Observations

May – Jun 2015

With the focus moving from migration to the breeding population, there were nevertheless some interesting migrants to report. These included a Goshawk, which if accepted by county scrutineers would be our third record, outshining the more or less annual Osprey in May. Equally exciting for the lucky observers was a party of eight Black Terns in early May.

With ducks and waders, these included the first of the Autumn returning birds: the first Teal and an unusually early Wigeon, as well as two Garganeys. Four splendid male Ruffs at the end of June were still partly in breeding plumage. Also pausing for a rest on the way through were a Yellow-legged Gull and a Mediterranean Gull.

Of the regular breeding birds, a male Cuckoo held territory but there was sadly no sign of a female. However, three Goldcrest territories resulting in one newly fledged brood seen at the end of June was very welcome.