Sightings for the current month
February 18th
There was a pair of Goosander close to Mother Siller’s Channel this evening, as well as 41 Dunlin on the marsh. Over on Wick, a Chiffchaff was near the Viewing Platform.
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Tides February 19th: L03:25 | H08:25 | H12:00 | L15:50 | H20:55
February 17th
There is news from most areas today. A total of 3 Grey Plover, a single Black-tailed Godwit and 44 Brent Goose were at Stanpit, while a Chiffchaff was in the Wood on Hengistbury and a Kingfisher was around Wick.
February 16th
The only news for today is a first-winter Yellow-legged Gull on the end of the sandspit, viewed from Mudeford Quay, while a single Red-throated Diver headed east.
February 15th
Great Spotted Woodpecker
Great Spotted Woodpecker – Robert Gray (upper) & Tina Scott
Greenfinch – Samuel Levy
It was a gloriously sunny morning, during which a Woodlark headed east over Coastguards. Also on Hengistbury, singles of Firecrest and Chiffchaff in the Wood; while at sea: 5 Red-throated Diver moved east, as did 19 Brent Goose; a further 6 Brent Goose headed the opposite way, as did a Common Gull; and 2 Great Crested Grebe were settled. A decent wader selection at Stanpit was headed with a Greenshank, something of a rarity here during the winter months, as well as: a calling Jack Snipe, perhaps an even rarer occurrence, an Avocet, 12 Grey Plover, 45 Ringed Plover and 175 Dunlin. Equally notable as a couple of the wader events were 18 Mediterranean Gull – a really good, local return for the month. Meanwhile, 2 Water Pipit, 8 ‘Scandinavian’ Rock Pipit, 4 Pintail and a Peregrine were about the marsh.
February 14th
Firecrest – Alan Crockard
It was a lovely, crisp day that produced a nice selection of birds. At Stanpit, between Stanpit Scrubs and the Pod, there was a Firecrest, a Water Pipit, 5 ‘Scandinavian’ Rock Pipit and 4 Stonechat, as well as the Spotted Redshank. A further 2 Firecrest were in the Wood on Hengistbury, where the male Marsh Harrier hunted Wick Hams. At least 3 Bullfinch were on Wick, including a pair on Buckthorn adjacent to the Viewing Platform, and a couple of Common Gull were on the HHC mudbar. Finally, thanks to Shaun Robson for an enthralling talk about Besh Barmag, Azerbaijan, last night.
February 12th
Reed Bunting – one of the species in song today - Alan Crockard
It was a mild day throughout, which prompted some welcome song about the area. A Merlin over Wick was the best of the visuals, however; as well as a couple of Firecrest around the Double Bends, a Mistle Thrush over the Long Field and a Bullfinch on Wick. Meanwhile, an adult Mediterranean Gull was on Wick Hams and a Kingfisher was nearby.
February 10th
The only news from another, on-and-off wet day is of a Firecrest in the Wood by the Double Bends and a pair of Bullfinch on Roebury Lane. It was a WeBS count, but the consolidated figures are not to hand.
February 9th
The strong and uncomfortable wind continued, making things difficult in the field. Nevertheless, the Spotted Redshank was at Stanpit, along with 80 Black-tailed Godwit, 30 Dunlin, 4 Pintail and 28 Brent Goose; as well as six sinensis-looking Cormorant. Over on Wick, a Chiffchaff and 2 Bullfinch were present; while 90 minutes at Mudeford Quay proved the sea was pretty much birdless. Just singles of Mediterranean Gull – an adult in almost full breeding attire – Gannet and unidentified diver to remark upon.
February 8th
On a stormy, very wet day, all the news comes from Mudeford Quay. This morning, a Kittiwake and 5 Sandwich Tern were resting on the lawn; while this afternoon 2 Kittiwake – an adult and a first-winter – passed west and a Sandwich Tern lingered. During the high-tide period, at least 4 Purple Sandpiper could be seen on the end of the sandspit.
February 7th
Cormorant – Samuel Levy
It was thankfully drier today, but rather a mixed bag in terms of reports. A couple of Mistle Thrush were on Wick Fields, while a Chiffchaff was in the Wood on Hengistbury. Otherwise, it’s just 7 Ringed Plover and 20 Dunlin on the sandspit to report upon, plus a pair of Pintail in Barn Bight. At dusk, however, an estimated 5000 Black-headed Gull were in the harbour and the offshore roost.
February 5th
The best from another damp and miserable day is a Mistle Thrush east over Wick and a Kingfisher about there.
February 4th
Given there was constant drizzle, which only really ceased towards dusk, it not surprising the only records come from late in the day. A pair of Goosander were in Barn Bight, presumably to roost, while a Buzzard went into the Nursery to perhaps do the same.
February 3rd
It was a glorious, winter’s day as yesterday’s wind chill had abated almost completely. Despite the conditions, however, there is little to report, with all the news coming from Wick. A female-type Marsh Harrier headed west over there, 40 Black-tailed Godwit left to the north and a Peregrine again hunted.
February 2nd
Long–tailed Tit - Alan Crockard
Sunrise from Hengistbury – Alan Crockard
It was a bitterly cold day, courtesy of some overnight frost and a north-easterly wind. At least 3 Water Pipit were on Priory Marsh, while a further bird was in a pipit flock close to the Rusty Boat that contained a minimum of two littoralis Rock Pipit. There were far fewer Golden Plover and winter thrushes today – an over-flying flock of ‘Goldies’ was reported, but with no number against it, with Fieldfare and Redwing coming to three and eight respectively. The only Marsh Harrier sighting was a high-flying, cream-crowned bird that was presumed to be moving west, as opposed to being one of the local regulars, and a Peregrine unsuccessfully hunted feral pigeons around Wick. Finishing up, a Firecrest was in the Wood, 4 Bullfinch were on Wick and the south-side total for Goldcrest was eleven.
February 1st
Golden Plover – Samuel Levy
Grey Plover – Samuel Levy
The snow from yesterday evening remained in place throughout the day and brought a good number of displaced birds with it. Two Hawfinch passed east over Stanpit, while a Woodlark came up off the golf course there with 18 Fieldfare. Golden Plover were spectacular – in addition to 65 which settled near the Hiker café on Hengistbury, a total of 166 headed high south; as did ultimately the decked birds. Also on the move, in the same direction, were Lapwing – 82 in total. Passerines, meanwhile, were coming in off the sea and included: 125 Skylark, 12 Meadow Pipit, 27 Redwing and 23 Fieldfare. There is a report of a Red-necked Grebe on the sea, somewhere off Hengistbury, but the location of the Eider is more exact – off the Barn Field – and 5 Red-throated Diver passed west. There is also news of ‘all three species of diver off the head’, but little else is known. A Water Pipit, 2 ‘Scandinavian’ Rock Pipit and an undescribed Marsh Harrier were at Stanpit; as were 2 Jack Snipe, the Spotted Redshank, a Knot, 21 Grey Plover, 15 Ringed Plover and 125 Dunlin. The cold also pushed Common Gull our way – ten inside the harbour and nine east – with 4 Tufted Duck and 4 Gadwall being on site with them. A Firecrest was in the Wood, as was a Chiffchaff and a Treecreeper.
January 31st
Drake Shoveler – Jackie Smith
Other than a Marsh Harrier at Stanpit this afternoon, where the last two days have seen the adult male and a cream-crowned bird, all the news comes from Mudeford Quay. A total of 10 Red-throated Diver moved past, as did three unidentified divers, and a single Gannet was offshore. A flock of 6 Purple Sandpiper flew through the Run into the harbour.
January 30th
Grey Heron nest building – Alan Crockard
There was another good count of Water Pipit from Stanpit this morning – five birds in total – although no details of the location are known. In addition, there were 3 Rock Pipit returned, two of them ‘Scandinavian’. A Firecrest was again by the Nursery, while a Grey Wagtail and 2 Bullfinch were on Wick, and a Shoveler was in Barn Bight.
January 29th
It was another quiet day, from which just a Red-throated Diver west and 11 Brent Goose east are reported.
January 28th
The only news for the day comes from the south side of the area, where a Chiffchaff was on Wick, a Water Rail was seen from the Viewing Platform and 8 Dunlin were in Holloway’s Dock.
January 26th
Firecrest on Hengistbury – Alan Crockard
There was a fair bit of activity about the area prior to the rain setting in. A total of 7 Purple Sandpiper was on the tip off the sandspit, viewed from Mudeford Quay, while earlier a Black-throated Diver landed on the sea off there and 14 Red-throated Diver – one settled, the rest east – were logged, along with 12 Common Scoter also heading towards the Solent. Priory Marsh held a good selection of birds, including a Jack Snipe, 4 Water Pipit, a couple of Grey Wagtail and 32 Pied Wagtail. Nearby, a Bearded Tit was by the Purewell Stream, that’s the first of one of those for quite some time, and a Firecrest was on the golf course embankment. An additional Firecrest was in the Wood on Hengistbury and the male Marsh Harrier was around for most of the day. Kingfisher were seen in several places and the Grey Heron continue their breeding process in the Nursery.
January 25th
Brent Goose, a welcome returnee in numbers – Jackie Smith
Meadow Pipit – Jackie Smith
The Spotted Redshank was again at Stanpit, along with 6 Pintail and 75 Brent Goose; the latter now seeming to favour the area again after a disconcerting absence.
January 24th
A Common Sandpiper was at Stanpit this morning, along with the Spotted Redshank, 10 Grey Plover, a good total of 75 Ringed Plover and 185 Dunlin. At the same time, there was a welcome return of the Brent Goose on the marsh – 95 of them – with 8 Pintail making up the rest of the wildfowl interest. Meanwhile, a near-on 90-minute seawatch from the Beach Huts produced 16 Red-throated Diver – all but four west, including a high-flying flock of 9 birds – as well as 6 Shag and a Razorbill on the water, and a pair of Brent Goose west. Hengistbury hosted 3 Firecrest – two in the Wood and one at the end of the head – while a male Bullfinch was by the HHC.
January 23rd
Goldcrest in the Wood – Alan Crockard
It’s a little light on news today, but there were 2 Bullfinch and a Grey Wagtail on Wick Fields, while a Common Gull passed over to the west.
January 22nd
Stock Dove taking a chance in the Tawny Owl box – Clinton Whale
Today saw 2 Firecrest in the Wood on Hengistbury, but all the other news comes from Stanpit. A Spotted Redshank was on North Marsh, while some good, in-harbour wader totals included: a Grey Plover, over 50 Black-tailed Godwit, 54 Ringed Plover, 225 Dunlin and 24 Snipe. In addition, 2 Shoveler, 8 Pintail, the same number of Brent Goose and a single Common Gull were about the marsh.
January 20th
Pintail – Ian Wigley
The Red-breasted Merganser was again inside the harbour, just off Blackberry Point, after being seen coming in over Mudeford Quay. Meanwhile, on a cold morning, it was WeBS day – the best wader being the Spotted Redshank on North Marsh, as well as 15 Grey Plover, 46 Black-tailed Godwit, 85 Ringed Plover and 193 Dunlin. Eight Pintail were the scarcer of the expected ducks, with 82 Teal and 498 Wigeon making the numbers. During what has been a poor winter for them, the only other waterbird of interest was a single Common Gull.
January 19th
Red–breasted Merganser is quite a scarcity around the area - Ian Wigley
As the photo caption suggests, it's always nice to have a settled Red-breasted Merganser about the harbour - this one was at Stanpit this morning. The only other news, however, is of a Firecrest by the Nursery.
January 18th
The Eider inside the harbour – Clinton Whale
A Marsh Harrier was seen arriving from the direction of Keyhaven over Mudeford Quay – an occurrence that is getting quite regular, so perhaps suggesting an interchange of birds between the two sites. Meanwhile, the Eider actually spent some time in the harbour, before drifting out down the Run. A total of 4 Mediterranean Gull and a Sandwich Tern was logged at the quay; a Great Northern Diver and 2 Red-throated Diver moved west at sea, and the Common Scoter flock of eight birds was settled. On Hengistbury, a Firecrest was in the Wood and over 200 Dunlin were scattered along the sandspit. The only other wader news is of a Grey Plover at Stanpit, 3 Black-tailed Godwit at Wick and 12 Turnstone on the spit.
January 17th
Goldfinch – Ray Scott
Grey Plover – Ray Scott
A Firecrest was again in the Wood, close to the Double Bends, while the now-regular, female-type Eider was very close inshore off the sandspit. Staying with the water, but later in the day, a Red-throated Diver passed east off Mudeford Quay and 8 Great Crested Grebe were settled off there. The best Dunlin return of the day was 62 in Holloway’s Dock, with other waders, all at Stanpit coming to 8 Grey Plover, a couple of Black-tailed Godwit and 4 Ringed Plover. Meanwhile, wildfowl came to 5 Pintail, 6 Shelduck and 26 Brent Goose.
January 16th
Ringed Plover and Dunlin on the sandspit recently – Clinton Whale
The Eider ventured into the Run today, while a Black-throated Diver headed west off Mudeford Quay. Also from there, ten arriving Grey Plover, 2 Mediterranean Gull and 5 Common Gull.
January 15th
A Firecrest was again on Hengistbury, in holly by the Nursery, while 7 Common Scoter were off the end of the head adjacent to the Long Groyne. The only other news for the day involves a peak count of 49 Dunlin in Holloway’s Dock.
January 14th
The Buzzard was again in the Nursery and it seems it may well have been hanging around that part of the recording area for some time now. In addition, a Firecrest was close by, as were 7 Goldcrest.
January 13th
The only news for today is of 13 Brent Goose on Stanpit and a couple of Bullfinch on Wick.
January 12th
Rock Pipit – Scott Usher
Shoveler – Scott Usher
Curlew – Roger Tidball
Other than a couple of drake Shoveler at Stanpit, all the day’s news comes from the sea. Singles of Black-throated Diver and Red-throated Diver passed east and west respectively off Mudeford Quay, where a Sandwich Tern was fishing. Despite the north-westerly breeze, it was possible to pick out a Razorbill and 7 Common Scoter on the water.
January 11th
January 10th
On a cold, frosty day many of the regulars were present and correct. These included: a Chiffchaff and 7 Bullfinch on Wick Fields; and the Eider, 4 Common Scoter and 3 Great Crested Grebe settled off Mudeford Quay. Meanwhile, a Red-throated Diver passed to the west.
January 9th
Song Thrush – Clinton Whale
Chiffchaff – Robert Gray
In addition to a Chiffchaff at Stanpit, a Common Gull headed west over Wick and a Kingfisher was by the Wooden Bridge.
January 8th
Redshank – Alan Crockard
Some of today's Snipe on the Salt Hurns – Clinton Whale
Turnstone – Clinton Whale
Other than a really good number of Snipe – at least 60 – on the Salt Hurns, there is little to report for today. The usual Eider was on the sea off Mudeford Quay, while a Great Crested Grebe headed east past there. A count of 118 Dunlin was in Holloway’s Dock, 5 Little Grebe were in Barn Bight and a Kingfisher was by the Purewell Stream.
January 7th
Buzzard – Clinton Whale
It was a fairly low-key day, but it did produce a Buzzard in the unlikely location of the Nursery. Stanpit, meanwhile, held a relatively good number of Ringed Plover – 37 – as well as around 100 Dunlin, 5 Pintail, 10 Brent Goose, 24 Shelduck and a Common Gull; the latter being somewhat scarce of late.
January 6th
Snipe – Sam Whitton
Dunlin – Clinton Whale
It was another damp and cold day with a light but particularly chilling breeze. Off Mudeford Quay, there was a settled Great Northern Diver, as well as the regular Eider. From Stanpit, there is a good total of Grey Plover – over 15 birds – plus 4 Black-tailed Godwit, 26+ Ringed Plover, a couple of Pintail, 21 Brent Goose and 15 Shelduck. Rounding up, at least one Marsh Harrier was about the area and around 100 Dunlin were using Holloway’s Dock.
January 5th
This Ringed Plover was on Stanpit on 24th December. It is believed to have been ringed in Norway and we await further details – Scott Usher
It was a grey, damp and cold day throughout. Goosander were once a much-sought-after species for the area, but nowadays are more expected – a flock of two adult pairs flew south along the river this morning, when the adult male Marsh Harrier spent some time around the area. Meanwhile, the Eider remains settled on the waters off Clarendon’s Rocks. Over on Wick, a Mistle Thrush and 4 Bullfinch were present; the Shelduck at Stanpit numbered 15, along with 4 Brent Goose and 20 Black-tailed Godwit; and a Kingfisher gave prolonged views in Mother Siller’s Channel.
January 4th
Purple Sandpiper – Clinton Whale
Purple Sandpiper have been thin on the ground so far this winter, so one on the sandspit today was a nice surprise. The only other news from a gloriously crisp day is from Wick, where: a male Merlin hunted over Wick Hams, the Marsh Harrier could be seen over Stanpit, a Peregrine was over the fields and one Bullfinch was settled.
January 3rd
Oystercatcher – Roger Tidball
On a cold day, a 90-minute seawatch from the Beach Huts yielded a Great Northern Diver and 7 Red-throated Diver moving towards the Solent, plus an Eider settled on the sea.
January 2nd
Bullfinch – Jackie Smith
The day’s news comes from Hengistbury and Wick; where a Firecrest was in the Wood, at least one Bullfinch was on the fields and a pair of Red-breasted Merganser passed east off the head.
January 1st
Given the date, news is extremely light. An Avocet and a Spotted Redshank were at Stanpit, as were 5 Grey Plover, while a couple of Kingfisher were about the area. Geese were noticeable by their apparent absence.
December 31st
Dunlin – Alan Hayden
Redshank – Alan Hayden
The Dunlin at Stanpit today reached an incredible 420+, which for modern-day recording a tremendous number. The calm conditions made it ideal to look for ‘crests in the Wood, where 2 Firecrest and 12 Goldcrest were seen. Elsewhere, the male Marsh Harrier hunting the Wick reeds and a pair of Bullfinch were on Roebury Lane.
December 30th
Brent Goose – Alan Hayden
December 29th
Skylark – Scott Usher
Grey Plover – Scott Usher
A Great Skua was amongst a distant feeding flock of gulls off Mudeford Quay this morning; when a Red-throated Diver and a Pintail headed west, and 6 Common Scoter and 2 Great Crested Grebe were settled. A Spotted Redshank was seen from Fisherman’s Bank, with other wader counts from there comprising: 5 Grey Plover, 12 Black-tailed Godwit, 25 Ringed Plover and 185 Dunlin. Meanwhile, an adult Peregrine sat on South Marsh and occasionally hassled the male Marsh Harrier as it overflew. The pick of the wildfowl was a pair of Goosander that headed straight north, but also 6 Pintail and 4 Brent Goose about the marsh.
December 28th
Mediterranean Gull – Scott Usher
There was at least one Mediterranean Gull, an adult, at Stanpit today, while the male Marsh Harrier again hunted Wick Hams. Close by, on Wick Fields, a couple of Chiffchaff and 5 Bullfinch were present. A comment sent in yesterday, but overlooked by the author of the posts, told of numbers of Canada Goose and Greylag Goose back on site, but no Brent Goose at all.
December 27th
Marsh Harrier with a Peregrine, before hunting more peacefully – David Faulkner
All the news is from Stanpit, where the best bird was a redhead Red-breasted Merganser – always a premium bird in the area, particularly inside the harbour. Next best was a Water Pipit, otherwise it’s just 6 Pintail and 4 Shelduck to report upon.
December 26th
It was another still and grey day, during which an Eider spent most of it just offshore from Mudeford Quay – out towards Clarendon’s Rocks – while in the morning a Black-throated Diver was off Avon Beach. Also from the quay, a couple of Red-throated Diver east and 2 Gadwall west. Mediterranean Gull are premium birds in winter here, so three adults west over the Barn Field is of note for the month. More expected nowadays is Marsh Harrier and the male didn’t disappoint – hunting Stanpit at 08:10 – when a Peregrine was also trying its luck with the many Black-tailed Godwit on site. Meanwhile, all the Wick regulars were present and correct; namely, 2 Chiffchaff, 2 Bullfinch and a Kingfisher.
December 25th
Robin – Robert Gray (upper) & Jackie Smith
There was a welcome return of Brent Goose at Stanpit this morning - with at least 50 birds present.
December 24th
Pintail and Shoveler – Tina Scott
Bullfinch – Jackie Smith
At least 10 Red-throated Diver passed west today, along with a single Great Northern Diver and a couple of Eider; while four unidentified divers and 5 Brent Goose headed in the opposite direction. On Wick, there were at least 6 Bullfinch – possibly even seven – which could represent a harbour record flock, as well as a minimum of 2 Chiffchaff. Nearby, a cream-crowned Marsh Harrier hunted Wick Hams and a Firecrest was in the Wood. Moving to Stanpit, there were seven pairs of Shoveler, which is a good local number; plus 250 Black-tailed Godwit, 9 Ringed Plover and 40 Dunlin; but just 7 Brent Goose. Once again, the Viewing Platform on Wick proved very reliable for prolonged views of Kingfisher.
December 23rd
Cormorant – Jackie Smith
Skylark – Scott Usher
Chiffchaff – Jackie Smith
The only news for the day is of a Chiffchaff by the Viewing Platform on Wick and a Kingfisher around Barn Bight.
December 22nd
Black–tailed Godwit - Ray Scott
Kingfisher – Jackie Smith
The adult male Marsh Harrier was hunting about the area again this morning, while a Chiffchaff was calling from close to the Viewing Platform on Wick, where a Kingfisher gave prolonged views. Today’s estimate for Black-tailed Godwit was of over 200 birds, but just 8 Brent Goose and 2 Shelduck were present.
December 21st
The male Marsh Harrier was hunting Wick at 8:25, while a Chiffchaff was on the central path through Wick Fields. The only other news for the day is of at least 500 Black-tailed Godwit resting at Stanpit early in the afternoon.
December 19th
A cream-crowned Marsh Harrier was around Wick water meadows around 9:30 this morning, while a couple of Chiffchaff and 2 Bullfinch were about the adjacent fields.
December 17th
Goosander – Martin Lewis
There was a major, in-harbour rarity today in the form of a Black-necked Grebe close to Blackberry Point. The species is very scarce on the sea around the area, but inside the harbour it is rare indeed. Not quite as noteworthy, but still a very decent local bird – a redhead Goosander was also inside the harbour, just off Holloway’s Dock. Meanwhile, at Stanpit, there was a Water Pipit, a Jack Snipe, 6 Grey Plover and 22 Pintail, but just one Brent Goose. Elsewhere, a Kingfisher was in Brewer’s Creek. To round-up a short post, some housekeeping: the late-year eBulletin today went out to members. If you are a paid-up member and did not receive it, please email us...
December 16th
Peregrine – Scott Usher
Kingfisher – Ray Scott
The morning guided walk on Hengistbury, which saw just on 60 species in total, was highlighted by a Black-throated Diver on the sea off the end of the head and at least 2 Red-throated Diver east past there, while 2 Firecrest were in the Wood. It was also WeBS day and the best from that were 2 Jack Snipe on the Salt Hurns. Other water birds on site included: 14 Grey Plover, 177 Black-tailed Godwit, 12 Ringed Plover, a Tufted Duck, 7 Pintail, 4 Shoveler, 127 Teal and 638 Wigeon. Before moving on to other things, it’s again interesting to note there were just 54 Greylag Goose and 19 Canada Goose on site, which is something of a relief. Conversely, however, the Brent Goose were a paltry eight! A total o f3 Kingfisher was reckoned and a Peregrine was around Stanpit during the morning.
December 15th
The only news from a truly atrocious day is from Mudeford Quay, where a Red-throated Diver west and 4 Mediterranean Gull and 2 Pintail, those east, are the news. Of mammal interest, a Grey Seal is being frequently seen in the Run.
December 14th
Teal – Tina Scott
In a cold, easterly breeze, the hour from 10:30 saw 19 Red-throated Diver move west past Mudeford Quay, while an Arctic Skua was settled on the water. Also, on the sea a total of 4 Shag and 22 Gannet headed towards the Solent. There were probably two Marsh Harrier again, seen from Stanpit, where 2 Grey Plover, 6 Shoveler, 3 Pintail and a Kingfisher were returned; but just one Brent Goose! It’s also worth noting now that the recent scourge of Greylag Goose and Canada Goose has lessened noticeably in the last few days. Over on Wick, there was a Chiffchaff by the Wooden Bridge, 3 Redwing and 4 Bullfinch.
December 13th
Both a female and a non-adult male Marsh Harrier were around today, with the two being seen together at Stanpit for most of the afternoon. Snipe were conspicuous – eight on Central Marsh, five on East Marsh and five on Wick probably being the upper part of an iceberg, however. Strangely, there were only 10 or Brent Goose on offer this afternoon, while a pair of Bullfinch were along the riverside path at Wick just ahead of dusk. Thanks to Tony Davies for a very interesting, if not sobering, talk on the seemingly terminal decline of Wood Warbler in the New Forest last evening.
December 12th
There were two records of Marsh Harrier today – a female over Wick and then north at 7:30, then a non-adult male hunting Wick Hams just over an hour later. Otherwise, it’s just 3 Fieldfare above Wick to mention.
December 11th
This Kestrel with a damaged eye has been around the North Scrubs for a few days at least. Despite its impairment, it is successfully catching prey – Martin Lewis
The male Marsh Harrier hunted Wick Hams during the morning, when a Brambling and 2 Redpoll were in the Wood. Nearby, there were 48 Dunlin in Holloway’s Dock, while the water meadow on Wick hosted a Grey Wagtail.
December 10th
Kingfisher – Martin Lewis
It was a wonderful crisp day, with only a northerly breeze to remind one of December. All the news comes from Stanpit, where during the morning: a Marsh Harrier hunted, there were 4 Pintail, a few Ringed Plover were amongst the 100 or so Dunlin, and a Kingfisher was about. Later in the day, a good-looking candidate for ‘Scandinavian’ Rock Pipit was on South Marsh and the Brent Goose were counted at 67.
December 9th
There are no bird reports for today, but an Otter was seen around Parky Meade Rail, Stanpit, in the afternoon.
December 8th
A male Marsh Harrier was Stanpit this morning, along with a single Chiffchaff. Wader returns from there included: 5 Grey Plover, 80+ Black-tailed Godwit, 150+ Dunlin and 13 Snipe, while the wildfowl highlight came from 9 Pintail. Over on Hengistbury, a couple of Firecrest were in the Wood and, once again, there were 2 Bar-headed Goose on site, as well as a single Black Swan.
December 7th
Great Crested Grebe – Leo Pyke
An early afternoon seawatch from the Beach Huts produced a couple of Red-throated Diver – one settled and one west – 25 Common Scoter on the water and at least one Razorbill. On the way to the huts, the Wood gave up 3 Firecrest, while a Great Crested Grebe was in Barn Bight. The White-fronted Goose put in another appearance at Stanpit, amongst the hordes of ‘greylags’, plus5 Shoveler and 6 Pintail there.
December 6th
On a grey and breezy day, a total of 4 Red-throated Diver were seen moving west past Mudeford Quay, as well as a couple of Guillemot. Elsewhere, a Firecrest was in the Wood and the male Marsh Harrier was about Wick Hams at 10:15.
December 5th
Grey Wagtail – Robert Gray
There was a good selection of wildfowl at Stanpit this morning; headed by a pale-bellied Brent Goose, a Goldeneye, a Pochard and 3 Tufted Duck, but also 12 Shoveler, 14 Pintail and 3 Gadwall. Meanwhile, a Bar-headed Goose, the Emperor Goose and a Black Swan were also there. Waders were also plentiful and included: 12 Grey Plover, 3 Bar-tailed Godwit, 210 Black-tailed Godwit, 45 Ringed Plover, 175 Dunlin and 25 Snipe. A Marsh Harrier hunted Central Marsh and Dartford Warbler was a good record from that side of the harbour. The only news from the southern portion concerns 7 Redwing over Wick.
December 3rd
Another breezy day saw a Great Skua go west past the Beach Huts, with other pieces at sea including 3 Kittiwake east and 25 Common Scoter settled. The Wood once again held 2 Firecrest, while singles of Fieldfare and Redwing were both on the Barn Field.
December 2nd
December 1st
Conditions this morning were nothing short of torrential, although things did improve throughout the afternoon. The only reports come from Mudeford Quay, where a Marsh Harrier arrived, a Fulmar went west and there was a small grebe offshore.
November 30th
Peregrine over Stanpit Bight – Roger Tidball
An almost completely dry day meant it far more pleasant to be out and about in the harbour. The only news from Hengistbury is of a low-flying Lapland Bunting, but there are no further details. Meanwhile, a female-type, probably an adult, Marsh Harrier hunted Stanpit, as did a Peregrine, where at least seven each of Shoveler and Pintail were present. Singles of Grey Plover and Bar-tailed Godwit were also on the marsh, along with 208 Black-tailed Godwit, at least one Ringed Plover and 84 Dunlin. In addition to the ‘Canadas’ and ‘greylags’, the plastic wildfowl contained one each of Emperor Goose, Bar-headed Goose and Black Swan. One hardly knows where to look nowadays!
Tides December 1st: H03:45 | H06:35 | L10:55 | H16:10 | H18:55 | L23:20
November 29th
Grey Phalarope – Roger Howell (upper) & Jackie Smith
Pintail – Jackie Smith
The wind blasted the area all day, moving from south to south-west as it did so. A Grey Phalarope was discovered at Stanpit in the early afternoon, on East Marsh, while an earlier seawatch from the varying shelter of the Beach Huts produced: a Slavonian Grebe with the 50 or so Common Scoter on the sea, a Great Skua, 45 Kittiwake and a Red-throated Diver – all west, and a single Mediterranean Gull. Meanwhile, inside the harbour, there were 80 Dunlin and 6 Pintail, plus a Kingfisher on Wick.
November 28th
Eider – Samuel Levy
Despite the quite atrocious, all-day conditions, there is a fair bit to report on; with wildfowl and divers heading the bill. The female-type Eider that was first discovered last week was today in Barn Bight, where there were 5 Goosander – a drake and four redheads. Meanwhile, the White-fronted Goose was again at Stanpit, as were 7 Pintail. At 8:15, a Red-throated Diver headed west past Hengistbury, very close inshore, and 15 minutes later a Great Northern Diver passed high over the top of the head and towards the Solent. The Wood again held ‘crests – a single Firecrest and 10 Goldcrest – as well as at least 2 Redwing. Moving back to the marsh, there were 35 Black-tailed Godwit, a Ringed Plover arrived, 73 Dunlin and over 200 Lapwing.
November 27th
The rain started just after 9:00 and then persisted until nightfall. The only news comes from Hengistbury and Wick, where a Firecrest and 8 Goldcrest were in the Wood, while 3 Chiffchaff were on Wick. A juvenile Gannet was just off the end of the head and the Common Scoter flock increased to 15 birds.
November 26th
White–fronted Goose – Paul Turton (upper two) & Jackie Smith
Only yesterday, it was remarked the only possible benefit of having so many Greylag Goose on site was they may attract something more interesting – and today it came to pass. An adult White-fronted Goose – the first settled bird in the area since early 2011 – was on North Marsh. At around 15:45, it headed off on the now-expected roost flight to the east, with the Pennington Marsh complex presumably being the destination. Earlier, a Short-eared Owl had passed over Hengistbury and a Buzzard in the Wood there was something of an oddity. On Wick, a Water Pipit was by the Veiwing Platform, while 3 Redpoll passed over. From Mudeford Quay this morning, there were 2 Red-throated Diver and 12 Common Scoter settled on the water, as well as 15 Brent Goose seen travelling west. Moving back to the head, a couple of Firecrest were again in the Wood, as were 2 Redwing. Chiffchaff are still loitering, a total of six across the area today; a Marsh Harrier was at Stanpit in the morning; and a Peregrine was about.
November 25th
An extremely high, spring tide more than hampered this morning’s WeBS count, as did the continuing easterly wind. The best of the census was a Green Sandpiper – quite a rarity in these parts in winter – as well as singles of Grey Plover and Bar-tailed Godwit, 53 Black-tailed Godwit, 36 Ringed Plover and 32 Dunlin. Meanwhile, the calm seas off Mudeford Quay revealed 3 Red-throated Diver, a small grebe and 3 Razorbill, all settled, with six unidentified auks moving east. Marsh Harrier were seen on a few occasions, but the only age return is of a sub-adult male over Wick, where there were 5 Chiffchaff and 7 Goldcrest. To finish, some further WeBS numbers, in ascending order: Bar-headed Goose 1, Shoveler 3, Kingfisher 3, Pintail 7, Little Grebe 5, Brent Goose 62, Teal 75, Mallard 220, Greylag Goose 367, Canada Goose 417, Coot 538 and Wigeon 799. Some real quality stuff in there! Finally, it's understood the members' trip to Weymouth today enjoyed some really good scarce and rare species.
November 24th
Given that it rained for pretty much every minute of the daylight hours, it’s amazing to get any records at all. A couple of Firecrest were in the Nursery, while on Wick there were 2 Brambling, 4 Chiffchaff and an over-flying Fieldfare. The Goldcrest total there and onto Hengistbury came to around 20 birds.
November 23rd
Goldfinch – Jackie Smith
Interest at Stanpit is picking up with a Ruff, the Spotted Redshank and a Jack Snipe heading the increasing number of waders, which also included: 12 Grey Plover, 5 Bar-tailed Godwit, 12 Black-tailed Godwit, 40 Ringed Plover and a contemporarily significant 175 Dunlin. The most impressive record from there, however, was of a female-type Eider inside the harbour close to Blackberry Point. Meanwhile, out at sea from the Beach Huts, a Red-throated Diver and 24 Common Scoter were settled. This afternoon, there were three individual Marsh Harrier seen at Stanpit – the regular adult male, a young male – most likely a first-calendar-year bird – and a female of indeterminate age. In addition, 6 Pintail and 4 Shoveler were on the marsh.
November 22nd
The sun was out for much of the day, but still the wind was cruel and from the east. A party of 6 Eider headed east past the Beach Huts at 12:30, while a total of 12 Common Scoter were settled on the water off there. That hour also saw a reasonable movement of gulls towards the Solent, comprising: 4 Kittiwake, 4 Mediterranean Gull – all adults, 30 Common Gull, 80 Herring Gull and 25 Black-headed Gull. Nearby, singles of Brambling and Siskin, as well as a couple of Redpoll, were in the bushes. Elsewhere, a male Bullfinch was by the HHC and 3 Chiffchaff plus 5 Goldcrest were on Wick. Rounding up, a Little Grebe was on the Ironstone Quarry.
November 21st
Kestrel – David Faulkner
...and too many feral geese – David Faulkner
It was a wet and windy morning, during which the sea was watched from Mudeford Quay and the Beach Huts. A total of 6 Kittiwake and 4 Mediterranean Gull moved east past the quay, while a Red-throated Diver west and 6 Common Scoter were returned from the huts. Meanwhile, the Wood held a Firecrest and 15 Goldcrest.
November 20th
In conditions similar to yesterday, there were 2 Firecrest in Wood along with 12 Goldcrest and a Coal Tit. Nearby, there were a couple of Redpoll around Holloway’s Dock, where 5 Black-tailed Godwit fed. At Stanpit, the best were 3 Tufted Duck – a drake and two ducks – in Stanpit Bight, while the male Marsh Harrier hunted to entire area.
November 19th
Teal – Alan Crockard
The north-easterly wind gathered pace throughout the morning, creating conditions nothing short of Baltic! A Marsh Harrier attempted to hunt at Stanpit, as did a Peregrine, while 3 Egyptian Goose headed over Wick towards the marsh. A Firecrest was glimpsed briefly by the Ironstone Quarry and 7 Chiffchaff plus 3 Goldcrest were settled on Wick, where a Kingfisher was watched hovering by the Viewing Platform.
November 18th
Sparrowhawk – Jackie Smith
Reed Bunting – Ray Scott
There was still a cruel, easterly wind this morning, but a strong sun tempered some of the discomfort. A Red-necked Grebe was on the sea off Mudeford Quay for a while this morning, where 2 Red-breasted Merganser east, 5 Sandwich Tern, 6 Mediterranean Gull and an arriving Snipe were also logged. There was again some finch movement, into the wind, over Hengistbury; which included: a flock of 10 Brambling, 160 Chaffinch, 300 Goldfinch and a couple of Siskin. An adult male Marsh Harrier also left high to the east, while a younger bird was hunting inside the harbour. The only wader news is of a Knot at Stanpit and a 7 Dunlin checking-in over the Barn Field.
November 17th
Snow Bunting – Nick Whitehouse
A Snow Bunting was discovered mid-morning and then stayed settled at the base of the cliffs between the Long Groyne and the eastern tip of Hengistbury until around 12:30. Meanwhile, further highlights for the morning came courtesy of a Grey Phalarope west past the head, a Ring Ouzel lifting up from the Batters, a Woodcock over there and a Merlin. Despite the cold, easterly wind and the relatively late date, there was some overhead migration which included: low hundreds of Goldfinch, several Siskin and a few Chaffinch, a couple of Fieldfare and up to 10 Redwing. There was also a trickle of waders into the wind, mostly over the water and made up mainly of Dunlin, Snipe and Lapwing. Also seen moving, a flock of just over 30 Pintail south and a Red-throated Diver, a Great Crested Grebe and a sawbill species east. Two Marsh Harrier were around – the regular adult male and a female-type that was probably also a male. During the afternoon, the Snow Bunting was searched for but couldn’t be found, although a Water Pipit did come in over the Beach Huts and further additions to the day’s list included: 3 Kittiwake – all adults, 2 Pintail and 11 Black-tailed Godwit east; 7 Red-breasted Merganser – six east and one west; three settled Common Scoter; 4 Brambling over Redpoll Alley and a Firecrest in the Wood.
November 16th
Great Crested Grebe – Barrie Taylor
Cormorant – Roger Tidball
A Firecrest was the best on Hengistbury today, while seven each of Goldcrest and Chiffchaff were spread across there and Wick. A Guillemot in Barn Bight was likely an injured bird and follows a report from yesterday of a dead auk on the sandspit. The most notable wader news is that the Lapwing are currently as many as 500 birds, with 22 Black-tailed Godwit, an estimated 75 Dunlin and 7 Turnstone also using the area. The ever-burgeoning feral goose presence was today furthered by 14 Egyptian Goose.
November 15th
Emperor Goose – Alan Crockard
Bar–headed Goose – Ray Scott
There was reportedly a good movement of birds early on, but it stopped quite early. That said, a flock of 18 Brambling did come in off the sea over Warren Hill at 11:25. What is known about the early part of the day, however, includes: a Lapland Bunting east, 2 Cattle Egret leaving the Nursery, a Woodcock arriving with some Woodpigeon, as did 3 Snipe, a Black-throated Diver east and a Great Northern Diver on the sea. Also settled on the water off Hengistbury, at least 2 Razorbill and up to 9 Common Scoter, while 25 Gannet fished, 9 Mediterranean Gull passed by and a Great Crested Grebe moved east. There was also evidence of thrush arrival, with at least 28 Redwing, 2 Fieldfare, 8 Song Thrush and 10 Blackbird around the head. The only wader news involves 3 Black-tailed Godwit, 5 Dunlin and 57 Redshank in Holloway’s Dock. Meanwhile, the only wild bird news from Stanpit involves 3 Rock Pipit, but the alarming and sudden influx of feral water fowl into the area was today topped by 540 Greylag Goose, as well as ‘lots’ of Canada Goose, a Bar-headed Goose, the Emperor Goose and 2 Black Swan. One really does hope there is still room for the truly wild and far-more-welcome ‘Brents’!
November 14th
Stonechat – Samual Levy
Oystercatcher – Samuel Levy
The only news from a fine day comes from Wick, over which 4 Fieldfare headed north and where a single Blackcap, 2 Chiffchaff and 5 Goldcrest were settled.
November 13th
Kingfisher – Diarmuid Murphy
Black–tailed Godwit - Diarmuid Murphy
The Spotted Redshank was in Stanpit Creek, off Fisherman's Bank, this morning; while a Peregrine passed over, a Kingfisher was in Mother Siller's Channel and at least 3 Little Grebe were inside the harbour.
November 12th
Firecrest – Alan Crockard
A Brambling and 2 Mistle Thrush passed over Hengistbury this morning, while a Firecrest, around 15 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff were spread about there. On Wick, a Kingfisher was by the Viewing Platform. With respect to the notices below, Colin Raymond will be bringing the remaining books he has to the meeting on Wednesday. This will be the last opportunity to purchase before they are sent to the BTO.
November 11th
A Water Pipit was logged again today, but this time on Wick water meadows. Close by, there were 3 Chiffchaff and 5 Goldcrest - the latter a real scarcity this autumn - while 4 Redwing headed north. The Marsh Harrier was seen throughout the day and at least one Jack Snipe was at Stanpit. Also on the marsh, one of the Bar-headed Goose with more than plenty of Canada Goose and Greylag Goose.
November 10th
No details of today's visible migration have yet been received although the fact that 3 Woodlark passed over Couch Hill suggests that something must have been happening. A Water Pipit was again on Central Marsh while 5 Chiffchaff and 3 Goldcrest were on Wick Fields. A Sandwich Tern off the quay was something of a surprise on such a late date although one or two have overwintered in recent years, also from the quay were 3 Common Scoter and a Red-throated Diver east plus a Great Crested Grebe on the sea. Back to Stanpit where the Spotted Redshank was present together with 225 Black-tailed Godwit, 4 Bar-tailed Godwit, 4 Grey Plover and 6 Pintail.
November 9th
There were 3 Firecrest on Hengistbury this morning but no other passerines reported. The sandspit held 2 Purple Sandpiper, 10 Ringed Plover and 22 Dunlin. The only excitement at Mudeford Quay occurred when the regular Marsh Harrier came in high from the direction of Highcliffe then drifted over The Run and into the harbour,
November 8th
Another morning of strong winds coupled with a very high tide meant that the quay was the preferred option once again. It was something of a surprise however that the highlights didn't involve sea birds! Firstly a Woodcock landed briefly on the gravel area behind the hut before flying off through the buildings towards Hengistbury. Then an hour or so later a Woodlark came in off the sea from the east and headed inland. Otherwise the vigil produced a Peregrine flying across the bay, a first winter Mediterranean Gull and 25 Kittiwake while inside the harbour there was a Great Crested Grebe. A flock of 400 Canada Geese flew over Wick Fields where just 3 Chiffchaff were logged.
November 7th
The mixture of heavy showers, 40mph gusts of wind and a huge tide at Mudeford Quay raised the level of optimism this morning but there was very little. Singles of Black-throated Diver and Mediterranean Gull plus a steady trickle of Kittiwake was the sum total of a two hours watch. On Wick a Peregrine passed low to the south and 2 Kingfisher were seen, also 5 Goldcrest, 2 Siskin and a Bullfinch.
November 6th
Today's highlights were a Water Pipit and 3 'Scandinavian' type Rock Pipit on Stanpit, 2 Firecrest in the wood at Hengistbury and the Spotted Redshank, also on Stanpit. Much of the marsh was under water due to this morning's very high tide so many of the birds were struggling to find a roost. Counts made were 65 Dunlin, 60 Black-tailed Godwit, 25 Ringed Plover, 4 Bar-tailed Godwit and a Knot plus 14 Snipe on the Salt Hurns. The numbers of geese using the marsh increased again today with 310 Canada Geese, 235 Greylag Geese, 98 Brent Geese and the 2 Bar-headed Geese. The Red-breasted Merganser was still inside the harbour together with 8 Pintail and 2 Great Crested Grebe, another of these was on the sea. A Grey Wagtail was on Wick and a Kingfisher was on Wick Hams while 14 Goldcrest and 2 Chiffchaff were logged. Finally the Marsh Harrier made its usual foray into the harbour.
November 5th
A first year Yellow-legged Gull was on Stanpit this morning together with a Red-breasted Merganser and the regular Marsh Harrier. There was also a Ruff plus 65 Black-tailed Godwit, 55 Dunlin, 35 Ringed Plover, 11 Turnstone including birds on the Mudeford Sandspit, 8 Grey Plover and 5 Bar-tailed Godwit. The marsh also held 12 'Scandinavian' type Rock Pipit while 4 Firecrest were in the wood at Hengistbury, also on the head were 2 Redwing, a Redpoll and a Bullfinch. Site-wide totals for Goldcrest and Chiffchaff were 29 and 11 respectively. Back to Stanpit where the Greylag Goose flock has now reached 131, also 13 Pintail and 4 Shoveler there.
November 4th
Given this morning's heavy rain the focus of attention was again the quay where there was a decent movement of Mediterranean Gull with 25 logged heading west. A first winter Kittiwake was seen plus 2 Common Gull and a Great Crested Grebe, also a Grey Seal in The Run. In much improved conditions this afternoon waders on Stanpit were 80 Dunlin, 52 Ringed Plover and 10 Grey Plover. There are now two Bar-headed Geese visiting Stanpit and the Greylag Goose flock has increased to 112. To summarise 2 Little Grebe were on the river off Grimmery and the usual Marsh Harrier was around, also 2 Raven present.
November 3rd
The sea was watched for a couple of hours this morning from Mudeford Quay with very little to show for it, just a couple of adult Mediterranean Gull arrived and three each of Gannet and Kittiwake moved west. Later a Great Northern Diver came in from the west and landed on the sea.
November 2nd
The Spotted Redshank made a welcome return this morning; the bird was in its favoured spot in Stanpit Creek opposite Fisherman's Bank. On Priory Marsh 2 Jack Snipe were inadvertently flushed by the boardwalk while elsewhere on Stanpit there were 75 Dunlin, 40 Ringed Plover, 35 Black-tailed Godwit, 5 Grey Plover and 3 Turnstone. The 66 Brent Geese were outnumbered by their 'plastic' cousins with 170 Canada Geese, 84 Greylag Geese, the Emperor Goose and the Bar-headed Goose! A Firecrest was in the wood at Hengistbury where 2 Fieldfare, 3 Brambling and 5 Redpoll were logged while site totals for Chiffchaff and Goldcrest were twelve and ten respectively, also 2 Siskin were on the Stanpit golf course bank. A single adult Mediterranean Gull was on Stanpit and a Kingfisher was around the marsh.
November 1st
This morning's rain must have dampened the enthusiasm as there is very little to report! On Wick Fields there were 10 Chiffchaff and 3 Goldcrest while a Great Crested Grebe was on the sea off the quay and 19 Greylag Geese left the harbour to the north.