Birding today was between bouts of fog and rain. The sudden influx of waders yesterday on Longis beach had increased considerably this morning and counting them as the mists rolled through was the challenge.
Tim Earl passing over 18 new poles for the ABO nets thanks to the Ocean Nova and www.noble-caledonia.co.uk for swinging by!
After several efforts my lowest totals were as follows: 52 Dunlin, 43 Sanderling, 27 Ringed Plover and 8 Whimbrel. On Longis reserve there were 5 fledged Stonechat on the fence posts along the footway to the hide.
Ringing: This morning northerly winds and the promise of plenty of rain meant a few choice ringing nets open on Longis reserve for a short window of a couple of hours. Those reading who have experience ringing on a small island will appreciate the difficulties presented by the ever-changing weather conditions. Thanks to Grant Le Marchant for providing the Obs with sound advice and guidance on satellite map weather internet sites, making the successful opening and closing of the nets between the rain almost an exact science ! We had another ‘control’ Reed Warbler, from our neighbouring Channel islands ringing colleagues. Other new birds ringed included 1 Spotted Flycatcher, 5 Sedge Warbler, 2 Reed Warblers, 1 Blackcap and a male Siskin.
Having just received some photos, the Obs team would like to send out a special thanks to Tim Earl who managed to drop off essential ringing kit (poles and nets) meeting Roland Gauvain and me in Hannaine Bay a few days back. Tim is a specialist tour guide and on his way from Guernsey to the Isles of Scilly guiding for a cruise ship. Tim was able to borrow the cruise ships launch and meet us in a secluded bay to give us our booty before returning to his day job! The efforts individuals have gone to in order to help this project make progress have been truly wonderful.