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December 2011

Fri, 6 Jan 2012 20:11:38 +0000

01.12.11
A Northern Wheatear was feeding on the beach and road in South Bay. The Red-breasted Goose (of unknown origin) was still at Harwood Dale Lake (just west of Hardwick Farm), also there 100 Pink-footed Geese over, 5 Barnacle Geese, 9 Goosanders, 3 Teal, 5 Pochard. A Goosander and 20 Mandarins (13 drakes) at Hackness Lake. A Black-throated Diver at Scalby Mills. A Whooper Swan still at Seamer Tip pools, 500 Lapwings and a Little Egret at Star Carr. Two Short-eared Owls at Seamer Carr, just west of the tip.

02.12.11 The Red-breasted Goose was still in Harwood Dale but quite mobile. Also 5 Barnacle Geese, 4 White-fronted Geese, 9 Goosanders and 4 Pochard at Harwood Dale Lake. Two Tundra Bean Geese, 65 White-fronted Geese, and 26 Pink-footed Geese in fields south of Wykeham Lakes. A Goldeneye and 6 Teal at Wykeham South Lake, a Short-eared Owl at West Ayton Carr. A seawatch at Marine Drive (08.30-10.00); Great Northern Diver, 10 Red-throated Divers, and 29 Common Scoters flew south. A Great Crested Grebe in the harbour, Red-throated Diver and 4 Shags in South Bay.

03.12.11 The Taiga Bean Goose was again at Flower of May farm. The Red-breasted Goose was still at Harwood Dale Lake, also 5 Barnacle Geese, and 14 Waxwings. 36 Purple Sandpipers roosting at the harbour. 180 Pink-footed Geese flew south over Burniston at 3.30pm.

04.12.11 A late Sandwich Tern flew south at Long Nab, also past 08.28-11.05 were a herd of 16 Whooper Swans, 9 Common Scoter, 11 Red-throated Divers (+ 3 offshore), 3 Kittiwakes, Shag, 380 Herring Gulls (4 adult "argentatus"), and a Rock Pipit. Just one Snow Bunting in the coastal stubble field. The Taiga Bean Goose was still at Flower of May farm. Five White-fronted Geese in fields east of Seamer Tip pools, the Pintail was still present. The drake Red-crested Pochard (tame) was still at the feeding area at the east end of Seamer Road Mere, also 3 Goosanders (2 drakes). A Goldeneye and Chiffchaff at Burton Riggs. Seven Med Gulls at Holbeck car park (6 adults and a ringed first-winter). 40 Purple Sandpipers roosting on east pier, Rock Pipit there, and 6 Shags in harbour/South Bay. Along the Sea Cut Scalby-Mowthorpe, 2 Willow Tits, Treecreeper, and 12 Siskins. The Scaup was still at Peasholm Park Lake. A female Blackcap in a garden at Hutton Buscel.

05.12.11 A seawatch at Long Nab (08.55-12.15) produced an adult Iceland Gull and juvenile Glaucous Gull south, a Grey Phalarope and a Little Auk flew north. A Woodcock flew in off the sea, also past 8 Red-throated Divers, 10 Gannets, 13 Cormorants, 3 Common Scoters, Curlew, 400 Herring Gulls (10 adult "argentatus"), 35 Kittiwakes, and 105 Guillemot/Razorbills. The Red-breasted Goose and Taiga Bean Geese were both still present. Two Tundra Bean Geese with 51 White-fronted Geese in fields south of Wykeham Lakes, a Goldeneye on South Lake. A Jack Snipe at Taylor Way, Seamer Tip pools, plus the Pintail on the large pool, a Merlin flew over. A Stonechat at Scalby Mills and Blackcap at Falsgrave Park. The Northern Wheatear still on South Bay beach.

06.12.11 A Hooded Crow in fields at seamer Tip pools, slso 4 White-fronted Geese plus 50 Whitefronts and 7 Golden Plovers flew over and the Pintail still present. 79 Fieldfares flew south over Flixton Carr. 26 Golden Plover and a Peregrine at Star Carr. Two Green Sandpipers just south of Seamer Carr Tip. A seawatch at Long Nab (08.20-12.00) produced 2 Little Auks, 8 Wigeon, 21 Teal, Mallard, Red-breasted Merganser, Goosander, 4 Red-throated Divers, 15 Shags, and 54 Guillemot/Razorbills.

07.12.11 A Slavonian Grebe at Wykeham South Lake, also 50 White-fronted Geese, 8 Tundra Bean Geese, and a Pintail. The Red-breasted Goose still at Harwood Dale Lake, also 6 Barnacle Geese, 5 Whooper Swans, and 8 Goosanders. Two Blackcaps at Falsgrave Park.

08.12.11 Two Great Crested Grebes, 2 Shags, and a Guillemot at the harbour.

09.12.11 The Red-breasted Goose was still at Harwood Dale Lake, also 6 Barnacle Geese, 2 Pochards and 6 Goosanders. Twenty four Teal and a Redshank at Johnson's Marsh. The Scaup was still at Peasholm Park Lake. The Red-crested Pochard still at Seamer Road Mere, 4 Goosanders and Pochard. The Pintail and a Goldeneye on Seamer Tip pools. Two Tundra Bean, 11 Pink-footed, 50 White-fronted and 270 Greylag Geese in fields south of Wykeham Lakes, 11 Whooper Swans, Pintail, Shoveler, 3 Goldeneye, and 2 Pochard on South Lake. A seawatch at Long Nab (08.15-11.15) saw 6 Barnacle Geese fly north and a Little Auk south. A large dark brown falcon hunting around Wykeham Lakes midday remained unidentified, perhaps an escaped hybrid? 18 Ringed Plovers at Scalby Mills. A Rough-legged Buzzard, Long-eared and Short-eared Owl at Thornton Marishes (west of Yedingham) PM.

10.12.11 A seawatch at Long Nab (08.10-12.00) saw juvenile Glaucous Gulls fly south at 09.14 and 11.41AM, an auk movement of birds flying north included 73 Little Auks, 4 Puffins, and 496 Guillemot/Razorbills. Also past were 7 Red-throated and 3 Great Northern Divers, 3 Gannets, 24 Cormorants, 6 Shags, a Tundra Bean Goose (north), Red-breasted Merganser, 180 Herring Gulls (7 "argentatus"), and 236 Kittiwakes. A Snow Bunting was feeding on the Cleveland Way just south of the hut. The Taiga Bean Goose was still at Flower of May farm. Three Pink-footed Geese with Canadas and Greylags at Scalby Lodge hide field. A Water Rail and 2 Green Sandpipers just east of Seamer Carr Tip, both Long-eared and Short-eared Owls west of the tip.

11.12.11 The Taiga Bean Goose still in the Lebberston area, today feeding near Gatehouse Farm towards Cayton Bay. Two Pink-footed Geese at Scalby Lodge, 22 Teal on nearby Johnson's Marsh. Six Med Gulls (4 ads + 2 first-winters) plus a Snow Bunting at Holbeck. Red-throated Diver in South Bay and 2 in North Bay together with 12 Cormorants. A male Hen Harrier hunting half a mile north of Spikers Hill. A seawatch at Long Nab (08.15-10.45) saw a Great Northern and 9 Red-throated Divers fly north, also past were 3 Fulmars, 9 Gannets, 17 Cormorants, Shag, 22 Common Scoters, 210 Herring Gulls (2 "argentatus"), 122 GBB Gulls, 18 Kittiwakes, and 23 "large" Auks.

12.12.11 The Red-breasted Goose was still at harwood Dale together with 5 Barnacle Geese. The Taiga Bean Goose was again opposite Gatehouse Farm just south of Cayton Bay. Up to 20 White-fronted Geese flying with Greylags at Wykeham South Lake, also a single Whooper Swan with 14 Mute Swans, 75 Teal, drake Pintail, and 2 Goldeneye. A Gadwall and Great Crested Grebe at Burton Riggs. Pintail at Seamer tip large pool still. At Seamer Road mere the drake Red-crested Pochard was still present, also 2 Goosanders, 2 Goldeneyes, 60 Tufted Ducks, and a Kingfisher. A Little Auk flew north past Marine Drive, 3 Guillemots, a Great Crested Grebe, and 2 Kittiwakes at the harbour. 24 Grey Partridge on the west side of the tip/Seamer Carr

13.12.11 The Taiga Bean Goose with 4 Pink-footed Geese at Gatehouse Farm, south of Cayton Bay. 31 Teal and 3 Redshanks at Johnson's Marsh. 4 Kittiwakes and 2 Guillemots in the harbour.

14.12.11 A Hooded Crow was in fields to the south of the large Seamer Tip pool at 09.15AM, 3 Green Sandpiper on the east side of the tip.

15.12.11 Two Tundra Bean Geese and 3 White-fronted Geese north of Browns Egg Farm, Gristhorpe. Three Pink-footed Geese at Scalby Lodge farm. 60 Teal and 2 Redshank at Johnson's Marsh.

16.12.11 A Chiffchaff at Burton Riggs. 1,000 Woodpigeons at Snainton Carr.

17.12.11 Slavonian Grebe, Black-throated Diver, and Great Northern Diver all in South Bay. Also 10 Shags, 2 Goldeneyes and 22 Purple Sandpipers at the harbour. A Whooper Swan, 50 Teal and 2 Redshanks at Johnson's Marsh. The Red-breasted Goose was still at Harwood Dale Lake, slso 5 Barnacle Geese. A Goldeneye and Chiffchaff at Burton Riggs,and Little Egret at Star Carr. The Pintail still at Seamer Tip Pools.

18.12.11 A Grey Phalarope was in the harbour at 11.30AM but then flew out and left south. Both the Great Northern and Black-throated Divers were also in the harbour plus 45 Purple Sandpipers roosting on east pier at high tide. The Slavonian Grebe was again in South Bay just off the west pier, plus a Great Crested Grebe. A Hooded Crow was at Carr House Farm, Cayton PM. There was a Mandarin at Peasholm Park Lake, and the drake Red-crested Pochard was still at Seamer Road Mere. Two Short-eared Owls to the west of Seamer Tip.

19.12.11 The Slavonian Grebe and Great Northern Diver gave close views AM in the harbour mouth, the diver later moved into the harbour. Also in the harbour were 5 Guillemots, an adult Kittiwake and the Great Crested Grebe. Four Goldeneyes and 4 Red-throated Divers in South Bay.. The Black-throated Diver was only seen briefly in the morning. An increase in Shags with 21 between the Skatepark in North Bay and the harbour. 34+ Purple Sandpipers at the high tide roost on east Pier. A quiet seawatch at Long Nab (08.45-10.00); 7 Red-throated Divers, 4 Gannets, Shag, 2 Teal, 120 Herring Gulls south (3 "argentatus"), 14 Auks north. Plenty of activity in Long Nab cover crop including 7 Reed Buntings and 15 Yellowhammers. At least 25 White-fronted Geese and a Barnacle Goose with Greylags south of Wykeham Lakes, a Whooper Swan, 4 Pintails (3 drakes), and a Goldeneye on South Lake.

20.12.11 The Slavonian Grebe, Black-throated and Great Northern Divers all still in and around the harbour, also Great Crested Grebe and a Red-throated Diver in South Bay. A male Hen Harrier flew south at Long Nab at 2pm. 12 Redshanks at Johnson's Marsh. Two Common Buzzards hunting to the west of Seamer Tip, Little Egret and Green Sandpiper to the south of the tip, plus 4 Pink-footed Geese flew over.

21.12.11 A probable Caspian Gull (ad) in fields south of Wykeham Lakes PM unfortunately flew off before the primary pattern could be confirmed. Also 48+ White-fronted, 2 Tundra Bean, and a Barnacle Goose there. Both the Great Northern and Black-throated Divers still present around the harbour, also Great Crested Grebe in South Bay. 45 Purple Sandpipers (42 harbour + 3 North Bay), an adult Kittiwake in the harbour. 25 Teal, 9 Grey Partridge, 5 Herons, and 5 Redshank at Johnson's Marsh. 2 Teal and 72 Mallard at Harwood Dale Lake. A Short-eared Owl at Seamer Tip.

22.12.11 A seawatch at Long Nab (08.20-11.00) saw 5 Little Auks (north), Great Northern & Black-throated Divers (south), 8 Red-throated Divers, 8 Fulmars, 6 Gannets, Shelduck, Woodcock (in off sea), 160 Herring Gulls south (4 "argentatus"), 7 Kittiwakes, and 29 Auks. A Lapland Bunting in the stubble field with 30 Skylarks. 34 Teal and 8 Redshanks at Johnson's Marsh. The Dipper was again in Peasholm Glen. An adult Yellow-legged Gull was in the Wykeham South Lake gull roost, also a Goldeneye there. In fields to the south of the lakes were 39+ White-fronted Geese, a Tundra Bean, 8 Pink-footed, and a Barnacle Goose with the Greylag flock. Also hunting over the fields were 2 Barn Owls and a Short-eared Owl. The Hooded Crow was again at seamer Tip, in fields north of the large pool, a Little Egret flew over, and 2 Buzzards were west of the tip.

23.12.11 40 Purple Sandpipers roosting on east pier at the harbour. Four Red-throated Divers in South Bay.

24.12.11 Two Greenland White-fronted Geese with 52 White-fronted Geese and 4 Pink-footed Geese in fields south of Wykeham Lakes are the first of that race to be recorded in the district. A Hawfinch at Upper Heck Dale, Dalby Forest early afternoon flew towards Ellerburn. At Potter Brompton Carr there were 312 Greylag Geese and 343 Lapwings. A male Hen Harrier hunting at Long Nab early morning, a seawatch there (08.30-11.30) saw a good southerly movement of 930 Herring Gulls (16+ "argentatus") and 137 GBB Gulls, also past were 2 Greylag Geese, 5 Common Scoters, 23 Red-throated Divers, 2 Fulmars, 24 Gannets, a Shag, Kittiwake, 6 Guillemots, and 2 Razorbills. The Great Northern Diver was in South Bay, Rock Pipit and Grey Wagtail at Scalby Mills. 42 Teal and 6 Redshanks at Johnson's Marsh.

25.12.11 A Tree Sparrow on the south side of Castle Hill (scarce at that site). At the harbour there were 20 Purple Sandpipers, a Great Crested Grebe, Kittiwake, and 2 Guillemots. Two Red-throated Divers and a Razorbill in South Bay. Adult Little Gull Cayton Bay.

26.12.11 The goose flock south of Wykeham Lakes held 3 Greenland White-fronted, 2 Tundra Beans, 9 Pink-footed and 30+ White-fronted. On the nearby South Lake were a drake Pintail, 18 Wigeon, 2 Goldeneyes, and Great Crested Grebe.

27.12.11 A Whooper Swan, 61 Teal and 7 Redshank at Johnson's Marsh. Eight Goosanders and 32 Lapwings at Harwood Dale Lake. The drake Red-crested Pochard and a Goosander still at Seamer Road Mere. At least 2 Greenland White-fronted Geese, 60 Fieldfare, Barn Owl and a Short-eared Owl south of Wykeham Lakes. 40 Teal and 2 Wigeon on the sea at Long Nab, past there this morning; Gadwall, Mallard, Eider, Common Scoter, 23 Red-throated Divers and 2 Kittiwakes. Two Snow Buntings in Long Nab stubble plus a Twite flew over Cloughton Wyke.

28.12.11 The goose flock south of Wykeham Lakes held 4 Tundra Beans, 3 Greenland White-fronts, 30 White-fronted Geese, also a Peregrine flew over. Long stayers still present were the Pintail at Seamer Tip pools, Red-crested Pochard and Goosander at Seamer Road Mere, and Dipper at Peasholm Glen. At the harbour both Great Northern and Red-throated Divers were seen, also Great Crested Grebe and 2 Guillemots. An immature drake Eider at Scalby Mills. A Gadwall was at Burton Riggs. A "Nordic" Jackdaw in a garden at Westwood, Scarborough.

29.12.11 The Slavonian Grebe reappeared in the harbour AM but could not be found later. Also in and around the harbour were the Great Northern Diver, 3 Red-throated Divers, Great Crested Grebe, and a Guillemot.

30.12.11 The Red-breasted Goose (of unknown origin) was again at Harwood Dale Lake with 5 Barnacle Geese. The tame drake Red-crested Pochard was still at Seamer Road Mere. 39 Teal and 4 Herons at Johnson's Marsh. Eight Cormorants, Rock Pipit and 2 Peregrines at the harbour. A Great Crested Grebe and 9 Bullfinches at Burton Riggs. Eight Curlews and 11 Grey Partridges at Scalby Lodge.

31.12.11 A Woodcock flushed from the rear of Woodend Gallery early evening. 42 Teal and 8 Redshank at Johnson's Marsh.

November 2011

Thu, 1 Dec 2011 19:52:35 +0000

01.11.11 Three Bean Geese flew west over Star Carr at 09.20AM. 100 Pink-footed Geese and a Pintail flew over Wykeham Lakes late morning, also 4 Wigeon, 2 Peregrines, 10 Redpolls, 2 Great Spotted Woodpeckers there. Past Long Nab (08.00-10.00); Wigeon, 2 Goosanders,7 Red-throated Divers, 6 Lapwings, 17 Meadow Pipits, 10 Rock Pipits, 61 Starlings, 23 Siskins, and a Reed Bunting.

02.11.11 A Snow Bunting on the coastal path south of the hut at Long Nab, a party of six also flew south along the cliffs there, and 5 Lapland Buntings south. Two Lapland Buntings and a Snipe were in the stubble field north of the hut. A Great Skua flew north, a Merlin flew west and nine Lapwings south. Two Goldcrests and a Redwing at Hundale, 6 Reed Buntings and a Redwing in the cover crop. A Little Egret, Green Sandpiper, and 30 Reed Buntings south of Seamer Tip. A Chiffchaff at Potter Brompton Carr. Seven Crossbills and a Kingfisher at Throxenby Mere.

03.11.11 A Common Swift was feeding over the wooded cliffs at Cornelian Bay in the morning, joined briefly by a House Martin before it continued south. There are at least four previous November Swift records in the district. A seawatch at Long Nab (06.55-09.40) saw a Little Auk and juvenile Pomarine Skua fly north, also past a Dark-bellied Brent Goose, 51 Common Scoters, 2 Eiders, Goosander, 8 Golden and 2 Grey Plovers, 35 Kittiwakes, plus two Short-eared Owls (one in off plus one south). A Short-eared Owl flew north at Cornelian Bay. A Pochard and 7 Teal at Throxenby Mere. A count of Rooks roosting at Cayton Bay totaled 1,642. Two Willow Tits at Castle Fields, East Ayton.

04.11.11 A quiet seawatch at Long Nab (08.15-11.20) in light westerlies/rain, the highlight being a first-winter Arctic Tern which flew north. Also past were 4 Red-throated Divers, 5 Wigeon, 36 Common Scoter and a Snipe. Birds arriving off the sea were 13 Lapwings, a Golden Plover, 36 Redwings, single Blackbirds and Song Thrushes, and 49 Starlings. At the harbour high tide roost were 21 Purple Sandpipers and 56 Turnstones, also a Great Crested Grebe in the harbour. A Med Gull at Seamer Road Mere, and Marsh Tit at Musham Bank bridge.

05.11.11 Forty Barnacle Geese flew south over Newby at 12.20PM, followed by a skein of 170+ Pink-footed Geese south over Scalby then the town centre mid afternoon. Four Lapland Buntings and a Twite were at Cloughton Wyke, and a Woodcock at Hundale, Long Nab. Past Long Nab AM were a Black-throated Diver, 23 Red-throated Divers, 9 Shelducks, 3 Velvet Scoters, 26 Common Scoters, 3 Shoveler, 7 Red-breasted Mergansers, a Goldeneye, Tufted Duck, Eider, and a Little Gull. Birds flying in off the sea were 14 Lapwings, 80 Blackbirds, 17 Fieldfare, 2 Song Thrushes, 142 Redwing, and 140 Starlings. 20 birds were ringed today at Hundale Plantation including 14 Blackbirds and 6 Redwings.

06.11.11 Fresh northerly winds produced an interesting seawatch at Long Nab (06.56-13.00 & 14.40-15.40); a party of six Little Auks north, Black-throated Diver, Red-necked Grebe, 7 Velvet Scoters, Scaup, 8 Pomarine Skuas, Manx Shearwater, and 5 House Martins flew south along the cliff top. Also past were 3 Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 15 Shelducks, 116 Wigeon, 118 Teal, 6 Mallard, Tufted Duck, 43 Eiders, 14 Goldeneyes, 93 Common Scoter, 2 Red-breasted Mergansers, a Merlin (in off), Knot, 9 Dunlin, 6 Bar-tailed Godwits, 2 Great Skuas, and 160 "large" Auks (incl a breeding plumage Guillemot). Two White-beaked Dolphins moved north early afternoon. Two Black Redstarts were feeding at the boatyard opposite the Toll House near the harbour. A Snow Bunting was at the top of Castle Hill. A Woodcock, Treecreeper, Chiffchaff, and 4 Bramblings on the north side of Castle Hill. A Red-throated Diver at the harbour, and 23 Purple Sandpipers roosting there. Two Woodcocks in the east end of Wykeham Forest. A Velvet Scoter, 4 Goldeneyes, Eider, Red-breasted Merganser, Kingfisher and Blackcap at Scalby Mills. A Little Egret at Seamer Tip pools.

07.11.11 Fresh north-easterly winds brought new arrivals to the coast; a Siberian Chiffchaff, Great Grey Shrike, and 4 Waxwings were on the south side of Castle Hill mid afternoon. The Waxwings dropped in at 13.40 and left inland 15 minutes later. Another 4 Waxwings were feeding on berries near the University along College Road 9.25-10.15 at least but had left by 11AM. A seawatch at Long Nab (08.50-11.20) saw a Great Northern Diver south and a Short-eared Owl in off the sea. Also past were 18 Red-throated Divers, 35 Pink-footed Geese, 4 Teal, 24 Wigeon, Mallard, 214 Common Scoters, 4 Eiders, and 15 Kittiwakes. At least 40 Blackbirds at Long Nab, 2 Lapland Buntings, 5 Redwings, 2 Fieldfare, and 5 Goldcrests. Work commenced on scraping Johnson's Marsh (opposite Scalby Lodge Farm) today where a Water Rail, Snipe, 7 Wigeon, and Goosander (over east) were seen. A Chiffchaff was at the "shrike clearing" at Wykeham Forest.

08.11.11 A Siberian Chiffchaff was at Cliff Top House, Long Nab late morning, also a Brambling there. Other migrants at Long Nab included 2 Blackcaps, 35 Robins, 35 Blackbirds, 5 Goldcrests, 12 Fieldfares, and 25 Redwings. a seawatch 08.08-11.15 saw a Little Auk south, 12 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 29 Eiders, 13 Velvet Scoters (one party south at 11.14, also seen past Marine Drive 4 minutes later), 35 Common Scoter, 16 Red-throated Divers, and a Woodcock in off the sea. A Blackcap at Cloughton, 40 Fieldfares west over Johnson's Marsh, plus 2 Teal, 2 Snipe, and 12 Pied Wagtails there. A Waxwing was near the tea rooms at Ravenscar, also Blackcap and 60 Blackbirds. At Castle Hill there was a Reed Warbler (latest ever in Scarborough), 2 Chiffchaffs, 3 Blackcaps, 40 Blackbirds, 30 Fieldfares, 40 Redwings and 8 Goldcrests. A Red-throated diver and Great Crested Grebe still at the harbour. At Redcliffe a Short-eared Owl, 2 Woodcocks, and 54 Curlews.

09.11.11 Waxwings at College Lane incresed from 10 in the morning to 24 by mid afternoon. Two White-fronted Geese with 9 Greylags flew SW over Long Nab at 09.40AM, then flew over Johnson's Marsh, and were seen flying south over South Bay at 10.05AM. A drake Goosander was at Scalby Mills and 5 at Harwood Dale Lake. A Snow bunting was in the Scalby Lodge Pond field, and a Woodcock at Castle Hill. A late House Martin was over Low Park farm, Ebberston, and a female Goshawk at Emmaus Hall near Brompton. Two Lapland Buntings were still in the stubble field at Long Nab, 5 Reed Buntings in the cover crop, and a Blackcap and 5 Goldcrests at Hundale. Past Long Nab AM were 19 Dark-bellied Brent Geese (1+18 south), 11 Teal, Mallard, Goldeneye, RBM, 2 Eiders, 4 Snipe, 2 Golden Plovers, 2 Lapwings, 18 Meadow Pipits, 4 Rock Pipits, 51 Starlings, and 2 Skylarks came in off the sea. A Jack Snipe was flushed at Johnson's Marsh where 2 Water Rails were still present. A Shag was at Seamer Road Mere, also 32 Siskins. 10 Tree Sparrows at Cornelian Ravine, and 80 still around Cliff Top House, Long Nab.

10.11.11 A Black Redstart was behind the wall at Marine Drive early afternoon. Four Velvet Scoters and a Great Skua past Long Nab plus 4 Lapland Buntings, 13 Meadow Pipits and 15 Skylarks in the stubble field. 10 Yellowhammers were at Cliff Top House. Two Goldeneyes, a drake Shoveler, and Wigeon at Burton Riggs. At Scalby Mills a male Merlin, 50 Lapwings, 8 Turnstones, 2 Curlews and a Stonechat. At Cloughton a Lapland Bunting came in off the sea at Roger Trod, and 9 Crossbills and a Brambling flew south over Newlands Dale. Present there were a Blackcap, 45 Redwing, and 12 Goldcrests.

11.11.11 A White-fronted Goose was in fields at Long Nab before flying low to the north. Good numbers of wildfowl were moving past Long Nab 07.55-11.35 in the F5 south-east winds; 5 Dark-bellied Brents, 78 Wigeon, 114 Teal, 4 Mallard, Pintail, 2 Shoveler, 3 Pochard, 6 Tufted Ducks, 6 Scaup, a Long-tailed Duck, 3 Eiders, 41 Common Scoter, 19 Goldeneye, 2 Red-breasted Mergansers, 7 Dunlin, 7 Snipe and a Woodcock in off, Purple Sandpiper, a Great Skua, 2 Little Gulls, 2 Kittiwakes, 35 Guillemot/Razorbill. The Black Redstart was still at Marine Drive, behind the wall. Also at the Castle Headland were 3 Woodcocks, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, 3 Goldcrests, 20 Redwings and 30 Blackbirds. A Pochard and Wigeon at Seamer Tip pools (large pool), Shoveler and 2 Goldeneye at Burton Riggs, and a Shoveler at Seamer Road Mere. A Woodcock was in a garden near the Art Gallery.

12.11.11 An excellent day of wildfowl movement with thirteen species of duck and four goose species past Long Nab (07.20-13.00); 6 Bewick's swans (south @ 13.10), 16 Tundra Bean Geese (5 south and 11 in fields), 37 White-fronted Geese (32 south & 5 in fields), 20 Greylag Geese, 27 Dark-bellied Brents, 42 Shelducks, 159 Wigeon, 5 Gadwall, 25 Mallard, 3 Pintail, 135 Teal, 2 Tufted Ducks, 239 Common Scoters, 4 Velvet Scoters, 20 Eiders, 11 Goldeneye, 2 Goosanders, 13 Red-breasted Mergansers, 2 Great Norther Divers, 16 Red-throated Divers, a Black-throated Diver, 324 Lapwings (many in off sea), 15 Golden Plovers, Bar-tailed Godwit, 3 Dunlin, Snipe, 2 Great Skuas, 18 Little Gulls, a Little Auk (north at 12.30, landed briefly), 3 Short-eared Owls (2 in off and one south over the sea), a Swallow (SW past Hundale), 42 Snow Buntings (6+36 south), Three Lapland Buntings were still in the stubble, and 3 Woodcocks at Hundale. A good influx of Blackbirds along the coast; 60 at Long Nab, 200 at Ravenscar, and 50 at Castle Hill. An influx of 6 Blackcaps to Castle Hill, also a Woodcock and a Chiffchaff. A Waxwing was heard over Longwestgate, Old Town. At Seamer Tip pools a White-fronted Goose landed near the large pool plus 15 flew south. A Little Egret was again south of the tip. A Pochard, 10 Wigeon, and 2 Goldeneyes were at Burton Riggs. A Woodcock flew down Seamer Carr Road. a drake Red-crested Pochard at Seamer Road Mere. A Snow Bunting at Holbeck. At Ravenscar, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, 2 Crossbills, 2 Bramblings, and 2 Reed Buntings. A Great Crested Grebe at the harbour.

13.11.11 Eight Tundra Bean Geese, a White-fronted Goose, 6 Greylag Geese and 30 Curlews were in fields at Long Nab. In the stubble were c40 Snow Buntings and a Lapland Bunting. a seawatch there (07.15-09.20) saw 2 Gadwall, 3 Pochard, an Eider, 3 Common Scoter, a Golden Plover, Great Skua, 18 Little Gulls(one flock south), 2 Kittiwakes, a Little Auk (south), 3 Guillemot/Razorbills, 3 Rock Pipits, Twite (north), and a flock of 27 Snow Buntings (south). Nine Shelducks flew north PM. A Woodcock was at Rocks Lane at dawn. A party of White-fronted Geese at Flower of May pond increased from 35 AM to 39 late afternoon. At the Castle Headland a Short-eared Owl was on the sea defence rocks before flying over North Bay, also past were 5 Red-throated Divers, 13 Wigeon, and a Goosander, plus Blackcap, Chiffchaff, and Treecreeper at Castle Hill. 21 Teal and 2 Wigeon at Johnson's Marsh.

14.11.11 Two Siberian Chiffchaffs with Long-tailed Tits at Newlands Dale, Cloughton, 200m north of Hood Lane along the old railway. Also Water Rail, Blackcap, 22 Redwings, and 7 Goldcrests there. Two Blackcaps at Hood Lane. Southerly movement was slow past Hundale, Long Nab (08.30-09.45); 3 Red-throated Divers, 2 Meadow Pipits, 2 Siskins. Present there were 2 Goldcrests, 17 Blackbirds, and 2 Song Thrushes. The White-fronted Goose was in the stubble field at Long Nab. A Merlin flew over Cromer Point. Quiet at Castle Hill, just one Fieldfare, 15 Blackbirds, Song Thrush, and 2 Siskins. White-fronted Geese had increased to 42 at Flower of May Farm pond, Lebberston. A female Scaup at Hackness Lake. At Wykeham South Lake were 8 Lbb Gulls, 26 Tufted Ducks, 4 Pochard, and 140 Lapwings. 14 Grey Partridge at Scalby Lodge farm. Some Pink-footed Goose movement south; skeins of 180 over East Ayton, and 32 over the 6th Form College, Scarborough. Three grey geese sp south over Old Town early AM.

15.11.11 A Velvet Scoter was inland at Staindale Lake, Dalby Forest. The Scaup was still at Hackness Lake. Twelve White-fronted Geese at Willerby Carr late morning, and two Short-eared Owls at Seamer Carr just to the west of the tip. A Little Owl at Star Carr Lane. A Short-eared Owl, 2 Lapland Buntings, Corn Bunting, 11 Reed Buntings, 16 Blackbirds, 2 Redwings, Goldcrest, and Song Thrush at Long Nab. A seawatch there (08.20-10.30) saw 14 Red-throated Divers, 2 Fulmars, 16 Gannets, 17 Wigeon, 13 Teal, 3 Mallard, 43 Common Scoters, Great Skua, 4 Little Gulls, 5 Kittiwakes, and 57 Gillemot/Razorbills. At Castle Hill; Chiffchaff, Blackcap, 2 Redwings, 10 Blackbirds, 2 Fieldfares.

16.11.11 The first-winter Velvet Scoter was still at Staindale Lake, for its third day. Two Little Grebes and 10 Crossbills also there. A Black Redstart was in a garden at Burniston Gardens in Burniston. A Short-eared Owl flew west over Long Nab, 2 Lapland Buntings and 47 Skylarks in the stubble field and southerly migration included 7 Red-throated Divers, 4 Dark-bellied Brent Geese, 2 Gadwall, 7 Common Scoters, 3 Lapwings, 81 Woodpigeons, 18 Skylarks, 53 Chaffinches, Brambling, and Twite. Four Goosanders were at Harwood Dale Lake, the Scaup still at Hackness Lake, also 28 Mandarins there. A male Merlin at Coomboots. A Chiffchaff at Burton Riggs, 2 Willow Tits at Flixton Carr, and 20 Tree Sparrows at Metes Lane. Seamer.

17.11.11 A female Hen Harrier flew south past Long Nab at 08.11AM, otherwise a quiet morning for movement; 7 Red-throated Divers, 6 Eiders, a Common Scoter, and low numbers of passerines moving south. Ten Waxwings were reported from Harwood Dale Forest and the Scaup was still at Hackness Lake. A Goosander at Burton Riggs, 40 Golden Plover over Star Carr, and 4 Pochard at Seamer Tip pools. Six Teal and 85 Canada Geese at Johnson's Marsh.

18.11.11 An increase in White-fronted Geese, now 54+ between Flower of May Farm and Redcliffe Farm near Lebberston. A female Merlin over Johnson's Marsh. The female Scaup was still at Hackness Lake, also 13 Mandarins. A migration watch at Long Nab (07.27-08.45) detected very little movement, 12 Red-throated Divers, 124 Black-headed Gulls, 2 Stock Doves and 4 Fieldfares the best, also 3 Snow Buntings with Skylarks the Crook Ness car park field. A White-fronted Goose, Goosander, and Little Egret at Burton Riggs, Goosander and Goldeneye at Seamer Road Mere. 50 Pink-footed Geese west over Crossgates at 2.40pm.

19.11.11 59 White-fronted Geese between Redcliffe and Flower Of May farms near Lebberston. On the pond at Flower of May were 4 Shovelers, 23 Wigeon, and a Goosander. 70 Common Scoters south at Long Nab, 2 White-fronted Geese and 210 Pink-footed Geese south past Scalby Nab. A Jack Snipe, 2 Snipe and a Short-eared Owl at Scalby Lodge. A Little Egret at Cayton Carr. A single Barnacle Goose with 200 Greylags at Wykeham South Lake, also 3 Pochards and 31 Tufted Ducks. The female Scaup was still at Hackness Lake. A White-fronted Goose at Star Carr, 2 Green Sandpipers at the River Hertford. 9 Grey Herons, 2 Teal, and a Little Grebe at Johnson's Marsh.

20.11.11 Two Tundra Bean Geese flew SSW over Long Nab at 08.35AM. Also moving south AM were 878 Pink-footed Geese (6 skeins south in one hour from 11.10AM), Scaup, 3 Goosanders, 3 Red-throated Divers, 2 Lapwings, Dunlin, 8 Meadow Pipits, a Rock Pipit, 2 Redwings, 2 Linnets, Siskin and a Lapland Bunting. A Little Gull, 9 Kittiwakes and 2 Red-throated Divers were feeding offshore. In the stubble field were 25 Skylarks, 2 Lapland and 18 Snow Buntings. Also around Long Nab were a few grounded migrants; 25 Blackbirds, Song Thrush, Siskin, and 15 Chaffinches, plus a Pink-footed Goose with 6 Greylags near Cliff Top House. At Flower Of May pond there were two Tundra Bean Geese, 60 Pink feet and 9 White-fronted Geese. A Chiffchaff at Northstead Manor Gardens. A "domestic" Swan Goose with 95 Canadas in the hide field at Scalby Lodge, plus a Short-eared Owl again near the hide. At Johnson's Marsh; Little Grebe, 2 Teal, and 10 Moorhens. A Pintail at Seamer Tip pools. Six Crossbills and a Great-spotted Woodpecker in Wykeham Forest (east end).

21.11.11 54 White-fronted Geese at Flower of May farm, Lebberston. A single White-fronted Goose left Wykeham Lakes to the east early afternoon, Goldeneye, 10 Wigeon, and 177 Lapwings at South Lake. Five Goosanders (3 drakes) at Seamer Road Mere, and the Pintail was still at Seamer Tip pools. Two Green Sandpipers south of Seamer Carr Tip. A Lapland Bunting and 22 Snow Buntings in stubble at Long Nab, also the Pink-footed Goose still just west of Cliff Top House with 8 Greylags. A quiet seawatch (08.45-10.50); 23 Red-throated Divers, 2 Mallards, 2 Golden Plover, a Knot and 4 argentatus Herring Gulls south. Five Skylarks flew in off the sea. Three Grey Wagtails at Ruston Carr Bridge (River Hertford) plus two Common Buzzards nearby.

22.11.11 An "eastern" Chiffchaff with the tit flock on the south side of Castle Hill. A grey/brown bird with a whitish supercilium but lacking the buff tones of ear-coverts, breast and flank sides of a "tristis". Olive tones across the whole wing also contra Siberian. no call heard. A Jack Snipe, 2 Common Snipe and the Pintail still, 2 Wigeon and a Pochard at Seamer Tip pools. Four Waxwings at Hovingham Drive, outside the hairdressers. A Water Rail at Johnson's Marsh, plus 5 Golden Plovers flew south. Red-breasted Merganser, Shoveler, and 160 Wigeon at Scalby Mills.

23.11.11 A Dipper at Peasholm Glen, also Scaup and Pochard at Peasholm Park. Two Goosanders, Goldeneye, and 48 Tufted Ducks at Seamer Road Mere. A Little Grebe at Johnson's Marsh. Five Med Gulls at Holbeck. Past Long Nab (08.05-08.50); 3 Red-throated Divers, 3 Gannets, Golden Plover, 3 Meadow Pipits, and 4 Rooks in off the sea. 31 Purple Sandpipers at the harbour.

24.11.11 The first-winter drake Scaup was still at Peasholm Park lake, also a Pochard and Kingfisher there. Geese totals at Flower of May farm were 53 White-fronted, 6 Greylags, a Barnacle, and 95 Canadas. An hour seawatch at Marine Drive (12.00-13.00) saw 9 Pink-footed Geese, 20 Common Scoters, Red-throated Diver, and 4 Purple Sandpipers. Pintail and Little Egret at Seamer Tip pools, White-fronted Goose, Goldeneye and Chiffchaff at Burton Riggs.

26.11.11 The district's second record of Taiga Bean Goose came with a single that appeared today with 56 White-fronted Geese in fields between Flower of May and Redcliffe farms, also 26 Grey Partridge. Other geese arrivals were 8 Tundra Beans by Johnson's Marsh at dawn, 7 Tundra Beans and a White-fronted Geese in fields immediately south of Wykeham South Lake late afternoon, and 2 White-fronted Geese arrived off the sea mid morning at Long Nab and landed in the stubble field north of the hut to feed with 3 Pink-footed Geese. Also in Long Nab stubble were 19 Snow Buntings and a Lapland Bunting. Nine Whooper Swans were also grazing in fields to the south of Wykeham Lakes. A Jack Snipe and 2 Common Snipes at Seamer Tip pools. Past Long Nab (08.00-10.00); Great Northern Diver, 4 Red-throated Divers, 3 Shags, 2 Gannets, 6 Eiders, 2 Common Scoter, Med Gull (1-w), and 10 "argentatus" Herring Gulls. A Merlin flew over Johnson's Marsh. 25 Wigeon and 3 Pochard at Flower of May pond. Two Fieldfares at Spikers Hill.

27.11.11 Two mobile Great Grey Shrikes in Langdale Forest, one at Maw Rigg plus another east of Blakey Topping. No sign of the Taiga Bean Goose at Flower of May farm but 2 Barnacle Geese and 56 White-fronted Geese. Eight Tundra Bean, 2 Pink-footed, and a White-fronted Geese in stubble fields at Long Nab, plus still 25+ Snow Buntings. A seawatch there in strong NW winds saw 2 Velvet Scoters north, Great Skua and 420 Herring Gulls (6 "argentatus") south. 16 Purple Sandpipers and a Shag at the harbour and the Scaup still at Peasholm Park lake.

28.11.11 A Hen Harrier seen from a train hunting over Willerby Carr. 56 White-fronted Geese still at Flower of May farm. At Johnson's Marsh a Teal and 38 Mallard.

29.11.11 Two Scaup at Wykeham South Lake (drake and first-winter female). A Short-eared Owl at Johnson's Marsh at dawn.

30.11.11 A Red-breasted Goose at Harwood Dale Lake late afternoon. A bird of unknown origin but most likely an escaped bird from a collection. No doubt the bird wandering Cleveland 30th September to 9th November, often at Scaling Dam Reservoir. also there were 5 Barnacle Geese, 8 Goosanders, and 2 Pochards. Three Goosanders at Seamer Road Mere. 55 White-fronted Geese in fields south of Plaxtons to the east of Seamer Tip pools, a Whooper Swan at the large pool. Five Med Gulls and a Great Spotted Woodpecker at Holbeck. Two snow Buntings at the park & ride at Osgodby.

October 2011

Tue, 8 Nov 2011 19:57:50 +0000

01.10.11 A juvenile Buff-breasted Sandpiper feeding all day in the field west of the Coastguard Hut at Long Nab, still present at dusk (Scarborough's second record). Two Wheatears and a Stonechat in the coastal fields there. Highlights of visible migration over Long Nab 06.50-09.35, Lapland Bunting, Brambling, 158 Meadow Pipits, 138 Linnets,33 Redpolls,5 Pintails, Golden and Grey Plovers. A Goshawk at Hey Brow, Scalby late afternoon. A Ruff in fields near Flixton Carr bridge. Little Egret there on 25th September. Lesser Whitethroat Cornelian Ravine, 3 Stonechats at Holbeck landslip. Visible migration at Ravenscar 06.35-08.00; Crossbill, 80 Siskins, 70 Linnets, 10 Redpolls, 3 Song Thrushes, 14 Swallows, and Curlew. Also 3 Chiffchaffs and 2 Goldcrests there.

02.10.11
The first Redwings and Twite of the autumn today and an increase in wildfowl movement. Visible migration was slight at both Ravenscar and Long Nab. Four Redwings and 2 Chiffchaffs at Ravenscar. Pinkfeet movement saw 100 south at Star Carr and 85 north over Ayton. A Pintail also flew south over Star Carr, 30 Blackbirds south of Seamer Tip. Other thrush influxes included 9 Song Thrushes at Long Nab and 7 at Castle Hill. Three Twite flew south past the seawatching hut at Long Nab, also past there today; 23 Red-throated Divers, 295 Wigeon, 228 Teal, 5 Eiders, 191 Common Scoters, 4 Red-breasted Mergansers, 7 Grey Plovers, 3 Arctic Skuas, 25 Little Gulls (N), 17 Rock Pipits, and Brambling. 4 Reed Buntings at Cromer Pond, 4 also at Long Nab cover crop. 600+ Auks (Guillemots/Razorbills) feeding off Long Nab.

03.10.11 Overnight rain grounded small numbers of common migrants, most notable being Wheatears; 21+ at Long Nab, and singles at Cloughton Wyke, just further north at Roger Trod, and one at Scalby Mills. Three Fieldfares at Ravenscar golf course were the first of autumn. Movement past Long Nab (08.00-09.00 & 13.40-15.40) included Manx Shearwater, 9 Sandwich, 3 Common, and 20 "Commic" Terns, 4 Swallows, 59 House Martins, 5 Rock Pipits, 23 Chaffinches, 70 Goldfinches, 7 Redpolls, 29 Siskins, and 13 Crossbills. Four Chiffchaffs, Blackcap, and 5 Goldcrests at Long Nab. Two Chiffchaffs, and 2 Blackcaps at Sycarham Wood. Eight Wheatears on the rocks at Holbeck.

04.10.11 Movement past Long Nab 08.40-11.00 included 9 Eiders, 9 Common Scoters, 62 Little Gulls, 2 Common Terns, 11 House Martins, 11 Rock Pipits, and 73 Goldfinches. A Barnacle Goose again at Burton Riggs. Single Wheatears at Long Nab, Marine Drive and the harbour. Two Purple Sandpipers roosting at the harbour at high tide.

05.10.11 Past Long Nab 09.00-11.00; Balearic Shearwater (N @ 10.02AM), 104 Gannets, 4 Red-throated Divers, 6 Golden Plovers,Arctic Skua, 68 Little Gulls (11S, 57N), 2 Commic Terns, 70 Auks, 3 Swallows, 8 Rock Pipits. Five Red-throated Divers in Cayton Bay where 18 Golden Plovers came in off the sea 10-11AM. 59 Golden Plovers, Wheatear, 46 Linnets, and 40 Goldfinches at Willerby Carr. 17 Lapwings, 65 Linnets, , Golden Plover at Potter Brompton Carr. At Wykeham South Lake; Wigeon, 3 Pochards, and 512 Greylag Geese. A Wheatear at Cross Lane, one mile north of Hutton Buscel.

06.10.11 Seven hour sea watch at Long Nab (07.40-14.40) recorded the largest movement of Pink-footed Geese of the autumn so far; after a single south a further five skeins totalling 545 followed mid afternoon. Also past today were 9 Teal, 2 Common Scoters, 9 Red-throated Divers, 6 Manx Shearwaters, 17 Cormorants (all S), 3 Kestrels, the first autumn Merlin, Golden Plover (in off sea), Curlew, 7 Arctic Skuas, first-winter Med Gull, 97 Little Gulls (95N), 2 Arctic Terns, 2 Common Terns, 2 Commic Terns, 7 Sandwich Terns, 251 Guillemot/Razorbills (224S), Swallow, 3 House Martins (NW), 16 Rock Pipits. A Greenshank at Star Carr, Whooper Swan and 3 Redwings at Irton Moor Lane, Juvenile Shag at Burton Riggs plus Barnacle Goose, 2 Wigeon, Pochard, and Kingfisher. Kingfisher also at Throxenby Mere. 42 Wigeon at Scalby Mills.

07.10.11 A seawatch at Long Nab (07.00-16.20) in strong NW/N winds produced an increased number and variety of birds on the move. The highlight was a Grey Phalarope north at 14.50 hrs. Also past were a Mute Swan, 43 Pink-footed Geese, 25 Barnacle Geese, a Pale-bellied Brent Goose, 4 Teal, 12 Common Scoters, 40 Red-throated Divers, 753 Gannets, 17 Manx & 2 Sooty Shearwaters, 2 Dunlin, 35 Arctic Skuas, 18 Great Skuas, 79 Little Gulls, 329 Kittiwakes, 9 Arctic Terns, 2 Common Terns, 2 Commic Terns, Sandwich Tern, 947 Guillemots/Razorbills, 6 House Martins and 6 Rock Pipits. A Wheatear by the hut, 5 Robins and 2 Goldcrests in Crook Ness gully. 50 Pink-footed Geese over Wykeham Forest. The juvenile Shag was still at Burton Riggs, also a Cormorant, and Great Crested Grebe.

08.10.11 A lengthy seawatch at Long Nab (10 hours) saw large numbers of skuas moving south and a busy hut!(6 observers). An adult/sub-adult Long-tailed Skua lingered off shore for 10 minutes mid-morning before leaving south. A total of 19 Pomarine Skuas were logged, 91 Great Skuas (second highest ever count), and 48 Arctic Skuas. A Balearic Shearwater flew north mid-afternoon, there were 40 Manx and 6 Sooty Shearwaters. A good surge of Red-throated Divers which totalled 80, including one party of 12, 364 logged past since 9th July. An excellent variety of wildfowl, stars being a Scaup, 4 Velvet Scoters, 16 Barnacle Geese, 10 Pale-bellied Brent Geese,also 60 Pink-footed Geese (also over Cornelian Bay), 5 Goldeneyes, 5 Red-breasted Mergansers, 10 Mallards, 83 Teal, 54 Wigeon, and 271 Common Scoters. Two Merlins flew by over the sea, a Purple Sandpiper flew north, and at least 101 Little Gulls slowly passed by, many lingering tio feed. Five Rock Pipits brought the autumn tally of southbound birds to 111 since 28th August. Migrants included 2 Wheatears in coastal fields north of the seawatching hut.

09.10.11 An influx of Redwings today and the first Snow Bunting of autumn flew south past the hut at Long Nab. A good movement of wildfowl was witnessed past Long Nab 07.05-13.00; 13 Whooper Swans flew north, 4 Pink-footed Geese, 13 Barnacle Geese, 3 Shelducks, 370 Wigeon, 30 Mallard, Pintail, 238 Teal, 441 Common Scoters, 2 Velvet Scoters, 15 Eiders, 5 Tufted Ducks, Goosander, 8 Red-breasted Mergansers, 24 Dunlin, 2 Lapwing (in off), Knot (in off), 2 Snipe (in off), Arctic Skua, 2 Little Gulls, Swallow (S), Rock Pipit 4 (S), 6 Redwings and 2 Song Thrushes flew in off the sea. A small influx of Goldcrests; 6+ at Crook Ness, 2 at South Cliff, 5 at Castle Hill (north side), and 4 at Ravenscar. Redwings were seen near the Town Hall, 3 at Ravenscar, and 9 at Cloughton Wyke plus a Fieldfare and
Swallow at the latter site. Five Pochards were at Burton Riggs. An adult Med Gull on the sea off The Spa. A Blackcap was at Crook Ness and Chiffchaff at Ravenscar.

10.10.11 Past Long Nab (07.30-13.25) were single Pomarine, Arctic and Great Skuas, 13 Pink-footed Geese (in off sea), Greylag Goose, 12 Wigeon, 3 Tufted Ducks, 33 Common Scoters, Red-breasted Merganser, Arctic Tern, 17 Rock Pipits (S), 2 Swallows, 38 Goldfinches, 11 Linnets, Redpoll, 11 Siskins, 6 Chaffinches. Three Song Thrushes and a Starling came in off the sea. Nine Dunnocks and six Robins along the cliffs suggested an influx of migrants. At Hundale Plantation were 6 Golcrests, Chiffchaff, Blackcap, and Redwing. Grounded migrants in cliff top fields were Wheatear, 38 Skylarks, and 13 Meadow Pipits. At Wykeham South Lake; a first-winter Med Gull, 3 Dunlin, 55 Lapwings and the small hybrid Goose again.

11.10.11 A Great Grey Shrike was at May Moss, Landgale Forest mid-afternoon, feeding by the forest edge.A good movement of Pinkfeet past Long Nab plus Whoopers Swans also on the move. At Long Nab (08.55-14.10) a seawatch produced a movement of 1,240 Pink-footed Geese south (30 @ 10.10am followed by nine skeins between 11.20 and 13.15), nine Whooper Swans flew south at midday, a Mute Swan flew north. Also past were 31 Red-throated Divers, 10 Wigeon, 23 Teal, 2 Velvet Scoters, 9 Common Scoters, 3 Pomarine Skuas, 3 Arctic Skuas, a Great Skua, 3 Little Gulls, 18 Kittiwakes, 2 Sandwich Terns, 210 Guillemot/Razorbills, 34 Swallows, a House Martin, 17 Rock Pipits, 13 Meadow Pipits, 23 Goldfinches, and 4 Chaffinches. Migrants at Long Nab included a Ring Ouzel and Fieldfare at the cover crop, Blackcap at Crook Ness, Chiffchaff and 28 Siskins at Hundale, a Wheatear in fields at The Hundales, and a Lapland Bunting with 18 Skylarks just south of Crook Ness. The Red-crested Pochard and a pair of Gadwall were at Seamer Road Mere, and Wykeham South Lake held a juv Whooper Swan plus 15 south @ 10.35am, a Pink-footed Goose, 3 Pochards, and a Barn Owl. 124+ Crossbills at Wykeham Forest.

12.10.11 An arrival of northern buntings and thrushes today. Six Lapland and a Snow Bunting flew over Long Nab, the latter seen to arrive off the sea in the middle of a party of 120 Redwings. A further Snow Bunting was seen to land at the Castle Headland, at the top of Castle Cliffs, also a Wheatear (probably of the Greenland race)behind the Marine Drive wall. A total of 134 Redwings, and 34 Fieldfares came in off the sea at Long Nab plus a Ring Ouzel was on the cliffs just south of the seawatching hut. A Chiffchaff and Blackcap at Hundale Plantation, plus small numbers of Redwings at Hood Lane Cloughton and Newlands Dale, the latter site holding a few Song Thrushes, House Martin and Blackcap. Two Fieldfares were at Throxenby Mere. A seawatch (08.50-10.50) at Long Nab saw 37 Red-throated Divers past, 15 Wigeon, 14 Common Scoters, a Mallard, 10 Dunlins, Ringed Plover, 7 Arctic Skuas, 3 Little Gulls, and a juvenile Arctic Tern. A Chiffchaff at Hutton Buscel.

 
13.10.11 The south-easterly winds finally started to produce some interesting birds. Two Yellow-browed Warblers were found, Hundale Plantation, Long Nab and in North Bay. A juvenile Sabine's Gull flew close north past Long Nab at 10.10am, this equalled the latest ever autumn record. The district's third ever October Turtle Dove was a rather approachable first-winter bird at Crook Ness gully, Long Nab. Four Short-eared Owls were seen today, three at Long Nab, and one at nearby Cloughton Wyke, presumably all related to continental birds arriving from the east (large numbers arrived in Norfolk today). Other migrants around Long Nab were two Ring Ouzels, a Snow Bunting (south), Wheatear, Chiffchaff, 15 Goldcrests, 30 Fieldfares, 25 Redwings, 35 Blackbirds, 60 Skylarks, 17 Bramblings, a Crossbill (south), and 7 Reed Buntings (plus 7 south). On the sea 38 Pintail flew south (one party of 36), a Shelduck and 3 Dark-bellied Brent Geese flew north. There was a Wheatear at Cloughton Wyke plus 30 Redwings at Cloughton. Bramblings were reported from Knipe Point and Castle Hill, plus a Fieldfare and 8 Siskins there. Eight Whooper Swans flew south over Newby at 8am, and 9 Pink-footed Geese north at Marine Drive. 250 Golden Plovers at Thornton Marishes. Five Redwings at Snainton. 45 birds trapped and ringed at Hundale Plantation today including 2 Bramblings, Chiffchaff, 9 Siskins, 6 Goldfinches, 6 Goldcrests, 3 Song Thrushes and 6 Blackbirds.

14.10.11 The north side of Castle Hill saw two Yellow-browed Warblers and a Pied Flycatcher, other migrants were a Wheatear at Marine Drive, two Fieldfares, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, and 6 Goldcrests. A Yellow-browed Warbler was found at Newlands Dale, Cloughton plus the Long Nab bird was still in Hundale Plantation. Also at Long Nab the Turle Dove was at Cliff Top House, 3 Lapland Buntings in the coastal stubble north of the hut, 2 Blackcaps and a Willow Warbler at Crook Ness, 3 Wheatears, 2 Bramblings, and 80 Redpolls flew south. A two hour seawatch saw a Red-necked Grebe north, and a selection of wildfowl including 3 Dark-bellied Brents, 10 Eiders, 2 Red-breasted Mergansers, and a Short-eared Owl came in off the sea. A single Swallow flew south plus 53 Starlings, 2 Lapwings, and 2 Redwings came in off the sea. A Swift (probably Common) was seen over the cliffs at Jackson,s Bay and a Dipper was seen at dusk on Scalby Beck. At Ravenscar there was a Chiffchaff, Fieldfare, 3 Redwings, 8 Redpolls, and 15 Siskins. A Goldeneye at Seamer Road Mere, and a Little Egret and 2 Barnacle Geese at Burton Riggs.

15.10.11 One new Yellow-browed Warbler found today, in the driveway at Ravens Hall Hotel, Ravenscar. Two still at Castle Hill, one in Newlands Dale, and one still in Hundale Plantation, Long Nab. A Lapland Bunting flew over South Cliff Golf Course, three over Long Nab plus a further three in the stubble north of the hut. Also a Corn Bunting in the stubble and 11 Crossbills flew south. 15 Crossbills flew south over Cloughton Wyke, also 2 Chiffchaffs and 160 Linnets. Two Blackcaps and a Chiffchaff at Cornelian Ravine. Two further Blackcaps and a Green Woodpecker at Ravenscar Golf Course. A Great Crested Grebe in South Bay. A Little Egret at Star Carr.

16.10.11 Four Yellow-browed Warblers included a new arrival at Crook Ness, long Nab. Others were at Castle Hill, Newlands Dale, and Hundale. A Black Redstart was at Marine Drive mid afternoon but remained elusive. Wheatears were at Marine Drive and Burniston Bay. Four Lapland Buntings were at Long Nab (one south), plus three Blackcaps and a Chiffchaff. Vismig there saw 12 Crossbills fly south, plus 89 Skylarks, 9 Magpies (high south!), 7 Swallows, 75 Starlings, 107 Tree Sparrows, 68 Chaffinches, 3 Bramblings, 105 Linnets, and 92 Redpolls. Ravenscar also witnessed a good variety of birds flying south; Swallow, 80 Chaffinches, 55 Siskins, 2 Redpolls, 25 Linnets, 10 Greenfinches, 6 Skylarks, and 14 Song Thrushes. Also Green Woodpecker there. A Little Egret was at Star Carr plus Green Sandpiper, and two Little Egrets were feeding in rock pools between Cromer Point and Jackson's Bay. Three Pintail flew over Seamer Tip. Two Red-throated Divers in North Bay, 40 Wigeons at Scalby Mills. The Red-crested Pochard and a Wigeon at Seamer Road Mere. Seven Purple Sandpipers at the harbour.

17.10.11 A Grey Phalarope landed on the sea off Long Nab 09.26AM and left south two minutes later. Also past in the morning were 3 Pale-bellied Brent Geese, 2 Great Skuas, 3 Little Gulls, 2 Sandwich Terns, 759 Guillemots/Razorbills, 4 Puffins, 2 House Martins, 6 Rock Pipits, 80 Goldfinches. Yellow-browed Warblers were still at Crook Ness, Hundale, and with the tit flock on the north side of Castle Hill. A Snow Bunting was in fields north of the hut at Long Nab. A second-winter Med Gull was at Scalby Mills, at Jackson's Bay waders included a Grey Plover, Dunlin, and 26 Ringed Plovers. A Wheatear at Marine Drive. A Swallow flew south at Ravenscar, and 5 Whooper Swans flew inland over Howdale Moor. A juvenile Marsh Harrier flew north at North Street, Flixton 1.15PM.

18.10.11 The Black Redstart was relocated at Marine Drive, also 2 Wheatears there and a Yellow-browed Warbler still on the north side of Castle Hill. A Snow Bunting and two Lapland Buntings in the stubble field north of the hut at Long Nab. A Blackcap and 2 Goldcrests at Crook Ness, 53 Goldfinches south along the cliffs. At Wykeham Lakes there was a Barnacle Goose, 4 Wigeon, a drake Goldeneye, and 8 Pochards. Eight Med Gulls in South Bay (7 adults and a first- winter). Four Purple Sandpipers at the harbour over high tide. A Little Egret and Green Sandpiper south of Seamer Tip.

19.10.11 Fresh north-west winds, giving the coldest day of autumn so far, brought some interesting seabirds past Long Nab (07.35-14.45); a juvenile Sabine's Gull was feeding with Kittiwakes from 09.21-09.45 when the flock drifted south, it reappeared again at 12.08pm when a feeding flock drifted northwards. Also past were 41 Red-throated Divers, a Black-throated Diver (north @ 13.10), Sooty Shearwater, 3 Manx Shearwaters, 16 Eiders, 4 Goosanders, 2 Red-breasted Mergansers, 107+ Pink-footed Geese, 2 Pomarine Skuas (juvs), 4 Arctic Skuas, 13 Great Skuas, Little Gull, 754 Kittiwakes (734 south), second-winter Med Gull, 8 Arctic Terns (north), 1461+ Guillemot/Razorbills, and two Short-eared Owls in off the sea. At The Carrs south of Seamer Tip were Marsh Harrier, Merlin, and Little Egret. A male Hen Harrier was at Ravenscar over fields between the cricket pitch and windmill at 11.55am.

20.10.11 Two male Hen Harriers at Biller Howe, Fylingdales Moors. A flock of 100 Golden Plovers at East Heslerton Carr and on a small reservoir at nearby Fouls Bridge; 50 Mallard, 20 Wigeon, and 13 Mute Swans. Eight Lapland Buntings in the stubble field at Long Nab. A seawatch there 07.40-12.00 saw Pomarine Skua, 2 Arctic Skuas, 9 Great Skuas, 2 Manx Shearwaters, a Fulmar, 13 Red-throated Divers, 6 Eiders, 2 Wigeon, Red-breasted Merganser, and 2 Little Gulls. Fieldfare and 3 Goldcrests at Crook Ness. 40 Fieldfares flew inland over Crossgates. Eight Crossbills at Potter Brompton Carr, also 20 Yellowhammers, 40 Tree Sparrows, and 7 Reed Buntings.

21.10.11 A male Hen Harrier at Biller Howe Rigg (NW of Flask Inn) at 13.55 hrs, also 15 Fieldfares. A Woodcock flushed from the cliff top at Cromer Point. Six Lapland Buntings at Long Nab, and a seawatch there (07.50-11.50) produced a Great Northern Diver (adult north), Sooty Shearwater, 537 Gannets (514 north), 4 Eiders, 23 Common Scoters, 3 Great Skuas, and 562 GBB Gulls. The tame(!)Red-crested Pochard was still at Seamer Road Mere. A Snow Bunting was on East Pier near the Purple Sandpiper roost site at the end. Ten Herons plus 2 Snipe at Johnson's Marsh. 60 Linnets at Station Rd, Scalby.

22.10.11 A Yellow-browed Warbler with the tit flock on the north side of Castle Hill is presumably a new arrival as the headland has been well covered this week. A Snow Bunting flew over there and a second bird was still on East Pier at the harbour, later moving to the Lighthouse Pier. Six Whooper Swans flew north-west over South Cliff, and five adult Med Gulls were at Holbeck. Two Grey Plovers on the rocks at Cromer Point. The Barnacle Goose was still at Burton Riggs plus the small "grey and white" hybrid goose (poss Ross's x Barnacle). A Pink-footed Goose and Peregrine at Wykeham Lakes. Twenty Jays near the car park at the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint, 20 Crossbills and a Goshawk in the east part of the forest. The Red-crested Pochard was still at Seamer Road Mere. A seawatch at Long Nab (07.50-12.50) produced good numbers of Kittiwakes moving north and a few skuas; 7 Red-throated Divers, 415 Gannets (404 north), 7 Common Scoters, 3 Pomarine Skuas (juvs), Arctic Skua, 8 Great Skuas, 9 Little Gulls, 51 Common Gulls, 1,328 Kittiwakes (1,321 north), 567 Guillemot/Razorbills, 10 Rock Pipits (south), and a Short-eared Owl in off the sea which continued north.

23.10.11 The Snow Bunting remained on the East Pier at the harbour, also 15 Purple Sandpipers roosting there at high tide. Migrants at Castle Hill included a Chiffchaff, 5 Redwings, 35 Blackbirds, and a Reed Bunting. Five Dark-bellied Brent Geese flew south off Marine Drive. Four Whooper Swans flew east over Ruston Carr. Four Lapland Buntings in the stubble field at Long Nab, also there was an excellent count of Grey Partridges totalling 45. 4 Goldcrests, 6 Redwings and 12 Blackbirds at Hundale. A Fieldfare at Middle Plantation, Long Nab, and 155 Tree Sparrows around Long Nab. A seawatch there (07.30-10.35) saw a Pomarine Skua past, 2 Great Skuas, Manx Shearwater, 28 Wigeon, 29 Teal, 2 Red-breasted Mergansers, 4 Common Scoters, and a flock of 28 Crossbills flew south along the cliff top right in front of the hut, 9 Redpolls, 14 Siskins, and a Lapland Bunting flew south. Birds coming in off the sea included 170 Starlings, 14 Redwings, 4 Fieldfares, 6 Blackbirds, 3 Song Thrushes, and 3 Skylarks. Good numbers of Siskins at Dalby Forest including flocks of 50 near Low Dalby, and 100+ at Jingleby. Willow Tit at Low Dalby.

24.10.11 The Snow Bunting was still at East Pier. Short-eared Owls were at Scalby Lodge and in off the sea at the Castle Headland. On the sheltered north side of Castle Hill were 20 Blackbirds, 4 Song Thrushes, 2 Redwings ,Fieldfare, 4 Blackcaps, Chiffchaff, and a Brambling. Two Song Thrushes and 7 Skylarks on the Castle tops plus a further 7 came in off the sea. A Blackcap and 3 Reed Buntings in the cover crop at Long Nab. In nearby Hundale Plantation were 15 Song Thrushes, 6 Redwings, 3 Goldcests, 2 Bramblings, and a Siskin. A Blackcap and 2 Goldcrests at Hood Lane, Cloughton. Past Long Nab (07.45-09.50 & 14.00-14.30); 4 Wigeon, 7 Teal, 27 Common Scoters, 4 Velvet Scoters, Eider, 3 Red-throated Divers, 11 Dunlin, Great Skua, 6 Skylarks and 4 Starlings in off the sea.

25.10.11 The south-easterly winds and overnight rain brought some interesting migrants. Four Firecrests were found; two on the north side of Castle Hill, plus two in Hundale Plantation at Long Nab. A Spotted Flycatcher at Castle Hill was the latest ever for the district, a Willow Warbler at Hundale was also late. Three Twite came in off the sea at Newlands Dale, Cloughton. A Short-eared Owl flew over the Castle mid morning. Another (or possibly the same) Black Redstart was behind the wall at Marine Drive. Other Castle Headland totals included 20 Blackbirds, 30 Redwings, 10 Song Thrushes, 6 Fieldfares, 28 Robins,5 Blackcaps, Chiffchaff, and 4 Goldcrests. At Long Nab there were 31 Song Thrushes, 3 Fieldfares, 17 Redwings, 2 Blackcaps, 3 Goldcrests, and 8 Reed Buntings. A seawatch there (07.45-09.30) produced 4 Red-throated Divers, 2 Grey Herons, 2 Wigeon, 13 Teal, 29 Common Scoters, a Tufted Duck, 2 Dunlin, an Arctic Skua, 3 Great Skuas, and 4 Starlings off the sea. The Dipper was still near the pub at Scalby Beck, 30 Blackbirds, and 2 Goldcrests there. Two Blackcaps and a Chiffchaff were at Hood Lane, Cloughton, also 12 Siskins, 11 Redpolls, and 2 Redwings there. Four Goldcrests were at Sycarham Wood, and 3 Fieldfares at nearby Roger Trod. The Great Grey Shrike was still on the north-west edge of Langdale Forest, north of May Moss.

26.10.11 Many migrants continued to arrive. A male Hen Harrier came in off the sea at Castle Hill mid morning, Firecrests increased to five along the coast, a new bird at Stile Scrub, Scalby Lodge. The two at Hundale Plantation, Long Nab were trapped and ringed, and at least two were still on the north side of Castle Hill. A Yellow-browed Warbler appeared in Hundale, Long Nab. Small numbers of thrushes were arriving off the sea, plus 7 Lapwings in off at Long Nab, and two Woodcocks at Castle Hill. Four Lapland Buntings were in the coastal stubble at Long Nab plus an additional 5 flew south. Another Lapland Bunting was with Skylarks at Scalby Lodge, just south of the "pond". A Short-eared Owl was south of Cayton Bay mid afternoon. Other migrants at the Castle Headland were 4 Wheatears, 10 Blackcaps, 5 Chiffchaffs, 4 Goldcrests, 40 Song Thrushes, 25 Redwings, Fieldfare, 40 Blackbirds, 21 Robins, and 15 Wrens. Other Blackcaps were at Cornelian Ravine, plus three at Long Nab. Two Pintails, Eider, and a Great Skua passed Long Nab. A male Goshawk flew over Crossgates.

27.10.11 A new Yellow-browed Warbler was found on Castle Hill. A Firecrest was still there, also Wheatear, 40 Blackbirds, 8 Song Thrushes, 4 Redwings, 2 Chiffchaffs, 3 Goldcrests, 5 Blackcaps, 30 Chaffinches. The Yellow-browed Warbler and one Firecrest was still at Hundale Plantation, Long Nab. Also 7 Redwings, a Brambling, and 45 Siskins. A Snow Bunting came in off the sea at Cloughton Wyke and continued south over Long Nab. At least 40 Skylarks were in stubble fields at Long Nab and a Blackcap was at Cliff Top House. A Snow Bunting and 3 Crossbills flew south over Cayton Bay. Also there today was a Red-breasted Merganser, male Goshawk, Blackcap, Willow Tit, and Chiffchaff. c100 Pink-footed Geese flew south at South Bay, and 70 south at Cloughton.

28.10.11 A quieter day as the winds had turned south-west overnight. A Great Northern Diver flew north over the cliffs at Long Nab early morning, and two Snow Buntings flew south there, one of which had arrived from the sea over the hut. The Corn Bunting was still present in the stubble field north of the hut together with 7 Reed Buntings. A Chiffchaff was at Ravenscar. Two Firecrests were on the north side of Castle Hill, also two Chiffchaffs and 2 Blackcaps. The Wheatear was still at Marine Drive and 78 Pink-footed Geese flew south there late afternoon. a Merlin was at Redcliffe, and a Grey Plover at Gristhorpe beach. A male Hen Harrier was seen at Stoupe Brow, Ravenscar.

29.10.11 A Long Nab seawatch (07.55-10.30) produced a herd of 17 Whooper Swans south at 09.35 (past the harbour @ 09.47 and Cayton Bay @ 10.00), a Great Northern Diver (non-breeding plumage) flew south, a Short-eared Owl flew in off the sea and then flew north, a Merlin flew south, 5 Common Scoters past, 5 Lapwings in off the sea plus several thrushes. In the stubble field were 3 Lapland Buntings, 3 Corn Buntings, and 24 Skylarks. A male Snow Bunting was feeding between Cliff Top House and Crook Ness Car Park. At Cayton Bay a juvenile Pomarine Skua was seen chasing gulls then left north, three Whooper Swans flew inland, and 30 Redpolls were feeding at Cayton Undercliffe. The Red-crested Pochard was still at Seamer Road Mere. A probable Reed Warbler was seen briefly on the north side of Castle Hill, also Firecrest and Blackcap. A Long-tailed Duck flew south past Scalby Mills, also 87 Wigeon and Kingfisher there. At Ravenscar were 5 Crossbills, 4 Redwings, and 2 Siskins. A late Swallow flew south along The Esplanade, South Bay.

30.10.11 Two parties of Barnacle Geese passed through the district; 19 came in off the sea at The Castle Headland and continued west, and 6 flew west over Seamer Carr. A Little Egret and Green Sandpiper were south of Seamer tip. At Long Nab a Twite and Lapland Bunting flew south over Hundale where 38 birds were ringed (incl 8 Siskins, 7 Goldfinches, Song Thrush, and 11 Long-tailed Tits). Past the seawatching hut 06.50-08.50; 5 Eiders, 5 Common Scoters, Red-breasted Merganser, 6 Red-throated Divers, and 10 Rock Pipits. The gull roost at Wykeham South Lake held 2,400 Common Gulls, 800 Black-headed, 12 Lbb Gulls, and 60 Gbb Gulls. Also 3 Wigeon there. A herd of 40+ Swan sp flew east over Flixton at 9.15am.

31.10.11 A Hooded Crow was feeding with Carrion Crows on the rocks at Cornelian Bay. A seawatch at Long Nab (08.15-10.45) produced 9 Red-throated divers, 186 Gannets, 2 Common Scoters, 2 Mallard, 650 Herring Gulls (south), a Lbb Gull, 2 Great Skuas, 41 Guillemot/Razorbills, and 2 Swallows south along the cliffs. A first-winter Med Gull and 395 Lapwings at Wykeham South Lake.

September 2011

Sat, 8 Oct 2011 07:31:32 +0100

01.09.11 The Spotted Redshank was still at Seamer Tip Pools, also a Pintail there in the afternoon. The Curlew Sandpiper was still in Jackson's Bay, also a Sanderling, 2 Dunlin, 8 Ringed Plovers, 38 Turnstones, 23 Redshanks, Sand Martin, and a Whimbrel flew north. A Marsh Harrier over Flixton Carr and Whimbrel at Star Carr.

02.09.11 An adult Yellow-legged Gull in the Wykeham Lakes gull roost together with 420+ Lbb Gulls. Also at Wykeham South Lake were the two Whooper Swans, 40 Teal, 4 Ringed Plovers, a Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, and a wagtail roost in lakeside willows containing 120+ Pieds and 4+ Yellows. Two Shovelers and two Mandarins at Beacon Farm Ponds. A juvenile Hobby at Scalby Lodge early evening left north, 22 Ringed Plovers and 2 Swifts at Jackson's Bay. A Swift and small party of Crossbills at Ebberston.

03.09.11 A marked southerly movement as the winds turned SW. Vis Mig count 08.00-09.00 (most just west of Castle Headland following cliffs); Whimbrel, 6 Swifts, 442 Swallows, Sand Martin, 110+ House Martins, 160= Meadow Pipits, 3 Alba Wagtails sp, 17 Tree Sparrows, 34 Goldfinches, 30+ Siskins, 11 Linnets. Past Long Nab (17.00-18.35); 35 Common Scoters, 12 Curlews, and 3 Redshanks. Four Med Gulls at Holbeck (3 ads + 1w). A Swift south over Peasholm in the evening.

04.09.11 Seawatching at Long Nab/Marine Drive (07.15-11.00 & 18.15-19.15); large numbers of Common Terns with over 500 past (plus 200 at Scalby Nab), 79+ Little Gulls north, 101 Sandwich Terns, 192 Teal, 19 Wigeon, Shoveler, 84 Common Scoters, Mallard, 14 Red-throated Divers, Manx Shearwater, 2 Shags, 2 Whimbrel, 16 Bar-tailed Godwits(N), 3 Curlews, 6 Arctic Skuas, and an ad Med Gull (N Marine Drive). Three Arctic Terns feeding at Scalby Nab. A Swift over East Ayton, 2 Wheatears at Marine Drive and a Swift, 35 House Martins, Goldcrest and 4 Siskins at Castle Hill. A Pintail and Greenshank at Seamer Tip Pools. A Marsh Harrier at Potter Brompton Carr, also Snipe, Tree Pipit and 5 Yellow Wagtails west, Spotted Flycatcher, plus Sedge and Reed Warblers. A 1w Med Gull at Wykeham Lakes plus 22 Teal, 4 Ringed Plovers and a Dunlin.

05.09.11 Three adult Yellow-legged Gulls in the roost at Wykeham South Lake together with 850+ Lbb Gulls, 50 Gbb Gulls, 500 Herring Gulls, 400+ Common Gulls. Also 2 Whooper Swans and 3 Yellow Wagtails. 5 Arctic Skuas in North Bay. 100 Meadow Pipits at Stoupe Brow.

06.09.11 An Arctic Skua at Wykeham Lakes late afternoon, also 2 Dunlins, Ringed Plover, and 2 Wigeons.

07.09.11 Three Black Terns roosted at Scalby mills with 290 Common, 2 Arctic and 20 Sandwich Terns. At Wykeham Lakes there was a juvenile Marsh Harrier,1+ Whooper Swan, and 2 Yellow Wagtails flew over. At Long Nab (08.45-11.45) fresh WSW winds brought a good southerly passage, many along the cliff tops: 122 Swallows, 270 House Martins, 6 Sand Martins, 547 Meadow Pipits, 6 Redpoll sp, 4 Goldfinches, 12 Linnets, a Dunlin,and Golden Plover. at sea 2 ad Little Gulls and 2 juv Black Terns flew south. 50 Siskins were at the east end of Wykeham Forest. 2 Swifts at Ebberston. Past Marine Drive (18.15-19.15); 6 Little Gulls, 71 Common Terns, 4 Arctic Skuas.

08.09.11 An adult and juv Roseate Tern flew south across North Bay at 7.30pm. At Scalby Mills were 65 Common Terns, 13 Kittiwakes, 120 Gbb Gulls, Sanderling and Dunlin. A Dunlin at Jackson's Bay. A probable Osprey flew high south over the Castle Headland at 2.50PM. At Seamer Tip pools a Goldeneye, Pintail, and 4 Little Grebes. Good numbers of Meadow Pipits on the moors; 200 on High Moor, and 100 at Stony Marl Moor, 2 Wheatears at both these moors plus one at Long Nab and four at Cornelian Bay where there was a Red-throated Diver, Med Gull and Arctic Skua. Southerly movement at Long Nab (08.45-12.00); 2 Sparrowhawks, 3 Common Buzzards, Ruff, 4 Golden Plovers, Whimbrel, 2 Curlews, 8 Black Terns (3N), 2 Arctic Terns, 65 Common Terns, 259 Black-headed Gulls (N), Swift, 700 House Martins, 6 Sand Martins, 80 Swallows, 706 Meadow Pipits, 2 Rock Pipits, 40 Siskins, 46 Goldfinches, 29 Linnets, 4 Redpoll sp. Two Arctic Skuas and a Red-throated Diver flew north. A Whitethroat by the hut at Long Nab was a sign of a new arrival, as was a freshly dead bird in the doorway of Boots at Westborough!

09.09.11 An adult Roseate Tern (ringed bird) on rocks at Scalby Mills with 20 Common Terns 6.40-6.50pm before being flushed. A Black Tern also circled briefly before flying back out to sea, and the Goosander was still present. A seawatch at Marine Drive (17.45-19.00) produced 3 Common Terns, 23 Sandwich Terns, 2 Shags, 8 Cormorants, and 6 Bar-tailed Godwits north. Migrants at Castle Hill included a Whinchat, 5 Wheatears, and 4 Chiffchaffs. Two Wheatears and 200 Meadow Pipits at Louden Moor, Fylingdales. A Pomarine Skua off Boggle Hole. 30 Siskins at Stoupe Brow. Past Long Nab (08.40-12.10); 11 Pintail(S),9 Wigeons, 30 Teal, 2 Mallard, 5 Common Scoters, 4 Pochards (S), 5 Red-throated Divers, 4 Shags, 350 Gannets (220N), juv Marsh Harrier (S), Sparrowhawk (S), 2 Golden Plovers, 3 Dunlins, 2 Ringed Plovers, 5 Turnstones, 4 juv Black Terns(S), 12 Common Terns (only!), 7 Sandwich Terns, 4 Swifts, 180 Swallows, 145 House Martins, Sand Martin, 2 Rock Pipits, 124 Meadow Pipits, Yellow Wagtail, 2 alba Wagtails, 12 Siskins. A Willow Warbler near the hut was a fresh arrival. Two colour ringed Turnstones at the harbour.

10.09.11
A seawatch at Long Nab (06.30-13.15 & 14.35-17.10) in fresh SSE-SW winds produced a record count of Gannets with 2,683 south and 584 north plus a further 253 north from Marine Drive in the evening, giving a grand total of 3,520. Also past were two Pomarine Skuas (ad & juv), a Balearic Shearwater (north at 15.30), 15 Red-throated Divers, 2 Manx Shearwaters, 13 Cormorants, 2 Shags, the first Pink-footed Geese of autumn, 3 south, 37 Teal, 51 Common Scoters, a Mallard, 10 Wigeon, 2 Tufted Ducks, Whimbrel, Bar-tailed Godwit,137 Black-headed Gulls, 233 Gbb Gulls, 5 Lbb Gulls, 350 Herring Gulls (S),115 Kittiwakes, 3 Great Skuas, 22 Arctic Skuas, 76 Sandwich Terns, 6 Arctic Terns, 39 Common Terns, 9 Black Terns, 51 Auk sp, a swift, 93 Swallows, 105 House Martins, 75 Meadow Pipits, 17 Goldfinches, 8 Linnets. Three Wheatears at Castle Hill also 13 Siskins and 60 Goldfinches over. A Swift at East Ayton and Whinchat at Cromer Point. The Marine Drive seawatch (17.30-19.00) saw a Common Scoter, 2 Red-throated Divers, 8 Cormorants(S), and 12 Curlews(S).

11.09.11
The district's second Great White Egret was photographed as it flew south along the shoreline at Jackson's Bay 09.38AM, A Great Northern Diver was in North Bay, it left south at 16.00 hrs. Two Arctic Skuas in North Bay, and both a Great and Arctic Skuas in South Bay. A Pintail flew south at Long Nab with 8 Wigeon mid afternoon. Two Greenshanks and 2 Wheatears in Burniston Bay. At Seamer Tip pools there was still a Pintail, also Greenshank, 4 Little Grebes, Swift and a Whinchat. The Whooper Swan was still at Wykeham South Lake, also 30 Teal and 7 Wigeon. A Common Buzzard flew over Throxenby Mere late afternoon. Goosander still at Scalby Mills. An Arctic Skua past Marine Drive 17.50-19.00 hrs. A white House Martin feeding at Hayburn Wyke (just dark plumage on nape/underwing-coverts). Four Goshawks and 2 Tree Pipits at Highdales.

12.09.11 A seawatch in strong SW winds (F6/7) at Long Nab (08.55-12.00): Pale-bellied Brent Goose (S), Common Scoter, Eider (on sea), 2 Red-throated Divers, 611 Gannets south and 38 north, Arctic Skua, Great Skua, 10 Common Terns, Arctic Tern, 5 Commic Terns, 45 Kittiwakes, 3 Swifts, 780 House Martins,3 Sand Martins,17 Swallows, 4 Meadow Pipits, Grey Wagtail,6 Siskins, and 3 Redpolls(N). The House Martins were moving in good sized parties, largest 200, in the shelter of the cliffs. At Wykeham Lakes there was still a Whooper Swan, juvenile Marsh Harrier, Swift, 40 House Martins (SW), and a Sand Martin.

13.09.11 A good southerly passage at Long Nab (08.45-10.35 & 11.20-14.45); southerly bound raptors were a male Marsh Harrier, Osprey, and three Kestrels. A male Ruff flew over Cliff Top House. Other species included 26 Pink-footed Geese, 11 Woodpigeons, 3 Swifts, 620 House Martins, 370 Swallows, 4 Sand Martins, 1250 Meadow Pipits, a Rock Pipit, 4 alba Wagtails, Grey Wagtail, 32 Goldfinches, 5 Redpolls, 5 Siskins, 214 Linnets, and the first Lapland Bunting of the autumn. A Whinchat was just south of the hut. A Little Egret was at Cayton Carr mid morning. 4 Med Gulls at Holbeck. Four Yellow Wagtails at Ganton.

14.09.11 A small influx of migrants evident along the coast. At the Castle Headland were 6 Wheatears, 2 Whinchats, 7 Chiffchaffs, Willow Warbler, and Siskin. Two Whinchats at South Cliff Golf Course. At Long Nab there were 2 Wheatears, 3 Whinchats, a Spotted Flycatcher (Hundale), 11 Whitethroats, 2 Lesser Whitethroats, 6 Chiffchaffs, 2 Willow Warblers, 5 Goldcrests, 2 Reed Buntings, and the rarest bird there, a Corn Bunting in the cover crop north of Cliff Top House (first for several years). Birds moving over Long Nab (08.50-12.00) were a Hobby (N), Swift, 650 Swallows, 1380 House Martins (second largest ever count in the district), 67 Meadow Pipits, 2 Rock Pipits, 5 Chaffinches, 47 Linnets, 3 Siskins, 4 Redpolls, and 11 Goldfinches. A Greenshank in Jackson's Bay and Green Sandpiper flew over Crossgates.

15.09.11 A female Red-crested Pochard at Seamer Road Mere (first seen 8th September), feeding at the east end. A productive seawatch at Long Nab (07.05-14.00 & 18.30-19.20) in F3 NW winds; a probable Yelkouan Shearwater flew close north at 08.18AM, Balearic Shearwater (N), 19 Sooty Shearwaters, 79 Manx Shearwaters, 24 Cormorants, 2 Shags, 34 Red-throated Divers, Pintail, 16 Wigeon, 34 Teal, 34 Common Scoters, Tufted Duck, 981 Gannets, 2 juv Long-tailed Skuas landed on the sea at 18.45 hrs, 3 Pomarine Skuas (2 ads S, juv N), 25 Arctic Skuas, 10 Great Skuas, 643 Kittiwakes, adult Sabine's Gull N at 11.18AM, 14 Arctic Terns, 25 Common Terns, 19 Sandwich Terns, Dunlin, 4 Curlews, 2 Sparrowhawks south over the sea, and 6 Rock Pipits through. Two skeins of Pinkfeet, 100 S along the coast (Scalby and Oliver's Mount) plus 70 east over Snainton. A Swift still at East Ayton.

16.09.11 A probable Fea's Petrel flew north past Marine Drive in the evening, also past (17.15-18.40), 127 Gannets, 5 Cormorants, 4 Manx and a Sooty Shearwater, 6 Auk sp, 12 Common Scoters, and a Red-throated Diver. The female Red-crested Pochard was still at Seamer Road Mere. A Wheatear at Marine Drive and 35 Teal in North Bay. Two Swifts at East Ayton. A seawatch at Long Nab (08.53-11.23)saw a Black-throated Diver and 3 drake Scaups fly south, also 1198 Gannets past, 31 Teal, 3 Wigeon, 8 Arctic Skuas, 20 Kittiwakes, Manx Shearwater, 3 Red-throated Divers,2 Sandwich Terns, and a Little Gull.

17.09.11 A scattering of common migrants along the coast after overnight rain included a male Whinchat at Long Nab, and 4 Blackcaps and 3 Whitethroats together in brambles at The Holmes, Castle Hill. Three Chiffchaffs and a Siskin at Ravenscar plus 3 Grey Herons flew over. Seawatching at Long Nab (08.00-09.00 & 16.15-17.55) and Marine Drive (18.00-19.00) produced 9 Teal, 27 Wigeon, 161 Common Scoter, 11 Red-throated Divers, Grey Heron (S), 259 Gannets, 17 Cormorants, 2 Great Skuas, 7 Golden Plovers (in off), and 48 Swallows. A Swift feeding along the cliffs at Long Nab early evening.

18.09.11 A seawatch at Marine Drive (07.30-08.30)saw 2 Brent Geese, Common Scoter, Eider, 10 Red-throated Divers, c20 Sandwich Terns blogging and good numbers of Gannets. An influx of Goldcrests today; 7 in Hundale Plantation, Long Nab and 3 at Castle Hill. Also at Hundale were a Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, 4 Chiffchaffs (2 ringed there back in August), over were Golden and Grey Plovers, and a Redpoll sp. A Great Spotted woodpecker was also at Castle Hill plus 2 Blackcaps, 4 Chiffchaffs, 3 Rock Pipits, and a Siskin. A flock of 40 Goldfinches and a Willow Tit at Ravenscar.

19.09.11 A Merlin over Scalby Mills, also Wheatear and Whinchat. A seawatch at Long Nab (08.15-10.30) saw a Black-throated Diver north, also 3 Red-throated Divers, 3 Manx and a Sooty Shearwater, 5 Teal, 39 Common Scoters, 2 Arctic and 13 Common Terns, a Great Skua, and 6 Rock Pipits south. The Whooper Swan was still at Wykeham South Lake.

20.09.11 Large numbers of Crossbills in Langdale Forest; 200 at Warsman Head (SE925945) and 100 at Woof Howe (SE895964). A Crossbill was seen to land in a conifer plantation near Falsgrave Park. Past Long Nab (08.15-10.30); 2 Whooper Swans flew south (also seen past Barmston, 25 miles to the south, 62 mins later), 18 Red-throated Divers, 321 Black-headed Gulls(N), 2 Golden Plovers, 12 Common Terns, 6 Rock Pipits, and a record count of 155 Redpolls flew south (one party of 90). Migrants at Long Nab included 2 Whinchats, 7 Chiffchaffs, 3 Goldcrests, and 2 Reed Buntings. The Swift was still at East Ayton. An adult Yellow-legged Gull at Wykeham South Lake mid afternoon, also Teal, Wigeon, 29 Tufted Ducks, and 70 Lapwings. Two Snipe at Star Carr. Greenshank and Grey Wagtail at Seamer Tip pools.

21.09.11 Passage south at Long Nab in the morning included a record 359 Redpolls (14 flocks south, largest 56), also 39 Skylarks, 42 Meadow Pipits, 5 Rock Pipits, Grey Wagtail, 2 alba Wagtails, 15 Chaffinches, 68 Siskins, 36 Linnets, 6 Goldfinches, Reed Bunting, 9 Swallows, and 7 House Martins. Quiet on the sea; 218 Black-headed Gulls south, Golden Plover, Dunlin, and Lbb Gull were the best. A Hobby flew north over the hut late morning, a Kestrel flew south-west, and 2/3 Peregrines were around. Two Whinchats and 2 Wheatears were the only migrants of note. At Potter Brompton Carr there were 40 Redpolls, 35 Goldfinches, Blackcap, 5 Chiffchaffs, Willow Tit, Kingfisher, and Snipe. A Crossbill flew south over Peasholm early morning.

22.09.11 Three adult Whooper Swans with the goose flock at Harwood Dale Lake, also 4 Wigeon and 2 Cormorants. Grey Wagtail and 3 Goldcrests in Peasholm Glenn. Past Long Nab (08.40-10.45) 110 Pink-footed Geese south, 2 Red-throated Divers, 87 Gbb Gulls (S), 4 Common Terns, 9 Sandwich Terns, 6 Rock Pipits. A Barnacle Goose and Great Crested Grebe at Burton Riggs and Green Sandpiper at Star Carr.

23.09.11 Past Long Nab (07.50-10.45); 54 Pink-footed Geese (30S, 24 in off then NW), 2 Wigeon, 14 Common Scoters, 9 Eiders (S), 18 Red-throated Divers, Shag, 2 Common Buzzards (S @ 08.25), Dunlin, Redshank, 5 Golden Plover, 44 Gbb Gulls (S), 12 Common Gulls (N), 12 Sandwich Terns, 2 Common Terns, 11 Skylarks, 13 Swallows, 75 House Martins, 105 Meadow Pipits, 7 Rock Pipits, 230 Linnets, 33 Redpolls, 2 Siskins, 8 Chaffinches. Two Whinchats and a Stonechat north of Cliff Top House in the cover crop. 300 Canada Geese over Cayton in the morning.

24.09.11 A Turtle Dove flew south along the cliffs at South Cliff Golf Course, also a Stonechat there. Two Bar-tailed Godwits below Holbeck.

25.09.11 A Greenshank at Seamer Tip pools. The Red-crested Pochard was still at Seamer Road Mere. Past Long Nab (07.20-11.20); 37 Teal, 17 Pintail, 126 Wigeon, 3 Mallard, 5 Shelducks, 2 Tufted Ducks, 5 Pochard, Red-breasted Merganser, 223 Common Scoters, 26 Red-throated Divers, 3 Dunlins, 2 Great Skuas, 73 Common Gulls, 166 House Martins, 17 Swallows, 51 Siskins. A Merlin over Throxenby Mere. 39 Turnstones (2 colour ringed) at the harbour, 8 Chiffchaffs at Castle Hill. Eight Wigeon at Scalby Mills. Pink-footed Geese heard over Newby at 7.15pm. A Hobby at Suffield Moor.

26.09.11 A Lapland Bunting flew south over Long Nab, also past 07.50-10.45; 5 Teal, Wigeon, 30 Common Scoters, 3 Mallard, 7 Red-throated Divers, Golden Plover, 4 Swallows, 48 Meadow Pipits, 3 Rock Pipits, Grey Wagtail, 3 alba Wagtails, 33 Skylarks, Mistle Thrush, 36 Siskins, 40 Redpolls, 98 Linnets, Reed Bunting. A small influx of migrants included Whinchat, 2 Song Thrushes, 4 Willow Warblers, 4 Goldcrests, and 4 Reed Buntings. The Corn Bunting was still in the cover crop north of Cliff Top House. A Willow Warbler, 2 Goldcrests, and 2 Chiffchaffs with the tit flock at Castle Hill. At Wykeham Lakes there was a second-winter Med Gull, 6 Wigeon, 4 Pochard, and a Wheatear. A Common Sandpiper, Purple Sandpiper, 12 Wigeon, 6 Herons, Kingfisher, and a Wheatear at Scalby Mills. A Kingfisher along Sea Cut. The Red-crested Pochard was still at Seamer Road Mere.

27.09.11 A good variety of birds moving south at Long Nab (07.45-10.40): 2 Pink-footed Geese(N), 2 Pintail, 2 Red-breasted Mergansers, Eider(N), 2 Common Buzzards, Sparrowhawk, Golden Plover, Great Spotted Woodpecker (south along the cliffs), Swift, Sand Martin, 137 Meadow Pipits, 330 Linnets, 84 Redpolls, 29 Siskins, Bullfinch, 28 Chaffinches, Lapland Bunting, and 6 Reed Buntings. 40 Goldfinches and 50 Chaffinches in Hundale Plantation, Long Nab. A Merlin over Flotmanby Carr and 2 juv Marsh Harriers at Flixton Carr. Three Goshawks, 6 Common Buzzards, Sparrowhawk, 30 Crossbills and 15+ Lesser Redpolls at Highwood Brow Viewpoint, Wykeham Forest in 30 mins early afternoon. A Rock Pipit and Common Sandpiper at Wykeham South Lake, also 2 Wigeon and a Pochard. A Pintail and Siskin at Burton Riggs.

28.09.11 The Whooper Swan was again at Wykeham South Lake plus Peregrine. A Merlin at Ebberston and Goshawk at Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint. Long Nab saw a quiet migration watch 08.45-12.30; 3 Red-throated Divers, Shag, 5 Wigeon, Common Scoter, Kestrel(S), Ringed Plover, Golden Plover, 7 Arctic Skuas,72 Common Gulls, 15 Common Terns, 33 Sandwich Terns, 40 Linnets and a Reed Bunting. A Stonechat just north of the hut.

29.09.11 A Lapland Bunting in the stubble field north of the hut field, also Whinchat there. A Great Spotted Woodpecker, 2 Chiffchaffs, 3 Goldcrests, and 20 Siskins at Hundale Plantation, Long Nab. Movement south past Long Nab today included a Common Buzzard, 2 Sparrowhawks, Kestrel, Lapwing, 56 Swallows, 3 House Martins, a male Yellow Wagtail, Grey Wagtail, 25 Meadow Pipits, 3 Rock Pipits, 60 Linnets, 11 Greenfinches, 22 Crossbills and a Reed Bunting. Seabirds included 2 Great Skuas, Arctic Skua, 526 Black-headed Gulls (N), 11 Common Scoters, 4 Common Terns, and 9 Sandwich Terns. 15 Little Gulls south past Scalby Mills 15.30-16.30 hrs., also 6 Wigeon. 11+ Chiffchaffs around the tea rooms at Ravenscar, also 23 Redpolls flew south. 40 Redpolls and a Goldcrest at Stoupe Brow. Two Pochards and 4 Wigeon at Burton Riggs.

30.09.11 A Jack Snipe in the cover crop at Long Nab, Great-spotted Woodpecker and 4 Goldcrests in Hundale. Visible migration observed there 06.50-09.00 included 90 Siskins, 36 Redpolls, 72 Linnets, 8 Greenfinches, 33 Chaffinches, 35 Goldfinches, 6 Tree Sparrows, 80 Meadow Pipits, 14 Skylarks, 158 Swallows, 24 House Martins, 6 Sand Martins, 7 Crossbills, alba Wagtail, Sparrowhawk, and Golden Plover. Eight Med Gulls at Holbeck car park (5 adults). The female Red-crested Pochard was still at Seamer Road Mere plus a Grey Wagtail. Several Crossbills flew over Ebberston. Southerly migration over Ravenscar (viewing from above golf course) 06.35-11.45, 52 Crossbills, 91 Siskins, 94 Redpolls, 166 House Martins, 23 Swallows, 199 Meadow Pipits, 29 Chaffinches, 24 Greenfinches, 33 Goldfinches, 28 Tree Sparrows, 39 Linnets, 19 Starlings (in off), Song Thrush (in off), 2 Blackbirds (in off), Mistle Thrush, 3 Snipe (1 in off) plus a 4th by Cliff House, 2 Golden Plovers, and 2 Curlews. A Green Woodpecker at the golf course. At Wykeham South Lake there were 7 Teal, 14 Wigeon, 9 Pochard, a Whooper Swan, a first-winter Med Gull, and a small white & grey hybrid Goose. Eight Grey Herons flew past White Nab. 140 Pink-footed Geese flew south over Peasholm at 5.35PM. Two Goshawks from the Highwood Brow viewpoint at Wykeham Forest.

August 2011

Fri, 9 Sep 2011 23:05:48 +0100

01.08.11 Two Marsh Harriers over Seamer Carr by the A64 in the evening. 30 Swifts around Main Street, Flixton. A covey of 20 Grey Partridges Flotmanby Carr.

02.08.11 A Quail reported calling at Seamer Carr recently. The Wykeham Lakes gull roost held 200 Black-headed, 150 Common, 25 LBB Gulls (2 juvs), 30 GBB Gulls, and 1200 Herring. A Curlew flew west plus a juv Wheatear on the south-east shore. A Quail calling at Spikers Hill.

03.08.11 An escaped Lanner Falcon at Ravenscar.

05.08.11 Three CC Marsh Harriers flew north at Cayton Bay 10.30AM. A Black-tailed Godwit at Wykeham Lakes in the evening, also 2 Teal, 3 Oystercatchers, 25 LBB Gulls in the roost, a Kingfisher, and Wheatear. Juv Sedge Warblers being fed by Flixton Carr Bridge and Seamer Meads.

06.08.11 An Eider at Scalby Mills.

07.08.11 Greenshank and Green Sandpiper at Beacon Farm Ponds. Little Ringed Plover and 140 Sand Martins at Wykeham Lakes. A Whimbrel flew over Castle Hill.

08.08.11 Two Quails calling at Far Lane, Hutton Buscel. Past Marine Drive (18.00-20.00); 8 Common Scoters, 12 Manx Shearwaters, 5 Oystercatchers, 6 Arctic Skuas, 2 Great Skuas, 20 Common Terns, 16 Sandwich Terns. A Nightjar at Staintondale Moor at 9.15pm. Belated news of an ALPINE SWIFT photographed feeding over the Ravens Hall Hotel, Ravenscar on 30th March 2010.

09.08.11 One Quail still calling at Far Lane, Hutton Buscel late evening. A seawatch at Long Nab (07.00-13.00) produced 5 Teal, 8 Common Scoters, Red-throated Diver, 8 Sooty Shearwaters, 27 Manx Shearwaters, 15 Oystercatchers, 15 Arctic Skuas, 3+ Great Skuas, 17 Sandwich Terns, 9 Common Terns.

11.08.11 An adult Roseate Tern flew north past Marine Drive with Common Terns at 5.32PM. Also past Marine Drive (17.20-19.20); 2 Teal, 2 Tufted Ducks, 38 Oystercatchers, 20 Dunlin, Golden Plover, 2 Whimbrels, Curlew, 4 Arctic Skuas, 93 Common Terns, and 10 Sandwich Terns. A Wheatear behind Marine Drive wall. Hovingham drive - Hobby and Common Sandpiper (during thick fog) over in the evening

12.08.11 Marine Drive seawatch: 2 Common Tern, 29 Oystercatcher, 18 Bar tailed Godwit. Kingfisher at Throxenby Mere.

13.08.11 Wykeham lakes: 2 Common Sandpipers, 21 Teal and 1 Golden Plover over. Ravenscar: Pied Flycatcher (near cafe), Spotted Flycatcher, 3 Whitethroat and a Willow Warbler. West Ayton: 2 Whimbrel over. Seamer: Hobby flew south. Scalby Beck: Dipper 100m upstream from Scalby Mills pub, plus Lesser Whitethroat. Marine Drive: Osprey flew south over sea at 18.10hrs, plus 2 Red throated Diver, 15 Common Scoter and 55+ Common Tern.

14.08.11 Wykeham Viewpoint: 3 Honey Buzzard. Ellberburn Bank: Spotted Flycatcher and several Crossbill. Scalby Mills seawatch 8am- 9am: 29 Common Tern, 2 Great Skua. Cayton: 2 Barn Owl. Rocks Lane, Burniston: Little Owl. Hundale: Marsh Harrier (south), 3 Willow Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Whitethroat, 2 Chiffchaff and Garden Warbler. Also 2 Whimbrel and 2 Golden Plover over. Forge Valley: 2 Spotted Flycatcher near car-park. South Bay rocks: 6 Meditterianean Gulls (5 adults, 1 2nd year) plus 20 Sandwich Tern. Castle Hill: 5 Chiffchaff, 4 Willow Warbler and 3 Blackcap.

15.08.11 Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint - Honey Buzzard 1+, Goshawk showing well with at least 4 individuals - including juvs play fighting, Hobby and c.20 Crossbill. 2 Common Sandpiper flew over the Old town late evening.

16.08.11 2 Marsh Harrier over fields a mile up Far Lane, Hutton Buscel.

18.08.11 Long Nab seawatch: 08.20-12.00 Pomarine Skua, 3 Arctic Skua, Velvet Scoter, 19 Whimbrel, 21 Knot, Greenshank and 2 Manx Shearwater.

19.08.11 Marine Drive seawatch: 18.00-19.00 57 Common Tern, 15 Oystercatcher and 13 Cormorant.

20.08.11 Hobby south over Flixton at 08.25. Yellow Wagtail, Whitethroat and Peregrine Falcon at Hood Lane, Cloughton. Cuckoo on aerial masts at Row Brow. 6+ Swift over Old town in the evening.

21.08.11 Water Rail seen on the Taylor Way Pool at Seamer Tip Pools. A Leucistic/partial albino Swallow was flying around between Crook Ness and Scalby Lodge Pond. An Osprey flew low inland over Peasholm Park at 3.20pm. An evening seawatch at Marine Drive 18.00-20.00 10 Teal, 3 Whimbrel, 3 Arctic Skua, 40 Sandwich Tern and 102 Common Tern.

22.08.11 8 Grey Heron on Hurds Pond. A Wheatear at Long Nab and Eider in Burniston Bay. Waders in Jackson's Bay: 6 Ringed Plover, Sanderling, 6 Turnstone, 2 Dunlin and 10 Redshank. Also a juv Stonechat on the cliffs there. 99 Common Tern past Scalby Mills in 2 hours, late afternoon. Kingfisher on rocks at Scalby Mills.

23.08.11 Fresh migrants along the coast. Newlands Dale: Wood Warbler, 4 Spotted Flycatcher, 11 Chiffchaff and 3 Blackcap. Hundale: 3 Willow Warbler, 3 Chiffchaff and a Whitethrtoat. Whimbrel and Yellow Wagtail over. Castle Hill: Wheatear, 2 Whinchat, 2 Blackcap and 6 Chiffchaff. Also, 4 Common Sandpiper and a Hobby at Potter Brompton and a pair of Grey Partridge with 6 young at Scalby Lodge Pond.

24.08.11 Hundale: Grasshopper Warbler, 9 Whitethroat, 2 Garden Warbler, Blackcap and Greenshank over. A cream-crown Marsh Harrier over Stoupe Brow. Castle Hill: Wheatear, 3 Chiffchaff and a Garden Warbler.

25.08.11 A female Marsh Harrier, 2 Yellow Wagtail and 6 Teal at Potter Brompton. 2 Common Sandpiper at Wykeham Lakes. Adult Little Gull 8 Knot and an Arctic Skua past Marine Drive in the evening.

26.08.11 Heavy rain and some mist brought down some migrant waders into the area. At Wykeham Lakes there were Ruff, 2 Common Sandpiper, 2 Yellow Wagtail and 2 Wigeon. Also a Turnstone and 3 Ringed Plover were there briefly before departing east. Seawatches at Scalby Mills 16.00-16.45: 4 Arctic Skua, 19 Sandwich Tern, 5 Arctic Tern and 4 Common Tern. Marine Drive 17.00-19.00: 2 Manx Shearwater, 3 Cormorant and 7 Arctic Skua.

27.08.11 Two Whooper Swans at Wykeham Lakes (first ever August record), also Ringed Plover and 96 Lapwings. A Marsh Harrier at Potter Brompton Carr, 4 Green Sandpipers, 3 Whitethroats, and Yellow Wagtail. Railway track Cloughton Wyke to Newlands Dale; 9 Chiffchaffs, 3 Blackcaps, 2 Whitethroats. A Garden Warbler, Whitethroat, and 5 Chiffchaffs Castle Hill. Two juvenile Spotted Redshanks, Greenshank and 10 Teal at Beacon Farm Ponds. 5 Teal in Burniston Bay, 2 Swifts south over Long Nab, a juvenile Little Owl at Cliff Top House. An Arctic Skua and Canada Goose in South Bay. Marine Drive (18.15-19.15); 12 Manx Shearwaters, Shag (S), 4 Oystercatchers, 4 Arctic Skuas, 27 Common Terns, Sandwich Tern.

28.08.11 A juvenile Curlew Sandpiper at Wykeham South Lake, also there 2 Whooper Swans, Ringed Plover, Redshank, 3 Ruff, 3 Common Sandpipers, 300 Common Gulls, 380 LBB Gulls (roost), Tawny Owl,and a Yellow Wagtail. A juvenile Hobby at Broxa. A Spotted Redshank still at Beacon Farm Ponds, also 2 Teal. Seawatching at Long Nab (06.55-09.30); 3 Sooty Shearwaters, 17 Manx Shearwaters, 2 Shags, Whimbrel, 7 Arctic Skuas, 2 Great Skuas, 25 Common Terns, 13 Sandwich Terns, 7 Swifts, and 3 Meadow Pipits. A Goldcrest in cliff top blackthorn. Vis mig watch over Hundale, Long Nab (07.50-08.50); 48 Meadow Pipits, Rock Pipit, Whimbrel, and Ringed Plover. A Wheatear at Cloughton Fields Farm, 3 Whitethroats, Willow Warbler, Blackcap, and 3 Chiffchaffs at Hundale. 2 Manx Shearwaters and an Arctic Skua past Marine Drive 18.45-19.30. Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint (11.50-16.05); Osprey south at midday, Marsh Harrier, two Hobby sightings, 5 Goshawks, Peregrine, Merlin, and a juvenile Honey Buzzard flew south.

29.08.11 A 14 hour seawatch by five observers at Long Nab was very productive in NW winds; 2 Teal, 3 Common Scoters, 8 Red-throated Divers, 562 Manx Shearwaters, 21 Sooty Shearwaters, 2 Balearic Shearwaters, 45 Fulmars, 450 Gannets, 5 Shags, 6 Cormorants, 10 Oystercatchers, Knot, Whimbrel, Sanderling, Dunlin, 3 (juv) Little Gulls, 3 (juv) Black Terns, 105 Common Terns, 6 Arctic Terns, 35 Sandwich Terns, 400 GBB Gulls (80S), single juv Long-tailed Skua south at 11.27 & 12.44, 121 Arctic Skuas, 20 Great Skuas, 100 Auk sp, 2 Puffins. A Wheatear at Marine Drive, 200 Linnets at Scalby Lodge. In Jackson's Bay; 13 Curlews, 2 Dunlins, and 7 Turnstones. Two Spotted Redshanks at Seamer Tip Pools. The two Whooper Swans still at Wykeham Lakes, also 2 Ringed Plovers and 3 Common Sandpipers.

30.08.11 A juv Spotted Redshank at Seamer Tip pools. The two Whooper Swans were still at Wykeham South Lake, also Dunlin, Ringed Plover, and two Common Sandpipers. Two Yellow Wagtails, Lesser Whitethroat, 3 Whitethroats at nearby Darrell's Low Farm. Three Wheatears at the Castle Headland, plus 5 Turnstones flew over high southwards, but otherwise very quiet. Three Mediterranean Gulls (2 ads and first-winter) at Holbeck car park. Three Yellow Wagtails flew south over Folkton Carr, a light southerly movement of Meadow Pipits along the coast. A Goldcrest at Scalby Nab was presumably a migrant. Kingfisher at Scalby Beck. At Jackson's Bay there were 5 Teal, 19 Cormorants (7 north), 44 Oystercatchers, 13 Ringed Plovers, 24 Turnstones,11 Redshanks. A seawatch at Marine Drive (18.35-19.05); 3 Common Scoters, Sooty Shearwater, Golden Plover, Turnstone, and 20 Common Terns.

31.08.11 Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Dunlin, Sanderling, 15 Redshanks, 25 Turnstones, and a Common Sandpiper in Jackson's Bay. Nine Swifts over Scalby Beck at dusk. Seawatching at Long Nab AM produced 6 Sooty Shearwaters, 16 Manx Shearwaters,7 Arctic Skuas, 2 Great Skuas. Five Little Owls Rocks Lane, Tree Pipit and Swift over Hundale where there were two Goldcrests. Two Wheatears at Marine Drive. Marine Drive (17.30-19.00); 4 Arctic Skuas, 16 Fulmars.

July 2011

Fri, 9 Sep 2011 19:34:37 +0100

01.07.11 A Merlin hunting at Playdale Farm, Cayton.

02.07.11 A Hobby and 80 Crossbills at Wykeham Forest. Five Whimbrel at Seamer Carr, also Sedge Warbler with 3 fledged young along the River Hertford. A seawatch at Long Nab (07.30-09.00) produced a Teal, 7 Common Scoters, 5 Manx Shearwaters, 7 Curlews, and 3 Puffins. A singing Sedge Warbler at Hurd's Pond.

03.07.11 A Turtle Dove and 20 Crossbills at Wykeham Forest. A Quail calling at Ellerburn Bank, Dalby Forest at 10.15pm, also Nightjar.

04.07.11 A Little Egret at Wykeham South Lake mid morning, also 4 LRP, 4 Oystercatchers (2 juvs), and a Tufted Duck with a brood of three chicks. A Willow Tit and 30+ Crossbills at Wykeham Forest. Three Nightjars at Wykeham Forest.

05.07.11 A calling Quail in a barley field just south of the A170 at Ruston. Four Quails reported from barley fields near Allerston last week. A seawatch at Marine Drive (18.55-19.40) produced 6 Teal, 4 Common Scoters, a Curlew, and 4 Sandwich Terns past.

06.07.11 A seawatch at Marine Drive (07.00-09.00) produced a good early movement of wildfowl; Teal, 3 Wigeon, Gadwall, 361 Common Scoters, Red-breasted Merganser,4 Manx Shearwaters, 8 Sandwich Terns, and 9 Puffins. Three juvenile Common Buzzards at Wrench Green.

08.07.11 A Little Egret again at Seamer Tip Pools. 250+ Crossbills at Barley Carr Rigg, Langdale Forest. 73 churring Nightjars located so far in Langdale Forest this summer. Three adult Common Terns at Scalby Mills, also a Teal, and a Redshank. Three Manx Shearwaters past Marine Drive.

09.07.11 A seawatch at Long Nab (06.45-12.00) produced 54 Common Scoters, Red-brested Merganser, 6 Manx Shearwaters, a Red-throated Diver, 2 Curlews, 6 Golden Plovers, 5 Redshanks, Arctic Skua, Great Skua, 242 Black-headed Gulls (south, many juvs), 215 Sandwich Terns, 4 Puffins, and 580 Swifts (S). A singing Sedge Warbler still at Hurd's Pond. Five Crossbills flew south over Seamer Station. A Pochard, 2 LRPs, Ringed Plover and Common Sandpiper at Wykeham Lakes.

10.07.11 A Kite sp. flew east at Sherburn late morning. Three Honey Buzzards from the Wykeham Forest Raptor Viewpoint mid morning. A calling Quail, 8 Shelducks (6 juvs), 2 Green Sandpipers, Cuckoo, and juv Redstart at Beacon Farm, Coomboots. A Pochard, LRP, Dunlin, and three Common Sandpipers at Wykeham Lakes. A Common Sandpiper and 50 Razorbills at Scalby Mills.

12.07.11 Two Whimbrels flew over Crossgates. Little Owl Cliff Top House, Long Nab. Kingfisher and 2 Willow Tits Flixton Carr. Green Sandpiper and Peregrine Seamer Carr. Pair of Great Crested Grebes with one juvenile at Seamer Road Mere. A Little Egret at Potter Brompton Carr.

13.07.11 Two Little Egrets on the main pool at Seamer Tip late morning.

14.07.11 Small flock of Linnets and 2 juvenile Chiffchaffs by the hospital. Three calling Quails at Willerby Carr (2 seen in flight), also 6 Corn Buntings. A seawatch at Marine Drive (18.00-19.30) produced 5 Common scoters, 14 Manx Shearwaters, Great Skua, Arctic Skua, and 20 Sandwich Terns. A Nightjar at Jugger Howe Beck.

15.07.11 Six Crossbills over Newby early morning. Spotted Flycatcher by the bridge at Wrench Green. A Little Egret feeding in Jackson's Bay.

16.07.11 A calling Quail, Green Sandpiper, and 8 Shelducks at Beacon Ponds, Coomboots. 15 Crossbills at Inn Moor. Common Sandpiper and Oystercatcher at Burton Riggs. A seawatch at Marine Drive (07.00-10.00); 5 Teal, 60 Common Scoters, Manx Shearwater, 2 Red-throated Divers, 5 Oystercatchers, 3 Knot, 20 Black-tailed Godwits, 28 Redshanks. A female Tufted Duck with eight chicks at Harwood Dale Lake.

17.07.11 A seawatch at Long Nab (06.25-10.00) produced a Red-throated Diver, Manx Shearwater, 21 Knot, 3 Sanderlings, 4 Curlews, 2 Whimbrel, 24 Redshanks, a Snipe in off the sea, 2 Arctic Skuas, 2 Great Skuas, 55 Sandwich Terns, 34 Common Terns, 12 Puffins, and 90 Swifts(S)(Minke Whale and a Dolphin sp). A drake Eider in Cayton Bay. A pair of Oystercatchers with two young at Harwood Dale Lake plus a Little Grebe. Seven Shelducks at Beacon Farm Ponds. Waders in Jackson's Bay included 6 Dunlin, Redshank, and 3 Curlews plus 150 Black-headed Gulls and a Common Tern.

18.07.11 Seawatch at Long Nab (08.50-11.05) produced 31 Common Scoters, 17 Manx Shearwaters, a Red-throated Diver, 4 Curlews, 4 Redshanks, a Greenshank, 21 Sandwich Terns, 11 Arctic Terns, 17 Common Terns, 11 Puffins, and 600 Swifts. A singing Sedge Warbler still at Hurd's Pond. One pair of Fulmars at Stoupe Brow Quarry.

20.07.11 A seawatch at Marine Drive (07.00-09.00) ; 5 Wigeon, 152 Common Scoters, Great Crested Grebe, 25 Manx Shearwaters, 35 Sandwich Terns, 2 Common Terns, and 55 Puffins.

21.07.11 A Hobby over Redbrow Plantation late morning. A seawatch at Marine Drive (07.00-09.00) produced 23 Teal, 6 Eiders, 65 Common Scoters, 2 Shags (on sea), 2 Great Skuas, and an Arctic Skua. Juvenile Hobby over Birch Hall, Langdale Forest.

22.07.11 An Arctic Tern feeding off Scalby Mills ib the evening, also 3 Turnstones and a juvenile Redshank on rocks. A 1.5 hr evening seawatch at Long Nab produced just 3 Manx Shearwaters.

23.07.11 Seawatch totals from Long Nab (06.20-16.20) and Marine Drive (18.00-20.30); Balearic Shearwater N (Long Nab, 06.56)), 45 Manx Shearwaters, 2 Sooty Shearwaters, 1300 Gannets, 135 Fulmars, 5 Red-throated Divers, 3 Oystercatchers, Sanderling, Dunlin, 3 Curlews, 4 Great Skuas, 4 Arctic Skuas, juv Long-tailed Skua N (Long Nab 12.50), 3000 Kittiwakes, 27 GBB Gulls (S), 184 Arctic Terns, 3 Common Terns, 60 Sandwich Terns, 1200 Auk sp. Tawny Owl again at Woodlands Ravine.

24.07.11 Seawatch totals from Long Nab (05.15-11.00) and Marine Drive (17.55-20.30); 19 Common Scoters, Red-throated Diver, 135 Manx Shearwaters, 5 Sooty Shearwaters, 12 Curlews, 10 Oystercatchers, 2 Redshanks, Bar-tailed Godwit, 9 Arctic Skuas, 10 Great Skuas, 225 Arctic Terns, 7 Common Terns, 50 Sandwich Terns, 21 Puffins. Eight Shelducks at Beacon Farm Ponds.

25.07.11 A Storm Petrel flew north past Marine Drive at 18.15 hrs. Also past Marine Drive (06.30-09.00 & 17.55-20.00) ; 6 Common Scoters,a Diver sp., 39 Manx Shearwaters, 2 Shags, Whimbrel, Great Skua, 2 Arctic Skuas, 36 Arctic Terns, 3 Common Terns, 13 Sandwich Terns, and a Puffin.

26.07.11 Marine Drive (18.00-19.00); 5 Manx Shearwaters, 2 Curlews, and 13 Arctic Terns. Nine LBB Gulls and 10 Common Gulls in the Wykeham Lakes gull roost. A report of two Storm Petrels past Long Nab.

27.07.11 A Little Egret at Seamer Tip pools. Seawatching at Marine Drive (06.30-08.00 & 18.00-18.45); 2 Gadwall, 123 Common Scoters, drake Velvet Scoter, Red-throated Diver, 9 Manx Shearwaters, Balearic Shearwater (north @ 07.39am), Sooty Shearwater, 17 Oystercatchers, several Sandwich and Arctic Terns. Five Arctic Terns flew east over Ancat, nr Hutton Buscel at 7.30am.

29.07.11 Two Storm Petrels trapped at Long Nab overnight. A Little Egret at the weir Hall Garth Lane, West Ayton. Four pairs of Stonechats breeding on Fylingdales Moor this summer.

30.07.11 The Little Egret was again at Hall Garth Lane, West Ayton and one at Wykeham Lakes at dusk. Also there 296 Greylag Geese, a Greenshank and 21+ LBB Gulls in the roost. At Marine Drive (18.05-19.10) a Sooty Shearwater flew north, also 2 Manx Shearwaters, a Common Scoter, Great Skua, 42+ Arctic Terns. Waders in Jackson's Bay included 7 Redshank and 7 Turnstones.

31.07.11 Three Mediterranean Gulls back at Holbeck car park. Seven Crossbills flew south over Peasholm and one south-east over Seamer Tip Pools early morning. Kingfishers at Burton Riggs and Hall Garth Lane. The Little Egret left west from Wykeham Lakes 8.08am and a Marsh Harrier flew south-east at 8.05pm. Also there today were 4 Greenshanks, 3 Oystercatchers, 28 LBB Gulls in the roost, 2 Arctic Terns, a Common Tern, and a Cuckoo flew west. A Marsh Harrier flew north over Fylingdales Moor at midday.

June 2011

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 20:52:22 +0100

01.06.11 A male Marsh Harrier and Hobby at Flixton Carr in the morning, a drake Shoveler on nearby Star Carr. A Kingfisher at Mowthorpe. At least three sightings of single Honey Buzzards from the Wykeham Forest Raptor Viewpoint today, also Turtle Dove and Tree Pipit. Garden Warbler at Low Park, Ebberston, plus Hackness. An Osprey flew west at the Raptor Viewpoint late afternoon.

02.06.11 A Marsh Harrier and two Honey Buzzards at the Raptor Viewpoint in the morning. Three Spotted Flycatchers north-east of the Hole of Horcom car park. Three churring Nightjars at Harwood Dale Forest, also 3 Redstarts.

03.06.11 Reports of Honey Buzzards over Ebberston and Scalby Village plus a male from the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint. 2+ Turtle Doves and 5 Crossbills at Wykeham nurseries.

04.06.11 A Quail at Far Lane, Hutton Buscel. Honey Buzzard From the Raptor Viewpoint. A pair of Redstarts with young in a nestbox at Wrench Green. Two Dunlin and two LRPs at Wykeham Lakes. Goldcrest at Throxenby Mere.

05.06.11 Seawatching at long Nab (05.00-09.00) produced a Teal, 8 Common Scoters, 2 Red-throated Divers, 341 Manx Shearwaters, Shag, Great Skua, Arctic Skua, 9 Sandwich Terns, and 104 Puffins. A Goosander at Scalby Mills and a Sanderling in North Bay. The Quail was still at Far Lane, Hutton Buscel. A drake Teal at Hurd's Pond.

06.06.11 No sign of the Quail at Hutton Buscel. A Honey Buzzard from the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint. A Dipper at Scalby Beck by the Old Scalby Mills public house, also a Grasshopper Warbler reeling 100m upstream plus a Tufted Duck there. The Goosander was still at Scalby Mills.

07.06.11 Three Quails calling at Willerby Carr; two in barley just north of the level crossing and one north-west of Robbin's Bottom Plantation, also 4 Corn Buntings there. A Hobby hunting over Potter Brompton Carr and a drake Teal plus 2 Shelducks. Two LRPs at Wykeham Lakes. The Goosander still at Scalby Mills and reeling Grasshopper Warbler at Scalby Beck.

08.06.11 One Quail heard at Willerby Carr plus 4 singing Corn Buntings. Four Honey Buzzards from the Wykeham Forest Raptor Viewpoint and 10 Crossbills. Three singing Turtle Doves at Wykeham Nursery.

09.06.11 A female Montagu's Harrier, Osprey, and two Honey Buzzards from the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint.

10.06.11 A Raven from the Wykeham Forest Raptor Viewpoint, also Hobby and up to 4 Honey Buzzards. Three Turtle Doves at the nearby nurseries. Two Grasshopper Warblers singing at Flotmanby Carr. A juvenile Stonechat at Well Spring.

11.06.11 An Osprey fishing over the South Lake at Wykeham Lakes in the evening. Reed Warbler and Sedge Warbler at Straits Lane. A Honey Buzzard from the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint, 15+ Crossbills at nearby Highwood Brow. The Goosander was still at Scalby Mills and Grasshopper Warbler at Scalby Beck, plus four Tufted Ducks on the beck. A Quail calling at Sherburn ings from "Sherburn Corner".

12.06.11 A cream crown Marsh Harrier over Flixton Carr in the morning. Four Honey Buzzards from Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint, also 2 Goshawks, 4 Common Buzzards, and 3 Turtle Doves. A count of Kittiwake nests ; 1,777 at the Castle Headland (up 59 on 2010), Scarborough town sites 281 (down 19). Of the town sites The Grand Hotel showed a marked decline from 174 in 2010 to 103. The Rotunda saw an increase to 27 nests from 7 in 2010, and a new site was the Royal Hotel where 7 nests were counted. A Red-throated Diver flew north off Marine Drive in the evening and Manx Shearwater flew south.

13.06.11 Two Honey Buzzards at the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint. Goosander still at Scalby Mills.

14.06.11 A female Montagu's Harrier flew east at the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint at 12.10pm, also 4 Honey Buzzards. Up to 6 Turtle Doves in the area. A Barn Owl hunting at 1.30pm at Brompton.

15.06.11 Two Honey Buzzards from Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint.

16.06.11 Two Green Sandpipers at Potter Brompton Carr.

17.06.11 Six Crossbills flew south over Peasholm in the morning. A Shelduck flew east at Wykeham Lakes plus a pair of Oystercatchers with two well grown chicks.

18.06.11 Past Marine Drive (19.25-20.30); 9 Common Scoters, 20 Manx Shearwaters, 2 Curlews, 19 Puffins.

19.06.11 Four Honey Buzzards from the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint, also 5+ Turtle Doves in Wykeham Forest and Crossbills widespread. A seawatch at Marine Drive (06.30-07.30) was quiet; a Common Scoter, 2 Manx Shearwaters, a Sandwich Tern, and 84 Puffins past. Three Peregrines successfully fledged at the Castle Cliffs site this year. A "rufous" Cuckoo at Seamer Tip pools.

20.06.11 Four calling Quails in The Carrs; Sherburn Carr, Ruston Carr bridge area(2), and Potter Brompton Carr. Three Green Sandpipers at the latter site, a drumming Snipe, and three Crossbills over. A Hobby and 9 Crossbills over Sherburn Carr. One Honey Buzzard from the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint.

21.06.11 A Quail at Far Lane Hutton Buscel SE973859. At Potter Brompton Carr; a pair of Shovelers, 8 Teal, pair of Gadwall, Oystercatcher and 3 Green Sandpipers. A female Marsh Harrier near East Heslerton. A male Nightjar ringed at the "shrike clearing" Wykeham Forest, a second churring male there and a female there.

22.06.11 Tawny Owl at Woodlands Ravine. Three Kestrels fledged at High Eastfield Farm.

23.06.11 A Quail still in barley field half way up Far Lane (half a mile past shed), Hutton Buscel. Two Quails at Willerby Carr. A Green Sandpiper, Snipe, Teal and 4 Crossbills at Potter Brompton Carr. A Little Owl near "Wykeham Trees".

24.06.11 A Storm Petrel trapped and ringed at Long Nab 11.40pm. A second Storm Petrel seen around the mist net. Six Shelducks flew south plus 2 Manx Shearwaters past. Two Honey Buzzards from the Wykeham Forest Raptor Viewpoint.

25.06.11 A Liitle Egret at Seamer Tip pools mid afternoon. The Reed Warbler was still at Throxenby Mere. 15+ Croosbills at Cloughton Woods plus a family party of Treecreepers. A pair of Spotted Flycatchers at Wyke Lodge, Staintondale. 40 Common Scoters past Scalby Mills 6-7am, also 3 Puffins, and the Goosander still there. Three Quails calling in fields around the Fox & Rabbit PH, north of Pickering at 10.30pm. The Quail was still just north-west of Ruston Carr Bridge.

26.06.11 A drake Common Scoter and 5 LRPs at Wykeham Lakes. A Honey Buzzard from the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint mid afternoon. A Kingfisher at Ruston Carr, also a Willow Tit with a fledged youngster. Five Curlews flew south at Long Nab.

27.06.11 A male Honey Buzzard from the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint early afternoon. Two singing Reed Warblers at Throxenby Mere.

28.06.11 Three nesting pairs of Peregrines in the district have fledged a total of nine young this year. Two Quails calling at Staxton Carr, from footpath between Staxton Carr Lane and Willerby Carr Lane.

29.06.11 A Quail calling at Potter Brompton Carr, also 2 Green Sandpipers. A calling Quail at Willerby Carr, audible from Willerby Carr Lane.

30.06.11 23 Crossbills over Hovingham Drive late morning. A Spotted Flycatcher at Little Hilla.

May 2011

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 21:59:00 +0100

01.05.11 A Grasshopper Warbler singing at the Castle Headland behind Albert Drive Cafe, also 6+ Blackcaps, a Lesser Whitethroat, and 3 Chiffchaffs. A Swift over Rillington early evening. A Hobby flew east over Silpho at 9.30am.

02.05.11 Singing Grasshopper Warblers at Albert Drive Cafe, Scalby Beck (rear of pub), and Scalby Nab. A migrant Sedge Warbler at Cromer Point. A pair of Shelducks at Raincliffe Farm plus one at Scalby Lodge. Two Redstarts at Mowthorpe, and a Wheatear at Irton Moor. At Wykeham Lakes two Arctic Terns and a Greenshank flew east in the evening, the Goosander and Wigeon were still there, plus four Common Sandpipers. A Swift was over Old Town. Just one Redshank now in Jackson's Bay.

03.05.11 A Marsh Harrier flew south over Castle Hill at 9.10am.

04.05.11 Seven Ring Ouzels and a Wheatear below the radio mast at Ravenscar. A Green Sandpiper at Scalby Lodge Pond. Three Garden Warblers, four Sedge Warblers by Scalby Beck between Scalby and Mowthorpe. A Whimbrel at Willerby Carr. Wigeon, Goosander, 2 LRPs, Dunlin, Common Sandpiper, and 16 Black-headed Gulls at Wykeham Lakes.

05.05.11 A Whinchat and White Wagtail at Scalby Lodge Pond. A Wheatear behind the wall at Marine Drive and Red-throated Diver in the harbour mouth. A Cuckoo at Snainton and Swifts were back in town with at least 20 present.

06.05.11 Two Turtle Doves at Wykeham Foreat were the first reported this year. A Greenshank visited the Taylor Way pool at Seamer Tip briefly, also a Greenshank flew over Wykeham Lakes, and 3 LRP, 3 Common Sandpipers, and a Wheatear there. Sixteen Whimbrel at Loders Carr plus six near Flixton Carr Bridge. Five Wheatears at Marine Drive, 12 Mute Swans offshore. A Sedge Warbler singing at Crook Ness.

07.05.11 A report of a Raven low over Burniston in the evening. An influx of waders to the small pond at Scalby Lodge included 5 Wood Sandpipers, Greenshank, 16 Redshanks, 3 Ringed Plovers, and a Dunlin. A Goosander, LRP, and Kingfisher at Burton Riggs. A Ringed Plover, LRP, Common Sandpiper, and Redshank at Wykeham Lakes. At Seamer Tip pools there was a Greenshank plus 2 Whimbrel flew over. Five Whimbrels were at Flixton Carr, and a female Marsh Harrier hunting over Star Carr in the morning. Thirty Crossbills flew south over Cayton Bay early morning. Sedge Warbler at Cowath Beck. Three Garden Warblers near Hutton Buscel. Belated report of a Great Grey Shrike photograhed at Castle Hill two weeks ago.

08.05.11 Migrants at the Castle Headland included Spotted Flycatcher, 3 Whinchats, Wheatear, and 3 Lesser Whitethroats. A Marsh Harrier flew north at 7pm and two Turtle Doves flew north mid afternoon. Movement south included a large passage of Swallows (post rain until dusk)at a rate of 300+ an hour, giving an estimate of 3,000++. Also south were 60 House Martins, several Sand Martins,Kestrel and a Dunlin. Good numbers of Swifts now throughout the district. A Crossbill flew south over Peasholm plus five were seen in Wykeham Forest. A seawatch at Marine Drive (07.30-09.00) produced 18 Common Scoters and a Red-breasted Merganser north and a Turnstone south. A Wood Sandpiper, Greenshank and Redshank at Scalby Lodge (small) Pond, plus another three Wood Sandpipers and a Greenshank on the large pool at Seamer Tip. Four Golden Plovers in fields near Flixton Carr bridge.

09.05.11 A male Marsh Harrier flew south over the Castle Headland at 8.30am. A "cream crown" Marsh Harrier was hunting over Wykeham Lakes at midday, also 3 LRPs, and a Common Sandpiper there. Greenshanks were seen at Seamer Tip pools, Harwood Dale Lake, and three at Potter Brompton Carr. The latter site also held three Wood Sandpipers, plus a single Wood Sandpiper still at the small pond at Scalby Lodge. Nine Crossbills over the Highwood Brow viewpoint at Wykeham Forest but little raptor activity 12.15-13.15 hrs, just one Common Buzzard seen. A Garden Warbler singing by the bridge at Wrench Green. The Dippers at Hilla Green are now feeding young. A "vis mig" watch at Long Nab (08.45-11.15) saw another good movement of Swallows south; 750+, also moving south were 19 House Martins, 6 Sand Martins, 38 Linnets, and 4 Goldfinches. The Sedge Warbler was still at Crook Ness plus 2 singing Lesser Whitethroats.

10.05.11 A male Grey-headed Wagtail feeding with 7 Yellow Wagtails on the dry large pond at Scalby Lodge in the evening, 2 Redshanks at the small pond and 350+ Swallows feeding over rape fields. Two Avocets on private land at Potter Brompton Carr, also 4 Wood Sandpipers and 6 Greenshanks, and a calling Quail. A juvenile (first-year) Marsh Harrierflew south at Seamer 5.30pm. Cuckoo in Harwood Dale Forest.

11.05.11 A three hour count of southerly movement past Cromer Point produced one Hobby, 200 Swallows, 9 House Martins, and 3 Yellow Wagtails. A White Wagtail at Jackson's Bay. A singing Turtle Dove in the copse opposite Brompton Moor House, Wykeham Forest. Waders at Potter Brompton Carr (private) included 8 Greenshanks, 5 Wood Sandpipers, and LRP. Nine Whimbrel were in a field just east of Flixton Carr Bridge. A Merlin flew over Low Park, Ebberston.

13.05.11 A Marsh Harrier flew west along the A64 at East Heslerton. A Wood Sandpiper and Greenshank at Potter Brompton Carr. Two LRPs at Scalby Lodge Pond.

14.05.11 A pair of Shovelers on the large pool at Seamer Tip. Three Wood Sandpipers and 2 Greenshanks at Potter Brompton Carr. A singing Spotted Flycatcher at Staintondale just north of Hayburn Beck Farm. A Cuckoo at Helwath Beck. Three Crossbills at Cloughton Woods. Little Grebe at Harwood Dale Lake. Ten Whimbrels Folkton Carr. Cuckoo Flotmanby Carr.

15.05.11 Ten Whimbrels still at Folkton Carr, a Crossbill flew west over Folkton Sewage Farm. Kingfisher at Burton Riggs. A Corn Bunting singing from wires near Manor Farm, Willerby. Five Wood Sandpipers, 4 Greenshanks, and 2 Snipe at Potter Brompton Carr. Three Dunlins, 2 Ringed Plovers, 3 LRPs, and 2 Wheatears at Wykeham Lakes.

16.05.11 A Wood Sandpiper, Greenshank, Redshank, and LRP at Potter Brompton Carr. The female Goosander was still at Wykeham Lakes, also 3 LRPs, 5 Ringed Plovers, 2 Dunlins, 2 Wheatears, and 3 Reed Warblers.

17.05.11 A Turtle Dove just north of Ganton railway crossing. At Potter Brompton Carr, a Wood Sandpiper, 2 Greenshanks, and a Redshank. A pair of Mistle Thrushes nesting on Columbus Ravine in the centre of town feeding young out of the nest today. Three Turtle Doves at Broxa Forest. Reed Warbler at Ganton.

18.05.11 Thirty Pink-footed Geese flew over Crossgates at 9am. An unusual sighting of a Rook feeding in flower pots on Westborough in the centre of town.

19.05.11 Five Crossbills flew west over Flixton Carr. A Kingfisher and Grey Wagtail Scalby Beck. Nightjars back in Wykeham Forest, over the clearing opposite the Raptor Viewpoint car park, Turtle Doves 100m west of there and also at Highwood Brow viewpoint. Two Stock Doves in a garden in Newby. Cuckoo at Broxa Forest.

20.05.11 Two Quails calling from a barley field at Willerby Carr, also Golden Plover and four singing Corn Buntings there and a Crossbill flew over west. A Hobby flew west over Lebberston. A drake Shoveler and three Teal at Wykeham Lakes, also a singing Grasshopper Warbler 100m south-east of Darrell's Low Farm. A Nightjar in the clearing opposite the entrance to the Wykeham Forest Raptor Viewpoint car park, 3+ Turtle Doves nearby.

21.05.11 A Marsh Harrier at Willerby Carr, also 4 singing Corn Buntings. A Turtle Dove in the south-east corner of Wykeham Forest.

22.05.11 A Marsh Harrier flew south-east over Broxa Forest at 10.05am, 70+ Crossbills at Highwood Brow viewpoint, Wykeham Forest. A Reed Warbler singing at Throxenby Mere. Two LRPs at Potter Brompton Carr.

23.05.11 A Common Tern and 3 drake Pochards at Wykeham Lakes. Past Long Nab (09.35-11.35): 11 Manx Shearwaters, Red-throated Diver, 4 Puffins, and 4 Sandwich Terns. 14 Common Gulls in Burniston Bay and a singing Reed Warbler at Crook Ness. A Tawny Owl at Woodlands Ravine.

24.05.11 The Honey Buzzards were reported back in the forests. Please view from Wykeham Forest Raptor Viewpoint.

25.05.11 A "ringtail" harrier sp. reported near Wykeham Lakes. A Purple Sandpiper at the roost on East Pier. A Hobby over Eastfield.

27.05.11 Two Wood Warblers, 2 Redstarts, and Turtle Dove at Bridestones, Dalby Forest. An Arctic Tern through Wykeham Lakes, also Common Tern and Wheatear in the evening. At Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint 6 Common Buzzards, 3 Goshawks, Turtle Dove, Tree Pipit, and 25 Crossbills. Three Corn Buntings Willerby Carr.

28.05.11 A Ruff at Potter Brompton Carr, also 2 Shelducks, LRP, Greenshank and 2 Marsh Harriers. A LRP and Wheatear at Wykeham Lakes. Seven Turtle Doves at Wykeham nurseries, 8 Crossbills over the Raptor Viewpoint where a Cormorant flew west. Seawatching at Long Nab (06.25-09.40) produced 4 Common Scoters, 4 Red-throated Divers, a Grey Heron (in off), Common Tern, 2 Sandwich Terns, 109 Puffins, 1100 Guillemots, and 400 Razorbills. A singing Sedge Warbler at Crook Ness, and Barn Owl at Rocks Lane. A Marsh Harrier over the A64 at West Heslerton.

29.05.11 An Osprey flew west up Troutsdale carrying a fish at 8.45pm. Two Wood Warblers and a Redstart at Bridestones, Dalby Forest. Singing Reed Warbler still at Throxenby Mere. Five Turtle Doves at Wykeham Nursery.

30.05.11 A Sanderling, 3 LRPs, and a Wheatear at Wykeham Lakes. Two Great Crested Grebes at Burton Riggs. A Sedge Warbler off Station Road, Scalby. A seawatch at Long Nab (06.55-10.00) produced 49 Common Scoters, a Tufted Duck, 27 Manx Shearwaters(N), 3 Red-throated Divers, 2 Ringed Plovers, 8 Dunlin, 5 Sandwich Terns and 7 Puffins. A Sedge Warbler at Crook Ness. A Ruff, Black-tailed Godwit, and Greenshank at Potter Brompton Carr.

31.05.11 Two Honey Buzzards and two Goshawks from the Wykeham Forest Raptor Viewpoint. A Black-tailed Godwit, Greenshank, 2 Shelducks, and Crossbill at Potter Brompton Carr. A pair of Spotted Flycatchers in Forge Valley. Three Turtle Doves at Wykeham Nursery. A Quail calling at Willerby Carr in the field west of Robbin's Bottom Plantation, also Willow Tit. A Goosander swimming close inshore off Marine Drive in the evening. Young Tawny Owls at Peasholm Park and Dean Road Cemetary.

April 2011

Thu, 12 May 2011 04:48:36 +0100

01.04.11 A Great Grey Shrike watched for an hour at May Moss, Langdale Forest late afternoon. Two (one drake) Scaup at Scalby Mills at 2pm, also 6 Dunlins and 40+ Redshanks. The Iceland Gull was in the harbour early afternoon again. 20+ Fieldfares flew over Ebberston.

02.04.11 A migration watch at Long Nab (07.30-10.15): movement north included 2 Teal, 10 Red-throated Divers,an "intermedius" LBB Gull,7 Curlews, 2 Sandwich Terns. and 5 Swallows. Birds moving south were a Gadwall, 2 Wigeon, a drake Scaup, Greylag Goose,63 Fulmars, 4 Lapwings (at sea), Knot, Black-tailed Godwit, Bar-tailed Godwit, Sand Martin, 6 Meadow Pipits, 55 Linnets, and a Chaffinch. Newly arrived were two Willow Warblers and two Chiffchaffs also an Eider on the sea. The Iceland Gull was seen off Marine Drive, and a Wheatear on the rocks there. Willow Warblers were also at Castle Hill and Seamer Tip Pools, 2 LRPs at the latter site. A Blackcap was in a graden at Hutton Buscel. Along Scalby Beck towards Mowthorpe were two merlins, 6 Chiffchaffs, and a Blackcap. A Wheatear behind the Town Hall.

03.04.11 A Little Egret at Hurd's Pond at 3.30pm. A Green Sandpiper flew north over Long Nab at dusk, 2,000 Common Gulls roosting offshore,a singing Stonechat just south of the hut, and three Chiffchaffs at Crook Ness. Blackcaps at Cloughton and by the Art Gallery. Four Wheatears at Seamer Tip pools. Two LRPs and two female Goosanders at Harwood Dale Lake. Three Swallows over Scalby Lodge. A Wheatear at Holbeck on the landslip area.

04.04.11 A Lapland Bunting flew over Potter Brompton Carr in the morning, Merlin over Sherburn Carr, and Wheatear at Brompton Ings. Two LRPs at Seamer Tip Pools. Two Willow Warblers in Wykeham Forest.

05.04.11 The Iceland Gull was at the harbour early evening and 28 Purple Sandpipers roosting on East Pier. Two Pink-footed Geese were at Potter Brompton Carr.

06.04.11 The Iceland Gull was again at the harbour in the evening. Six Willow Warblers were at Flixton Carr Plantation, also two Woodcocks there. A Blackcap at Hutton Buscel and two at Ebberston. Several Swallows reported from a few sites. An hour's migration watch at Cromer Point saw 4 Swallows, 10 Sand Martins and 27 Linnets move south. Three Wigeon at Scalby Mills plus 11 Redshank and 17 Oystercatchers.

07.04.11 An increase in common migrants at the Castle Headland today; 10 Wheatears, 10 Chiffchaffs, 3 Willow Warblers, and two Blackcaps.

08.04.11 The Iceland Gull still at the harbour and 29 Purple Sandpipers. Two Goosanders and four willow Warblers at Burton Riggs.

09.04.11 Seamer Tip/Star Carr - Hooded Crow (was in fields on Seamer Meads and flew onto the tip at 13.40pm), also in the tip area were 200 Jackdaw, 200 Carrion Crow, 100 Rook, c.2000 Herring Gull, 35 Stock Dove. A Green Sandpiper was calling in the Star Carr area. Male Wheatear at Grove Farm, Cayton. Single LRP on Seamer Tip Pools. A Hooded Crow at Seamer Tip late morning. Female Crossbill near feeders North Moor View Point, Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint - female Sparrowhawk, 2 Common Buzzard and a male Redstart in the pines on the left of the viewpoint briefly.

10.04.11 Two Tree Pipits in the "shrike clearing" at Wykeham Forest. Two Stock Doves in a garden at Newby. A Kingfisher at Mowthorpe Bridge. Two Treecreepers, Blackcap, and three Chiffchaffs at Knipe Point.

12.04.11 A Green Sandpiper at Seamer Carr plus a House martin at Snainton.

13.04.11 A WHITE-TAILED EAGLE flew north over the town at 3pm. A Ruff at Seamer Tip pools plus a Cuckoo. The latter species was also recorded at RAF Fylingdales.

14.04.11 The Iceland Gull was at the harbour, a Wheatear at Marine Drive plus High Yedmandale, and a Cuckoo again at RAF Fylingdales.

15.04.11 A Blackcap landed on a fishing boat eight miles off Scarborough, an influx of this species reported around Seamer Tip.

16.04.11 A Dotterel was at Ravenscar, 100m east of the radio mast, also a Ring Ouzel and five Wheatears. Two more Ring Ouzels by the railway bridge at Stoupe Brow, and three males at RAF Fylingdales. A Yellow-legged Gull at St Thomas Street, Scarborough.

17.04.11 A drake Garganey on the large pool at Seamer Tip. A male Hen Harrier over Long Nab in the evening. Four Ring Ouzels near Ravenscar, also 15+ Wheatears, and two Red Grouse at Stony Marl Moor. Common Buzzard, Goshawk, and Peregrine flew over Stoupe Brow. A Grasshopper Warbler at Cromer Point plus Whitethroats there, at Hurd's Pond, and two at Long Nab. A Lesser Whitethroat at Jackson's Cart Road, and Yellow Wagtail near the hide at Scalby Lodge Farm. Two male Redstarts singing at Scar Wood, Harwood Dale and a Green Woodpecker. A LRP, Pochard and 16 Wheatears at Wykeham Lakes. A report of a large eagle being mobbed by a Common Buzzard at Ravenscar, it landed near Stoupe Beck quarry. Sandwich tern in Burniston Bay.

18.04.11 The drake Garganey was still at Seamer Tip pools, also Cuckoo. At Potter Brompton Carr a Yellow Wagtail flew west, Whitethroat, Wigeon, and Golden Plover. Several Whitethroats reported along the coast and 4 Wheatears at Cloughton Wyke. A Whimbrel and 7 Wheatears just east of Flixton bridge. 15 Yellow, a White and 20 Pied Wagtails in a ploughed field north of Folkton sewage works. A female Eider in Burniston Bay.

19.04.11 Two Avocets flew over Seamer Tip pools in the evening, also the Garganey still plus Cuckoo. A Water Pipit at Cromer Pond in the morning could not be relocated in the evening, 4 Sandwich terns flew north. Two Puffins on the sea off Marine Drive. Two Green Woodpeckers and two Willow Tits at Stoupe Brow. Peregrine and Goosander flew over Crossgates. Little Ringed Plover flew east over East Heslerton, also Redstart. Sedge Warbler at Sherburn Carr. Cuckoo and Redstart in the Castlebeck/Jugger Howe Beck area. Four Lesser Whitethroats along Great Moor Road, Hutton Buscel. Several Yellow Wagtail reports.

20.04.11 A Hobby flew over Crossgates early afternoon. Four Little Ringed Plovers at Burton Riggs, the Garganey and Cuckoo still at Seamer tip pools. A Wheatear at Seamer Carr plus one at Marine Drive. Two Green Woodpeckers and 2 Nuthatches at Low North Camp. Three probable "northern" Chiffchaffs together on the north side of Castle Hill.

21.04.11 Seven Whooper Swans were in a field near Flixton. The drake Garganey still at Seamer Tip pools and a Little Ringed Plover on nearby Burton Riggs. Five Wheatears and a Sedge Warbler were at Star Carr. At Ravenscar there was a Goshawk again, plus Cuckoo, 9 Wheatears, and several Whitethroats. A Wheatear behind the wall at Marine Drive.

22.04.11 A "cream crown" Marsh Harrier (prob first-year) circled high over Wykeham Lakes late morning, also three Great Crested Gebes and Pochard on South Lake, three Common Buzzards (one very pale bird) nearby. Three Grasshopper Warblers along the coast, two at Scalby Nab and one at Trough gully, also a Lesser Whitethroat there plus others at Scalby Mills, and along the railway near Scalby Rugby Club. Six singing Whitethroats between Cromer Point and Scalby Nab, Yellow Wagtail and Snipe at Cromer Pond. A Yellow Wagtail at Ebberston cricket ground plus a singing bird at West Ayton Carr. The Garganey was still at Seamer Tip pools plus 3 LRPs and 4 Wheatears and a White Wagtail. Two Wigeons were at Burton Riggs. A Reed Warbler at Flixton Carr Plantation, 16 Willow Warblers, and Sedge warbler there. Two Snipe and 3 Wheatears at Deepdale Carr. Sixty Sand Martins around Jackson's Bay. Little Owl at Wykeham.

23.04.11 A Wood Sandpiper and Greenshank on private land at Potter Brompton Carr. The Garganey was still at Seamer Tip large pool, also a Teal. Two Grasshopper Warblers at Scalby Nab, one at Scalby Beck and a fourth at Willerby Carr. Also at Willerby were 57 Golden Plover, a Whimbrel, 6 Yellow Wagtails, and 4 sedge Warblers. A Goosander at Seamer Road Mere. A Red Grouse and Tree Pipit at Ravenscar. Six Lesser Whitethroats around Hutton Buscel. House Martins were back in Burniston and Cloughton. A Green Sandpiper flew over Scalby Nab at dusk. Three White wagtails and 10 Yellow Wagtails just north of Folkton Sewage Farm.

24.04.11 An Osprey was at Wykeham Lakes on and off between 10.15am and 6.55pm when it left westwards, also there were 2 Little Ringed Plovers, a Wigeon, and Pochard. The Garganey was still at Seamer Tip pools, also a Common Sandpiper. A Grasshopper Warbler was still at Scalby Nab. A Wood Sandpiper, Greenshank and Yellow Wagtail were still at Potter Brompton Carr, and a Snipe drumming at Well Spring was a welcome report. In South Bay there were 30 Purple Sandpipers and two Sandwich Terns. A Whinchat was seen at Field Lane, Burniston. Past Long Nab (06.30-08.30); 2 Shelducks, 8 Eiders, 18 Common Scoters, 3 Tufted Ducks, a Red-throated Diver, 2 Curlews, 1,000 Kittiwakes, 5 Sandwich Terns, and a Puffin. A Wheatear at Crook Ness. A Pink-footed Goose and 3 Little Ringed Plovers at Burton Riggs. A Merlin and Common Buzzard at Bedale.

 25.04.11 The Osprey was still in the Wykeham Lakes area in the morning spending a long period of time sat on a telegraph pole near Darrells Low Farm. Also at the lakes was Wigeon, Pochard, and a Short-eared Owl. The Garganey was still at Seamer Tip pools, plus two singing Sedge Warblers. Also in the area was a Merlin, Common Buzzard, Green Sandpiper, and Wheatear. At nearby Burton Riggs there was a Common Sandpiper. A Marsh Harrier flew south directly over Castle Hill at 7.15 a.m., a Lesser Whitethroat was singing on the north side. A Cuckoo was at Hutton Buscel. A pair of Redstarts at Wrench Green, also Dipper. A Kingfisher and two Lesser Whitethroats along Scalby Beck, good numbers of Chiffchaffs and Blackcaps reported there. A singing Grasshopper Warbler at little Moor, Cloughton early morning.

26.04.11 The Osprey was still at Wykeham Lakes mid afternoon, and Iceland Gull at the harbour early evening. Four Common Terns flew east over Seamer tip, the Garganey was still on the pools, and two Common Sandpipers and a LRP at nearby Burton Riggs. Migrants at Castle Hill included a Golcrest and Lesser Whitethroat. The Wood Sandpiper and Greenshank were still on private land at Potter Brompton Carr.

27.04.11 The Iceland Gull was still at the harbour. A female Merlin was seen at Lebberston Carr. Good numbers of auks (mostly Razorbills) and Kittiwakes were moving north along the coast. At Scalby Mills there were seven LBB Gulls, a Redshank and a Grey Plover flew over.

28.04.11 A Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank at Potter Brompton Carr. An "intermedius" LBB Gull flew north past Long Nab this evening plus good numbers of common seabirds moving north. A Common Snipe at Cromer Pond.

29.04.11 Fresh northerly winds brought a movement of terns and waders throughout England. Seventeen Arctic Terns flew east over Wykeham Lakes late afternoon shortly followed by a Bar-tailed Godwit. Two Greenshanks had flown over eastwards in the morning, also on the lakes was a Wigeon, Goosander, LRP, and two Wheatears in the south-east corner. Two singing Sedge Warblers along North Street, Flixton plus three Fieldfares near Flixton Carr bridge. The first Swift of the year flew over Ebberston in the morning, and the first reported Garden Warbler was at Wykeham Forest just west of the nurseries. Fourteen Bar-tailed Godwits flew east over Potter Brompton Carr in the morning, the Black-tailed Godwit and Greenshank were still present. Sixty "northern" Golden Plovers in full breeding dress were at Binnington Carr. A seawatch at Long Nab (06.30-08.00) produced two Shelducks, a Manx Shearwater, and 7 Red-throated Divers. Three Wheatears also at Long Nab. The drake Garganey was still at Seamer Tip pools.

30.04.11 A Grasshopper Warbler at the golf course at Ravenscar, also seven Wheatears by the radio mast. Four Arctic Terns, three Common Sandpipers, and a LRP at Wykeham Lakes. Two Whimbrels near Flixton Carr Bridge. The Garganey at Seamer Tip pools plus a Common Sandpiper.

March 2011

Wed, 6 Apr 2011 21:20:49 +0100

01.03.11 A party of 65 Pink-footed Geese flew north past the harbour, 32 Kittiwakes in South bay. 41 Dunlins at Cayton Carr. Fieldfare flocks; 120 at Flixton Carr and 87 at Ganton.

02.03.11 The juvenile Iceland Gull was again at the harbour. A drake Goldeneye and 70 Kittiwakes in South Bay. A Green Woodpecker at Scalby Lodge Farm. 30 Purple Sandpipers at the harbour.

03.03.11 The Iceland Gull was at the harbour, four Mediterranean Gulls at Holbeck, and a Razorbill in South Bay. 50 Crossbills were at Little Hilla. A Barn Owl hunting at Scalby Lodge farm.

04.03.11 Three Lapland Buntings in the stubble field north of the hut at Long Nab, also a Woodcock by the hut, two Pintails and 7 Red-throated Divers off-shore. Two Little Owls at Cliff Top House. The Iceland Gull was at Jackson's Bay late morning and a Sanderling plus Bar-tailed Godwit.

05.03.11 A Slavonian Grebe was in North Bay near the Skateboard Park mid morning, also in the bay were 2 Red-breasted Mergansers and an Eider. A seawatch at Marine Drive (08.15-09.00) produced two Great Northern Divers past, 3 Red-throated Divers, a Shelduck, 5 Eiders, and 3 Common Scoters. A Great Crested Grebe in South Bay and 4 Razorbills feeding off Marine Drive where 4 Goldeneye flew north late afternoon. A Woodcock was in Sycarham Wood. At Wykeham Lakes a skein of 140 Pink-footed Geese flew north and 20 were feeding in fields to the south. On the South Lake there was a drake Pintail and 3 Goldeneye, and raptors include a Merlin over and at least nine Common Buzzards. Twenty-two Dunlins were feeding with Lapwings on Binnington Carr. Two Goshawks were seen from Highwood Brow viewpoint (Wykeham Forest) early afternoon (30 mins), and 3 Crossbills. A Goldeneye was at Seamer Road Mere with two at Burton Riggs. Two Shelducks were at Seamer Road Mere. 125 Wigeon still at Scalby Mills, plus 3 Dunlins.

06.03.11 A Raven flew from Derwent Head,Fylingdales Moor towards Harwood Dale late morning. The Iceland Gull was at Scalby Mills, plus a Woodcock and two Goosanders. Further influxes of Kittiwakes with 450 off Marine Drive, 180 in South Bay, and 400 off Long nab. Three Lapland Buntings were in the coastal stubble field north of the hut together with 21 Skylarks. Two Goosanders flew over Throxenby Mere, and a Merlin flew over Red Scar Lane. Two Little Egrets were at Seamer Carr. Ten Velvet Scoters were in South Bay off Black Rocks, a Great Crested Grebe in the harbour mouth, and five adult Mediterranean Gulls at Holbeck car park. A skein of 100 Pink-footed Geese flew north along the coast. Ten Stock Doves were at Seamer Tip.

07.03.11 Thirty-seven Whooper Swans flew north over Riverhead Farm, Harwood Dale mid morning, two Wigeon on nearby Harwood Dale Lake. Four Mandarins at Hackness Lake, also 4 Little Grebes and 6 Teal. A Common Crane in a field off Bridge Howe Lane, Boggle Hole.

08.03.11 The Common Crane flew west over Scalby at 11am. A Slavonian Grebe was at Scalby Mills, also 149 Wigeon and an Eider there. The Iceland Gull was at the harbour, also 36 Purple Sandpipers roosting including the Swedish ringed bird. . 25 Crossbills at the "shrike" clearing at Wykeham Forest.

09.03.11 The Iceland Gull was at the harbour early afternoon, Great Crested Grebe in South Bay. 50 Fieldfare, 2 Grey Partridge, Nuthatch, and Marsh Tit at Low Park Farm, Ebberston.

11.03.11 The Iceland Gull was in the harbour early afternoon. A LBB Gull, 2 Dunlin and a Red-throated Diver at Scalby Mills.

12.03.11 A Merlin at Ravenscar.

13.03.11 A male Stonechat at Marine Drive was incredibly the first reported this year, also a Shelduck flew south there. Two Mediterranean Gulls, 50 Wigeon, and a Shag at Scalby Mills. At Wykeham Lakes wildfowl include two Pink-footed Geese, 19 Mute Swans, 2 drake Pintails, 14 Wigeon, and a Goldeneye, plus a Curlew flew northwards. A Willow Tit was in scrub by the River Derwent just south of the lakes. At least five Common Buzzards in that area including a pale bird.

14.03.11 Two Mealy Redpolls in a mixed finch flock by Wykeham Forest Nursery (200m west of the Raptor Viewpoint car park). Also 3+ Bramblings, 20 Linnets, and good numbers of Siskins and Chaffinches feeding in larch/alders. From nearby Highwood Brow Viewpoint (12.05-13.05) there were three of both Goshawk and Sparrowhawk plus 6+ Common Buzzards and 35 Crossbill flew over. A Willow Tit at the "shrike clearing". Ten Pink-footed Geese were feeding just south of Wykeham Lakes, 18 Wigeon and a pair of Oystercatchers on the South Lake. Two Goosanders, 4 Wigeon and a pair of Oystercatchers at Harwood Dale Lake. A Fieldfare and 11 Crossbills at Pye Rigg (Harwood Dale Forest), 74 Redwings and a Kingfisher at Flixton Carr. A Common Buzzard and Marsh Tit at Ebberston. An Eider still at Scalby Mills. A male Stonechat by the seawatching hut at Long Nab. The Iceland Gull was seen at the harbour at 5pm.

15.03.11 A Waxwing was at Station Road, Crossgates at 8am. At Howdale Moor there was a mixed Redwing/Fieldfare flock 70 strong, plus a Redshank. A Green Sandpiper at the River Hertford, Flotmanby Carr.

16.03.11 The Iceland Gull was at the harbour early afternoon, also a Mallard and 28 Purple Sandpipers. A Great Crested Grebe still in South Bay, plus three Rock Pipits.

17.03.11 The first Chiffchaffs of the year were two at Scalby Beck, at the Scalby Mills end. The Iceland Gull at the harbour, 2 Shelducks at Red Scar Lane, 30 Corn Buntings at Low Marishes, and 11 Crossbills plus 2 Goshawks at Wykeham Forest.

18.03.11 The Iceland Gull again at the harbour, a Great Crested Gebe in South Bay and four more at Seamer Road Mere. Roosting at the harbour were 41 Purple Sandpipers and 33 Turnstones. Two Lesser Redpolls with Siskins at Wykeham Forest nurseries.

19.03.11 A Jack Snipe at Hollin Gill, Fylingdales Moor. The Iceland Gull was at the harbour. Thirteen Whooper Swans near Playdale Farm, Cayton plus a Merlin and Common Buzzard at Star Carr. Chiffchaff singing next to river hertford. Two Shelducks, 4 Teal, and 40 Linnets at Cromer Point. Three Rock Pipits at Castle Cliffs, and a female Eider still in North Bay. A Black Redstart in North Bay south of The Sands. A Lesser Redpoll, 2 Willow Tits, and 5 Crossbills by the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint car park.

20.03.11 A Little Egret at Flotmanby Carr. Two Shoveler at Scalby Lodge Pond. 4500+ Common Gulls roosting on the sea between Long Nab and Scalby Nab, interestingly very few were in North Bay at dusk. A Goldeneye was still on the South Lake at Wykeham, movement over the Lakes (08.00-09.00) saw 2 Curlews, 9 Golden Plovers and a Merlin. 89 Wigeon at Scalby Mills. A singing Chiffchaff at Thornton Dale.

21.03.11 Two Red Kites were seen distantly over Broxa Forest from the Wykeham Raptor Viewpoint in the morning, and presumably the same two were near Irton Garden Centre at 3 p.m. The first Wheatear of the spring was a male at Derwent Head, Fylingdales Moor. Also two pairs of Stonechats nearby and good numbers of Meadow Pipits back on the moorlands.An Eider and three Bar-tailed Godwits in Jackson's Bay. A Goosander at Harwood Dale Lake.

22.03.11 A further influx of Chiffchaffs today; an increase in Wykeham Forest including five in the eastern part plus one by the Grand Hotel, South Bay and several in The Carrs.

23.03.11 A Hawfinch at the Wykeham Forest Raptor Viewpoint. It flew in with several Crossbills, sat in a tree for a few minutes and left towards Troutsdale at c14.40 p.m. At Seamer Tip there were two Common Buzzards, a Kingfisher, and 45 Stock Doves. A Green Woodpecker and Chiffchaff at Low Farm, Ebberston.

24.03.11 A first-summer Little Gull at the small reservoir at Lebberston Carr, also Green Sandpiper and 26 Snipe in that area. Thirty-six Wigeon at Scalby Mills. Male Eider off Marine Drive.

25.03.11 South-easterly winds brought 6 Goldcrests and a Chiffchaff to Castle Hill. Thirteen Whooper Swans circled Hutton Buscel at 14.55 hrs. and left east. A Woodcock at the east end of Wykeham Forest. Two male Long-eared Owls were calling near Burniston at 19.00 hrs., also Little Owl and Tawny Owl.

26.03.11 The first Swallow of the year was at Harwood Dale Lake early afternoon, also two White Wagtails. A flock of 100 Linnets at Cromer Point. At Scalby Lodge there wee two Shelducks, 2 Redshanks, and a Chiffchaff.

27.03.11 Three Goldcrests on the south side of Castle Hill. A Green Woodpecker at Harwood Dale, 2 Teal and 2 Oystercatchers at the lake. Redwing calls heard over town in the early hours.

28.03.11 At Long Nab the juvenile Iceland Gull was feeding in fields inland of the hut, also a male Lapland Bunting along the second hedgerow north of the hut. An influx of Goldcrests at Long Nab; 3 in Crook Ness and 4 at Hundale. Also 3 Chiffchaffs, a Red-throated Diver, 3 LBB Gulls and 12 Meadow Pipits flew north. A Little Owl in pines at Hundale. A Common Buzzard over Jugger Howe Moor. At Wykeham Lakes there was a Little Ringed Plover, 13 Sand Martins, a Swallow, adult Mediterranean Gull, Pochard, and a Chiffchaff.

29.03.11 The Iceland Gull had returned to the harbour. A Green Woodpecker at Castle Hill was a surprise find. Also 3 Wheatears behind the wall at Marine Drive. Three Sand Martins at Burton Riggs. At Willerby Carr there were 2 White Wagtails, 26 Fieldfares, a Golden Plover, and a pair of Willow Tits.

30.03.11 The Iceland Gull spent more time at the harbour plus 12 Purple Sandpipers still roosting there. A male Eider off Marine Drive, and 2 Chiffchaffs on the north side of Castle Hill. Three Wheatears by Flixton Bridge, and a good count of 37 Snipe at Grove Farm (Deepdale Carr). A pair of Corn Buntings just west of Yedingham near Ellis Bridge, also a Wheatear.

31.03.11 The Iceland Gull was sheltering in the harbour at 1.30 p.m., also 18 Purple Sandpipers roosting at the harbour. Two migrant Redwings were grounded by the rain behind the wall at Marine Drive.