SW fresh wind in the morning, became stronger and more to west by late afternoon. Heavy showers.
North harbour wall 10.45-13:15. Almost all the seabirds seen prior to 11.45.
Gannet 6 in, 1 out
Manx shearwater 11 out
Kittiwake juv out
Common scoter 57 out
Auk sp 1 in
Whimbrel 1 out
Oystercatcher c. 2000
I checked from the lighthouse late afternoon (MD)
Manx Shearwater 1 out
Nothing else within my range.
I was sheltering behind the lighthouse looking out to the sea for seabirds, meanwhile a seabird was also sheltering behind the lighthouse, and looking at me! This Kittiwake was only 5m away, also in the lea of the lighthouse.
Kittiwake in "unusual" plumage. Pete advises that it is a 2nd calendar year bird very late moulting, by now it should be well advanced into winter plumage, i.e. adult plumage |
Willow Warbler 1 in scrub
Painted Lady 1, briefly on the Unscented Mayweed - a bit of a surprise.
Mediterranean gulls - at least 18 including 2 juvenile and a 2nd calendar year
There were at least 6 on the sea out from the lighthouse, even after the beach next to the jetty had become exposed. There were 12 on the beach when I left. This adult/3cy came in from the north to join other meds on the sea.
Not a great shot this one, but this young Herring gull appeared reluctant to let go of what looks to be a blue plastic cap. I hope it wasn't somehow physically attached to it!