Wheatears on the move

Willow Warblers arrive in good numbers

Friday 23rd April comments:

Move aside seabirds, it was the turn of the summer migrants as the day proved fruitful and somewhat unexpected. Following a series of ‘blocking’ northerly airflow's, the wind eased and switched directions and in they came. First a few Willow Warblers, then more, followed by a scattering of Wheatears with a reasonable supporting cast. The islands had livened up (not that they need livening up!) with singing Willow Warblers although a late Redwing reminded us that we had only just said goodbye to winter.

The seabirds continue to settle with ever increasing Sandwich Terns (up to 380 now) whilst our old friend; the Arctic Tern has finally arrived, as six were seen over Inner Farne. It won’t be long before they are pecking our heads again, and I can’t wait…honest.

Highlights: Pink-footed Goose 60N, Greylag Goose 1N, Red-throated Diver 12N, Red-breasted Merganser 7N, Teal 5N, Common Scoter 80 Inner Sound, Shelduck 7N, Swallow 25N, Sand Martin 10N, Wheatear 18, Blackbird 2, Redwing (late), Dunnock 2, Willow Warbler 28, Chiffchaff 2 and Blackcap 2.