After a negative large gull trawl, an adult Kittiwake, the first for ages, was seen behind the dredger. Then a phone call followed by email from Malcolm about the following. Thanks Malcolm:
First encountered bird about
10.40 as I was walking to west along Ocean Edge foreshore. About 50m east
of Red Nab I spotted a robin sized bird flitting between rocks. I got out my
binoculars just as it took off towards Red Nab. Got clear view of orange/red
tail. Relocated it in Eastern corner of
small bay between Red Nab and Ocean Edge foreshore. Got several good views as
it perched on jetsam before hopping down to feed on whatever it was seeing. Most
of the views were full frontal or partial profile. It was distinguished by lack
of distinguishing features. I would describe the plumage as pretty uniform
charcoal grey, with a hint of darker plumage on face (almost like a shadow of a
bird!). Only saw the red tail flanks when it
flitted about. I have had a look at my reference books and think that it
was a female or immature male. Not there
on the return walk at 1145hrs
Harbour area via south wall
Kittiwake - adult behind dredger
Med Gull - at least three adults
Guillemot - one visible
Red Nab and area
Black Redstart - female type Red Nab area 1040hrs
Meadow Pipit - 2
Wigeon - 85
