With a high pressure system parked to the north west of the UK dragging a cold North Easterly wind there has been a very slow start to the spring migration with many migrants opting to stay on the continent at present and let it warm up. However a few newly arrived Chiffchaff have been caught singing around the site when the sun showed it face and thing warmed up and on Fri 18th the first signs of visible migration took place with 70 Meadow Pipit counted flying over Ferry Field in the morning
Dark Bellied Brent
However there is still plenty to see with many of the winter visitors preparing for departure with an increased presence of small groups of Brent Geese gather pre departure or on their way through from further west. Turnstones feverishly feed on the mud whilst a few remaining male Red-Breasted Mergansers prepare there bright plumage for the flight ahead.
Red Breasted Merganser (above) and Turnstone (Below)
Out on Tern Island and in Ferry Field volunteers continue the important work of erecting temporary electric fencing to protect the breeding shorebirds and waders. Whilst the Blue Tit occupying the nest box at the visitor centre has started to build her nest, come and see her progress on the live footage at the Visitor Centre.
Volunteers help on Tern Island
The first moth trap of the year produced both Common Quaker and Hebrew Character despite some chilly nights.
Hebrew Character (above) and Common Quaker (Below)
The Warden, RSPB Crook of Baldoon