Yesterday’s Alderney Bird Race was largely a morning affair as rain set in from early afternoon.
Visiting Guernsey birder’s ‘ The Spice-invaders’ managed an impressive 76 species to retain their title and the Alderney wooden Puffin trophy beating the ABO team into second place by just 2 species! Altogether some 82 species were recorded by those taking part just 3 species behind the Alderney all time most species recorded in a day which stands at 85 species. A lot of fun was had by all, and some excellent sightings included an Alpine Swift and Hooded Crow along with a locally unseasonal Lapwing.
Migrant species spotted included Tree Pipit, Yellow Wagtails and Whinchat.
Photo: Hilary Partridge from the ABO committee presenting the trophy to the winners outside the ABO’s bird ringing cabin at Essex Farm.
Today also saw the spring ABO members birdwatching walk, Just over 20 of us enjoyed a wander across Longis Nature reserve in fabulous sunshine, the birds turned up too, several Wheatears and a Yellow Wagtail were admired amongst other species as a steady stream of Swallows, House Martins and Sand Martins passed overhead migrating north, all followed up with a fine spread of homemade cakes tea & coffee capping a very pleasant couple of hours.