Ringing operations at both Heysham and Middleton were successful without revealing spectacular numbers. Another excellent Grey Wagtail capture rate with 8/9 known vis migrants caught and colour-ringed and, as expected at this time, Blackcap and Chiffchaff starting to top the warbler ringing lists, whilst acros were nowhere to be seen.
Whinchat - one Middleton
Barn Owl - Middleton early am
Marsh Tit - the long stayer retrapped at Heysham
Green Woodpecker - heard Heysham
Sand Martin - 2 south
Swallow - 135 south but just one in roost!
House Martin - 3 south
Grey Wagtail - 9 south
Reed Bunting - at least one vis mig bird (and two unringed ones caught)
No known coastal coverage
The observatory was set up in 1980. It involves ringing,'vis mig' counts (including seabirds) and general monitoring in the Heysham Nature reserve/power stations/harbour area. The statutory moth trap is in place and also a daily log for butterflies, dragonflies etc. We share an office, kindly provided by EDF Energy, with the County Wildlife Trust. This is located next to the Nature Reserve car park. Do call in. Please leave sightings in the letterbox, ESPECIALLY 'fly-by' seabirds.