heron showing well at Angle, in the small creek above the bridge.
Around Dale
On the airfield, 7 Lapland Buntings and 7 Lapwing.
The Gann - 4 Med Gulls ( 2 adults and 2 1st w), 1 Water Rail, 1 Greenshank and a Pale-bellied Brent.
Point House - 2 Brambling over, 2 Chiffs and 2 Siskins.
Further up the coast, in a field with cattle nr Haroldston Chins car park, another 1st winter Med gull.
(Paul G and Wendy J)
The Gann - 4 Med Gulls ( 2 adults and 2 1st w), 1 Water Rail, 1 Greenshank and a Pale-bellied Brent.
Point House - 2 Brambling over, 2 Chiffs and 2 Siskins.
Further up the coast, in a field with cattle nr Haroldston Chins car park, another 1st winter Med gull.
(Paul G and Wendy J)
Skomer
No sign of the Bluetail all day
Lots of Skylarks going over in the morning (about 250) & 7 Lapland Buntings
Lots of Skylarks going over in the morning (about 250) & 7 Lapland Buntings
Flagpoles 17.30 27th Oct.
6 redshank
2 Ringed Plover
Usual Turnstones , Oycs & Curlews
13 Med. Gulls
2 x 1st W
1 x 2nd W
10 Adults
Numbers of Common Gulls picking up 20+.
2 Ringed Plover
Usual Turnstones , Oycs & Curlews
13 Med. Gulls
2 x 1st W
1 x 2nd W
10 Adults
Numbers of Common Gulls picking up 20+.
Lapland Buntings
A good morning for Lapland Buntings in the Martin's Haven / Marloes area, with 1 over the Deer Park towards Skomer, then 6+ in the coastal Tir Gofal field just to the S/E (SM763085), 1 over West Hook, and another over Trehill Farm. Hard to see on the ground (as the pic demonstrates), although at least 5 seemed faithfull to the coastal field so with patience good views can be obtained. Loads of Skylarks about - 200+ - and a flock of around 3,000 Starlings. Also this morning in this area a Brambling, 2 Siskin, and a Merlin which took a Skylark right in front of me at West Hook - amazing!
Black Redstarts - Tenby etc
A female Black Redstart on the roof of Belmont Court near Greenhill School, Tenby this afternoon.
And a little later one in nearby St Florence (providing a Pembrokeshire year tick for Mr Dobbins).
Update - 2 in St Florence.
And a little later one in nearby St Florence (providing a Pembrokeshire year tick for Mr Dobbins).
Update - 2 in St Florence.
Newport -- waders etc
1 Greenshank, 17 Redshank, 40 Wigeon, 1 Little Egret, 24 Ringed Plover, 10 Dunlin.
(Karen)
Nearby;- c100 Lapwing & a few Golden Plovers in the fields between Newport / Nevern and the coast.
(Janet)
(Karen)
Nearby;- c100 Lapwing & a few Golden Plovers in the fields between Newport / Nevern and the coast.
(Janet)
Food for thought: feed the birds - from the BTO
As autumn draws in and food for birds in the wider countryside is depleted, our feathered companions will start to flock to feeders in our gardens. The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) provides a master class on what the public can do to help.
Last winter taught us many lessons: travel chaos dilutes the romance of a white Christmas; Frosty the Snowman can begin to feel like a permanent guest; and when it gets really cold huge numbers of birds precipitate from the sky and settle in our gardens. Thousands of hungry beaks snaffled up tasty morsels in UK gardens last winter, and as the spectacle unfurled participants in the year-round BTO Garden BirdWatch recorded the dramatic comings and goings.
As we gear up for another winter, now is a great time to think about our garden visitors again. For them, our patch can mean the difference between life and death and the BTO Garden BirdWatch has issued guidelines on how householders can help:
In a nutshell
1. Top foods:
Oil-rich seeds, such as sunflower hearts and nyjer
Ground-up peanuts
Finely grated cheese, beef or vegetable suet
Chunks of windfall (especially) or fresh fruit
Dried fruit (that has been soaked first) – note, can be toxic to dogs
Mealworms and other live-foods (alive or dried)
Beef or vegetable suet-based ‘cakes’
Pinhead oatmeal or uncooked porridge oats
2. Foods to avoid:
Soft fats and oils (can soil feathers)
Dried foods e.g. coconut, uncooked rice (could swell after ingestion)
Bread (nutritionally lacking compared with other foods)
Milk (birds are not adapted to digest milk)
Cooked porridge (can stick to beak)
3. Provide clean fresh water: to drink and to keep feathers in good condition for insulation.
4. Don’t provide too much! Ensure that food does not go mouldy and clean feeders regularly. Excess food can attract vermin.
5. Avoid substantial trimming of berry producing vegetation such as holly and ivy that will continue to hold fruit long into winter.
6. Record what you see through the BTO Garden BirdWatch so that we can monitor garden birds every week of the year.
Last winter taught us many lessons: travel chaos dilutes the romance of a white Christmas; Frosty the Snowman can begin to feel like a permanent guest; and when it gets really cold huge numbers of birds precipitate from the sky and settle in our gardens. Thousands of hungry beaks snaffled up tasty morsels in UK gardens last winter, and as the spectacle unfurled participants in the year-round BTO Garden BirdWatch recorded the dramatic comings and goings.
As we gear up for another winter, now is a great time to think about our garden visitors again. For them, our patch can mean the difference between life and death and the BTO Garden BirdWatch has issued guidelines on how householders can help:
In a nutshell
1. Top foods:
Oil-rich seeds, such as sunflower hearts and nyjer
Ground-up peanuts
Finely grated cheese, beef or vegetable suet
Chunks of windfall (especially) or fresh fruit
Dried fruit (that has been soaked first) – note, can be toxic to dogs
Mealworms and other live-foods (alive or dried)
Beef or vegetable suet-based ‘cakes’
Pinhead oatmeal or uncooked porridge oats
2. Foods to avoid:
Soft fats and oils (can soil feathers)
Dried foods e.g. coconut, uncooked rice (could swell after ingestion)
Bread (nutritionally lacking compared with other foods)
Milk (birds are not adapted to digest milk)
Cooked porridge (can stick to beak)
3. Provide clean fresh water: to drink and to keep feathers in good condition for insulation.
4. Don’t provide too much! Ensure that food does not go mouldy and clean feeders regularly. Excess food can attract vermin.
5. Avoid substantial trimming of berry producing vegetation such as holly and ivy that will continue to hold fruit long into winter.
6. Record what you see through the BTO Garden BirdWatch so that we can monitor garden birds every week of the year.
Skomer
09:00 Update;-
No sign of bluetail by 09:00, 2 Hen Harriers out of roost, 1 Lapland Bunting over.
(Dave B)
No boats today.
Still looking like nothing until Sunday.
(Chris -- Skomer)
No sign of bluetail by 09:00, 2 Hen Harriers out of roost, 1 Lapland Bunting over.
(Dave B)
No boats today.
Still looking like nothing until Sunday.
(Chris -- Skomer)
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Skomer
No sign of the Bluetail at all today - Jerry & me both looked in the morning & afternoon but no sign of it at all. I'll have another look first thing in the morning.
The forecast has improved a bit & there's a slight chance there might be boats tomorrow if anyone fancies having a look - Chris will update later if boats are looking likely
The forecast has improved a bit & there's a slight chance there might be boats tomorrow if anyone fancies having a look - Chris will update later if boats are looking likely
Skomer -- midday
Not actually raining now, but misty.
Still no sign of the Red-flanked Bluetail, Dave and Jerry having spent a couple of hours looking.
Still no sign of the Red-flanked Bluetail, Dave and Jerry having spent a couple of hours looking.
Skomer
Its horrible outside at the moment - not looked for the Bluetail yet.
There's not going to be any boats today, & looking at the forecast at the moment it doesn't look good until about Sunday! But there's plenty of time for that to change
There's not going to be any boats today, & looking at the forecast at the moment it doesn't look good until about Sunday! But there's plenty of time for that to change
Monday, October 25, 2010
Gann
At the Gann this evening 1 pale-bellied Brent Goose (looking very lonely...), an adult Med Gull, 23 Redshank & 4 Bar-tailed Godwits.
I, for one, am GREEN with envy at Skomer's RF Bluetail - been dying to find one on the mainland and now we've been gazumped by an island - again! Hopefully the weather will be better than expected later in the week (e.g. Thursday, when I am on leave!!!!) to enable a trip over.....
I, for one, am GREEN with envy at Skomer's RF Bluetail - been dying to find one on the mainland and now we've been gazumped by an island - again! Hopefully the weather will be better than expected later in the week (e.g. Thursday, when I am on leave!!!!) to enable a trip over.....
Skomer - Red-flanked Bluetail!!
Jerry found this little beauty at about quarter to 3 this afternoon on the track between the farm & North Valley Crossing.
It seems to be sticking to about 60m of track but spends most of the time in the bracken, only coming out on to the track occasionally - it took me a very nerve-wracking 2 1/2 hours to see it.
When its in the bracken it completely vanishes, its mad I don't think I've ever seen a bird disappear like it.
Looking at the forecast we're not expecting boats at all this week but Chris will update later if there's any news
Angle Area - Squacco etc
Round at Angle Harbour the Squacco Heron still performing well close to the bridge and then in the harbour by the boats.
Bosherston - 2 red head and 1 drake Goosander and good views of an Otter.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Wood Duck
A very smart male Wood Duck on the water at Kingfisher hide ,Teifi marshes , today at 4.30pm.
Marsh & Hen Harriers
Castlemartin Corse;-
A female Marsh Harrier is being seen at the Corse.
Rosebush;-
1 ringtail Harrier near the quarries this Wed (20th oct)
(Nikki A)
A female Marsh Harrier is being seen at the Corse.
Rosebush;-
1 ringtail Harrier near the quarries this Wed (20th oct)
(Nikki A)
Snow Bunting -- Newport
A single Snow Bunting this afternoon at Newport, below the iron bridge on the north side of the estuary.
(Rob Wilson)
(Rob Wilson)
Cattle Egret -- Withybush
The Cattle Egret was showing well late morning, and early afternoon at least.
(John Davis, Janet)
(John Davis, Janet)
Great Grey Shrike -- Ty rhyg
Showed well late morning from the gate. Crossbills present too.
(Janet)
A couple of large Fieldfare flocks c130 birds, and several smaller flocks, c4-500 over this morning.
(Paddy)
Brambling in Janet's garden this afternoon (Felindre)
(Janet)
A couple of large Fieldfare flocks c130 birds, and several smaller flocks, c4-500 over this morning.
(Paddy)
Brambling in Janet's garden this afternoon (Felindre)
Purple Heron (?), Ring Ouzels, Short-eared Owls & Lapland Buntings
A great day today in the Dale/Marloes area:
Martin's Haven: lots of Chaffinches over, good numbers of Meadow Pipits & a few Skylarks.
Gann: 9 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 3 Bar-tailed Godwit, 6 Little Egret, 9 Little Grebe, 1 Goldeneye & 3 Wigeon.
Dale Airfield: 2 Short-eared Owls flushed from the short grass in the 'middle triangle', also 3 Lapland Buntings amongst the many (60+) Skylarks.
St. Ann's Head: 3 Ring Ouzels (2 adult males & a 1stW female) in Mill Bay, and a female Blackcap.
Dale: 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Siskin over.
Dale Fort: 1 Brambling, 1 Redwing, 2 Blackcaps, 1 Chiffchaff.
Marloes Mere: 2 Lapland Buntings flew over S/E, 1 Merlin, 5 Gadwall, 4 Wigeon, 6 Teal, 6 Mallard.
(Dave A & Paul G)
A report from Birdguides of a Purple Heron at the Gann this afternoon, from the car park. No other details - presumably a visiting birder. Derek couldn't locate it at dusk.
Martin's Haven: lots of Chaffinches over, good numbers of Meadow Pipits & a few Skylarks.
Gann: 9 Redshank, 1 Greenshank, 3 Bar-tailed Godwit, 6 Little Egret, 9 Little Grebe, 1 Goldeneye & 3 Wigeon.
Dale Airfield: 2 Short-eared Owls flushed from the short grass in the 'middle triangle', also 3 Lapland Buntings amongst the many (60+) Skylarks.
St. Ann's Head: 3 Ring Ouzels (2 adult males & a 1stW female) in Mill Bay, and a female Blackcap.
Dale: 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Siskin over.
Dale Fort: 1 Brambling, 1 Redwing, 2 Blackcaps, 1 Chiffchaff.
Marloes Mere: 2 Lapland Buntings flew over S/E, 1 Merlin, 5 Gadwall, 4 Wigeon, 6 Teal, 6 Mallard.
(Dave A & Paul G)
A report from Birdguides of a Purple Heron at the Gann this afternoon, from the car park. No other details - presumably a visiting birder. Derek couldn't locate it at dusk.
Flagpoles 18.00 24th Oct.
8 Pale Bellied Brent Geese ( pictured ) at the Flagpoles.
In the gull roost at the Ferry Terminal end , 5 Adult Med. Gulls & 1 1st W.
Probably 300+ Black Headed a few Common.
Porth Clais
Large numbers of Chaffinches passing through Porth Clais late this morning. Also present a pair of Bullfinches and a Grt Spotted Pecker
St Davids Hd am
Strong vis mig with Larks and Chaffinches dominant. A few Siskins and Reed Buntings too. A 1st W Male Ring Ouzel, 4+ Lapland Buntings and 5+ Brambling were the highlights.
Ramsey
These last few days has seen the first 2 black redstarts of the autumn and, today, a nice male ring ouzel in the garden feeding on blackberries plus a good showing of brambling (10+).
Skomer
A nice, but brief, surprise was this Shore Lark on South Plateau this morning, it flew past me calling, landed on the ridge above the Wick for a few seconds before dropping down the other side. It didn't look like it was going anywhere but I couldn't find it again. Apologies for the rubbish photo!
Loads of Jackdaws & Starlings flying around this morning, a Ring Ouzel and a few Bramblings
Ty Rhyg
No sign of the Great Grey Shrike this morning. Saw my first Brambling of the autumn and there were 30 Fieldfare flying over.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Strumble Head 23rd Oct.
Collated records for today:
Red throated diver - 5
Manx shear - 7
Fulmar - 5
Sooty Shear - 1
Bonxie - 6
Arctic Skua - 1
Sabines Gull - 1 ( juv )
Little Gull - 7 ( All 1st w )
Med Gull - 21 ( 10 Ad & 11 1st W )
Common Scoter - 6
R B Merganser - 1
BARNACLE GOOSE - 1 ( time ties in with the Pen Anglas bird ! )
Not to mention a massive movement of Kittiwakes numbering probably thousands.
Thanks to Chris Greyall & Walrus & myself.
Red throated diver - 5
Manx shear - 7
Fulmar - 5
Sooty Shear - 1
Bonxie - 6
Arctic Skua - 1
Sabines Gull - 1 ( juv )
Little Gull - 7 ( All 1st w )
Med Gull - 21 ( 10 Ad & 11 1st W )
Common Scoter - 6
R B Merganser - 1
BARNACLE GOOSE - 1 ( time ties in with the Pen Anglas bird ! )
Not to mention a massive movement of Kittiwakes numbering probably thousands.
Thanks to Chris Greyall & Walrus & myself.
Pen Anglas - Little Gull
I saw a first winter Little Gull fly west past the point with Black-headed Gulls at 14:45, there was a female Merlin floating in the updraught over the headland at 15:30 and a Barnacle Goose flew west past the point at 16:15.
The Gann
2 Meds, 1 green ringed adult, 1 1st winter, 14 Redshank, 10 Turnstone, 12 Ringed Plover, 7 Dunlin, 3 Barwits, 1 Grey Plover, 2 Common Gulls & 1 male Peregrine which scattered everything.
At Marloes Mere, a flock of several hundred Starlings.
Present at Pembroke Dock, next to the ferry terminal this past week, 20 Redshank.
Ty Rhyg
Found a Great Grey Shrike about noon today. Watched it for a minute then it moved behind the
tree and failed to locate it again.
tree and failed to locate it again.
Ringed Gulls
2 colour ringed gulls at Goodwick flagpoles yesterday.
Herring Gull Blue BDE was ringed at a Gloucester landfill site in Jan 07, seen there again in Feb 09 & this is the next sighting.
1st W Med Gull White 32A6 was ringed as a pullus on June 24 10 on De Kreupel Island, Holland & this was the 1st subsequent sighting.
Herring Gull Blue BDE was ringed at a Gloucester landfill site in Jan 07, seen there again in Feb 09 & this is the next sighting.
1st W Med Gull White 32A6 was ringed as a pullus on June 24 10 on De Kreupel Island, Holland & this was the 1st subsequent sighting.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Squacco Heron
Squacco Heron still present in the creeks upstream of the bridge at Angle Harbour late afternoon.
More geese
On wednesday evening just after dusk Anna saw 12 geese high over Marloes Mere and heading for Skokholm along with a couple of hundred Canada's - from the calls she thought they were Whitefronts and tonight at St Brides 9 flew over (silent and high) heading for Stack Rocks area. reasonable views over and heading away also suggested Whitefronts.
At Midland just over 200 Canada's this morning but not much else around although the 9 Greenfinches seen heading for Skomer were the first I have seen for many weeks - none of the feeders yet. I wonder if the trichmonosis disease outbreak in Greenies has clobbered them to the extent that we won't see many this winter - any flocks anywhere????
Fieldfare Flock
midday at the base of the Presseli mountains a flock of 80-100 fieldfares
with a few Redwing feeding on berry bushes
with a few Redwing feeding on berry bushes
Dale area
30 or so skylarks feeding on the airfield this morning, also two Choughs. A quick scan of the low tide waterline by the Gann revealed 16 Turnstone, about the same number of redshank, a single bar tailed godwit, 6 dunlin and 5 little egrets along with the usual curlew and oystercatchers.
Defensive
Driving along the Broad Haven road towards H'west last night (18:30) I saw ahead of me what looked like a fairly large Starling flock performing with the defensive flying routine, but there was something a a bit odd about it, the flock looked to far away and so the birds looked too big, sure enough, by the time I had reached Ruther park, I could see that it was a very large flock of Jackdaws with what was surely a peregrine in attendance, but that's more of a guess.
Early morning travelers through this stretch may well have observed the large resident flock of Rooks and Jackdaws that gather here at such times.
The whole flock were behaving in exactly the same manner as the Starlings do in the same circumstances, and while I have seen it many times with them, I have never seen a flock of Corvids behaving in this manner, anyone else?
Early morning travelers through this stretch may well have observed the large resident flock of Rooks and Jackdaws that gather here at such times.
The whole flock were behaving in exactly the same manner as the Starlings do in the same circumstances, and while I have seen it many times with them, I have never seen a flock of Corvids behaving in this manner, anyone else?
Thursday, October 21, 2010
A weeks a long time in birding....
Last week waiting at St Justinians to go over to Ramsey, half a dozen Swallows were hawking overhead though it didn't seem worth the mention, at the time. Today a similar sized group catching insects above the Moggie thousands at Jack Pontiago's garage had me skidding to a halt to check I hadn't mistaken them, when seen peripherally whilst driving to Strumble. I hadnt, surely Swallows first or last always lift the spirits! Tawney Owls hooting away in the valley this evening
Bittern - Teifi Marshes
Whitefronted Geese
7 Greenland Whitefronted geese 2 adults 5 juvs in a stubble field as you approach Rhodiad village from St Davids early evening.
Skomer
16 Lapland Buntings went over this morning, mainly scattered in small Skylark flocks, & there were a few Blackcaps around.
Yesterday a flock of 7 Bramblings flew over & 5 Redpolls - including a flock of 3 that sounded very strange - they landed briefly & I think they were Mealys but I didn't get a good enough look at them.
Yesterday a flock of 7 Bramblings flew over & 5 Redpolls - including a flock of 3 that sounded very strange - they landed briefly & I think they were Mealys but I didn't get a good enough look at them.
Newport Thurs pm
Highlights single Greenshank & Curlew Sandpiper by the boat club & an adult Med Gull at the bridge. All have been around for several days.
Med Gull white 3E71 is a well known West Wales bird. Hopefully wdig will fill out the details when he gets the "printout".It will also cheer up its "custodian" Renaud Flamant who emailed previous sighters recently to ask for any further info.
Med Gull white 3E71 is a well known West Wales bird. Hopefully wdig will fill out the details when he gets the "printout".It will also cheer up its "custodian" Renaud Flamant who emailed previous sighters recently to ask for any further info.
Squacco Heron still at Angle
I bumped into a birder this morning who had seen the Squacco Heron at Angle shortly beforehand.
Although still giving excellent views when on show (pic from yesterday attached), I get the impression that it is currently spending more time in the marsh upstream of the bridge, where it can remain concealed from view in the sea purslane and narrow sheltered creeks for lengthy periods.
Squacco Heron -- Angle Bay
Still present in his usual stream this morning, also 2 Kingfishers.
(Mark Williams)
See previous postings for photos and directions.
(Mark Williams)
See previous postings for photos and directions.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
European White-fronts at Newgale
2 Adult European White-fronted Geese, in the sunset at 6pm this evening,
A Cetti's singing to add to my amazement at the sight of "europeans".....
Marloes
Spectacular Starling defensive formations again at Marloes Mere this afternoon. Photo show a Merlin attacking from the left (honest!) - I think there were two. Shortly after a Merlin flew over the hide carrying prey. Also at least 2 Sparrowhawks around.
A flock of 20 or so Snipe were flying around - perhaps put up by the Raptors. Click photos for larger image.
Strumble Head 08.30-13.30 & Flagpoles 14.00
Strumble:
Common Scoter - 49
R T Diver - 1
Great Crested Grebe - 1 ( Strumble MEGA )
Arctic Skua - 1
Med. Gull - 6 ( 3 Ad & 3 1st W )
Little Gull - 2 ( Ad & 1st W )
Flagpoles:
Med. Gull - 4 ( 2nd W & 3 Adults inc White ringed 3E71 )
Ringed Plover - 2
Redshank - 2
Quite a few Common Gulls today.
Nearly forgot , 2 Risso's Dolphins at Strumble !
Common Scoter - 49
R T Diver - 1
Great Crested Grebe - 1 ( Strumble MEGA )
Arctic Skua - 1
Med. Gull - 6 ( 3 Ad & 3 1st W )
Little Gull - 2 ( Ad & 1st W )
Flagpoles:
Med. Gull - 4 ( 2nd W & 3 Adults inc White ringed 3E71 )
Ringed Plover - 2
Redshank - 2
Quite a few Common Gulls today.
Nearly forgot , 2 Risso's Dolphins at Strumble !
Squacco Heron -- Angle Bay
Still present this morning -- 10:51, between the bridge and boats.
(Trystan Parry)
(Trystan Parry)
Llys-y-fran Resr -- gulls
A roost time look at the resevoir last night, found nothing of note, but some gull numbers,
c6000 Lesser Bb Gulls, c200 Herring Gulls, c50 Black-headed Gulls.
c6000 Lesser Bb Gulls, c200 Herring Gulls, c50 Black-headed Gulls.
Lost and Found
I have been kindly contacted by a gentleman who wishes to return some items to their rightful owner. So if you have lost a 'bird book' and some notes on a cliff path in South Pembs and would like them back please phone 01646 603854.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Cattle Egret
The Cattle Egret was still on Withybush airfield late afternoon, very close to the showground fence.
The only other birds of note found on a look round the Dale peninsula were 4 flighty Lapland Buntings and a single Swallow over Dale airfield.
(Paul G and Wendy J)
The only other birds of note found on a look round the Dale peninsula were 4 flighty Lapland Buntings and a single Swallow over Dale airfield.
(Paul G and Wendy J)
Newport
08:30 this morning:-
5 Ringed Plover, 4 Redshank, 44 Curlew, 24 Wigeon.
(Karen)
c16:00 yesterday
44 Wigeon, 11 Dunlin, 36+ Curlew, 1 Greenshank, 2 Little Grebe.
(Janet)
5 Ringed Plover, 4 Redshank, 44 Curlew, 24 Wigeon.
(Karen)
c16:00 yesterday
44 Wigeon, 11 Dunlin, 36+ Curlew, 1 Greenshank, 2 Little Grebe.
(Janet)
Monday, October 18, 2010
Marloes
A Ring-tailed Hen Harrier quartering the Marsh at Marloes Mere early this afternoon putting in several appearances over an hour or so. Also Sparrowhawk, Merlin and Buzzard. Small parties of Starlings were flying in from the east and formed up into a flock of several hundred which on several occasions went into spectacular defensive balls, presumably due to the various raptors around. 25 Lapwings also in the area.
Cattle Egret -- Withybush & ...more.....?
1 Still present this morning near the showground fence.
(Wendy J)
1 Found this morning at Penclacwydd(Carms) -- has another influx started?
More to find?
(Wendy J)
1 Found this morning at Penclacwydd(Carms) -- has another influx started?
More to find?
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Dale Airfield
Cattle Egret
The Cattle Egret was still at Withybush airfield at 14.05. It seemed unaffected by planes landing and taking off.
Also 2 Med gulls, a 1st winter and adult, with around 250 Black-headed gulls.
(Paul G)
Also 2 Med gulls, a 1st winter and adult, with around 250 Black-headed gulls.
(Paul G)
Pen Anglas - GGS & Snow Bunting
I saw the Great Grey Shrike and the Snow Bunting with a good view of the latter around 17:30.
Choughing in the Canaries
Recently in La Palma for a week attending the 3rd International Chough workshop (we have now moved to Teneriffe) produced some impressive numbers of the mainly vegetarian chough subspecies (possibly to be paiso) if confirmed - they mainly eat fruit, eg Opuntia (prickly pear).
The images of them in flight are part of a flock of about 200 (about 10% of the whole island population) flying in to roost near the middle of the island.
Other birds have included the two resident laurel pigeons, and large numbers of the Canary Island Chiffchaff but so far no Squacco Herons!
Enjoyable company during the week spent with other chough workers and stunning views of the islands impressive Caldera (top picture).
Photo shows all participants except Bob (who was taking the picture) and Annie (hidden behind others). Felix Medina (on the left) did a wonderful job of organising it all). Jane Hodges from PCNPA is at the top of the table.
We'll be back in Pembrokeshire next week.
Spotted Redshank -- Pembroke River
This morning on and around Pembroke River.
HIGHLIGHT,
Spotted Redshank
over 2000 Wigeon
6 Great Crested Grebe
13 Mallard
9 Little Egret
26 Mute Swan
plenty Oystercatcher,Redshank and Curlew
also 9 Black Tailed Godwit
hedgerows alive with Thrushes (mainly Song thrush ,though 1 Redwing seen)
nice flocks of mixed tits (blue, great and long tailed)
(Barry P)
HIGHLIGHT,
Spotted Redshank
over 2000 Wigeon
6 Great Crested Grebe
13 Mallard
9 Little Egret
26 Mute Swan
plenty Oystercatcher,Redshank and Curlew
also 9 Black Tailed Godwit
hedgerows alive with Thrushes (mainly Song thrush ,though 1 Redwing seen)
nice flocks of mixed tits (blue, great and long tailed)
(Barry P)
Yellow - brows & .........Squacco
13:00 News;-
Yellow-browed Warblers..1 in a lone Sycamore nr St. David's G C but mobile
(Mike YP)
Y-b Warbler with Firecrest today at The Whitesand's Hotel
(Mike & Jon B)
Another Firecrest on Skomer, where also Ring Ouzel, Brambling, Lapland Bunting, Snow Bunting (Dave B)
Squacco Heron....Angle Bay - see below, but was seen to fly further than usual at 12:00
(Jon G !!)
Cetti's trapped at Steve's (Dale)this morning -- a 1st for his garden, perhaps Dale?
(Paul W)
Yellow-browed Warblers..1 in a lone Sycamore nr St. David's G C but mobile
(Mike YP)
Y-b Warbler with Firecrest today at The Whitesand's Hotel
(Mike & Jon B)
Another Firecrest on Skomer, where also Ring Ouzel, Brambling, Lapland Bunting, Snow Bunting (Dave B)
Squacco Heron....Angle Bay - see below, but was seen to fly further than usual at 12:00
(Jon G !!)
Cetti's trapped at Steve's (Dale)this morning -- a 1st for his garden, perhaps Dale?
(Paul W)
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Cetti's and late warblers
Kilpaison today;-
Only the 5th Cetti's to be trapped at the site.......and potentially a bird from outside the county?
T147893......... is not a Pembs RG or Teifi RG ringed bird!
We have been suspecting that we do have movements in the autumn of Cetti's this may be proof......but from where??
4 new Cetti's have been ringed on the Teifi thurs/fri this week....making a total of over 30 new Cetti's ringed durning the past 2 years.
A Garden Warbler also caught at Kilpaison this morning.
Friday morning(yesterday) a Reed Warbler caught on the Teifi, weighing 15.5g with a fat score of 5.....looking like it still intended to go!
We will see what tomorrow brings ..........in the scrub on the Teifi?
(Teifi RG & Pembs RG)
Only the 5th Cetti's to be trapped at the site.......and potentially a bird from outside the county?
T147893......... is not a Pembs RG or Teifi RG ringed bird!
We have been suspecting that we do have movements in the autumn of Cetti's this may be proof......but from where??
4 new Cetti's have been ringed on the Teifi thurs/fri this week....making a total of over 30 new Cetti's ringed durning the past 2 years.
A Garden Warbler also caught at Kilpaison this morning.
Friday morning(yesterday) a Reed Warbler caught on the Teifi, weighing 15.5g with a fat score of 5.....looking like it still intended to go!
We will see what tomorrow brings ..........in the scrub on the Teifi?
(Teifi RG & Pembs RG)
Flagpoles -- Goldeneye
After the non- show of the Shrike this evening, a look at the Flagpoles;-
2 Goldeneye were a surprise -- specially as we were shown them !!
Also 1 Teal, 1 Wigeon, and adult Med. and Common Gulls
(Fishguard Bird Group)
2 Goldeneye were a surprise -- specially as we were shown them !!
Also 1 Teal, 1 Wigeon, and adult Med. and Common Gulls
(Fishguard Bird Group)
Long- tailed Tits
Pen Caer;-
Rob Johns rang me earlier to tell me that he had a flock of c40 Long-tailed Tits pass through his farmland today. An exceptional record for his coastal farm.
Rob Johns rang me earlier to tell me that he had a flock of c40 Long-tailed Tits pass through his farmland today. An exceptional record for his coastal farm.
Pen Anglas
I was on my way up there anyway when the GGS appeared and almost immediately had a reasonable view of it before it became harder to relocate and later there was a Red Kite circling overhead at 15:30.
Skomer
Very quiet today, this Barn Owl at the farm was the highlight.
I could hear Siskins & Skylarks going over almost constantly this morning but with the bright blue sky I hardly saw any of them! I don't think there was too many though
Ramsey today
G S Woodpecker, hen harrier, merlin and mistle thrush the highlights. Also 5 wheatears still around and 12 swallows heading south. 10 goldcrests, 2 chiffchaffs and single grey wagtail and golden plover.
Around Dale
On the airfield this morning, around 20 Lapland Buntings, probably a county record. Also 2 Wheatear.
At Point House, 3 Blackcaps and 2 Chiffs.
Over the village, a single Swallow.
The Gann - 5 Bar-tailed Godwit, 2 Greenshank, 11 Redshank, 3 Dunlin, 2 Little Egrets and a Great Crested Grebe.
(Paul G)
At Point House, 3 Blackcaps and 2 Chiffs.
Over the village, a single Swallow.
The Gann - 5 Bar-tailed Godwit, 2 Greenshank, 11 Redshank, 3 Dunlin, 2 Little Egrets and a Great Crested Grebe.
(Paul G)
Great Grey Shrike Pen Anglas
Still present at 13.30 , but doesn't allow close viewing. The same can't be said for the Snow Bunting by the rocks above Pen Anglas point !
Angle Harbour
Squacco Heron still present in the channel at Angle Harbour this lunchtime. Otherwise generally fairly quiet with a Water Rail at Bosherston this morning, just a male Blackcap of any note at Manorbier, and a Swallow or two still hanging around the Chevron refinery.
Great Grey Shrike, Pen Anglas, Goodwick
Wdig Birder is currently on to a Great Grey Shrike up on his favourite stamping grounds above Fishguard Harbour (park at the viewpoint at Harbour Village and follow the coast path around to the stony area near a cattle trough , about 1/2 mile from the start of the path.
I aint there 'cos my missus has borrowed my car....
I aint there 'cos my missus has borrowed my car....
Friday, October 15, 2010
Cattle Egret -- Withybush
17:30 This evening, showing on the Northern side of the airfield from the Rudbaxton road.
(Peter & Debbie H)
(Peter & Debbie H)
Cattle Egret
Still present to at least 4.30pm, best viewed from the County Showground entrance side - you can drive right up to the fence. A couple of heavily cropped record shots above.
Skomer
Presumably the same Yellow-browed Warbler reappeared down the bottom of North Valley and our first Jack Snipe of the autumn was on Moorey Mere
A few more migrants around again today as well - 2 Ring Ouzels, 30 Song Thrushes, 1 Whinchat, 2 Chiffchaffs & a late Willow Warbler
Scoter - Carmarthen Bay
This smudgy pic' might look a bit out of place amongst the photographic brilliance that usually graces this blog, but for those of us who witnessed the horror of thousands of scoter dead and dying in the Sea Empress oil spill on Pendine beach back in early March 1996, this is quite a pleasant sight! Taken from the MV Vigilance yesterday in Carmarthen Bay...
Cattle Egret -- Withybush
15:21;-
The Cattle Egret was walking along the runway edge in front of the Control Tower
15:35, it had moved, and was in amongst the mainly Black-headed Gulls roosting on the runway, c200m South.
The Cattle Egret was walking along the runway edge in front of the Control Tower
15:35, it had moved, and was in amongst the mainly Black-headed Gulls roosting on the runway, c200m South.
Cattle Egret - update
Back on the airfield at 14:45, on the east side near the Show Office (access from Withybush Industrial estate road).
Cattle Egret
A second rare heron in the County today! A Cattle Egret close to the control tower at Withybush Airfield at around 1pm today, viewable from rear of Propeller's Cafe. Only present for 15 minutes or so, it flew north at first, and then east towards Poyston Cross, behing mobbed by a gull. A quick search of the surrounding fields revealed anything, but it could easily still be in the area. A fair fews gulls on the runways (mostly Black-headeds) and thousands of Starlings in the fields around Poyston Farm - anyone fancy a Rose-coloured?!
Cattle Egret found by Terry Gover & colleague.
Cattle Egret found by Terry Gover & colleague.
Squacco Heron -- Angle Bay
(Janet A). And at c.15:00 (Rich C & Morris N)
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Squacco Heron -- Angle Bay
+
Yellow-browed Warbler -- St. David's Mill
1 This morning (11:30)
In St. David's, from Nun St. to Quick Well car park. Follow the road down to the mill.
(Trevor P)
In St. David's, from Nun St. to Quick Well car park. Follow the road down to the mill.
(Trevor P)
Yellow-browed Warbler -- nr Strumble
1 Yellow-browed Warbler still at Harmony Chapel this morning.
(Wendy J)
(Wendy J)
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Pembrokeshire Bird group
Annual Pembrokeshire Bird Conference 20th November 2010
Chevron Refinery are again kindly hosting this years Bird Conference at their site mid way between Pembroke and Angle on behalf of the Pembrokeshire bird group.
The event is also the highlight of our year and a great opportunity to meet old friends as well as new faces who have the same interests as ourselves. All ticket sales go to help support the Wildlife Trust – included are refreshments and lunch. Any raffle prizes you may wish to bring along will be very gratefully accepted. There will also be available copies of the latest Pembrokeshire Bird report and a new publication ‘The Birds of Ceredigion’
If you wish to book a place or for further information please contact Wendy Barnes-Jones at Cilgerran on 01239 621212 or by email at w.barnes-jones@welshwildlife.org or by going directly to the link http://welshwildlife.org/PembrokeshireBirdGroup_en.link which can also be found from the Home page of the Wildlife Trust of South and west Wales web site.
Chevron Refinery are again kindly hosting this years Bird Conference at their site mid way between Pembroke and Angle on behalf of the Pembrokeshire bird group.
The event is also the highlight of our year and a great opportunity to meet old friends as well as new faces who have the same interests as ourselves. All ticket sales go to help support the Wildlife Trust – included are refreshments and lunch. Any raffle prizes you may wish to bring along will be very gratefully accepted. There will also be available copies of the latest Pembrokeshire Bird report and a new publication ‘The Birds of Ceredigion’
If you wish to book a place or for further information please contact Wendy Barnes-Jones at Cilgerran on 01239 621212 or by email at w.barnes-jones@welshwildlife.org or by going directly to the link http://welshwildlife.org/PembrokeshireBirdGroup_en.link which can also be found from the Home page of the Wildlife Trust of South and west Wales web site.
Mid Pembrokeshire meetings
Mid Pembrokeshire section of the Wildlife Trust of South and West Wales
The next indoor meeting of the Group is on Monday the 18th October 2010 at The patch, Furzy Park, Haverfordwest starting at 7.30pm. This meeting will be the AGM followed by a presentation ‘Moths and mothing in Pembrokeshire’ by Tony Lewis.
On Saturday the 30th of October there will be a visit to ramsey island. Buy your tickets from the Thousand islands office in St David’s and meet at the St Justinians lifeboat station by 9.45am for the 10am sailing.
For further information please contact robin Taylor on 01348 840617
The next indoor meeting of the Group is on Monday the 18th October 2010 at The patch, Furzy Park, Haverfordwest starting at 7.30pm. This meeting will be the AGM followed by a presentation ‘Moths and mothing in Pembrokeshire’ by Tony Lewis.
On Saturday the 30th of October there will be a visit to ramsey island. Buy your tickets from the Thousand islands office in St David’s and meet at the St Justinians lifeboat station by 9.45am for the 10am sailing.
For further information please contact robin Taylor on 01348 840617
Grassholm Today
We made our annual visit to Grassholm to cut free tangled juveniles today. Perfect weather for it. 56 juvs cut free in total, plus 3 adults. Thanks to Chris and Dave from Skomer for their help, also Mick Brown and Sean. Special thanks to Tim and Beth from Venture Jet for landing us safely and helping with the task.
Other birds present were redwing (2), raven (1), peregrine (2), oystercatcher (4), starling (20), goldcrest (6), blackbird (2), turnstone (3), blackcap (1), robin (2), song thrush (1), chiffchaff (2), GBB gull (100+), chaffinch (3), dunnock (1), skylark (1), goldfinch (1) and rock pipit (6)
Other birds present were redwing (2), raven (1), peregrine (2), oystercatcher (4), starling (20), goldcrest (6), blackbird (2), turnstone (3), blackcap (1), robin (2), song thrush (1), chiffchaff (2), GBB gull (100+), chaffinch (3), dunnock (1), skylark (1), goldfinch (1) and rock pipit (6)
Skokholm today
Loads of Robins around, a few Blackbirds and an odd Song Thrush. A few Chaffinches over and probably three Chiffchaff. Four Snipe, at least five Water Rail, one (almost certainly two) Little Stint at North Pond - very brief views of the second bird, only 4 Canada Geese, 6 Teal, a Short-eared Owl, loads of Reed Buntings - seemed to be all over the place with at least 6 just around North pond and others in South Valley. Only 3 Skylarks seen but probably more around, a few, presumably immature, Guilli's and Razors offshore y 20 LBB's still on the island.
A quiet day - but very lovely calm and warm.
More Yellow-browed warblers
Today, two Yellow-browed Warblers at Harmony Churchyard, near Trefasser.
(Ed Hunter).
(Ed Hunter).
Skomer --
No sign of the Bobolink this morning-
Again this morning quieter still, but some records as Chris & Dave are joining Greg (RSPB) on a working visit to Grassholm -- hopefully some October birds news from Grassholm later!!
1 Lapland Bunting, 6 Chiffchaffs, 4 Blackcaps, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Fieldfare, 2 Redwing, 1 Wheatear, c30 Swallows, 8 House Sparrows ,1 Snipe & 1 Grey Heron.
Again this morning quieter still, but some records as Chris & Dave are joining Greg (RSPB) on a working visit to Grassholm -- hopefully some October birds news from Grassholm later!!
1 Lapland Bunting, 6 Chiffchaffs, 4 Blackcaps, 1 Goldcrest, 1 Fieldfare, 2 Redwing, 1 Wheatear, c30 Swallows, 8 House Sparrows ,1 Snipe & 1 Grey Heron.
winter
Having had ice on the vehicle windscreen yesterday I rather assume winter really is upon us, & that was confirmed this morning when we had our first fieldfare in the garden & several redwings too. Mind, there was also a willow w or chiff in the bushes earlier as well!
"The" willow tit has been absent all summer, but is now appearing almost daily on the nut feeder.
"The" willow tit has been absent all summer, but is now appearing almost daily on the nut feeder.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Skomer, North Stream valley
A wonderful opportunity to see this hidden part of Skomer today. Thanks to Chris, the Skomer warden for allowing access for birders into this gem of a migrant trap. Although the target Bobolink wasnt to be found there was plenty to look at. Just one small copse of stream side willows held Chiffs, Blackcaps, several Goldcrests, 3 Tit species and the Yellow-browed warbler.
A quick look at the Deer Park afterwards was worthwhile as there was a Black Redstart on the beach below Rath cottage.
A quick look at the Deer Park afterwards was worthwhile as there was a Black Redstart on the beach below Rath cottage.
Ramsey Raptors
For some reason I have only visited Ramsay a couple of times in the past few years but thanks to Greg and Lisa's kind invite I popped over and what a day to pop! Nothing particularly out of the ordinary by Ramsay Island standards but with thirty or more chough overhead most of the time, stunning views of Sparrowhawk, Kestrels, Peregrine, Buzzard and five Red Kites circling, a pretty fine raptor day. Also lots of nice incidentals with loads of seals and migrants such as Wheatear and Whinchat, although I missed the Pied Flycatcher someone (Byron?) saw. All in all a fantastic day out, thanks to Greg and Lisa, also Cindy and her Thousand Island team for letting me see what I have been missing.
Bits & bobs
Yellow-browed Warbler: one at Harmony Church, near Trefasser today (Ed Hunter).
Lapland Bunting: 2 at St. David's Airfield, near the East Gate (Trevor Price).
No doubt Wendy will update Skomer news, but included a self-found Yellow-browed Warbler for her.
Students of UK bird news will know that there have been 19 (!!) Red-flanked Bluetails in the UK so far this autumn (in the last 16 days), all on the east coast bar one today on Cape Clear, Co Cork. There just HAS to be one here now, or very soon....go check those coastal trees & bushes!
Lapland Bunting: 2 at St. David's Airfield, near the East Gate (Trevor Price).
No doubt Wendy will update Skomer news, but included a self-found Yellow-browed Warbler for her.
Students of UK bird news will know that there have been 19 (!!) Red-flanked Bluetails in the UK so far this autumn (in the last 16 days), all on the east coast bar one today on Cape Clear, Co Cork. There just HAS to be one here now, or very soon....go check those coastal trees & bushes!
Skomer
No sign of the Bobolink at all today. We'll have another look in the morning but I'd have thought if it was still around it would have sat up at some stage.
Only 2 birders came over - Richard & Wendy, & Wendy found the bird of the day - a Yellow-browed Warbler.
Less birds around generally today, but still pretty good - 3 Ring Ouzels, 2 Whinchats, 1 Redstart, 10 Blackcaps, 12 Chiffchaffs, 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Snow Buntings, 4 Lapland Buntings, 10 Wheatears, 1 Coal Tit, 40 Blue Tits, 12 Goldcrests, 1 Merlin, 25 Redwings, 20 Song Thrushes & a Curlew Sandpiper flew over
Only 2 birders came over - Richard & Wendy, & Wendy found the bird of the day - a Yellow-browed Warbler.
Less birds around generally today, but still pretty good - 3 Ring Ouzels, 2 Whinchats, 1 Redstart, 10 Blackcaps, 12 Chiffchaffs, 1 Willow Warbler, 2 Snow Buntings, 4 Lapland Buntings, 10 Wheatears, 1 Coal Tit, 40 Blue Tits, 12 Goldcrests, 1 Merlin, 25 Redwings, 20 Song Thrushes & a Curlew Sandpiper flew over
Pembrokeshire Bird Group
Annual Pembrokeshire Bird Conference 20th November 2010
Chevron Refinery are again kindly hosting this years Bird Conference at their site mid way between Pembroke and Angle on behalf of the Pembrokeshire bird group.
The event is also the highlight of our year and a great opportunity to meet old friends as well as new faces who have the same interests as ourselves. All ticket sales go to help support the Wildlife Trust – included are refreshments and lunch. Any raffle prizes you may wish to bring along will be very gratefully accepted. There will also be available copies of the latest Pembrokeshire Bird report and a new publication ‘The Birds of Ceredigion’
If you wish to book a place or for further information please contact Wendy Barnes-Jones at Cilgerran on 01239 621212 or by email at w.barnes-jones@welshwildlife.org or by going directly to the link http://welshwildlife.org/PembrokeshireBirdGroup_en.link which can also be found from the Home page of the Wildlife Trust of South and west Wales web site.
Tickets cost just £15 for the day
Chevron Refinery are again kindly hosting this years Bird Conference at their site mid way between Pembroke and Angle on behalf of the Pembrokeshire bird group.
The event is also the highlight of our year and a great opportunity to meet old friends as well as new faces who have the same interests as ourselves. All ticket sales go to help support the Wildlife Trust – included are refreshments and lunch. Any raffle prizes you may wish to bring along will be very gratefully accepted. There will also be available copies of the latest Pembrokeshire Bird report and a new publication ‘The Birds of Ceredigion’
If you wish to book a place or for further information please contact Wendy Barnes-Jones at Cilgerran on 01239 621212 or by email at w.barnes-jones@welshwildlife.org or by going directly to the link http://welshwildlife.org/PembrokeshireBirdGroup_en.link which can also be found from the Home page of the Wildlife Trust of South and west Wales web site.
Tickets cost just £15 for the day
Monday, October 11, 2010
Skomer ---- Bobolink
Dear all,
Although the Bobolink has not be seen throughout the day, it might well be hiding somewhere.
Looking good for day boats tomorrow, if anyone fancies a look (lots of looking!) then this would be a good chance.
I have decided to allow access to North Stream Valley for birders (the paths marked Research Area) for the next few days only.
A special map will be available from me after the introductory talk. Volunteer wardens will be around to help out.
Usual rules apply with regards sticking to the paths, if folk are seen flushing birds through bracken, etc. this will not look good for future birding events. So please stick to the permitted paths.
Chris Taylor
Skomer Island Warden
07971 114302
http://skomerisland.blogspot.com/
1st boat leaves Martin's Haven at 1000, then boats at 1100 & 1200.
Although the Bobolink has not be seen throughout the day, it might well be hiding somewhere.
Looking good for day boats tomorrow, if anyone fancies a look (lots of looking!) then this would be a good chance.
I have decided to allow access to North Stream Valley for birders (the paths marked Research Area) for the next few days only.
A special map will be available from me after the introductory talk. Volunteer wardens will be around to help out.
Usual rules apply with regards sticking to the paths, if folk are seen flushing birds through bracken, etc. this will not look good for future birding events. So please stick to the permitted paths.
Chris Taylor
Skomer Island Warden
07971 114302
http://skomerisland.blogspot.com/
1st boat leaves Martin's Haven at 1000, then boats at 1100 & 1200.
Starling Roost
Late afternoon at Minwear wood fron viewing area over estuary over 100K starlings
roosting in the reed beds
roosting in the reed beds
Squacco Heron
Still there after 6pm this evening, last I saw it was out of sight in the small creek above the bridge, close to the back of the church yard. Best shots I got above - not quite up to Morris's standards!!!
Chris - I think the way you are handling the Bobolink access is admirable. Let's hope it shows for whoever goes over (or they find another good bird!).
Dave - I have the same problems as you, trying to get my photos to go in the right place!!!
Pen Anglas - Snow Bunting
I saw most likely the same one in the same area, the open area toward the far end, as the sun went down at 18:00.
Skomer
How does everybody manage to get their pictures where they want them?
The Bobolink popped up at about 08:30 down the bottom of North Valley - it looked like it was sunning itself in the tops of the willows. After about 3 minutes though it flew off high to the west but dropped down again somewhere between North Pond and North Valley Crossing. Despite looking for the rest of the morning I never saw it again
This little fella also popped up down North Valley - I thought I'd got a first for the island but apparently Pembrokeshire's first, & Skomer's last, Dartford Warbler was on here in 1971
With the wind dropping there were a lot more birds around generally - 1 Great Spotted Woodpecker, 45 Skylarks,1 Tree Pipit, 1 Redstart (first of the autumn!!), 1 Black Redstart, 7 Wheatears, 35 Song Thrushes, 25 Redwings, 8 Ring Ouzels, 1 Mistle Thrush (first of the autumn), 13 Blackcaps, 13 Chiffchaffs, 12 Goldcrests, 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 30 Blue Tits, 1 Tree Sparrow, 3 Bramblings (first of the autumn), 12 Siskins & a Lapland Bunting
Barred Warbler -- Strumble
A few chats were hanging about above /around the lighthouse car park after I had been watching seals with some Sea Trust volunteers. I had a feeling something might be about and was mooching around when something flitted into a gorse patch .It was silhouetted in the lowering sunshine, so I tried to outflank it. As I did so, it cut across into another gorse patch. I worked my way round and saw something and shot it... a hedge sparrow! (hehe eh GHR!)
Luckily another "it" popped up onto a burnt branch fleetingly and I shot again but it took off as I shot. I thought I saw a white throat and some grey but wasnt entirely sure what I had seen, as it flew off into some dense gorse along the fenceline.
Having got home I sorted out a few things and then fired up the computer and found this on the memory card...
It was about 5 pm when I saw it and 6 pm by the time I sorted the picture so sorry folks, not really any realistic chance of getting anyone there!
Bobolink -- Skomer
Not seen again........since earlier sighting.
A boat could be put on at 13;00 and off at 16:00.
(Chris -Skomer Warden)
If enough interest, anyone interested let me / Chris know asap.........
A boat could be put on at 13;00 and off at 16:00.
(Chris -Skomer Warden)
If enough interest, anyone interested let me / Chris know asap.........
Little Stint -- Newport
1 Juvenile Little Stint still, from the tennis courts at 08:40.
Also Knot.
(Karen)
Also Knot.
(Karen)
Sunday, October 10, 2010
and bobs
2 poss 3 Lapland Buntings over Heathfield am. 3 Whinchats and 10 Wheatears St Davids Hd area.
Other bits
Yellow-browed Warbler - Porthclais (Dominic Davidson & Ed Hunter).
Yellow-browed Warbler - Whitesands Bay Hotel (Mike YP et al).
Lapland Bunting - 1 on Dale Airfield & 1 at Trehill Farm, Marloes (DD & EH).
Yellow-browed Warbler - Whitesands Bay Hotel (Mike YP et al).
Lapland Bunting - 1 on Dale Airfield & 1 at Trehill Farm, Marloes (DD & EH).
Squacco Heron
Early morning WeBS at Hook/Sprinkle, highlights were 24 Greenshank, 1 Blackwit, 2 Barwits, 4 Grey Plover & 6 Knot.
Then down to Dale, first to Dale Fort where the highlight was a Firecrest in the garden at Point House, and then south through Castlebeach to a pond by the coast path where a Reed Warbler showed well. On to Dale Village where birding was rapidly interrupted by a call to Birdline which revealed a SQUACCO HERON at Angle - after a frustrating 55 minute drive (it is only 5 miles in a straight line from Dale!) we arrived and scoured the area by the bridge and then the old harbour with no luck. Wellies on and a walk on the saltmarsh above the bridge, just after Paul exclaimed that it couldn't be in a creek so narrow, out it came (a victory for random fieldcraft & perserverence)! It perched in the open at around 20 feet range, and over the next hour and a half moved around the harbour, giving good views at times, before going back into the saltmarsh above the bridge at 17:45. I would assume it is a juvenile/first-winter as it had some brown markings on the coverts in flight.
Thanks to Trystan Parry for finding it, identifying it with the help of the internet, and making the effort to put the news out through Birdline. We owe him one! He suspects it has been around a week or so, as he previously saw a small brownish heron on the bridge one day and initially dismissed it as a juvenile Little Egret as in flight as it was largely white - well done to him for persevering when he saw it again this morning.
(Dave A & Paul G)